Cordel AI system gains Network Rail certification for rail line analysis

LONDON – Cordel Group PLC (AIM: CRDL) has received a Certificate of Approval from Network Rail for its Artificial Intelligence (AI) platform, which analyzes transport corridors. The certification endorses Cordel’s AI-powered outputs for measuring Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) on electrified railways using LiDAR data collected from passenger trains traveling at speeds up to 140 km/h.

The approval process involved rigorous testing and trials, where Cordel’s system was benchmarked against traditional data sources, such as specialist vehicles and manual measurements. These conventional methods are not only slower but also pose safety risks. Cordel’s technology demonstrated compliance with Network Rail’s stringent standards, specifically section 6.1.2 of NR/L2/ELP/27325, which pertains to the Train Borne Monitoring of Traction Power Contact Systems.

With this certification, Cordel’s system is now recognized as suitable for use across Network Rail’s infrastructure. The AI-driven process provides accurate measurements of the static contact wire height, stagger, and deviation. These measurements are critical for confirming compliance with standards and identifying potential issues that may require proactive maintenance to prevent operational incidents.

The certification covers the entire Cordel pipeline, from the point cloud capture via their Mobile Laser Scanning systems to the automated AI processing of the data. This technology not only ensures safety and compliance but also optimizes infrastructure maintenance, potentially extending the intervals between required interventions.

This latest achievement complements Cordel’s existing National Rail certifications for Survey (NR/L2/TRK/3100) and for Structures, Platforms, and Intervals between tracks (NR/L2/TRK/3204), which were announced on June 12, 2023, and June 11, 2024, respectively.

John Davis, CEO of Cordel, commented on the certification, stating that the approval by Network Rail, known for its rigorous infrastructure monitoring standards, solidifies Cordel’s position as a leading provider of AI-driven railway infrastructure insights.

This development is based on a press release statement and reflects Cordel’s progress in advancing railway safety and efficiency through innovative technology.

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