In partnership with Horus, Birlik Mapping has captured accurate data on railway assets while trains travelled at speeds of up to 250km/h. This collaboration combined the latest mobile mapping technology with high-end standards for data accuracy and efficiency. Birlik Mapping is a leading mapping company known for its expertise and international experience, based in Ankara, Turkey. Horus is a Dutch provider of advanced cameras and feature extraction software.
The core objective in this challenging project was to develop a mobile mapping system capable of collecting high-resolution geospatial data along a 3,000km network of high-speed railway track in Turkey, all while maintaining regular train operations. Birlik Mapping sought a solution that could perform reliably under the extreme conditions of high-speed travel.
A significant challenge was creating a system that could deliver precise data at speeds of up to 250km/h. The technology absolutely needed to function completely flawlessly under these demanding conditions, ensuring data accuracy and reliability. Additionally, the system had to integrate effortlessly into the already existing train infrastructure, without impacting its operational efficiency. Designing a solution that could be easily installed and operated within the constraints of the train’s design was critical.
Technological collaboration
In addressing these challenges, Birlik Mapping relied heavily on Horus’s expertise. The project utilized advanced technological components, including high-resolution cameras selected with guidance from Horus experts. These cameras were integrated with a GNSS/IMU system to ensure precise geospatial data capture. Specialized software, also provided by Horus, was used for efficient data compression and processing, and a high-performance notebook was chosen to manage the software and data collection.
The initial phase involved deploying the technology in urban settings to simulate railway conditions. This testing phase was crucial in validating the system’s performance before it was installed on a train for the first time. Horus software played an important role throughout this process, from camera selection to the final data integration and calibration.
Successful testing and implementation
Once the system was validated, it was installed on a train, and data collection began. The train journeys covered approximately 2,500km of the high-speed railway network within a week. A ‘Trigger Box’ processed location data from GPS and GNSS/IMU systems, ensuring that images were captured every three metres based on train speed. Post-processing involved assigning coordinates to each image and integrating the data with GNSS information using Horus Movie Maker. This process included optimizing calibration parameters and verifying camera calibration with ground-measured data.
Delivering comprehensive results
The final steps of the project involved digitizing the infrastructure elements and converting the data into various formats. The compiled data was organized into an ‘Assets Management’ structure and delivered to the relevant authorities.
The collaboration between Birlik Mapping and Horus was marked by effective problem-solving and thorough teamwork. In a period of just three weeks, they completed a detailed feasibility study, which encompassed rapid adjustments, precise camera selection, software integration and extensive stress testing. This high-speed mapping project underscores the successful application of advanced technology and expert coordination, resulting in a tailored solution for railway asset management.
