CobaltNiche has worked with Yarra Trams since operations of the tram network was privatised in the 1990s. The Melbourne tram network is one of the biggest in the world and has become an icon of the city.
Major Projects
During this time we have provided design and product engineering on a number of projects including two major interior upgrades applied to the network entire tram fleet; New brand refurbishment program (2000-03) and New Ticketing System technology upgrade (2007-08).
CobaltNiche also partnered with TransdevTSL in their successful 1997 bid to win the Yarra Trams franchise. More recently we have provided future design and configuration solutions as together with French transport design group, Avant-Premiere.
New Ticketing System Project
Yarra Trams and CobaltNiche completed a major upgrade of the entire fleet of over 450 trams to suit the upcoming Myki new ticketing system (NTS) and future passenger information services displaying video and real-time route information. As part of the project CobaltNiche developed a continuous extrusion conduit that extended over the whole tram interior and was rapidly deployed for the Yarra Trams New Ticketing System team.
Our aim was to design, engineer and assist with the implementation of the cabling & equipment for the ‘myki’ new ticketing system (NTS). The design solution used extruded aluminium conduit that attaches to the ceiling and enables pre-made wire harnesses to be rapidly installed into the tram. We exploited the use of injection mouldings & vac formings to replace the traditional use of GRP for low volume panels & covers. Fast and simple deployment was a key focus throughout the design process.
All delivery dates were met without any trams delayed for service. Our team created over 150 new parts with almost 200 technical drawings and well over 600 checks performed. The major linchpin of system – the stanchion cable covers, were designed and prototyped in less than 2 weeks.
Our design opportunities with Yarra and TransdevTSL have since expanded and TransdevTSL is now proposing an ambitious tram refurbishment project as part of a continuous modernisation process, in which CobaltNiche play a major role.