UK: LiDAR Technology to Enhance Level Boarding on Metro Fleet

Southeastern, Network Rail, and Cordel have partnered to introduce advanced technology to improve platform accessibility for Southeastern’s potential new Metro fleet.

UK: LiDAR Technology to Enhance Level Boarding on Metro Fleet
TINNews |

Southeastern, Network Rail, and Cordel have partnered to introduce advanced technology to improve platform accessibility for Southeastern’s potential new Metro fleet.

The collaboration leverages Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) sensors, combined with artificial intelligence, to deliver precise measurements and 3D models of Southeastern Metro station platforms.

Cordel, a leader in rail technology solutions, has installed LiDAR sensors on two Network Rail maintenance trains. These sensors, supported by AI processing, capture high-definition, three-dimensional imagery of platforms across the Southeastern network.

This approach allows for unparalleled accuracy in platform measurement, addressing challenges posed by variations in height, shape, and curvature that have emerged over decades of station construction and modification.

Bob Coulson, Kent Route Infrastructure Director at Network Rail, said:

“Our partnership with Cordel.ai represents an important step towards creating a more accessible railway.

“By installing this new technology on our existing maintenance units we can build a truly accurate picture of our network across the Kent route, giving train manufacturers and suppliers the data they need to support our vision for a better, more reliable and sustainable railway.”

The data collected by Cordel will inform the design of Southeastern’s future trains, ensuring compatibility with the diverse platform structures. This initiative aims to maximise unassisted boarding across the Metro network, fulfilling a core objective of improving accessibility for passengers.

The detailed platform analysis will support train manufacturers in developing solutions that cater to passengers with mobility challenges, those using wheelchairs, or travellers with luggage and pushchairs.

By prioritising level boarding, the project seeks to enhance the travel experience for all passengers, removing obstacles that hinder seamless access to trains.

Mark Johnson, Engineering Director at Southeastern Railway, said:

“We want our upgraded Metro fleet to be a gamechanger for customers, not only in terms of performance and operating costs but also a major step forward for accessibility, too.

“However, we also know simply getting new trains won’t fix the historic issues we face across our railway.

“Our joint work with Network Rail and Cordel will, for the first time, provide highly accurate, 3D measurements of our platforms, including their height, curvature and gaps from trains. This information will be absolutely invaluable for manufacturers and suppliers to provide the best possible train for the Southeastern network.”

#END News
source: railway-news
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