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Track Access Services Creates Virtual 3D Models and Desktop Signal Sighting for Network Rail

Track Access Services Creates Virtual 3D Models and Desktop Signal Sighting for Network Rail
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Track Access Services Creates Virtual 3D Models and Desktop Signal Sighting for Network Rail - 1

CASE STUDY Project Summary Organization: Track Access Services Ltd. Solution: Rail and Transit Location: United Kingdom Project Objective: • Create more flexible track layout and optimize signaling to reduce journey times, segregate traffic flows, reduce conflicting movements, and cut reactionary delays and average lateness • Provide a full positional video survey of tracks and existing signals • Operationalize virtual track modeling and desktop signal sighting to increase design efficiency and quality and minimize trackside safety risks Products used: Bentley Rail Track, MicroStation, ProjectWise Fast Facts • Used specialized video devices to capture detailed track data from trains and import it into Bentley Rail Track for signal and OLE sighting • Created realistic 3D models of track areas where video cannot be utilized ROI • Faster project delivery and lower project costs by enabling teams to work at their desktops using highly accurate track models • Lower operational costs by using cutting-edge, highly accurate data collection technologies • Reduced trackside risk by minimizing the need for on-site visits and information gathering • Achievement of regulatory compliance by implementing desktop design capabilities Track Access Services Creates Virtual 3D Models and Desktop Signal Sighting for Network Rail Bentley Software Enables TAS to Create Complete, Accurate 3D Rail Models for Faster, Safer, and More Accurate Signal Sighting Create a More Flexible Track Layout and Signaling System Derby Station, located in the United Kingdom, currently handles 16 passenger trains in a typical hour and 30-40 freight trains per day using tracks and signals constructed many years ago. In 2014, Network Rail, the Derby Station operator, had a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create an improved track layout at Derby, in conjunction with new track and signaling. The goal was to put in place a more flexible track layout and optimize signaling to reduce travel time for passengers, segregate traffic flows, reduce conflicting movements, and cut reactionary delays and average minute lateness. To achieve this goal – and meet new compliance requirements in the U.K. for desktop design capabilities – Network Rail turned to Track Access Services Ltd. (TAS), a Bentley development partner. Together, they created an innovative desktop-driven, 3D virtual reality modeling, and signal design process. Taking Model Simulations to the Next Level TAS began the project by collecting track and signal data using special video cameras, inertial units, and laser scanners that were fitted to a locomotive to capture positional video. TAS then digitally removed images of existing signals in the original track video. Next, using tools developed in association with Bentley, TAS calibrated the video to all current grid systems. This video was then imported into MicroStation and to create a 3D rail model. Additional data was added to the models, including chainage lines and various types of signals, complete with flashing lights, to test the effectiveness of signal placement within models. Obscuration models were also added to aid understanding of exactly how trees and other barriers will affect the ability of train drivers to see signals from different distances and areas of track. Insight gained from these types of models greatly reduces the risk of design errors while boosting driver safety. Re-imagining the Track Visualization and Signal Design Process For TAS, the project involved conducting a full positional video survey of the re-signaling schemes, including train planning, train hiring costs, bringing in camera operators, provisioning equipment, downloading data, processing positional data, and video data post processing, including blurring of redundant signals and signs. TAS technology is unique in that it supports full information mobility. It can capture positional video that can then be imported into MicroStation for sighting purposes, as well as exported for other uses such as driver training. TAS also created visual 3D models of track areas where video could not be utilized. “Information mobility in virtual modeling is a unique breakthrough made possible by TAS,” explained David Reed, managing director of Track Access Services Ltd. “Models can be created externally to MicroStation and imported for sighting. Complex 3D models existing within MicroStation can be converted into fully functional simulation models that designers can use to determine optimal signal placement.” Bentley Rail Track modeling capabilities were used to d etermine optimal signal placement. Realizing the Benefits Virtual track modeling and desktop signal sighting will provide many benefits that go beyond compliance with regulatory requirements. First, fewer trackside visits are needed to collect data and make design decis

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Track Access Services Creates Virtual 3D Models and Desktop Signal Sighting for Network Rail - 2

“Using Bentley products, coupled with TAS positional video and reality modeling, brings a new level of visualization to CAD designers. They provide photo-realistic background imagery to help designers accurately create and confirm proposed layouts in the most direct and effective way.” — David Reed, Managing Director, Track Access Services Ltd. Find out about Bentley at: www.bentley.com desktop signal sighting enables as much work as possible to be completed at the desktop rather than out on the track,” said Reed. “This not only minimizes trackside safety risks, but it also ensures that...

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