New York Subways Unveil Smartphone Track Defect System

New York Subways Launch Smartphone-Based Track Defect Detection System. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

New York Subways now deploy smartphones to spot track flaws quickly and efficiently. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority, alongside Google Public Sector, started this pilot on February 27.

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This initiative boosts TrackInspect, a prototype from Google’s Rapid Innovation Team, for smarter upkeep. Crews attach Google Pixel phones in plastic cases to R46 subway cars to track vibrations.

Smartphones record sounds and shakes with sensors and microphones on the A line. Meanwhile, cloud-based artificial intelligence analyzes this data to locate spots requiring urgent fixes soon.

Track inspectors then explore flagged areas, evaluate problems, and improve predictive models with input. Moreover, AI lets inspectors ask about past repairs and get clear answers fast.

“This program cuts costs and time for crews and riders,” said President Demetrius Crichlow. He noted that AI tech enhances ride comfort and boosts safety for inspectors daily.

The pilot collected 335 million sensor readings, a million GPS points, and 1,200 audio hours. Consequently, merging this with transit data sharpens the precision of defect spotting greatly.

Google’s system sends audio snippets of odd noises or shakes to aid inspectors. Next, inspectors confirm these alerts on-site and train the system on normal sound levels effectively.

“We match findings with the device to hone its detection skills,” explained Robert Sarno. As assistant chief track officer, he manages this advanced method for subway care diligently.

New York Subways Leverage AI for Smoother Rides

Brent Michell from Google Public Sector praised the system’s 92% defect detection success. Thus, better data analysis speeds up fixes and lifts railway dependability for everyone.

Originally a free concept from Google, the project now seeks more innovation. The MTA recently opened a Request for Expressions of Interest to grow this technology further.

Other firms can suggest sensors or analytics to upgrade the subway network soon. This step ensures New York’s transit keeps advancing with cutting-edge tools and ideas.

New York Subways Set Global Transit Standards

Smartphones on subway cars pioneer a fresh way to modernize track checks. Because of this, New York leads urban transit systems worldwide with bold, smart solutions.

Crews and passengers enjoy smoother, safer trips thanks to this forward-thinking effort. And so, the MTA shows its dedication to using AI for public transit upgrades consistently.

This pilot not only catches flaws early but also reshapes subway upkeep standards completely. Ultimately, New York’s subway system strives for top efficiency and reliability with this approach.

Source: www.trains.com

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