In this article, Paul and Mona Bhatia from Geospatial Ventures Ltd, a geospatial systems solutions provider and integration consultancy, explain how their ASLAN project, part of BCIMO’s Clean Futures Accelerator Programme, is poised to transform rail transportation.
The rail industry is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by technological advancements and a growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions.
At Geospatial Ventures Ltd (GVL), we are at the forefront of this revolution, developing ground-breaking geospatial solutions to reshape the future of rail.
Our latest innovation, the Automated Survey Localisation and Navigation (ASLAN) system, is pushing the boundaries of technology to meet the evolving needs of this important sector.
ASLAN is a modular, automated survey system that incorporates satellite connectivity, communication, positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) technologies. This powerful combination enables enhanced vehicle speed management, improved fuel efficiency, safety, and overall system performance.
Harnessing the power of GNSS Technology
The core of ASLAN lies in the utilisation of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). GNSS technology provides precise positioning, navigation, and timing data, enabling vehicles to operate with greater accuracy and efficiency.
By integrating GNSS into our solutions, we are empowering the rail industry to achieve significant improvements in various areas:
- Enhanced safety: GNSS-enabled systems can detect and alert drivers to potential hazards, such as track obstructions or signal failures, significantly reducing the risk of accidents.
- Improved efficiency: Precise positioning and navigation capabilities enable optimized route planning and scheduling, leading to more efficient operations and reduced downtime.
- Increased reliability: GNSS technology helps ensure reliable and punctual service by providing accurate real-time information on vehicle location and performance.
- Reduced environmental impact: By optimising vehicle speed and reducing fuel consumption, GNSS-powered solutions contribute to a greener and more sustainable rail industry.
ASLAN: A catalyst for transformation
ASLAN is not just a technological advancement; it’s a catalyst for innovation and transformation in the rail sector. By leveraging the power of GNSS and other cutting-edge technologies, we are empowering rail operators to reduce costs by optimising operations, minimising fuel consumption, and reducing maintenance expenses.
Operators will offer enhanced passenger experience through improved punctuality, comfort, and overall satisfaction. And importantly, ASLAN will drive sustainability, contributing to a greener future.
Driving urban mobility innovation
As part of our work on the Clean Futures Accelerator, which includes a six-month programme of technical and commercial support, we are trialling ASLAN’s advanced satellite-connected positioning on Very Light Railway (VLR) infrastructure at BCIMO’s Very Light Rail National Innovation Centre in Dudley. This is an exciting opportunity for us to showcase ASLAN’s potential on urban tram systems, with the aim of achieving unprecedented levels of accuracy, precision, continuity, and availability in terrestrial transport systems.
A vision for the future
At GVL, we are driven by a vision of a future where rail transportation is not only efficient and reliable but also environmentally friendly. We are committed to developing innovative solutions that address the challenges facing the industry and pave the way for a sustainable future.
Our goal is to make rail more affordable to install and promote the uptake of Very Light Rail (VLR) systems across the UK and internationally. By leveraging technology and innovation, we can create more sustainable and efficient transportation solutions for communities around the world.
We believe that ASLAN is a significant step towards realising this vision. By harnessing the power of geospatial technology, we are empowering the rail industry to embrace the future and deliver a more sustainable, efficient, and passenger-centric transportation experience.
To find out more about Geospatial Ventures and its solutions visit www.geospatialventures.co.uk
0113 2082620
5th Floor, 2 Bond Court, Leeds LS1 2JZ
