The Singapore National Research Foundation has granted S$250,000 to a research project that involves the development of a new real-time asset monitoring technology for the third-rail electrification system. The existing electrification inspection systems are based mostly on ultrasonic, pulsed eddy current and machine vision technologies, requiring sensors and instruments installed on a dedicated inspection vehicle. However, this new technology will utilise radio frequency inductive coupling, which does not require a direct electrical connection with the high voltage electrification system, and makes it safe to use without affecting the normal operation of the train. This technology can be installed on passenger trains and will enable real-time monitoring of electrification assets, with the infrastructure being inspected every few minutes by a passing train.
