Plowman Craven, a United Kingdom-based aerial surveying company, has launched the Vogel Freedom UAV data collection solution designed for owners and operators of rail networks.
The Vogel Freedom UAV solution aims to solve issues rail operators face in carrying out network surveys, including traffic disruptions and dangers created for workers needing access to infrastructure for ground point sensors.
The platform requires fewer ground points to deliver topographical surveys. It can also produce sub-5 mm accurate rail system models using off-track sensor placement.
Operating from offices in London and Hertfordshire, Plowman and Craven is one of the largest infrastructure surveying and inspection businesses in the U.K.
“We developed Vogel Freedom in response to ever-increasing industry challenges and needs,” Steve Jones, head of new business at Plowman Craven, said. “It removes previous limitations to surveying and can add substantial value… all while improving workers’ safety and ensuring a safe and efficient rail service for customers.”
The Security & Surveillance portfolio for rail. (Image: Hexagon)
Hexagon’s Safety, Infrastructure & Geospatial division, in partnership with Hexagon’s Geosystems division, has introduced Hexagon’s Security & Surveillance portfolio for rail.
Comprised of an integrated set of solutions proven in rail operations around the globe, the portfolio unites 3D surveillance systems with best-in-class security, dispatching and collaboration software. It enables rail operators to better protect their assets, passengers and freight to reduce disruptions and improve safety and customer satisfaction.
The portfolio addresses the complete lifecycle of incident management, empowering operators to detect, assess and respond to threats and incidents and collaborate with outside organizations when needed. It includes:
Detect: Leica BLK247 and accur8vision 3D security and surveillance systems go beyond traditional 2D security cameras by integrating lidar, thermal sensors, video and 3D planning and tracking software for high-value areas, perimeters and zones, such as tunnels and rolling stock.
Assess: HxGN OnCall Security | Guardian provides a common operational picture for alarms, sensors, the internet of things, intrusion devices and video data to deliver situational awareness for real-time event monitoring.
Respond: HxGN OnCall Dispatch, a computer-aided dispatch solution with embedded assistive artificial intelligence, allows control room operators to dispatch resources to respond to incidents.
Collaborate: HxGN Connect facilitates collaboration and information sharing between internal teams and external entities to ensure stakeholders are informed and engaged during events.
“Globally, passenger and freight traffic are expected to double by 2050, which means rail operators must begin investing in safer rail operations now,” said Juergen Dold, President, GSI, Hexagon. “Rail networks have a broad spectrum of security needs, and Hexagon’s Security & Surveillance portfolio uniquely spans different hazards, capabilities and teams. It offers scalable solutions that seamlessly transition from simple security monitoring to emergency response to collaboration among diverse teams during complex operations.”
Hexagon’s Security & Surveillance portfolio builds on Hexagon’s capabilities for rail safety and security operations. Every year, Hexagon solutions protect more than 5 billion rail and transit passengers around the world. In North America alone, the company’s technologies help protect more than 56,000 miles of railways.
