Digitalization and innovation

Passenger information of the future

Passenger information of the future is the largest software development project to date of DB Netze Stations. As a new IT system, IRIS+ will enable the central processing of information from the passenger information platform, the new so-called Single Point of Truth for passenger information. By the end of the first half of 2019, around 50 stations in the state of Saxony were successfully migrated to this new system.

Conversion of facility technology

DB Netze Stations operates a large number of technical systems in stations that need data connections to central systems. A large number of the systems has previously used modem and ISDN connections to link to the Groupinternal and public telephone networks. As part of the TOPKO program, the affected systems are being converted to the new IP technology. The shutdown of the Groupinternal telephone network occurred in early 2019; all required systems were successfully migrated.

Upgrading of facilities technology

DB Netze Stations operates many technical facilities at the stations, which require data connections to central systems. A large number of these facilities have so far been using modem and ISDNconnections to the Group’s internal telephone network and to the public telephone network. As part of the TOPKO program, the facilities concerned will be upgraded with improved IP technology. In the year under review, the upgrades included the complete replacement of the emergency call systems of about 2,400 elevators at stations. Further conversions included fire alarm systems, building automation and emergency call phones. There was a constant particular focus on maintaining the functionality of facilities by minimizing the downtime re­­quired for conversion. Migrations to the new technology are expected to be completed in 2019. The “IP at stations” proj­­ect (newly connecting about 1,000 stations to broadband IP access points) laid the groundwork for future digitalization projects.

Berlin-Charlottenburg becomes a smart city station

In March, work commenced on the conversion of the Berlin Charlottenburg station to a smart city station (2018 Integrated Report). Charging stations for mobile phones and additional seating are to make the station more comfortable. The concept is supplemented by new ideas on how to use the station environment. Our aim is to increase the attractiveness of stations.