Chromium web extension for additional third-party functionality on or independent of SEPTA’s webpage. The goal is to provide a simple UI where the user can favorite routes and get easy access to information on the regional rail or bus networks without using the phone application. The user may also be able to get reminders of a train or bus they plan on taking, for example a user can get a reminder 20 minutes before a train leaves while working on their computer.
Conceptual Design
Chromium browser extensions use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for web functionality. These extensions allow the user to save data which will be the main way of saving routes. SEPTA features a free API with up-to-date information on running trains and buses, including Next To Arrive trains and some information on the train and bus systems. These APIs also return current locations, and with potential functionality based on the user’s information, an additional map or location API might come of use.
Proof of Concept
https://github.com/tjtemple/septa-extension
Forked repository readme shows installation instructions. Sample API call is displayed from the pop-up menu which can be accessed from the extension pop up in the upper right hand side of the browser. I did not make any UI yet.
Background
This project is most similar to the ideas featured on SEPTA’s mobile app, especially favorite routes and quick access to said routes. If a user were to attempt to get their train information on SEPTA’s official website, there is no user saved data and multiple menus between the user and train information, as favorite route functionality does not exist on non-mobile devices. On the mobile app, there are also no notifications based on individual routes a user plans on a taking. This project would offer an efficient alternate tool for commuters that use SEPTA’s network.
Required Resources
JavaScript and the extents of Chrome’s extension API are the main obstacle for background information. More research will need to be done on SEPTA’s bus system and a potential map/location API if functionality for those are decided to be added. A way to notify the user will need to be researched as well to send reminders x minutes before a desired train.
Project Abstract
Chromium web extension for additional third-party functionality on or independent of SEPTA’s webpage. The goal is to provide a simple UI where the user can favorite routes and get easy access to information on the regional rail or bus networks without using the phone application. The user may also be able to get reminders of a train or bus they plan on taking, for example a user can get a reminder 20 minutes before a train leaves while working on their computer.
Conceptual Design
Chromium browser extensions use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for web functionality. These extensions allow the user to save data which will be the main way of saving routes. SEPTA features a free API with up-to-date information on running trains and buses, including Next To Arrive trains and some information on the train and bus systems. These APIs also return current locations, and with potential functionality based on the user’s information, an additional map or location API might come of use.
Proof of Concept
https://github.com/tjtemple/septa-extension
Forked repository readme shows installation instructions. Sample API call is displayed from the pop-up menu which can be accessed from the extension pop up in the upper right hand side of the browser. I did not make any UI yet.
Background
This project is most similar to the ideas featured on SEPTA’s mobile app, especially favorite routes and quick access to said routes. If a user were to attempt to get their train information on SEPTA’s official website, there is no user saved data and multiple menus between the user and train information, as favorite route functionality does not exist on non-mobile devices. On the mobile app, there are also no notifications based on individual routes a user plans on a taking. This project would offer an efficient alternate tool for commuters that use SEPTA’s network.
Required Resources
JavaScript and the extents of Chrome’s extension API are the main obstacle for background information. More research will need to be done on SEPTA’s bus system and a potential map/location API if functionality for those are decided to be added. A way to notify the user will need to be researched as well to send reminders x minutes before a desired train.
Presentation
project proposal (2).pdf