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We have an extensive portfolio of case studies that reflects our knowledge and capabilities on Operations, on Track and on Train across the global rail industry.

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Automatic Rail Vehicle Inspection System (ARVIS) Case Study

DeltaRail Rolling Stock Maintenance Case Studies

Automatic Rail Vehicle Inspection System
XV Maintenance Management Software
Track Circuit Train Detection
Energy Measurement and Modelling
 
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Automatic Rail Vehicle Inspection System (ARVIS)

The Project

New Jersey Transit were interested in a system that would automatically inspect brakes and wheels on a range of fleets at their Morrisville, PA Maintenance facility in the USA.  They contracted DeltaRail to design, build and install an Automated Rail Vehicle Inspection System (ARVIS) at the facility and to support them during a two-year trial, the first example of ARVIS technology being put to use in the US.

The DeltaRail installations at Morrisville comprise three identical ARVIS systems covering all entrance routes into the yard.  Each system includes a base unit consisting of a trackside computer and AE1 tag reader, plus 12 cameras measuring the condition of the brakes and wheels.  The system has been up and running since April 2008 and is the world's largest automated visual inspection system for rail vehicles.

DeltaRail's Information Display System (IDS) software gives easy access to the resulting data which supports rail vehicle inspectors by highlighting problem areas and providing information on wear rates and history.

The Benefits

Using ARVIS means that car condition can be assessed more consistently, regularly and reliably. By revealing the wear rates of components and allowing a predictive approach to maintenance regimes, there are fewer surprises that might affect availability. An auditable inspection record also makes complying with standards much easier. Other benefits include:

  • Pad changing and wheel truing are based on actual condition rather than a conservative estimate of life, potentially saving up to 20% on material costs.
  • Early identification and rectification of wheel damage and failed brake actuators improve safety and cut costs.
  • By ensuring all brakes are working at an optimal level, the duty on individual discs is more balanced, reducing the potential for cracking.
  • A reduced need for manual inspection in hazardous areas and a consequent reduction in car downtime.