Network Rail, LNER, CrossTech, and Hitachi Rail are joining forces to test advanced digital monitoring systems for observing both the natural surroundings and rail infrastructure, such as vegetation and embankments. This collaboration aims to significantly enhance railway safety by proactively identifying potential threats that could disrupt operations or endanger passengers.
Real-time monitoring of these critical areas plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe and efficient railway system. The ability to identify potential hazards such as overhanging or invasive vegetation, leaves on the tracks, or subsidence of embankments can prevent costly disruptions and accidents. Network Rail has previously reported that incidents related to vegetation cost up to £3 million each year in just the Southern region.
A new forward-facing CCTV camera (FFCCTV) has been installed in the driver’s cabin of an LNER Azuma train for a year-long trial that began in May. This Azuma train now plays a crucial role in the digital transformation of infrastructure monitoring and maintenance along the East Coast Main Line. The FFCCTV incorporates the most advanced AI-driven camera sensor technology, providing an automated system that not only detects potential hazards but also identifies precise maintenance needs. This fosters a preventive maintenance culture, minimizing downtime and ensuring a reliable railway system.
The trial is expected to generate valuable insights and recommendations for timing and locating necessary maintenance along the East Coast Main Line. Hitachi Rail is spearheading the pilot project in collaboration with its digital partner, CrossTech. The UK-based SME is renowned for its expertise in AI technology and is recognized as one of Network Rail’s leading innovators. CrossTech employs computer vision technology to actively monitor rail tracks and their immediate environments using data directly from the front-facing video camera.
The development of the FFCCTV solution merges CrossTech’s technology with Hitachi Rail’s expertise in digital integration, operations, and customer interface. This collaboration exemplifies how leading global rail companies can foster and enhance innovation within British SMEs. The FFCCTV is the latest addition to Hitachi’s broader range of digital asset monitoring solutions, which can actively monitor the tracks, overhead lines, and the trains themselves. These digital tools, used alone or in tandem, provide automated, precise monitoring capabilities that contribute to the modernization of the railway system.
Johanna Priestley, Route Engineer at Network Rail, emphasized the importance of understanding the potential risks posed by vegetation, a dynamic element within the railway network. The FFCCTV provides a valuable tool for identifying areas where vegetation encroaches on the operational railway and poses a risk of contact with trains or fixed infrastructure. It also allows for the identification of areas where vegetation growth compromises the driver’s view, such as on the approach to signals or level crossings. This initiative will enhance passenger journey reliability and minimize the risk of disruption on the network.
Linda Wain, Engineering Director at LNER, highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation and providing a superior customer experience. This digital trial demonstrates their dedication to incorporating cutting-edge technology to enhance performance and provide real-time information and updates on infrastructure, helping to address potential issues before they become problems.
Nick Hughes, Senior Director, Sales UK & Ireland at Hitachi Rail, expressed pride in their role in this digital monitoring solution, which has the potential to reduce disruption and support more convenient journeys for passengers. The trial showcases Hitachi Rail’s commitment to collaboration, digital innovation, and supporting UK SMEs. FFCCTV represents the latest in a series of digital asset monitoring solutions that have the potential to revolutionize real-time data collection and visualization by trains running across the UK, generating valuable insights that drive better decisions.
Haydon Bartlett-Tasker at CrossTech, expressed the team’s excitement in collaborating with their partners to introduce market-leading computer vision infrastructure inspection analytics to the East Coast Mainline. This project underscores their long-standing collaboration with Network Rail’s Eastern and Southern Regions and marks a significant advancement for frontline teams. The adoption of forward-facing CCTV computer vision technology by Network Rail benefits both passengers and freight customers by contributing to a safer and higher-performing railway.
