Saft batteries keep solar-powered travel information displays running year-round for Germany’s railways

The AEG MIS information points (or steles) use state-of-the-art cholesteric liquid crystal display (ChLCD) technology, which requires no power to display information: power is only required to update the display. ChLCDs are reflective display systems, made visible by reflection of the incident ambient light. Information is readable under all light conditions, with no need for backlighting.

The new information points are initially being installed at 25 locations in Germany. They are used, for example, to provide up-to-date train information to passengers at unmanned railway stations – both through the built-in display and through an intercom connection to a central control centre. The self-contained, self-sufficient information displays can be installed in locations without mains power. The combination of a solar panel and 12V rechargeable battery ensures the system can keep running for up to two weeks without sun. “We selected Saft’s Sunica.plus technology for its superior performance over lead-acid designs, especially across the wide temperature ranges experienced around Germany and central Europe generally” says Alexander Stumpp, project manager responsible for the development of the photovoltaic product line at AEG MIS. “We were impressed by Saft’s knowledge and experience of photovoltaic applications, which has proved invaluable.”