Network Rail are experimenting with using augmented reality technology to put architects’ designs into reality on passengers’ smart devices via an app.
The app will support Network Rail‘s engagement with passengers while delivering footbridges across the network throughout Control Period 6, 1 April 2019 to 31 March 2024, and beyond.
The app is called ARki and developed by Darf Sesign, will provide a 3D visualisation of planned buildings, so that passengers can see what their station improvements will look like.
The app will be launching from the 16th of October in the Apple store.
What did the officials say?
Anthony Dewar, professional head, buildings and architecture at Network Rail, said:
“The app will give our customers a glimpse of their future station, using new technology to give a level of detail we’ve never provided before,” said Anthony Dewar, professional head, buildings and architecture at Network Rail. “As well as keeping local people informed of changes to their station, it provides a fitting, high-tech showcase for our exciting new footbridge designs. We’re very proud of the three new designs and want as many people as possible to be aware of and appreciate them – the app is the perfect way to showcase the footbridges to as large an audience as possible.”
Sahar Fikouhi, founder of interactive design studio Darf Design and developer of ARki, said:
“Our vision is to allow designers to share their 3D models in the real world.”
“It’s very rare for the public to have this access to genuine architects’ drawings and this is one of the first examples of one-to-one scale visualisations of future projects. The app is helping to democratise the way structures are designed and built by giving the public this access at early stages of design selection,”
Charles Humphries, Director – Built Environment at Wood, said:
“Wood is proud to assist Network Rail in its mission of engaging the public during introduction of high quality design and engineering into its estate through this transparent process. The integration of such technologies for our clients helps keep all interested parties engaged”
“Having managed stakeholder engagement on a number of major infrastructure projects, we are fully aware of the importance of community involvement. Showing passengers what their bridge will look like is a great way of winning over the hearts and minds of rail users”
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Responses
I like the computer graphics on how new sheltered footbridges would look like. Perhaps replace the old footbridges at stations in Essex such as on the Southend Victoria Line (including Wickford, Rayleigh, Hockley, Rochford and Prittlewell) and also at Ingatestone and other stations in Essex and East Anglia.
And some stations on the West Anglia Main Line that have old footbridges that could be replaced by new modern footbridge with ramps or lifts or with stairs only.