SWiX product update: Enhanced predict and prevent features

Smart Comp Tech
May 27
2 min read

Last year, Network Rail had a cracked crossing at one of its routes. This is not an uncommon occurrence in the rail sector, with Network Rail reporting around 100 broken rails each year, causing faults and delays across the network.

As a valued client, Network Rail came to SCT to see if the data gathered from its deployments could be used to discover any signs of when the crossing had cracked or if there were patterns that led to the problem. Identifying the high forces that led to the crack inspired the update to the SWiX – the RMS Accelerated Data update.

What is SCT’s SWiX RMS Accelerated Data update?

Identifying an opportunity for improvement, our team got to work refining and updating our SWiX product. Initially, SWiX monitored displacement, but now, from the data it collects, it also identifies high forces that can cause rail cracks. By monitoring the force data, it helps extend asset life by predicting and preventing further damage.

Our engineers went through rigorous testing before settling on the final version, which came about from valuable stakeholder engagement with Network Rail. The engineer’s process involved:

thorough data analysis
distinguishing train signals from non-train events
managing the immense volume of data from multiple devices.

The result: root mean square (RMS) acceleration measurements for tracks that identifies crack-causing forces to extend the life of railway assets and efficient integration of the new feature into the existing data pipeline.

The new RMS accelerated data update builds on SWiX’s existing displacement monitoring by adding acceleration measurements to track asset conditions. Instead of just measuring how much a track moves, it now captures the forces experienced by rail components, particularly at crossing points.

How does the update benefit my operations?

By calculating the RMS acceleration for each train, our product can now help rail operators identify which assets are experiencing high forces that might lead to premature damage. This allows rail operators to:

predict potential issues
perform targeted maintenance
potentially extend the life of expensive rail components
understand the stress rail components are experiencing during train passages.

The RMS accelerated data update adds another dimension to the analysis rail operators already receive. Adding to the picture, covering both factors of movement and force, clients will now be able to make further informed decisions.

Can we now future-proof rail networks?

The RMS accelerated data update to SWiX includes many prospects for advanced data modelling and predictive analysis; it opens opportunities to develop more sophisticated pattern recognition techniques across the rail network. By correlating displacement and force data, SWiX could, in the future, create a predictive system where devices learn from each other’s data.

From raw data to actionable insights, we're working to protect railways and ensure efficient transport – all from our drive to continuously update and improve our products.