Roman GłogulskiMcLaren Applied and Network Rail have joined forces to revolutionize rail maintenance by installing Fleet Connect software, based on F1 technology, and innovative Active Antenna equipment in infrastructure monitoring trains. This innovative solution has significantly improved communication and data transmission capabilities for Network Rail, resulting in faster data transfer speeds and streamlined maintenance operations.
Network Rail has embarked on a groundbreaking partnership with McLaren Applied to implement the first-ever Active Antenna technology in Great Britain. This cutting-edge technology offers simplified onboard train communication infrastructure and advanced data transmission capabilities, ushering railway maintenance into a new era.
By combining Fleet Connect software and Active Antenna equipment, Network Rail has experienced a significant leap in communication quality and efficiency. Data transmission enhancements have reached unprecedented levels, achieving speeds up to a thousand times faster than previous systems. Network Rail has achieved data transfer speeds of up to 70 MB/s per train, signifying a tremendous improvement compared to the previous 76 kB/s.
Infrastructure monitoring trains, such as the well-known New Measurement Train, play a crucial role in assessing the condition of bridges, tunnels, viaducts, and tracks spanning over 32,000 km. These trains gather a massive amount of data, resulting in 96,000 km of recorded information annually. Thanks to McLaren Applied’s solution, this data can now be seamlessly transmitted, simplifying the maintenance process.
Enhanced connectivity enables streaming of real-time data, allowing monitoring trains to provide sensor readings in real-time regarding the condition of tracks, vegetation, and network monitoring. This remote and automated monitoring enables Network Rail to precisely target maintenance work and ensure safe and reliable railway operations for both passengers and goods.
The collaboration between McLaren Applied and Network Rail showcases the power of British ingenuity and engineering, combined with cross-industry knowledge. By utilizing software and technology derived from Formula 1, Network Rail demonstrates an open and collaborative approach, embracing innovation to meet challenges in the transport sector. With a five-year partnership already underway, further progress and improvements can be expected in the future.
FAQ
What is Fleet Connect software?
Fleet Connect software was created by McLaren Applied and is based on technology derived from Formula 1. It is used to improve communication and data transmission in the transportation sector.
What is Active Antenna technology?
Active Antenna technology is an innovative solution used in infrastructure monitoring trains. It enables simplified onboard train communication infrastructure and advanced data transmission capabilities.
Source
networkrail.co.uk
