KinetiX Inspection Technologies: Pioneering the Future of Railway Asset Management

A notable example of this technological revolution is provided by KinetiX™ Inspection Technologies from Wabtec. KinetiX™ provides a comprehensive portfolio of solutions which redefines the monitoring of rolling stock conditions through non-contact, proactive assessments. The systems evaluate the condition of key train components, including wheels, brakes, bearings, air hoses, pantographs and cross keys, delivering a detailed overview of the train’s overall health. Integrating machine vision, laser scanning, remote sensing with acoustic and thermal technology, load monitoring, and AI-driven analytics, KinetiX™ has established a new standard for automating inspection processes, enhancing asset availability and life while significantly reducing operational costs.

Automated Asset Monitoring and Maintenance Optimization

One of the standout features of KinetiX™ Inspection Technologies is its automated asset monitoring capability. This advanced system provides an unprecedented level of detail in its assessments of train components. Everything from the wheel surface condition to the entire train body inspection is meticulously analyzed while the train operates and moves at line speeds of up to 120 km/h. This ability to assess the rolling stock without interrupting service or creating dedicated routes through depots leads to improved efficiency and the resulting cost savings.

Furthermore, KinetiX™ Inspection Technologies sets a new benchmark in defect identification. With their advanced algorithms, the systems are designed to detect potential issues early, paving the way for proactive maintenance and optimized life cycle management. This early detection capability reduces downtime, prevents costly repairs, and extends the lifespan of the assets, leading to substantial long-term savings.

Advanced Analytics Driving Decision-Making

Underpinning the capabilities of KinetiX™ Inspection Technologies is its advanced analytics powered by machine vision algorithms. These algorithms have been tailored to meet customer inspection requirements, providing a bespoke solution for many applications. The system’s intelligent analytics layer can analyze vast amounts of data quickly and accurately, delivering actionable insights that can drive decision-making and enable early intervention. This advanced use of AI technology allows KinetiX™ to deliver a superior level of repeatable results compared to traditional inspection methods.

Streamlined Inspections and Enhanced Safety

KinetiX™ Inspection Technologies doesn’t just improve the efficiency of inspections, it transforms the entire process. Streamlining inspections and maintenance frees up manpower, allowing operators to focus on other crucial aspects of their roles. At the same time, by identifying potential issues early, KinetiX™ helps to maximize asset life, leading to more cost-effective use of resources and raw materials.

Safety and compliance are other vital areas where KinetiX™ Inspection Technologies excels. By providing a more accurate and detailed assessment of rolling stock conditions, the system helps operators meet their regulatory obligations, reducing the risk of non-compliance. Moreover, by identifying potential safety issues early, KinetiX™ can help prevent accidents, further enhancing its value to operators.

Unparalleled Experience: Beena Vision and Track IQ

KinetiX™ Inspection Technologies is the result of an amalgamation of two industry leaders: Beena Vision and Track IQ.

Beena Vision, a global pioneer in advanced vision systems, brings over 20 years of experience and an installed base of over 200 sites worldwide to the partnership. Over the years, it has developed sophisticated machine vision and non-contact measurement technologies that have set new standards in the industry.

Track IQ, a specialist in sensor-based systems, complements Beena Vision’s expertise. The business has more than 25 years of experience in thermal, acoustic, and load monitoring systems and 200 installations worldwide. Track IQ has a proven track record of delivering reliable and effective solutions. Its acoustic, thermal, and vibration systems provide an additional layer of monitoring, further enhancing the capabilities of KinetiX™ Inspection Technologies.

Together, these two companies have combined their expertise and resources to develop an industry-leading suite of inspection solutions. The KinetiX™ portfolio of systems and services is the most comprehensive in the industry and ensures we can offer a unique range of effective solutions for the railway industry.

Showcase of Robust and Sophisticated Systems: TreadView®, WheelView®, and RailBAM™

The diverse product portfolio of KinetiX Inspection Technologies includes several sophisticated systems such as TreadView®, WheelView®, and RailBAM™, each bringing unique capabilities to the table.

TreadView® represents a new era in wheel surface inspection technology. This state-of-the-art system employs advanced digital high-speed imaging and 3D laser scanning technology to inspect the wheel tread, flange, and plate surface areas across the entire wheel circumference. The system uses image processing algorithms to assess wheel surface conditions from acquired multispectral multi-illumination images. The high-resolution images and high-density 3D data of the wheel surface are used to identify any external surface abnormalities that may be present. All data and images from the TreadView® system are integrated into the CMMS™ (Condition Monitoring Management System) software. This platform provides web-based access for data visualization, alarm management, and data analytics. Moreover, the system can generate automated alarms identifying wheel surface defects, facilitating condition-based maintenance workflows. TreadView®’s ability to automate wheel surface inspections reduces out-of-service time, costs, and manual inspection labor, significantly boosting operational efficiency.

WheelView® is a system that automatically reconstructs the wheel profile in three dimensions and uses high-speed, high-quality digital imaging and laser illumination. It reports wheel wear measurements and defects derived from wheel profile data, providing valuable insights into the wheel’s health. Image processing algorithms extract wheel profile data from acquired images, providing a detailed view of the wheel’s condition. The WheelView® imaging system and processing algorithms are designed to operate in all ambient light and weather conditions, ensuring reliable data collection under any circumstances. Like TreadView, WheelView®’s data is integrated into the CMMS™ software, providing easy access to data visualization, alarm management, and data analytics. The information generated by WheelView® can facilitate condition-based and predictive maintenance workflows, helping to optimize maintenance processes and prevent costly incidents.

RailBAM™, the final showcase system, utilizes advanced beam-forming technology to detect both early and advanced bearing defects on rolling stock wheels during train pass-by at line speed. This system can identify a range of faults, including extended surface, cone, cup, roller, and audible defects. The data collected by RailBAM™ is analyzed and presented in alert, tabular, graphical, and historical formats, making it easy for operators to interpret and act. The advanced FleetONE™ database is user-friendly, with automated report functions and bearing and fleet analysis scenario settings. RailBAM™ allows for systematic, planned maintenance, ensuring maximum asset performance and security.

The Future of Railway Asset Management

In the face of an ever-evolving railway industry, KinetiX™ Inspection Technologies is setting new standards in railway asset management. Its state-of-the-art systems and unparalleled capabilities transform how inspections, maintenance, and asset lifecycle management are approached. As a result, KinetiX™ is leading the industry toward a future characterized by improved efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Take advantage of the opportunity to be part of the journey to redefine your inspection methodology to realise benefits that we can demonstrate our current customers are enjoying. Contact us at KinetiX™ Inspection Technologies for further information and to engage our sales team.