42 Technology has collaborated with the UK rail industry to develop a complete seating system for train operating companies (TOCs).

The new ‘Adaptable Carriage’ system will help TOCs to configure specific carriages to carry either passengers or high-value cargo by allowing operators to stow seats and tables to create additional spaces for cargo and other ‘low density, high value’ packages.

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It also features a forward-folding seat design that allows easier cleaning and a sliding mechanism to configure the seats into a seated position along the carriage.

42 Technology developed the system as part of a two-year RSSB-funded programme backed by input from the wider UK rail industry.

The system's deployment is expected to reduce road congestion pollution and ensure faster deliveries with new services.

The technology is currently ready for trials and can either be retrofitted into existing carriages or integrated into new-build designs.

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RSSB technical director Chris Lawrence said: “Adaptable Carriage is an example of what can be achieved when the UK rail industry partners with a cross-sector innovation consultancy to deliver solutions to specific rail challenges.”

"Adaptable Carriage is an example of what can be achieved when the UK rail industry partners with a cross-sector innovation consultancy to deliver solutions to rail challenges."

The company claims that the technology is completely compatible with both steel-frame and modern aluminium train carriage designs using cantilevered seats.

All seats, tables and draught screens within each section of the carriage are interconnected and can be moved through the carriage using the system.

The control system will secure the seats in both passenger and cargo-carrying configurations, and it can be instantly integrated with the carriage control mechanism to allow door locking in order to ensure passenger safety.

42 Technology has already started working with multiple parties to support initial trials of the Adaptable Carriage system to further its commercial development.

Image: Adaptable Carriage roll cage trolley. Photo: courtesy of 42 Technology Limited.

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