The use of the term “smart cities” refers to ways cities are using data and analytics along with innovative technology to make the city more responsive to citizens and the environment. Smart cities also look for ways to integrate innovative technology seamlessly with the goal of improving efficiency and the daily lives of those who live there.
The critical components of smart cities, according to Barry Gilelspie, the National Smart Cities Director, are:
Citizen engagement
Infrastructure
Broadband
Public safety
Resiliency
Energy efficiency
Healthier communities
Transportation
Data analytics
Forbes reports that there are five goals of smart cities: (1) to conserve resources in the long term, (2) improve the well-being of citizens by providing efficient public utilities and services, (3) predict potential hazards and take preventative actions, (4) use data and digital platforms to improve citizen involvement for healthcare or social services, (5) and make environmentally friendly choices.
Although smart city leaders aim to make their cities more accessible and efficient by using a variety of strategies, including edge technology for data collection and analysis, integrating railing systems throughout smart cities can help to achieve a number of these critical components.
Let’s take a look at how integrated railing systems can help cities achieve these goals and meet the critical components listed above.
Conserve Resources
Installing structural components to help increase comfort and reduce energy usage is one way to move towards achieving the goals of smart cities. VIVA Railings’ MetalSpaces Sun Control Systems are an innovative solution for controlling sunlight. These contemporary and functional systems act as shade structures without completely blocking out the sunlight.
Create Healthier Communities
Creating community green spaces is “socially valuable,” according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They not only encourage people to get outside, but they can also foster social interactions and generate economic benefits like “an increase in local shopping and dining,” which will ultimately increase a sense of pride in the community.
All of these factors add up to healthier communities physically, mentally, and economically.
Creating green spaces and outdoor areas that are welcoming and accessible to as many people as possible can be challenging, though using Lighted Rail Systems from Viva Railings is one way cities increase accessibility and extend the amount of time during a day that the space can be used.
VIVA offers three lighted rail options — iRAILTM Linear, iRAILTM Pods, and iRAILTM Capsule. Each option is able to create a lighted handrail that uses either warm or bright lights with either a clear or diffused lens.
Increase Citizen Engagement
Providing green spaces and offering community activities doesn’t do much for the community unless citizens are active participants. However, keeping the community safe should be at the forefront of the design so that everyone can take advantage of the offerings regardless of their abilities. Integrating code compliant handrails, ramps, paths, and seating can encourage community members to get out and about and see what’s happening in the city.
Enhance Public Safety
Providing safety everywhere community members go is imperative for a highly functional and safe society. Parking garages, by nature, can be isolated and often underground. They can also be scenes of high foot traffic and slippery surfaces.
Incorporating handrails, especially on cement steps, at the proper distance—and with the proper infill to prevent falls—can make parking garages and other structures much safer for those using the spaces to travel to public events.
Using durable Commercial Metal Railing Systems can also reduce the need for maintenance which can reduce the cost of upkeep over the life of the railings.
See How VIVA Can Help Achieve Smart City Goals
Check out our catalog of Projects to see how VIVA Railings and MetalSpaces can be integrated into interior and exterior spaces and customized to fit a wide range of applications. We strive to keep pace with global trends to best serve our clients and maintain a tradition of excellence in a fast-moving market. We put our access to the latest technological tools to good use as we work to increase performance and reduce fabrication time. Our up-to-date manufacturing processes have allowed us to maintain our place as leaders in our field.
Contact the experts at VIVA Railings today to explore our projects and discuss how we can help you achieve smart city goals.