BART unveils state-of-the-art tool that will improve the rider experience
On May 3, BART unveiled its newly acquired geometry car, known as the Rail Inspection Vehicle or RIV for short, which will enhance the rider experience by enabling a smoother ride, improving the system’s reliability, and cutting costs. The vehicle has highly advanced track inspection capabilities that will transform BART’s rail operations, helping to facilitate more efficient maintenance as well as fewer system interruptions for repairs during normal service hours.
The state-of-the-art vehicle, which was created for BART by MERMEC under Build America Buy America Act requirements, identifies potential problems along the track with very high accuracy and without obstructing regular railroad operations.
One of only two such vehicles in the U.S. at this time, the RIV utilizes hi-tech lasers, sensors, cameras, measuring systems, and data management systems to create a comprehensive profile of the track, all while traveling at speeds of up to 70 mph. The RIV can measure the track’s position, curvature, smoothness, and alignment, as well as wear and corrugation, which contribute to train noise.
Among its many capabilities, the RIV can also create 3D surface scans of the area around the track and capture hi-definition images that detect abnormalities in components such as concrete ties and fasteners, which hold the rail in place. The RIV can also identify potential issues by capturing video in both normal and low-light conditions, including in tunnels, as well as infrared thermal imagery. GPS, axle counters, and radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags pinpoint the locations of problem areas.
The RIV measures 63 feet by 9.5 feet and weighs 110,000 pounds. It will serve as an important asset to BART for the next forty to fifty years.
MERMEC is a multinational corporation that specializes in the development, manufacturing, and operation of high-tech, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions for the rail industry. The BART Rail Inspection Vehicle project is a highly successful culmination of over 5 years of planning between multiple organizations during a global pandemic, while ensuring Buy American directives were observed throughout.
