3D scanner's detailed information puts new trains on track

Before new trains can roll out, engineers need to make sure they’ll fit, and a track-based 3D-scanner is enabling Network Rail Scotland to precisely model the railway.

The Trimble GEDO Scan system – operated by Network Rail’s team of absolute track geometry engineers – has been deployed to collect detailed information about the track and surrounding features such as bridges, parapets and platforms. It gathers precise, high-resolution data for use in track clearance assessments on structures and tunnels.

The scanning system has been used across the network to carry out general surveys for maintenance and monitoring but also to assess the capability and suitability of specific routes to carry certain types of rolling stock – such as to review the possibility of introducing class 158 rolling stock on the West Highland Line, and ahead of the introduction of high-speed trains on the network between Scotland’s seven cities.