MTM Structure Assessments

Challenge

Metro Trains Melbourne (MTM) needed to adapt signalling and overhead wire (OHW) structures to meet current safety and infrastructure standards. Difficult site access led MTM to explore using LiDAR data for planning activities.

MTM partnered with Agonics to extract structural elements and overhead wiring feature strings and perform clearance measurements at high-traffic locations.

Solution

An MTM inspection form was used as a template to extract measurements from the LiDAR point cloud, matching them to in-person observations.

The team generated accurate point clouds and identified trackside assets for assessment. Using XERRA software, railhead strings were extracted, and overhead wires were digitised to model wire sway for the signal structure redesign.

Other trackside features such as pits and cable trunking were modelled. Measurements at existing structures, including signal aspect height, ladder slope, and landing heights, were extracted from the point cloud and provided back to MTM.

Outcomes

• MTM engineers obtained accurate location and measurement data of each signal/OHW structure without entering the danger zone.
• The Agonics XERRA software allowed engineers to step through the LiDAR data and generate feature strings of linear assets including overhead wires in proximity to the signal structures.

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