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SDOT: Reinventing the Passenger Experience of Tomorrow

July 22, 2025
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SDOT: Reinventing the Passenger Experience of Tomorrow

In an increasingly connected world, digital technologies are at the heart of the transformation of transport services. SDOT (for Service Digital On Train), the result of the thinking of SNCF Material Engineering, embodies this digital revolution transforming trains into communicating platforms. SDOT allows rail operators to integrate advanced functionalities such as video protection, passenger counting, Wi-Fi connectivity for passengers, dynamic distribution of passenger information, and track recording by front cameras on their rail equipment for safety. These innovations not only improve the passenger experience but also enhance safety and operational efficiency.

A unique network For Maximum Efficiency and Optimized Cost

One of the main advantages of SDOT lies in its ability to share all the essential functions on board trains on an integrated common network. This innovative approach makes it possible to achieve substantial savings in terms of installation and maintenance.

Reduced Installation Costs and Simplified Maintenance:

By combining functions such as video surveillance, passenger counting, Wi-Fi, and dynamic distribution of passenger information on a single network, SDOT greatly simplifies the installation process. Thus avoiding the establishment of multiple separate systems, hardware, hardware, hardware, labor, maintenance and operating costs are considerably reduced.

The sharing of functions through a common network composed of standard products also affects the management of obsolescence. Finally, modular design remains scalable and open to innovative solutions in the future.

SDOT follows the ITxPT (Information Technology for Public Transport) standard which ensures SNCF and its customers to achieve optimal interoperability thanks to its Open Architecture model.

Real-Time Monitoring and Maintenance Optimization:

SDOT is an end-to-end solution integrating ground to board communication, it allows real-time monitoring of trains and thus enables online operation and diagnosis. Operators can continuously monitor train performance, quickly identify anomalies, and trigger preventive maintenance actions before problems occur. This proactive monitoring ensures high availability of trains.

Thanks to the analysis of the data collected, maintenance teams can plan targeted and preventive interventions, reducing unexpected breakdowns and maintenance costs. SDOT thus makes it possible to optimize maintenance in the workshop.

Enhanced Connectivity for an Enhanced Passenger Experience

Dynamic distribution of passenger information :

Thanks to SDOT, trains can be equipped with connected billboards that provide visual and audio information on schedules, connections, safety announcements, and other communications (tourist information, advertising communications) in real time. This connectivity allows passengers to stay informed and to travel with peace of mind.

Passenger Wi-Fi connectivity:

Onboard Wi-Fi is now essential. SDOT provides a fast connection so passengers can work, play, and stay connected throughout their journey.

Passenger counting:

SDOT includes a passenger counting system, allowing operators to better manage resources and monitor train attendance in real time. This data makes it possible to plan investments, to adjust services according to traffic and to guide passengers at the dock to the least busy passenger areas in case of heavy traffic.

Increased Security and Oversight

Video Protection and Retrovision:

Safety is an absolute priority for rail operators. SDOT integrates real-time video surveillance systems on board to monitor the interior of trains and also retrovision systems to visualize the platforms. These systems help prevent incidents, respond quickly when problems occur, and keep passengers and staff safe.

Front cameras:

In the event of an accident or incident on the road, front cameras play a crucial role in analyzing and understanding events. SDOT makes it possible to equip trains with front cameras and microphones in the cabin (a feature not used in France), continuously recording journeys and providing essential evidence in the event of an accident. This improved safety, strengthening passenger confidence and accelerating the resumption of traffic after an event.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the service of rail transport

The integration of AI opens up new perspectives for rail transport. SDoT's sophisticated algorithms make it possible to anticipate maintenance needs and determine potential failures, offering operators powerful tools for proactive management...

In the future, through the use of embedded cameras, AI will make it possible to develop advanced functionalities such as intelligent passenger counting. This innovative technology will not only make it possible to accurately count the number of passengers on board, but also to identify and track other variables such as persons with reduced mobility (PMR), bicycles carried, or even forgotten luggage. This evolution paves the way for even better management of resources and services on board, thus improving the overall passenger experience.

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