Network Rail - Level crossing obstacle detection systems
- Jul 17, 2018
- Rail
Supply of LIDAR obstacle detection systems and all the parts for eighty level crossings for Network Rail
Introduction
Since implementing our first obstacle detection solution for Network Rail (NWR) in 2010, we have developed a set of products which provide the rail infrastructure managers with the reliability and flexibility in their challenging environments. The system has had full Network Rail approval since 2011.
In 2016-2017 L.B. Foster supplied Network Rail with all the parts for eighty level crossings, which are in the process of being installed across the Network. These will be in addition to the one hundred and forty-five systems that have already been installed. The systems provide the red-light violation cctv monitoring, number plate recognition, video analytics and data recording facilities. The installation of the systems has prevented many potential collisions on level crossings. The red-light violation camera system has also led to thousands of dangerous driving prosecutions.
Requirement
The requirement to detect a 9 year old child whilst lying down on the crossing deck proved to be a challenge. This translated into a remit to detect any object of 115mm in size.
The technology chosen to meet this specification was a LIDAR detector which after 3 months of ground testing proved that it would be possible to detect an object of this size following modifications.
Integrating the system into the typical signaling circuits also proved a challenging prospect with many relay circuits to consider, not just for obstacle detection but for all failure modes, etc.
L.B. Foster, worked extremely hard, mostly at their own expense, in order to meet the very onerous specification and reliability requirements of this solution.
Specification
The system operates on 12 volt dc supply which is fused at 10 amps
The system can be designed to either be installed in a REB/ location case or in a wall mounting IP65 enclosure
There is a DVR for recording the CCTV signals
There will be the required number of LIDAR heads to monitor the danger area to the required level which will be determined by the site survey
There will be a router installed which will allow for remote actuation of the system
There are a number of programable outputs which can be utilized
Tested for compliance with EMC regulations as specified by NWR
The interface for the LIDAR will be by CAT 5e.
REDSCAN is an area sensor that configures a fan-like detection area of 30 m (Approx.100 ft.) radius over 190 degrees arc. using laser beams.
REDSCAN detects target objects by emitting laser beams at the target and measuring the time required for the emitted beams to be reflected and returned to the detector.
Our Solution
Following further design stages the system went into trial at Filey Crossing for 12 months before extensive testing proved the circuit design and reliability of the LIDAR.
A complete CCTV monitoring system was also developed alongside the LIDAR in order to provide retrospective visual verification of any obstacles detected, this required specific design in order to utilize the existing infrastructure as much as possible.
All components and systems required full product approval which was completed successfully prior to the first scheme roll-out which has now been commissioned for more than 12 months.
The Result
A highly technical design and build solution created to meet a very detailed safety specification.
Reduction in signalling head count.
Maintaining a 100% safety record of no accidents or incidents.
Adherence to the strict budget, programme milestones, and compliance to rail operational signaling standards.
