In order to guarantee the security of its structures, the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has resorted to new technology. The metro’s pillars and viaducts will now be monitored by drones and artificial intelligence (AI). In addition to improving safety, this project will speed up and improve the accuracy of the monitoring process.
How will AI and drones be used?
According to Sumit Bhatnagar, head of operations and maintenance for the BMRCL, the drones will be installed with high-resolution cameras to gather information on the state of the buildings. Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms will analyze this data and identify issues like concrete cracks, damage, and honeycomb patterns.
Also, he stated that Reach 1 (MG Road to Baiyappanahalli) would receive the first procurement for this new system. Launched in 2011, this is the metro’s first operating corridor. The system’s specifications are presently being finalized.
Role of AI in safety
Engineers will be able to conduct the required corrective action since the AI-based system will assess the extent of damage and provide timely alerts. Important places that have been found to contain fractures and honeycomb structures, like viaducts and pillars, will receive extra attention.
Additionally, the AI will determine whether the issue is important and what actions, like epoxy sealing or additional measures, should be taken to address it. Small defects are frequently left in place throughout the building stage, which can eventually lead to serious issues. This new technology will be able to offer fast solutions in such a scenario.
The change from technical monitoring to manual inspection
Currently, binoculars, cameras, and hydraulic platforms are used for manual structural examination. But in addition to taking a lot of time, this method could not be correct. AI and drones will speed up, improve accuracy, and lower the cost of this procedure.
The drone’s sensors will gather data, which will then be processed using 3D models and AI-based deep learning algorithms. Based on each defect’s size, nature, and position, the system will determine how serious it is, enabling data-driven decisions to be made about structural maintenance.
Cloud-based management system
A cloud-based asset management platform will display the data that the system has collected and processed. This will give engineers an in-depth analysis of the structural health. The application will make structural monitoring more efficient by offering a summary of issues and tools for solutions. Artificial intelligence for Yellow Line Monitoring AI will be used by BMRCL on the Yellow Line (RV Road to Bommasandra) as well. It is anticipated that the line, which will link significant locations, including Electronics City, will be operational by the second quarter of 2025.
Use of AI in monitoring Yellow Line
The Yellow Line will feature a track monitoring system, and a pilot train will be sent out to keep an eye on the rails. The AI will examine the track’s photos that the system sends to a central server and produce alerts if there are any irregularities. Through the Train Control and Management System (TCMS), the system will instantly notify the Operation Control Center of any serious issues found. Two train sets will have the system installed in order to guarantee the dependability of the monitoring.
Innovation and Safety Together
As well as improving structural safety, this BMRCL project will establish new standards for technology utilization. For commuters using the Bengaluru Metro, implementing a surveillance system using AI and drones will save time, money, and risk while guaranteeing a dependable and safe transportation system. With this action, India’s public transport system administration is starting over. It can also serve as a motivational model for other cities. Bengaluru Metro is developing technologically and building a solid foundation for the future with the combination of innovation and safety.