Robot helps passengers in century-old train station in north China

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A female robot has been offering help to passengers in Taiyuan Railway Station in north China's Shanxi Province. Its cute look and various functions have brought fun to many passengers at the station.

The robot’s name is Xiao Yuan or Little Yuan. “Yuan” is the second character of the name of the city of Taiyuan. Xiao Yuan just started to work here two weeks ago. But now she only works in a VIP waiting room.

Robot Xiao Yuan has a tiny camera in her forehead. /CGTN Photo

Xiao Yuan is able to lead passengers to various places, including the washroom and mobile phone charging areas. By tapping on its screen or speaking to her, people can get a whole range of information.

More robots like Xiao Yuan are expected to assist passengers in more waiting rooms in the future.

A passenger seeks help from robot Xiao Yuan. /CGTN Photo

Taiyuan Railway Station is over 100 years old. During this year's Spring Festival travel period, besides the robot, the old railway station has also deployed many other smart technologies.

Screen in a washroom shows whether the toilets are available for use. /CGTN Photo

An upgraded washroom at the station has a big electronic screen, from which passengers can check how many toilets are available for use.

Face scanning system allows passengers to have faster check-in. /CGTN Photo

It takes no longer than a blink of an eye for passengers to check in, thanks to a new face scanning system that’s in place.

More phone charging facilities have been set up in waiting rooms.

Air quality is being monitored around the clock, and a new ventilation system works to purify the air and release pleasing aroma.

Negative oxygen ions are being released at all times at the station. /CGTN Photo

A big data center was also built to provide three-dimensional monitoring videos. Passenger flow is under surveillance, with the comfort index of the station showing on the screen at all times.

Taiyuan Railway Station in north China's Shanxi Province is 111 years old. /CGTN Photo

Modern technology has brought vitality to the old railway station. It not only makes the journey more convenient, but also more enjoyable.