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>>Ben Hello, my name is Benjamin Scheiner and this is Paul Morana.
We have for you a big idea that creatively uses technology to better the lives of hundreds
of thousands of commuters in cities around the world.
It is language independent and is implemented with an unobtrusive elegance.
>>Paul
Mass transit, and subways in particular, are used by millions around the world every day.
During rush-hour, riders encounter a problem we call the traveler's dilemma.
Imagine you’re watching a packed train pull up to reveal a crush of people. You’re faced
with a choice. You can wait for the next train and be delayed, or you can push your way into
the train in hopes of finding space.
>>Ben
If you attempt to push your way inside and there is no space, you will be rebuked by
your fellow travellers and may delay the train. Even if you do find space, you and your travellers
have faced a distressing uncertainty - is there room for me? Can I make it?
Worse yet, the traveler's dilemma will be there for the next rush-hour, every rush-hour,
everyday. How stressful!
But we have a solution. light the space!
>>Paul
Imagine a subway car with a softly glowing ceiling - and every person in it casts a small
shadow upwards. Where there is space it glows. Where there is a person, it stays dark. In
an empty car you have a peculiar shadow moving above you. In an almost full car, space is
lighted with a beacon all boarders can see.
No more uncertainty. If there is space, you’ll see it! If there isn't, you're better off
waiting.
>>Ben
We can build this with existing technology. Low-power LEDs and a grid of pressure switches
beneath the floor of the car manage that glow. Best yet, existing trains can be retrofitted
- there’s no need to buy new cars.
>>Paul
This lighting system will brighten the commute of hundreds of thousands of people every morning,
and millions more throughout the day.
We ask for your consideration in helping make this idea a reality. Thank you.