An RSSB-funded innovation that automatically monitors the underside of trains for faults is ready for testing.
Gobotix has designed the Vehicle Underframe Examination System (VUES), which is installed at the track side and uses a combination of cameras, non-visible wavelength light and computer vision algorithms to monitor for dislodged or damaged equipment and leaks.
Recalling the history of trains passing by, the self-learning equipment generates data trends and detects any anomalies.
Any faults that have been detected are then reported electronically for maintenance teams to investigate.
The system has been designed with part-funding from the RSSB’s Railway Operator Challenge Competition. The RSSB said that VUES can provide cost savings for TOCs in terms of greater life-span of components and benefits include examinations carried out daily as well as increased fleet service life.
Gobotix is currently looking to produce a low-cost demonstrator system ready for market.
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