Japan: According to the Japanese operator, it will be installed on the roofs of trains travelling at 285 km/h on the Tokaido–Shinkansen line.
Full implementation of the technology is expected after the introduction of mm-wave radio on the network in 2027 to transmit data on the condition of overhead wires and poles to maintenance centres. Previously, their condition was checked by visual inspection during the day and by diagnostic trains at night.
Layout of the components of the catenary check system for high-speed trains. Source: JR Central
The system developed by JR Central consists of two modules that include line cameras, laser scanners, and near-infrared lighting. The camera is expected to provide high quality images at all times of the day. The data collected by the devices will be analysed by artificial intelligence to detect defects.
