Learn the Transport API
What is the Transport API?
The Transport API is a Signapse product designed to generate British Sign Language (BSL) train announcement videos using AI.
It enables transport operators and partners to programmatically generate accurate, consistent, and accessible BSL video announcements for real-time and scheduled rail communications.
The API is built specifically for transport environments, where clarity, speed, and reliability are critical.
What Does the Transport API Do?
The Transport API allows organisations to:
- Generate BSL train announcement videos on demand
- Handle live service updates such as delays, cancellations, and platform changes
- Deliver consistent messaging across stations and digital displays
- Support accessibility requirements for Deaf passengers
Announcements are generated as video outputs that can be displayed on screens, apps, or other passenger-facing systems.
Typical Use Cases
| Use Case | Example |
|---|---|
| Departure announcements | “The 14:22 train to Saltburn will depart from platform 1” |
| Delays & cancellations | “The 18:45 train to London King’s Cross has been cancelled” |
| Platform changes | “This train will now depart from platform 6” |
| Disruption messaging | Passenger illness, signalling faults, overcrowding |
| Accessibility updates | Lift, escalator, and station status |
| Replacement services | Rail replacement bus announcements |
How the Transport API Works
The API supports high-volume, automated requests suitable for live transport environments.
| Step | What Happens |
|---|---|
| 1. Authenticate | Your system authenticates using OAuth2 |
| 2. Send request | A structured request is sent to the Transport API |
| 3. Generate video | A BSL announcement video is generated using AI |
| 4. Check status | Your system checks the request status |
| 5. Retrieve output | The completed BSL video is downloaded and displayed |
Where Does AI Play a Role?
AI is used to:
- Interpret structured transport data
- Generate grammatically correct BSL announcements
- Produce consistent sign language video output
- Scale across large volumes of announcements
All announcements generated through the Transport API are AI-generated.
Key Capabilities
| Category | Capabilities Supported |
|---|---|
| Core Journey Information | Destination (CRS or TIPLOC), timing, updated timing, platform, updated platform, operator |
| Service Status & Changes | Delays (short or long), cancellations, no platform assigned, operator-wide delays |
| Calling Patterns | Calling at stations, not calling at stations, next stop, final stop |
| Disruption Messaging | Disruption reasons using standard transport codes |
| Replacement Services | Rail replacement bus announcements, location-specific bus messaging |
| Train State & Position | Current train location, between-stations status, waits at station |
| Passenger Guidance | Exit side (left/right), arrival status |
| Accessibility Status | Lift status, escalator status |
| Static & Advisory Messages | Predefined safety, advisory, or informational messages |
| Visual Output Options | Custom background colour, transparent video output |
Performance & Limits
The API is designed for real-time and operational use.
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Rate limits | 1,500 requests per 5 minutes |
| Output | Downloadable BSL video |
| Status tracking | In progress / completed / failed |
| Error handling | Clear error responses with reason codes |
Who Is the Transport API For?
The Transport API is a B2B product, not intended for individual consumers.
| Organisation Type | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Train Operating Companies | Station and service announcements |
| Transport authorities | Network-wide accessibility |
| Digital signage providers | Passenger information systems |
| Mobility & accessibility partners | Inclusive transport solutions |
| Public sector transport bodies | Compliance and accessibility |
Getting Started
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Contact Signapse to discuss your transport use case |
| 2 | Receive API credentials |
| 3 | Review the Transport API documentation |
| 4 | Integrate the API into your systems |
| 5 | Begin generating BSL announcements |