Sunbrella addresses the pressing issue of urban heat island effect and its disproportionate impact on low-income and non-white bus commuters in cities like Philadelphia. By integrating a responsive design that tracks the sun's movement, Sunbrella optimizes shade coverage throughout the day, providing much-needed relief from extreme temperatures. The shelter also adapts to changing weather conditions, such as rain, and automatically illuminates the surrounding area at night using embedded street lights. Sunbrella's solar panels efficiently charge the system, generating excess energy to power inclusive features like assisted bus hailing and real-time arrival information displays. The project proposes a data-driven rollout strategy for Sunbrella in Philadelphia, based on the Sunbrella Equity Index. This index considers factors such as heat exposure, bus demand, and streetscape considerations to prioritize the placement of Sunbrella shelters in areas where they can have the greatest impact on transit equity. The modular design of Sunbrella allows for customization to best serve local commuters' needs, while its inclusive features, such as raised seating and space for wheelchairs and strollers, ensure accessibility for all users. By providing a comfortable, safe, and informative waiting environment, Sunbrella aims to encourage public transit use and contribute to the reduction of vehicle emissions in urban areas.
