Question

Getting into the general compartment of a long-distance train is not a pleasant experience, especially for women, children, elderly and the disabled. The photo depicts one such scene.
In the space provided in the answer booklet, list TEN unique design problems or opportunities in this situation...
Within the space provided clearly illustrate TWO design problems or opportunities that you consider to be the most important.

Hint:

When identifying design problems, frame them from a human-centered perspective. Instead of saying "the door is narrow," say "The narrow doorway forces a chaotic entry process, increasing the risk of passengers falling or being crushed." This focuses on the human consequence of the design flaw.

Answer 1

This question tests analytical skills and the ability to identify specific, human-centered design problems within a complex, chaotic situation. Part 1: List of TEN Unique Design Problems / Opportunities It's important to go beyond the obvious "it's crowded" and identify problems that have potential for a design solution.

Inefficient Luggage Handling: Passengers are carrying large, cumbersome sacks and bags by hand while trying to board, creating blockages and safety risks. (Opportunity: Modular, easily stackable luggage systems or better on-platform trolley access).
Lack of Safe Handholds: There are no designed grips or rails on the exterior or interior near the door for passengers to hold onto for stability while navigating the crowd, increasing the risk of falling.
Poor Boarding/Alighting Flow: The single, narrow doorway forces a chaotic mix of people trying to get in and potentially get out, with no defined flow of traffic. (Opportunity: Redesigned doorways with wider entry or separate entry/exit points).
Obstructed Windows: The windows are barred, limiting their use for ventilation or emergency escape, and they seem to be difficult to access in the crowd.
Inaccessible for Disabled/Elderly: The high step up into the train combined with the surging crowd makes boarding nearly impossible for anyone with mobility issues. (Opportunity: A deployable ramp or a designated accessible boarding area).
Risk of Injury from Luggage: A passenger is carrying a large sack on their head, posing a risk to both themselves (neck strain) and others (falling object). (Opportunity: Integrated luggage compartments accessible from the outside).
Lack of Information Display: There is no clear external signage indicating the coach number or destination in a way that is visible from a distance through the crowd, causing confusion.
Personal Space Violation: There is no design intervention (e.g., floor markings, queuing systems) to manage the crowd and provide a modicum of personal space, leading to extreme discomfort and potential for harassment.
Difficulty with Child Safety: It is extremely difficult for a parent to safely manage a child while also handling luggage and navigating the crowd, creating a high risk of separation or injury.
Poor Ventilation Design: The design of the coach does not seem to account for ventilation during crowded boarding situations, leading to a stuffy and uncomfortable environment even before the journey begins.
Part 2: Illustration of TWO Most Important Problems Since drawing is not possible, a detailed description of the illustrations is provided. Problem 1 Illustration: Lack of Safe Handholds and High Step

Concept: Illustrate the physical struggle and danger faced by a vulnerable passenger.
Description of Sketch: The sketch would be a close-up focusing on the train doorway. An elderly woman is shown halfway through the door, one foot on the high train step and the other still on the platform. She is off-balance, reaching out a hand with a distressed expression. Her other hand is trying to hold a small bag. There is no rail or handle for her to grab. The legs and bodies of other passengers are shown pressing in around her, emphasizing her instability and the force of the crowd. An arrow could point to the empty space where a handhold should be, with the caption: "No support for safe boarding." Another arrow could point to the large vertical gap between the platform and the train floor, captioned: "Inaccessible step height."
Problem 2 Illustration: Inefficient Luggage Handling and Blockage

Concept: Illustrate how poorly designed luggage creates blockages and hazards.
Description of Sketch: The view is from inside the coach, looking out the door. The doorway is almost completely blocked by a large, round sack that a passenger is struggling to pull inside. Behind this person, on the platform, other passengers are shown stuck, unable to board. A speech bubble from a frustrated passenger behind might say "Move!" or show a symbol of impatience. An arrow points to the bulky sack, with the caption: "Unwieldy luggage blocks entry for everyone." The sketch would highlight how the design of personal goods (luggage) directly impacts the efficiency and safety of the public transport system.