Kassel kerb

Kasselský obrubník, Koleje Strahov, detail

Kombibord

Berlin - U-Bahnhof Frankfurter Tor (13607686495)

Kassel kerb is a specific design of curb used primarily on public transport systems, designed to provide an easy access for buses or trams to bus stops and tram stops. Named after the city of Kassel in Germany, where it was first introduced, the Kassel kerb is engineered to minimize the gap between the vehicle and the curb, facilitating safer and quicker boarding and alighting for passengers, including those with mobility impairments, parents with strollers, and travelers with luggage.

Design and Features

The Kassel kerb is characterized by its unique shape, which includes a high, straight section that aligns closely with the vehicle's doors, and a sloped section that guides the vehicle's tires closer to the curb. This design significantly reduces the gap and the step height between the curb and the vehicle, compared to traditional curb designs. The kerb's profile allows buses and trams to approach stops more precisely, without the risk of tire damage or excessive wear, which can occur with conventional curbs.

Advantages

The primary advantage of the Kassel kerb is its accessibility feature. By reducing the gap between the vehicle and the curb, it makes public transport more accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. This aligns with principles of universal design and supports the goals of inclusive urban planning. Additionally, the Kassel kerb can speed up passenger boarding and alighting, improving the efficiency of public transport services. It also reduces vehicle damage and maintenance costs by minimizing the impact on tires and wheels.

Implementation

Since its introduction in Kassel, the design has been adopted in various cities around the world. Implementing Kassel kerbs requires careful planning and design to ensure that they fit with existing infrastructure and meet the needs of the local public transport system. This includes considerations of bus and tram fleet specifications, stop design, and passenger flow. The success of Kassel kerbs in improving public transport efficiency and accessibility has led to their endorsement by various transportation and accessibility advocacy groups.

Challenges

Despite their benefits, the implementation of Kassel kerbs can face challenges. These include the costs associated with replacing existing curbs, the need for precise alignment between the vehicle and the curb, and potential issues with snow removal or street cleaning due to the kerb's unique profile. Additionally, the effectiveness of Kassel kerbs depends on the consistent behavior of drivers to align vehicles correctly at stops.

Conclusion

Kassel kerbs represent a significant innovation in public transport infrastructure, offering improved accessibility and efficiency. Their design reflects a thoughtful approach to the challenges of urban mobility and inclusivity. As cities continue to seek solutions for accessible and efficient public transport, the Kassel kerb stands out as a successful example of how small design changes can make a big difference in the daily lives of passengers.