DB MindBox MidTerm Presentations - Event Recap

Innovative AI Solutions for Public Transport: OpenCapacity’s Groundbreaking Approach

At the midterm presentations in Frankfurt yesterday, the buzz around OpenCapacity was palpable. The London-based startup, currently participating in the DB Mindbox startup program “Regional Traffic 2024,” showcased its pioneering AI-driven capacity forecasting solution for public transport networks. With only 50 days into the program, OpenCapacity has already demonstrated significant strides in transforming how public transport systems manage and predict capacity.

OpenCapacity, founded by CEO Gerrit Boehm and CTO Peter Todd, is carving out a niche in the transport industry by leveraging advanced machine learning and AI technologies. Their innovative approach is sensor agnostic, meaning it utilizes data from existing sensors on public transport vehicles to provide real-time and predictive insights into capacity management. This unique approach not only optimizes the operational efficiency of public transport but also enhances the overall passenger experience by ensuring that vehicles are used to their full potential without being overcrowded.

CEO, Gerrit Boehm

“We are turning cutting-edge research in AI into practical solutions for the transport industry,” said Peter Todd during the presentation. “Our core product is our patented AI-driven capacity forecasting tool, which allows public transport operators to better understand the conditions of their rolling stock in both real-time and future states. By converting raw data into actionable insights, we help operators make informed decisions that improve service reliability and passenger satisfaction.”

The journey of OpenCapacity began with Boehm’s doctoral research, which focused on optimizing public transport systems through data-driven solutions. His research laid the foundation for what would eventually become OpenCapacity’s flagship product. Together with Peter Todd, Boehm secured governmental funding, which allowed them to translate their academic research into a commercial venture. This funding was crucial in moving from concept to reality, enabling the duo to create innovative solutions that address real-world challenges in the transport sector.

OpenCapacity’s progress has been nothing short of remarkable. The company has successfully secured pre-seed funding, which helped establish its market presence as a leader in real-time capacity prediction for public transport. One of the company’s significant milestones was the recent granting of an EU patent, which further solidifies its position as a key player in the industry. “The patent is a testament to the uniqueness of our solution and our commitment to leading innovation in this field,” Boehm added.

The company’s success is not just measured by patents and funding; it’s also reflected in the long-term contracts they’ve secured with major industry players. These partnerships are a clear indication that OpenCapacity’s solutions are resonating with those who understand the importance of optimizing public transport systems.

As OpenCapacity continues to make waves in the transport industry, it’s clear that the company is on the right track. Their AI-driven solutions are poised to revolutionize how public transport networks operate, making them more efficient, reliable, and passenger-friendly. With the momentum they’ve gained so far, the future looks bright for OpenCapacity as they continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in public transport management.