When running in the underground portions of the muni metro system, the trains are controlled by computer and because of this, they stop at the same place along the platform every time. Unlike bart, which is similarly controlled by computer, the spots where the doors will open are not marked out. Even without these markings it is still possible to tell where one will need to board. As people enter and leave the trains, their feet wipe clean the dirt form the very edge of the train platform leaving clean marks at each door opening. By observing and counting off the marks in sets of four it is possible to tell where to stand to enter at a particular door on a particular train.
Comments (2)
I've noticed this as well, although I tend to try and just remember the position relative to other things in the station and work from there. I'll be sure and take a look down next time.
Another thing to check out for in the underground stations that are on ATC is to make a note of where the good exits are (up escalators, etc.) and match that with a count of train lengths offset from the end of the platform. That way, you can figure out which car to enter and which doors to exit when you get on.
I'm also humored by the description on this page: http://www.sfmunicentral.com/ which also has a nifty real-time(ish) map of portions of the metro that are under ATC.
Posted by Jonathan Lassoff | May 5, 2008 8:22 PM
Posted on May 5, 2008 20:22
Yeah. I've noticed this a few years ago as well.
It's not always obvious but they're mostly pretty clear.
Posted by Kevin Burton | May 11, 2008 9:42 AM
Posted on May 11, 2008 09:42