The Aldridge Wireless Level Crossing (WLX) has been in development since 2017, with the first field test site set up near Maitland in New South Wales in 2020.
Since then, test sites have also been established on operational tracks at remote locations in Western Australia, Far North Queensland and on the south coast of New South Wales.
In addition to this extensive field testing, Aldridge’s bespoke wireless level crossing controller (WLXC) and wheel flange sensor technology have undergone over 2.5 million cycles at a test track in Aldridge’s Sydney facility.
In the eight years since Aldridge commenced the development of this exciting product, improvements and enhancements have continued to be applied, such that the company says the WLX now represents the most technically advanced level crossing safety system available in the world today.
Incorporating a Texas Instruments SIL3 (safety integrity level 3) certified Micro Controller eco-system, Aldridge also says it is also the safest system available on the market today.
This new system uses a novel approach, being independently powered by solar panels with back-up batteries. It also includes train wheel flange sensors train detection, with an internal high security radio communications system to all system components, including wheel flange sensors, warning signs and activate advance warning signs (AAWS).
The sensors can be located up to 1200 metres away, on either side of the crossing, eliminating the requirement for trenching and cabling.
The system sends the telemetry via the 4G/5G network (or satellite or fibre cable) to a server which rail (and road) operators can access from any location.
The telemetry includes hundreds of data points on the status of the detection and control system that is displayed graphically.
A significant breakthrough of this system is an integrated video camera and radar solution, which means operators always have remote eyes on the level crossing and can monitor both trains and road vehicles at the crossing.
The telemetry data is saved on a Cloud-based server and includes train monitoring information such as speed direction and wheel counts. Further verification is supported by recorded video evidence.
A vehicle detection system also allows monitoring and counting of vehicles going through the level crossing, and therefore the compliance of those vehicles.
This includes their compliance with stop sign controls, 24/7 when the warning signals are activated.
All this is done via the unique Aldridge ITS telemetry system that seamlessly integrates with existing systems.
The video camera system also acts as an additional security layer, which alerts the rail infrastructure manager or road authority if there is any unauthorised activity or interference occurring at the level crossing.
The ability to visually monitor the behaviour of road users allows the operator to determine the compliance of road vehicles and make adjustments to the level crossing treatment, to minimise dangerous road user behaviour.
Jackson Aldridge will be demonstrating this software, which is presently operating at a live site, at the Aldridge Stand number 548 at the upcoming AusRAIL PLUS event in Melbourne.
To make an appointment to see the software demonstration, contact Jackson at sales@railsignal.com or call in at Aldridge’s stand number 548 and ask for Jackson. For additional information visit https://railsignal.com/its
