Seoul Metro Halves Escalator Repair Time Using IoT Technology

The state-owned transport company said on Tuesday that the average time spent fixing an escalator dropped from 56 minutes to 37 minutes, down 37 percent, after the adoption of IoT technology for 100 escalators installed at 12 stations on Line 7. (Image: Yonhap)

SEOUL, April 17 (Korea Bizwire) — Seoul Metro has managed to cut its typical escalator repair time nearly in half using Internet of Things technology.

The state-owned transport company said on Tuesday that the average time spent fixing an escalator dropped from 56 minutes to 37 minutes, down 37 percent, after the adoption of IoT technology for 100 escalators installed at 12 stations on Line 7.

The escalators that received the IoT treatment are equipped with scores of sensors that can alert authorities in real time when a malfunction has been detected.

Workers are then dispatched immediately, shortening the repair time.

“In the past, mechanics were dispatched in response to reports of malfunctions. Mechanics then had to identify the source of the problem. When additional equipment was required, the repairs were almost invariably delayed,” Seoul Metro said.

The transport company is using IoT technology to not only fix escalators but also prevent any technical issues in advance.

“Last October, we were able to analyze vibration frequencies through escalators at Gwangnaru station on Line 5 and managed to prevent accidents by proactively replacing damaged components. We patented the analysis system in February of this year,” Seoul Metro said.

Furthermore, Seoul Metro plans to install additional safety devices to prevent escalators from going into reverse.

As of last year, 1,324 out of 1,663 escalators were equipped with the safety devices, with plans to do the same with an additional 226 units, bringing the overall installation rate to 93 percent.

Seoul Metro has managed to cut its typical escalator repair time nearly in half using Internet of Things technology. (Image: Yonhap)

According to data from Seoul Metro, the number of accidents on Seoul’s subway system dropped 58 percent last year.

Earlier this month, Seoul Metro announced plans to replace aging subway trains on Line 2 and 3 with new models by 2022, following reports that old subway trains are among the major obstacles affecting the operation of the city’s subway system negatively.

Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)