GB2619746A - Wayside shelter - Google Patents

Abstract

A wayside shelter or bus stop comprising a structure, a camera device for recording visual images is affixed to the structure, and a screen. The structure comprises a structural frame and at 5 least one panel supported by the frame. The camera device is adapted to capture and output real time images of an environment in or adjacent to the shelter, and the screen is adapted to display the real time images output by the camera device in real time. Thus the panel functions as a virtual window, enabling individuals within the shelter to see what has been captured by the camera outside the shelter or vice versa. Also provided is a camera and display system allowing images captured at a bus stop to be displayed in the cabin of a passenger vehicle such as a bus. The images displayed may be composites of real time images captured by the cameras, data on the traffic route and other images.

Description

Wayside Shelter

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a wayside shelter, for installation next to a route such as a road, railway or the like.

BACKGROUND ART

Wayside shelters may be provided for various reasons. In countries with public transportation systems, environmental protection is often provided to passengers while waiting for said transportation to arrive. At a bus stop, i.e. a designated location at which buses stop for passengers to board or alight a bus, or on platforms at train or tram stops, shelters are often provided to provide a refuge from the elements. Bus stops at less busy locations may use just a simple pole and signboard to mark the location, but at busy locations shelters, seating, and other such waiting areas are provided. Similar shelters are often needed at public transport termini, at car parks, and like locations.

Wayside shelters at bus stops typically have a definable orientation relative to the roadway alongside which they are installed. A front face, i.e. the face closest to the roadway, will typically have at least one open section to allow passengers to board or alight a bus. The front face may be wholly open or partly solid. A rear face, i.e. the face distant from the roadway, is usually opposite and substantially parallel to the front face and may be made up of fully or partially solid walls with an open section to provide an entrance. Where the shelter is provided "front of path", i.e. with the front face immediately adjacent the roadway and a footpath passing behind the shelter, alongside the rear face, then an open section in the rear face provides a safe entrance and exit to the shelter. Where the shelter is provided "back of path", i.e. with the footpath passing between the shelter and the roadway, then the rear face of the shelter may be a complete section, or solid, to provide better protection from the wind, rain etc. Where the rear face of the shelter is a solid section, at least one open section may be provided in the front face, or the whole of the front face may be open.

One or two end faces are usually provided, which are often shorter than the front and/or rear faces of the shelter. The end face(s) are arranged substantially perpendicular to the roadside, linking the front face and the rear face where both are provided, and providing protection from winds blowing in the direction of the roadway. One end face will be traffic-facing, i.e. at the end of the shelter that passengers within the shelter need to look in order to see traffic in the roadway that is approaching the shelter. The other will be non-trafficfacing, i.e. in the direction that passengers within the shelter will look to see traffic that has passed the shelter and is moving in a direction away from the shelter.

When we refer to "solid" walls in this context, we mean a wall that is predominantly solid, although there may be gaps. Solid walls may be transparent or opaque, or partially so; they may be formed of a discrete piece or a series of panels arranged to form a solid wall. Roadside shelters usually have a gap between the solid part of the wall and the ground, to allow rainwater to escape. This gap may extend around part or all of at least one of the shelter's walls. Equally, the shelter is often constructed with a frame fixed into the ground, onto which wall sections are fitted where desired, and (dependent on the nature of the fitting) there may be gaps between the frame and the wall sections.

The shelter structure provides a means of supplying information to passengers in respect of routes serviced, frequency, and anticipated arrival and departure times of the relevant means of transportation. This may be in the form of printed material displays or electronic passenger information systems. Given the likely duration of passengers waiting at a shelter, at least a part of the shelter structure is frequently used as advertising space.

Wayside shelters obviously have an associated cost, which must be funded. One way of offsetting the capital cost of installing the shelter and the ongoing maintenance costs is to allow advertising on the shelter walls, internally and/or externally. Internal advertisements easily viewable by those waiting within the shelter are primarily targeted at passengers, but are also seen by passers-by; internal and external advertisements easily seen by those within and without the shelter are targeted at both passengers and passers-by. Advertisements placed where the advertisement is likely to be obscured by people or vehicles positioned between the viewer and the advertisement are commercially less attractive. Advertisements placed on the end faces of shelters are more easily seen by passers-by and are therefore more valuable. The traffic-facing end face of the shelter is either left transparent or open so that passengers can see the approaching traffic and visually identify the imminent arrival of a bus or tram. Consequently, the non-traffic-facing end face, front face and/or rear face, is used to display advertisements.

The advertisements have historically been in the form of printed posters, often protected from the elements behind a transparent or semi-transparent sheet. Recently, electronic screens have become more common; said screens may be programmed to show a single advertisement, several different advertisements in sequence, and/or animated or video advertisements.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a wayside shelter, comprising a structure, the structure comprising a structural frame and at least one panel arranged in a substantially vertical orientation and supported by the frame; a camera device for recording visual images, wherein the camera device is affixed to the structure on a first side of the at least one panel, and a screen on a second side of the at least one panel, wherein the second side is opposite the first side, wherein the camera device is adapted to capture and output real time images of an environment extending away from the first side of the at least one panel in a first direction, and the screen is adapted to display the real time images output by the camera device in real time.

The wayside shelter may have a screen further adapted to display a set of images generated/supplied by a processor alongside the real time images captured by the camera device.

The first side of the at least one panel may face a shelter interior space defined by the structure. The second side of the at least one panel may face a shelter interior space defined by the structure.

The wayside shelter may comprise a panel that is an end wall of the shelter for installation transverse to a route along which the shelter is installed.

The wayside shelter may be configured such that the end wall of the shelter is proximate to traffic approaching the shelter along the route.

In a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system, comprising a camera device adapted to capture images in real time; a screen adapted to display real time images captured by the camera device; a processing unit adapted to process image data captured by the camera device; a communication means for communicating image data from the camera device to the processing unit; and a communication means for communicating image data from the processing unit to the screen for display as real time images.

The system may comprise a processing unit that is further adapted to generate/supply a set of images, and communicate the set of images via the communication means to the screen.

The system may further comprise a second camera device arranged on the second side of the panel to capture real time images of an environment extending away from the second side of the at least one substantially vertically oriented surface in a second direction opposite the first.

The system may further comprise a communication means/data link to a vehicle for providing image data captured by the second camera device to a screen in a drivers compartment of said vehicle.

The system may comprise a processing unit comprising a controller adapted to supply the screen with a video signal that is a composite of the real time images captured by the camera device and the set of images.

The system may further comprise a transceiver for communicating traffic data on a route common to the vehicle and the screen.

The system may comprise a controller adapted to give greater prominence to the real time images when the traffic data indicates that the vehicle is within a predetermined radius of the screen.

The controller may be adapted to overlay the set of images on the real time images.

In a further aspect of the invention, the wayside shelter described herein may be provided along with a system as described herein.

The wayside shelter and/or accompanying system may be provided in a part or fully assembled format, or as a kit of parts. The kit of parts can comprise any combination of components required for the functionality of the invention defined herein, or all the components required. Alternatively, a wayside shelter may be provided in kit form, and/or a system according to any one of the arrangements described herein.

This invention relates to a means to 'see through' a display that would otherwise obscure the viewer from seeing what is behind it. An example of use would be in advertising displays on bus shelters. Currently the side of the shelter facing on-coming traffic is left clear, or unobstructed, to allow travellers to see if their bus is approaching. This limits the number of advertising displays that can be attached to, or against, the shelter -limiting the retail potential of the shelter. Leaving the side of the shelter facing on-coming traffic clear means that the most visible side of the structure, or the most viewed by those approaching the structure and those waiting at or adjacent to the structure, is unavailable for sale as advertising space.

The display may be a digital advertising unit. The display may be affixed to, integrated with or a standalone unit separate from the wayside shelter. The wayside shelter functions to incorporate the general display arrangement. The display unit acts as a proxy wall by virtue of its placement, regardless of physical connection to the structure supplied for passenger protection.

The camera devices may be arranged to capture the immediate environment inside the shelter as well as the environs external to the shelter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

An embodiment of the present invention will now be described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying figures in which: Figure 1 shows a typical known wayside shelter structure; Figures 2a, 2b and 2c show alternative wall configurations for the shelter of figure 1; Figure 3 shows a plan view of a known wayside shelter in place, in a front of path arrangement; Figure 4 shows a plan view of a wayside shelter in place, in a back of path arrangement, according to the present invention; Figure 5 shows a plan view of a wayside shelter according to the present invention; Figure 6 shows a view of the external side of the end wall of the shelter of figure 5; Figure 7 shows a view of the internal side of the end wall of the shelter of figure 5; Figure 8 shows a schematic arrangement of the control aspect of a system according to the present invention; Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram of a system according to the present invention; and Figures 10a, 10b, 10c and 10d show alternative display layouts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS The present invention provides a wayside shelter comprising a structure, a camera device for recording visual images is affixed to the structure, and a screen. The structure comprises a structural frame and at least one panel supported by the frame. The camera device is adapted to capture and output real time images of an environment in or adjacent to the shelter, and the screen is adapted to display the real time images output by the camera device in real time. A system for implementing the present invention is also provided.

Figure 1 depicts an exemplary wayside shelter 1. The shelter 1 shown comprises a structure 2 having a structural frame 3 supporting a series of panels 4, 5, 6, 7. The exemplary shelter 1 is arranged such that the panels 4, 5, 6 form three walls that are arranged perpendicular to one another to define an internal space or shelter interior 9. The shelter is "open" on a side which is typically a side of the shelter that is adjacent a route along which the shelter 1 is installed. The shelter 1 depicted is intended for external placement and therefore has a roof or canopy extending between the panels (4, 5, 6) to protect any persons or objects within the shelter interior 9 from adverse weather.

The structure 2 is supported by structural frame 3 in the form of substantially horizontal and vertical pieces defining a space for the panels 4, 5, 6, 7. The frame 3 is arranged so that the lowermost horizontally oriented frame members are spaced from the ground to permit the passage of air and moisture beneath the panels 4, 5, 6, 7. In other embodiments, the structure 2 is arranged so that the lowermost portion is adjacent to or in contact with the ground upon which the wayside shelter is located.

Each of the walls of the shelter 1 may be formed of one or more panels arranged to form a single surface. In the exemplary embodiment of figure 1, two panels 4 are provided in a vertical arrangement to form an end wall of the shelter 1, and two panels 6 are similarly arranged to form a second end wall opposite the first. An intermediate wall extending between the end walls is shown as having a length four times that of the end walls such that the intermediate wall comprises eight panels 5 retained within structural frame 3.

The panels may be transparent, translucent or opaque, and manufactured of known suitable materials. Where two or more panels are arranged in a vertical orientation, as shown, one, some or all of the panels may be transparent to permit occupants of the shelter 1 to view the environment surrounding the shelter and/or traffic moving towards, past or away from the shelter. In some arrangements, one or more upper panels 4, 5, 6, 7 are transparent, with the remainder being opaque, translucent, or covered by advertising displays or information and/or notice boards.

The arrangement shown in figure 1 is, of course, exemplary; various styles of shelter exist. Some shelters 1 have a single panel in a frame 3 extending in two dimensions. Some shelters have a number of panels 4, 5, 6, 7 forming walls, wherein the walls are a solid or unbroken surface. Other shelters 1 comprise walls having openings for access to the shelter interior 9 defined by the walls, in orientations such as those shown in figures 3 and 4.

Figure 2a shows an exemplary arrangement of a wayside shelter 1 in which panels 4, 5, 6 are shown as transparent.

Figure 2b shows an exemplary arrangement of a wayside shelter 1 in which panels 4, 6 are shown as transparent, and panels 5 are translucent or opaque.

Figure 2c shows a further exemplary arrangement of a wayside shelter 1 in which panels 5, 6 are shown as transparent, and panel 4 comprises a screen 8a. Screen 8a is typically positioned at or on panel 4 of wayside shelter 1 furthest from approaching traffic, which approaches toward panel 6 of wayside shelter 1 first. A bus, tram, or train stopping at the wayside shelter 1 will typically have its forward portion and/or drivers compartment adjacent to panel 4 and the rearward portion adjacent to panel 6. The terms forward and rearward can be indicative of both the vehicle and the direction of the vehicle.

Figure 3 depicts a prior art wayside shelter in a "front of path" arrangement. The pedestrian pathway passes behind the shelter 1 such that the shelter lies between the pedestrian pathway and the kerb, dividing the passenger pathway from the vehicular roadway 20. The direction of traffic flow is indicated by the orientation of the text indicating a stopping place for a bus or coach along the route. Although the figure shows a route along which traffic flows on the right, the arrangement disclosed herein is equally applicable to roadways on which traffic passes on the left and local vehicles have a left-hand drive arrangement.

The frame 3 is arranged such that two panels 5 are shown in plan view, with a space between panels 5 and panel 6. This space permits passengers to enter the shelter interior 9 from the pedestrian pathway. Likewise, panels 7 are arranged in frame 3 that provides a second space or gap between panels 5 and panel 4. The second space or gap is provided for passengers to board a vehicle 19 from the shelter or alight a vehicle 19 for entry into the shelter 1.

In the prior art shelter, panel 4 is oriented perpendicular to the kerb and the direction of traffic flow. One or more panels 6 are arranged at an end of the shelter 1 proximate to traffic approaching the shelter 1. One or more panels 4 are arranged opposite one or more panels 6 and distal to traffic approaching the shelter 1. Panel 6 is depicted as being transparent so that passengers waiting in the shelter interior 9 can easily see traffic approaching the shelter through the one or more panels 6.

Panel 4 comprises a screen 8a arranged on one or both sides so that information presented thereon can be viewed from the shelter interior 9 or from a viewpoint exterior to the shelter 1. The screen 8a may be electronic, or may be an advertising hoarding. Panel 4 has been selected as the location for screen 8a so as not to obscure the view of oncoming traffic when viewed from the shelter interior 9. Furthermore, if the shelter interior is empty of passengers, the screen 8a may be viewed by passing traffic through one or more panels 6. In such instances, it is beneficial for all panels 6 to be transparent such that panel 8a is not obscured.

Figure 4 shows a wayside shelter 1 in a "back of path" arrangement in accordance with the invention. The pedestrian footpath passes adjacent the kerb bordering the passenger pathway and the vehicular roadway 20 along which a bus or other passenger vehicle travels along a predetermined route. Consequently, the structure 2 is arranged such that a first space between panel 7 and panel 4 provides access to the shelter interior 9, and a second space between panel 6 and panel 7 provides access to the shelter interior 9. Given the direction of traffic flow indicated in figure 4, the first space between panel 7 and panel 4 allows passengers to board a vehicle when a vehicle 19 comes to a halt at the indicated stop. The doors of the vehicle 19 can be aligned with the first space by the vehicle 19 operator.

Panel 7 is arranged substantially parallel to the roadway 20, and panels 4 and 6 are arranged perpendicular to panel 7. Panel 5 extends between panel 4 and panel 6. Panel 5 is arranged parallel to and furthest from the roadway 20. As such, panel 5 is located adjacent property that does not form a part of the public highway. For privacy purposes, panel 5 is opaque, and may comprise information and signage providing data relating to routes, vehicle timetables or advertising space.

In accordance with the present invention, panel 4 is transparent so that passengers in the shelter interior 9 can see the immediate environment outside of the shelter 1. Panel 6 comprises a screen Sa. The screen Sa is arranged on a second side 13 of panel 6 so that any images or data presented on the screen 8a are visible from the shelter interior 9 and an environment 14 extending away from the second side 13 of panel 6.

A camera device 10a is affixed to structure 2. In the present embodiment, camera device 10a is arranged on frame 3, but the camera device 10a may be located on any part of structure 2, including the frame 3, a panel 4, 5, 6, 7, or a roof or canopy. In other embodiments, the camera device 10a may be a constituent part of screen 8A; in such an embodiment, screen 8a can comprise an electronic panel encased within a fabricated panel or box, along with associated wiring and electronic components. Camera device 10a may be installed at any location on structure 2. The camera device 10a is arranged to face away from a first side 11 of panel 6 such that the environment 12 extending away from the first side 11 of panel 6 can be photographed and/or recorded, along with a section of the roadway 20 extending from panel 6 away from the first side 11 of panel 6. Although the environment 12 captured by camera device 10a is indicated by the dashed lines in figure 4 as extending through an obtuse angle, a camera device 10a having a suitable lens may be selected so that a narrower or wider field of vision may be captured.

Panel 6 may be transparent, translucent or opaque, or a mix of these. Screen 8a obscures at least a portion of panel 6, which will ideally be located at design eye level. Real time images captured by camera device 10a can be displayed to passengers waiting in or adjacent to shelter interior 9 on screen Sa to replicate the view obscured by the screen 8a.

This arrangement allows passengers to "see" the traffic approaching the shelter 1 along the roadway 20, so that a bus or other passenger vehicle 19 can be seen and a desire to board said vehicle 19 indicated to the vehicle operator.

Furthermore, one or more camera devices arranged about frame 2 can capture the presence of waiting passengers. The presence of said passengers can be conveyed by means including an icon display on a display, illumination of a light, or other electronic signal conveyed within the shelter or to an external device, such as vehicle (bus, train, tram etc).

In embodiments in which images of, for example the presence of passengers awaiting transportation, a camera device may be fitted at any place on frame 2, a display panel, or any other fixing point that permits the camera device to point toward waiting passengers.

The arrangement further permits any persons in or near the shelter interior 9 to "see" any persons approaching or waiting in environment 12, thus increasing passenger security in less desirable locations and at night. Camera device 10a may be equipped with or arranged alongside night vision equipment or lighting, according to preference, although it should be noted that street furniture such as lighting is often provided in the vicinity of wayside shelters for visibility of the wayside shelter 1 to vehicle operators and for the security of passengers awaiting the arrival of a vehicle. In some embodiments, camera 10a may affixed to an item of street furniture near to or adjacent shelter 1, such as a lamp post or road signage.

Panel 4 is shown as being at least partly transparent to permit pedestrians and passengers to see through the transparent portion of panel 4 from one or both sides.

Passengers approaching the shelter 1 from a direction permitting a view of screen Sa through the transparent portion of panel 4 will also be afforded the benefit of being able to see "through" the obscured section(s) of panel 6.

A further embodiment of the present invention is shown in figure 5, in which a wayside shelter 1 is shown in a "front of path" arrangement. The pedestrian pathway passes behind the shelter 1 such that the shelter lies between the pedestrian pathway and the vehicular roadway 20. Panels 4 and 6 are arranged opposite one another and transverse to the orientation of the adjacent roadway 20. Panel 5 extends from panel 4 in an orientation substantially parallel to the roadway 20. A gap between the portion of frame 3 supporting panel 5 and the portion of frame 3 supporting panel 6 provides an entry/exit point for pedestrians to access the shelter interior 9 from the adjacent pedestrian pathway. Panel 7 extends adjacent to and substantially parallel with the kerb defining the edge of roadway 20. Panel 7 extends from the portion of frame 3 supporting panel 6. A gap between the portion of frame 3 supporting panel 7 and the portion of frame 3 supporting panel 4 provides an exit point from the shelter interior 9 for pedestrians to board a vehicle 19, and or enter the shelter interior 9 after alighting a vehicle 19 from a forward set of vehicle doors.

In the embodiment of figure 5, panel 6 comprises screen 8a substantially as described in relation to figure 4. Panel 4 comprises screen 8b. The screen 8b is arranged on a second side of panel 4 so that any images or data presented on the screen 8a are visible from the shelter interior 9 and an environment and its immediate environs.

A camera device 10b is affixed to structure 2. In the present embodiment, camera device 10b is arranged on frame 3, but may be located on any part of structure 2, including the frame 3, a panel 4, 5, 6, 7, or a roof or canopy. Alternatively, camera device 10b may be a constituent part of screen 8b. The camera device 10b is arranged to face away from a first side of panel 4 such that the environs outside of the shelter 1 may be photographed and/or recorded, along with a section of the roadway 20 extending away from the first side of panel 4. Camera device 10b will comprise the same or a similar arrangement to that of camera device 10a.

Camera device 10b will be oriented toward the roadway 20 such that the rear of vehicles travelling away from shelter 1 can be captured. The primary function of camera device 8b will therefore be that of security of passengers and pedestrians. Panel 4 may be transparent, translucent, opaque or any mix of these. Screen 8b will obscure at least a portion of panel 4, thus obscuring the view of any passengers within shelter interior 9.

Additional screens Sc, 8d, 8e, 8f can be mounted about panels 4, 5, 6, 7 if and/or as desired. Additional camera devices may also be present in some embodiments, to capture images of the interior space and the exterior spaces in and around the wayside shelter 1. Said images can be conveyed and presented either simultaneously or separately, on a single screen 8a, 8b, Sc, 8d, 8e, 8f, 24 or on a plurality of screens 8a, 8b, Sc, 8d, 8e, 8f, 24 in or on the wayside shelter 1, in or on a vehicle 19, or other remote location, either alone or in concert.

Figure 6 shows a representation of a screen 8a, 8b (and where present, screens Sc, 8d, 8e, 8f) in accordance with the present invention. Screen 8a, 8b has a first surface for displaying real time images 15 output by camera device 10a, 10b. The screen 8a, 8b is of a known construction and configuration, and can be any suitable screen. In the embodiment of figure 7, the entirety of a planar or curved surface of panel 8a, 8b is arranged to display images and/or data output by camera device 10a, 10b.

In a preferred embodiment, screen 8a, 8b is double-sided. The externally facing screen, viewed from the space external to the wayside shelter, is arranged to display adverts. The internally facing screen, viewed from the interior of the wayside shelter, is arranged to display advertising, real time information or other passenger information, or a mix of the two, either in digitally separate containers, or with one overlaid on the other.

The screen 8a, 8b (and where present, screens Sc, 8d, 8e, 8f) defines at least a section of the panel 4, 5, 6, 7 to which it is mounted or affixed. In the embodiment shown, the screen 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, 8e, 8f is arranged substantially vertically. In other embodiments, the screen 8a, 8b, Sc, 8d, 8e, 8f may be mounted such that an exterior surface of the screen viewed by passengers is angled. In such embodiments, the screen may be offset from the surface of the panel 4, 5, 6, 7 to which it is mounted about a vertical axis such that the exterior surface of the screen faces an entry/exit point to the shelter interior 9. This also has the benefit of being more easily viewed by passing traffic. Alternatively, in such embodiments, the screen 8a, 8b, Sc, 8d, 8e, 8f may be offset from the surface of the panel 4, 5, 6, 7 to which it is mounted about a horizontal axis such that the exterior surface of the screen faces upward, allowing the screen to be mounted at a lower position on a panel 4, 5, 6, 7. Likewise, the screen may be angled about a horizontal axis such that the screen faces downward, allowing the screen to be mounted at a higher position on a panel 4, 5, 6, 7.

Figure 7 shows a representation of a screen 8a, 8b, Sc, 8d, 8e, 8f in accordance with the present invention. Screen 8a, 8b has a first surface for displaying real time images 15 output by camera device 10a, 10b that covers an upper portion of a planar or curved surface of panel 8a, 8b. The upper portion is selected as the location for displaying real time images 15 output by camera device 10a, 10b on the basis that the screen 8a, 8b will mounted such that the upper portion will be at design eye level.

In a preferred embodiment, screen 8a, 8b, Sc, 8d, 8e, 8f is double-sided. The externally facing screen, viewed from the space external to the wayside shelter, is arranged to display adverts. The internally facing screen, viewed from the interior of the wayside shelter, is arranged to display advertising, real time information or other passenger information, or a mix of the two, either in digitally separate containers, or with one overlaid on the other. The internally facing screen and/or the externally facing screen may be divided as shown, into a first surface for displaying real time images 15 and a portion arranged to display images 17 stored and/or generated by a processor 16.

The remainder of the surface of screen 8a, 8b is arranged for digital or electronic display of static or moving images, or data, or, in a further embodiment, printed information or images. In a preferred embodiment, the remainder of the surface of screen 8a, 8b is arranged to display images 17 stored and/or generated by a processor 16. Alternatively, depending on whether the screen is mounted toward an upper or lower portion of panel 4, 5, 6, 7, or angled with respect to 4, 5, 6, 7, the locations of the proportion of the screen devoted to real time images 15 or images 17 may be reversed. Likewise, the proportion of the screen devoted to real time images 15 or images 17 may be varied according to the volume and type of images presented.

Figure 8 shows a diagram of a system according to the present invention. Camera device 10a, 10b is connected to a processor 16 via communication means 21a. Communication means 21a is a datalink for communicating real time images 15 captured by camera device 10a, 10b, or data relating to real time images 15, from camera device 10a, 10b to processor 16. Processor 16 is arranged to modify, store and/or process the real time images 15 and related data, and to supply real time images 15 captured by camera device 10a, 10b, or data relating to real time images 15, from the processor 16 to screen 8a, 8b via communication means 21b. Communication means 21b is a datalink for communicating real time images 15 and/or related data for presentation to passengers via screen 8a, 8b.

Processor 16 is a known processor or processing unit adapted to receive images and/or data via datalinks connected to camera devices in the system of the present invention.

Processor 16 is a known processor or processing unit adapted to transmit images and/or data via datalinks connected to devices in the system of the present invention.

The processor 16 may be integral to camera device 10a, 10b, or may be a separate device linked by wire or wirelessly The processor 16 may be located in or adjacent to camera device 10a, 10b, or may be arranged in or on structure 2 remote from the camera device 10a, 10b. In a further embodiment, the processor 16 may be located remotely from the wayside shelter 1. The system of the present invention may be a separate entity or a part of a network of wayside shelter 1 systems controlled locally at or adjacent said shelter 1 or at a central location remote from the or each shelter 1 in the network. The system and/or network may be monitored electronically or by a person or persons in a control room.

Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system according to the present invention. Camera device 10a, 10b is a known device for capturing still or moving images in analogue or digital formats, the latter being preferred. Where desired, the camera device 10a, 10b will include lighting means for illuminating the immediate environment, and or means for capturing images in low light conditions. The camera device 10a, 10b may comprise storage means that are integral to, adjacent or remote from the camera device 10a, 10b. The camera device 10a, 10b is arranged to capture real time images 15 for storage, or transmittal via communication means 21a.

Processor 16 is arranged to receive and/or process images 15 and image related data output by the camera device 10a, 10b. The image and/or image data received from the camera device 10a, 10b may be processed to remove certain aspects or features of the images and/or data, to improve or adjust the quality and appearance of the images and/or data, and/or formator reformat the images and/or data received.

The processor is arranged to store and/or generate data and/or images 17 that are not output from the camera device 10a, 10b. Said images and/or data 17 stored and/or generated by the processor 16 can be relevant to the transport network along which the shelter 1 is located. Such data can include route maps, dmetabling information, information relating to fares and services, and or traffic and travel news. Alternatively, or in addition, the stored or generated images and/or data 17 may be for advertising, public information, or other purposes unrelated to the transport network along which the shelter 1 is located.

The processor 16 can provide the stored or generated images and/or data 17 and/or real time images 15 to screen 8a, 8b for display to passengers or passers-by. The screen 8a, 8b is therefore adapted to receive and display said images and/or data from the processor 16 via communication means 21b.

In a preferred embodiment, the stored or generated images and/or data 17 is at least partially pre-recorded.

In some embodiments, the processor 16 is connected to a screen 24 located in or on a vehicle 19. A communication means 21c comprising a datalink connects vehicle 19 with processor 16. The communication means 21c allows data relating to vehicle 19 location, speed, and/or capacity to be shared with the processor 16, and subsequently provided to passengers and/or passers via screen 8a, 8b, if and/or as desired. Such information can be used to overlay real time images and/or data onto the stored or generated images and/or data 17 to provide passengers at the shelter 1 with up to date information.

Where the system comprises a communication means 21c between processor 16 and vehicle 19, said communication means 21c can be one way, in either direction, or two way.

The vehicle 19 will comprise a transmitter, a receiver, or a transceiver 23 accordingly. In the embodiment illustrated by figure 9, the vehicle comprises a transceiver 23 for two way communication between the vehicle 19 and the processor 16.

The processor 16 may provide data from the camera device 10a, 10b to the vehicle 19 to allow the vehicle manager or operator to determine whether passenger(s) are waiting in a particular shelter 1. Further information, such as traffic and travel information at or near a shelter 1 may also be provided to the vehicle 19. The vehicle 19 may comprise a screen 24 for display of information to the passengers on the vehicle or the operator of the vehicle, as preferred. In some embodiments, the vehicle may comprise camera device 10c.

The vehicle 19 may provide images and/or data to the processor 16 for processing and/or display at screen 8a, 8b. A receiver or transceiver 25 may be present at screen 8a, 8b.

The system may further comprise a controller 22 arranged to supply the screen 8a, 8b, 24 with images, data and/or video signal that is a composite of output(s) from camera device 10a, 10b, 10c, and/or stored or generated images and/or data 17. In some embodiments, the controller is adapted to overlay information on the camera output.

The controller 22 can be located in the system of the present invention wherever convenient. The controller 22 may be a separate device, or comprise a number of sub devices integral to or associated with one or more devices within the system.

In further embodiments, the controller 22 is adapted to give greater prominence to real time images 15 from camera device 10a, 10b, 10c when traffic data or the processor identifies and/or indicates that a vehicle 19 is approaching shelter 1.

The communication means between any and/or all of the components of the system may be wireless or hardwired.

Figures 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d are representations of the type and variation of images and data that can be conveyed via screen 8a, 8b, 24.

In figure 10a, real time images 15 from camera device 10a, 10b, 10c are shown on screen 8a, 8b, 24 in an uppermost portion at design eye level.

In further embodiments, real time images 15 are shown at a location above design eye level such that stored and/or generated images and/or data 17 are at design eye level of the targeted viewer.

The real time image 15 depicted in figure 10a is captured from a camera device affixed to a wayside shelter that shows a vehicle approaching the wayside shelter. In embodiments in which the captured images are presented on a display 24 in or on a vehicle 19, and arranged for display of information to passengers on the vehicle 19 or the vehicle operator, the real time image 15 can be an image of passengers awaiting transportation at a wayside shelter 1, images captured from a wayside shelter the vehicle will next pass, a wayside shelter of a final destination, a wayside shelter along the intended route of travel, or images captured by a number of wayside shelters along the intended route of travel.

Alternatively, images from the interior of a vehicle 19, showing available capacity for awaiting passengers, may be presented on screens 8a, 8b at or on a wayside shelter 1.

Where the display 24 is arranged for viewing by passengers, the real time images 15 may be of the route adjacent said shelter, or of the wayside shelter surrounds so that the passengers may see the number of waiting passengers or passers-by, or observe other conditions at said shelter, including traffic and weather. Where the display 24 is arranged for viewing by a vehicle 19 operator, the real time images 15 may be intended to alert the operator of the number of passengers awaiting transport, or whether any one of the waiting passengers has additional needs, such as those of a wheelchair user. The provision of such information may be used by the transportation company to schedule more or fewer vehicles along a route, respond to peaks and troughs in demand by adjusting frequency of service according to demand, or provide vehicles adapted to the needs of travellers along a route.

The proportion of the screen 8a, 8b, 24 occupied by real time images 15 is shown in figure 10a as being around a third of the screen 8a, 8b, 24. However, the location and proportion of the screen 8a, 8b, 24 given over to real time images 15 may be reversed with that of the screen 8a, 8b, 24 given over to stored or captured images 17.

Figure 10b shows a further embodiment of screen 8a, 8b, 24 of the present invention, in the portion of screen 8a, 8b, 24 dedicated to real time image 15 presentation is approximately three quarters of the available surface of screen 8a, 8b, 24. The stored or captured images 17 may be information, advertising, weather reports, news headlines or other such data.

In some embodiments, the processor 16 takes stored or captured images 17, merges said images with advertising information, and displays the resulting modified images or graphics on a region of a user facing display. This can be displayed at any location on the display, or any other separate display in the vicinity of the advertising display.

In the embodiment of figure 10c, a real time image 15 of an approaching vehicle captured by camera device 10a, 10b affixed to or near the same wayside shelter on which the images are displayed Alternatively, the images shown in figure 10c may be displayed on a screen 24 in or on a vehicle 19 on the same or another route connecting with the route along which the vehicle 19 is travelling.

The stored and/or generated images and/or data 17 can contain secondary real time information that is not captured by one or more of the camera devices. Such secondary real time information can be presented as text that conveys live scheduling information in a variety of formats, including tabular, as follows: Service Destination Arrival Time 32 City Centre 3 mins 11 Thornford 5 mins A further example of stored and/or generated images and/or data 17 is shown in figure 10d as a map along which a vehicle 19 of interest may be shown as travelling in real time or thereabouts. The lowermost portion of the screen 8a, 8b, 24 may be dedicated to advertising material, live images of the environment around a vehicle or wayside shelter, or images from the interior of a vehicle 19, showing available capacity for awaiting passengers.

Furthermore, real time images or views can be displayed at any size or location on a screen, or could be shown in a separate display.

The present invention provides the means of creating a 'see through' display, allowing those looking at, say, adverts to see, in real-time, what is going on behind the advertising board. This allows advertising to be placed in areas where the view may be obscured, for example, when placing advertising in bus shelters on the face that would block the view of arriving buses. It also adds a level of security, showing passengers or passers by if anyone is on the other side of an advertising board.

The techniques can also be applied to information or wayfinding signs. Allowing the information viewer to 'see through' the sign and gain a level of orientation without having to look away from the information displayed. Augmented reality information could be overlayed on the real-time view.

There are also many other applications of this approach and applicable locations. The technique could be used in stations and other transport hubs. It could be used on real-time wayfinding displays, or real-time transport information displays.

In further embodiments of the present invention, camera devices can be placed at any point on the screen frame or surface.

A camera fitted at any place on display 2, or display frame, or any other fixing point, facing away from the display 1 user.

The invention disclosed herein is also applicable to other structures, such as cantilever structures. The cantilever configuration is common for wayside shelters.

It will of course be understood that many variations may be made to the above-described embodiment without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims (16)

1. CLAIMS1. A wayside shelter (1), comprising a structure (2) comprising: a structural frame (3); and at least one panel (4, 5, 6, 7) arranged in a substantially vertical orientation and supported by the frame (3); a camera device (10a, 10b) for recording visual images, wherein the camera device (10a, 10b) is affixed to the structure (2) on a first side of the at least one panel (4, 5, 6, 7), and a screen (8a, 8b) on a second side of the at least one panel (4, 5, 6, 7), wherein the second side is opposite the first side, wherein the camera device (10a, 10b) is adapted to capture and output real time images of an environment (12) extending away from the first side (11) of the at least one panel (4, 5, 6, 7) in a first direction, and the screen (8a, 8b) is adapted to display the real time images (15) output by the camera device (10a, 10b) in real time.
2. 2. A wayside shelter (1) according to claim 1, wherein the screen (8a, 8b) is further adapted to display a set of images (17) generated/supplied by a processor (16) alongside the real time images (15) captured by the camera device (10a, 10b).
3. 3. A wayside shelter (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein first side of the at least one panel faces a shelter interior space (9) defined by the structure (2).
4. 4. A wayside shelter (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein second side of the at least one panel faces a shelter interior space (9) defined by the structure (2).
5. 5. A wayside shelter (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the panel (4, 5, 6, 7) is an end wall of the shelter (1) for installation transverse to a route along which the shelter (1) is installed.
6. 6. A wayside shelter (1) according to claim 5, wherein the end wall of the shelter (1) is proximate to traffic approaching the shelter along the route.
7. 7. A system, comprising: a camera device (10a, 10b) adapted to capture images in real time; a screen (8a, 8b) adapted to display real time images (15) captured by the camera device (10a, 10b); a processing unit (16) adapted to process image data (18) captured by the camera device (10a, 10b); a communication means (21a) for communicating image data (18) from the camera device (10a, 10b) to the processing unit (16); and a communication means (21b) for communicating image data (18) from the processing unit (16) to the screen (8a, 8b) for display as real time images (15).
8. 8. A system according to claim 7, wherein the processing unit (16) is further adapted to generate/supply a set of images (17), and communicate the set of images (17) via the communication means (21b) to the screen (8a, 8b).
9. 9. A system according claims 7 or 8, wherein the system further comprises a second camera device (10a, 10b) arranged on the second side (13) of the panel (4, 5, 6, 7) to capture real time images (15) of an environment (14) extending away from the second side (13) of the at least one substantially vertically oriented surface in a second direction opposite the first.
10. 10. A system according to claim 9, wherein the system further comprises a communication means/data link (21c) to a vehicle (19) for providing image data captured by the second camera device to a screen in a drivers compartment of said vehicle.
11. 11. A system according to any one of claims 7 -10, wherein the processing unit (16) comprises a controller (22) adapted to supply the screen (8a, 8b) with a video signal that is a composite of the real time images (15) captured by the camera device (10a, 10b) and the set of images (17).
12. 12. A system according to claim 10 or claim 11, further comprising a transceiver (23) for communicating traffic data on a route common to the vehicle (19) and the screen (8a, 8b).
13. 13. A system according to claim 11, wherein the controller (22) is adapted to give greater prominence to the real time images (15) when the traffic data indicates that the vehicle (19) is within a predetermined radius of the screen (8a, 8b).
14. 14. A system according to any one of claims 11 -13 wherein the controller (22) is adapted to overlay the set of images (17) on the real time images (15).
15. 15. A wayside shelter according to any one of claims 1 -6 and a system according to any one of claims 7 -14.
16. 16. A kit of parts comprising a wayside shelter according to any one of claims 1 -6 and a system according to any one of claims 7 -14.