The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is launching a pilot project in collaboration with Sensonic to automatically detect people entering the tracks and falling objects. The project will use Sensonic's Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) technology, which transforms existing fibre optic cables into sensitive acoustic sensors. These sensors use vibrations to detect unusual activity on the tracks and can trigger real-time warnings. A single system covers up to 85.5 km. The 12-month project will begin with a feasibility study to select suitable locations, followed by installation of the technology at one site. The project costs amount to €96,820 (US$110,700) and will be spread over both phases.
