Sensonic Introduces AI

Sensonic, a leader in railway infrastructure monitoring, has taken a significant step forward by integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) directly into its Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) units. This innovation is set to transform how rail networks monitor and respond to potential threats and issues, enhancing both safety and operational efficiency.

_{What is Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS)?}

Distributed Acoustic Sensing is a cutting-edge technology that uses fiber optic cables to detect and monitor vibrations along the railway tracks. By interpreting these vibrations, DAS systems can provide real-time data on a wide range of conditions and activities, from the movement of trains to unauthorised access or environmental hazards like landslides. DAS has already proven to be a valuable tool in maintaining the safety and security of rail networks, but with the introduction of AI, its capabilities are being significantly enhanced.

_{The Power of On-Device AI Processing}

Sensonic’s integration of AI into its DAS units marks a major advancement in rail infrastructure monitoring. By enabling on-device AI processing, Sensonic has expanded the options and capabilities available to rail networks in several key ways:

• Improved Response Speeds: AI processing directly within the sensing units allows for faster analysis of the data collected by DAS systems. This means that potential threats or issues can be identified and addressed more quickly, reducing the time between detection and response.
• Maintained Alert Accuracy: One of the challenges in using DAS technology is ensuring that alerts are both timely and accurate. With AI on board, the system can better distinguish between different types of vibrations, reducing false alarms and ensuring that critical alerts are prioritised.
• Streamlined Data Transfers: Traditionally, data collected by DAS systems would need to be transferred to central processing units for analysis, which can be time-consuming and bandwidth-intensive. On-device AI processing reduces the need for constant data transfers by handling much of the analysis at the source, resulting in more efficient use of network resources.

_{Enhanced Monitoring Capabilities}

The addition of AI to Sensonic’s DAS units doesn’t just improve existing applications—it also expands the range of monitoring capabilities available to rail networks. Sensonic’s current suite of applications includes:

• Security Monitoring: The AI-enhanced DAS units can detect and respond to security threats such as trespassing, digging near the tracks, fence climbing, and cable tampering. By quickly identifying these activities, rail operators can take immediate action to prevent disruptions or damage.
• Landslide and Rockfall Detection: In areas prone to landslides or rockfalls, early detection is crucial for preventing accidents. The AI integration allows for more precise monitoring of these environmental hazards, providing real-time alerts that can save lives and protect infrastructure.
• Catenary Flashover Location: Detecting and pinpointing the location of catenary flashovers—electrical faults in overhead power lines—can be challenging. Sensonic’s AI-powered DAS units improve the accuracy of these detections, helping maintenance teams to quickly address issues and minimise downtime.
• Track Condition Monitoring: The condition of railway tracks is fundamental to the safe operation of trains. AI-enhanced DAS units can monitor track conditions in real-time, identifying wear and tear or other issues before they become serious problems.