Stadler: bespoke HMI now travelling through Liverpool

Initial situation & challenge?

The catalogue of requirements was long – and Algra’s curiosity was great as to how so many facets could be combined in one product.

Stadler had received an order from the commuter rail operator Merseyside to produce 52 promising electric multiple units. The trains, called “Stadler Class 777”, therefore wanted to do everything right – from the sustainable use of resources to barrier-free and hygienically flawless surfaces.

With regard to the control panels for the train doors, Stadler commissioned Algra. The focus was on:

• Clear design, RFID recognition function for the train driver, LED door status display
• Flat construction and discreet design when a panel is inactive
• Can be retrofitted for the existing fleet
• Can also be operated with gloves and wet fingers
• Fast and hygienic cleaning

Approach and solution

Catalogue products would be out of the question for such a wide range of requirements. Algra therefore developed a customised Human-Machine Interface (HMI) in close coordination with Stadler.

The complete operating panel was manufactured with as few key fields as possible and without any visible screw connections or key openings, which enables quick hygienic cleaning – an important factor with over 100,000 passengers daily.

The problem of heavy use and operability even with gloves or wet fingers was solved by Algra using an input system for the HMI that works with strain gauges, the “DYNAFORCE technology”. These sit directly under the casing and register even the slightest pressure from the outside.

Result

Thanks to the close coordination with Stadler, Algra was able to deliver an HMI in the end that not only fits perfectly in the new “Stadler Class 777”, but can also be retrofitted in other suburban trains without much effort thanks to the sophisticated design.

We are very proud to be Stadler’s first address for intuitive, customised control elements. The fact that these are now also running through Liverpool is a very special feeling for the whole team.

ALGRA services

• Check feasibility of the catalogue of requirements
• Proposal to customers with offer
• Development and construction with preparation of detail and assembly drawings
• Production of prototypes
• Fine adjustments for production and quality optimisation
• Qualification of the prototypes with acceptance by the customer
• Serial production of the panels