Challenges in Accessibility “ Bus drivers pass me by because it’s too busy.”“ I missed my appointment because I was unable to board the bus.”“I was asked to travel at a different time as I was trying to get to work.” For many passengers with disabilities, accessing public transport remains a significant challenge. This project aimed to revolutionize accessibility on London buses using AI-driven computer vision technology and cross-sector collaboration. This project advanced public transport accessibility through innovative AI computer vision technology and cross-sector collaboration. Partnering with Marshalls coaches and a local charity; Milton Keynes Centre for Integrated Living, the initiative prioritised wheelchair users, prams, and guide dogs, fostering inclusivity and equity in London buses. Data collection, testing, and stakeholder engagement delivered practical solutions with measurable impact on accessibility. AI-Powered Accessibility Solutions The project successfully delivered a pilot to TfL with an accurate AI model for detecting occupancy in disabled bays on London Buses, prioritizing the needs of wheelchair users, prams, and guide dogs for Transport for London (TfL). Success was measured through high recognition rates achieved by analysing hundreds of hours of CCTV footage and feedback from accessibility groups, confirming the solution’s practical utility. Key benefits included improved accessibility for disabled passengers, increased public awareness, and stronger partnerships with community stakeholders. Overcoming Challenges To ensure adaptability to real-world conditions, the AI underwent rigorous iterative testing and data refinement. This involved: Data collection with Marshalls Coaches and volunteers from Milton Keynes Centre for Integrated Living Recording multiple real-world scenarios, amassing hours of training footage Supplementary data from TfL, enhancing model robustness . Future-Ready Integration The LifeSafety team, in collaboration with the Digital Catapult programme, Bridge AI, and Innovate UK, developed an integrated hardware and software prototype tailored for seamless integration into the onboard London bus system. This innovative solution enables real-time detection of occupancy in disabled bays, providing notifications to waiting passengers about space availability to help them better plan their journeys. Additionally, automated onboard announcements could proactively inform passengers, encouraging them to vacate spaces ahead of a disabled person’s arrival while reducing possible driver/passenger confrontations. This cutting-edge approach aims to provide a smoother, more accessible, and inclusive boarding experience for all passengers, with the potential for rollout across all public transport in the future.
A Collaboration with Marshalls and Milton Keynes Centre for Integrated Living Introduction Join us in celebrating a significant milestone in public transport accessibility! We recently partnered with Marshalls and the Milton Keynes Centre for Integrated Living to conduct a pivotal photoshoot and AI technology data collection aimed at improving the use of London buses for all. This event focused on collecting data for innovative AI solutions that prioritise wheelchair users in the allocation of wheelchair bays and aid in journey planning by accurately detecting prams and guide dogs. Event Overview and Technology Demonstration The event was graciously hosted at the Marshalls bus depot, providing a real-world environment to demonstrate the AI technology’s capabilities. Our data collection efforts were directed at ensuring that wheelchair users receive priority in wheelchair bays, crucial for enhancing their travel experience on London buses. AI Detection Capabilities During the event, we focused on collecting data for several key functionalities of our AI technology: Wheelchair Detection: Our AI technology was enhanced to effectively determine the occupancy status of wheelchair bays, ensuring that wheelchair users have priority access. Pram Detection: Data was collected to refine the AI’s ability to detect prams, supporting parents and guardians by informing them when the designated areas are full. Guide Dog Detection: Data was also gathered to enhance the AI’s ability to recognise guide dogs, supporting visually impaired passengers and ensuring they receive the necessary accommodations. Acknowledgments This initiative would not have been successful without the generous support and collaboration from our partners: Marshalls: We are deeply thankful to Marshalls for providing the bus and allowing us the use of their bus depot for this crucial data collection. Lisa & Jo from the Milton Keynes Centre for Integrated Living: Special thanks to Lisa and Jo, whose volunteer efforts were instrumental in the success of this day. Their dedication and enthusiasm helped ensure everything ran smoothly. Get Involved Inspired by what you’ve seen? If you wish to support or participate in future accessibility projects, please reach out to us. Your involvement can help us continue to break barriers and improve public transport for everyone. PODTECH & LifeSafety.AI partner with Digital Catapult and TFL for AI powered transport innovations