Modernizing Indian Railways have always been a slow but continuous process. However, the Union Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, has informed the public that the ministry has taken various steps, including 3D laser scanning, to move in this direction.
The Use of 3D Laser Scanning
3D laser scanning will allow the ministry to upgrade its Railway Bridge inspection techniques, including inspecting water levels on bridges and monitoring other systems.
But that’s not the only way 3D scanning can be used. 3D laser scanning can be used in several ways to help modernize the rail industry in India.
For instance, 3D scanning services can quickly and accurately measure critical components of rail infrastructure, such as tracks, bridges, and tunnels. This can help ensure that these components are in good condition and meet the required specifications, which can help improve the safety and reliability of the rail system.
It can also be used to create accurate digital models of existing rail infrastructure, which can be used for various purposes, such as design and engineering, simulation, and virtual reality training. This can help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of rail development and maintenance projects.
The Ministry has also taken a new approach to developing rolling stock. Online monitoring of rolling stock systems and wheel impact load detectors (WILDs) have been used in India to improve the maintenance of rolling stock on the Indian Railway network.
Online monitoring systems use sensors and other technologies to continuously collect data on the performance and condition of rolling stock, such as locomotives, passenger coaches, and freight wagons. This data can be used to identify potential issues and schedule maintenance before problems occur.
WILDs measure the forces and loads that wheels experience during operation. This information is used to identify potential wheel issues, such as uneven wear or damage, and to schedule maintenance as needed.
Both online monitoring systems and WILDs can help to improve the reliability and safety of rolling stock by identifying issues before they become significant problems. This can reduce downtime, improve the efficiency of the railway network, and ultimately provide a better service for passengers and freight customers.
There have been new developments in locomotives, signaling systems, and overall railway stations. All these developments have been made to modernize railway technology and development.