The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) has selected CAMLIN Rail's PANTOBOT 3D, real-time pantograph inspection system to be implemented throughout the agency's system.
PANTOBOT 3D uses advanced imaging and machine learning techniques to assess pantograph condition safely, accurately and in real time. High-resolution images captured by the system’s trackside stereoscopic camera are used to create a precise 3D model, revealing pantograph conditions on trains traveling at speeds of up to 186 mph with no need for manual inspection.
“Minimizing service interruption is key to ensuring a great experience for our customers,” says Robert L. Lund, deputy general manager, SEPTA. “PANTOBOT 3D gives us a huge strategic advantage in anticipating and remediating pantograph defects before they impact the safety of our customers, our system and the public in general.”
The new monitoring system assesses pantograph condition parameters such as contact strip condition, orthogonality, defects in horn structure and uplift. This will give SEPTA real-time and accurate information regarding the maintenance deficiencies and needs of the pantographs and the overhead lines. With this data, the company says SEPTA will be able to optimize its maintenance strategies by moving from time-based to condition-based maintenance. PANTOBOT 3D helps reduce the risks of costly and disruptive line tear-down due to a defective pantograph, plus the associated loss in operating revenues while trains are taken out of service for repairs.
CAMLIN will oversee installation and commissioning of the system and will also provide technical support to SEPTA on an ongoing basis.
“PANTOBOT 3D is already established as a game-changer with European rail operators thanks to its speed, accuracy and reliability,” said Mike Maj, vice president for Business Development, CAMLIN Rail - North America. “We believe the PANTOBOT 3D system will make a significant contribution to SEPTA’s asset management strategy.”
