Metrolinx, Invision AI and Thales partner to develop AV rail systems that withstand winter conditions

Metrolinx, Invision AI and Thales are partnering on a program, led by the Ontario Center of Innovation, to develop technology that will enhance situational awareness of autonomous rail operations in harsh weather conditions.

Thales notes the goal of the partnership is to build a platform that will ultimately enable deployments in urban, regional and mainline rail networks globally.

“We are excited to be solving the difficulties associated with autonomous rail systems and harsh winter conditions, an interesting challenge that we can all relate to. The data collected from the GO train has allowed us to gain unique insights into how to address the complex needs of transport operators globally,” said Invision AI CEO Karim Ali.

The partners prototyped and installed a system on a Metrolinx GO train that operates on multiple lines in Toronto, Ontario. The system is equipped on the front of the train and includes radars, cameras and lidar, for multi-spectral sensing ahead of the train, along with a cyber secured 4G/LTE connected data collection and processing system. These technologies actively collect important data which can then be used to train the system to recognize obstacles and other dangers. The data gathering activities will continue for an additional six months in different weather and environmental conditions.

“No matter what the weather is, safety within Ontario’s transit networks remains our top priority. This partnership between Metrolinx, Thales and Invision AI shows the potential benefit emerging technologies could have on the future of transit in our province,” said Ontario Minister of Transportation Caroline Mulroney.

Additionally, the technology equipped on the train is providing real-time information and data – such as next generation positioning, train telemetry and diagnostics information – to ensure the system is running smoothly.

“Thales is proud to partner with Metrolinx and the Ontario Center of Innovation to create a solution that will improve transit systems for both operators and passengers. Partnering with Invision AI has been a fantastic experience and showcases the power of collaboration to reach a common goal; bringing world-class transit solutions to Ontario,” said Thales Canada President and CEO Mark Halinaty.

The partners describe the benefits of the solution for operators being enhanced safety, rapid installation time due to the minimal equipment footprint, enhanced ‘look ahead’ sensing to detect and track potential obstacles and accurate real-time data collection crucial for maintenance and operations teams. For riders, the system could contribute to fewer delays, improved safety and enhanced reliability of the network.

Metrolinx explains the project aligns with its safety-first culture for staff, customers and community members by limiting the possibility of train incidents. In addition, the project positions Canada to be the first to introduce advance driver assistance and autonomous technologies that can function in all weather conditions.

“Metrolinx is proud to support this initiative with Invision and Thales. A focus on safety is central to delivering a world class transit system, and innovative solutions like this one are an important part of this work,” said Metrolinx CEO Phil Verster.

The C$1.48-million (US$1.17-million) project is funded through contributions of the partners that total more than $C992,000 (US$790,177), as well as C$483,600 (US$385,211) from the government of Ontario through the AVIN’s WinterTech Development program. The WinterTech program supports small and medium-sized enterprises and their partners by commercializing winter-ready innovative mobility solutions.

“This project demonstrates the strengths of Ontario’s Autonomous Vehicle Innovation Network: bringing together ambitious technology start-ups and industry leaders to pioneer next-generation mobility technologies with global potential. This unique partnership between Invision AI, Thales and Metrolinx offers enhanced safety and efficiency for rail systems around the world, particularly those operating in harsh winter climates. It’s an endeavor we’re very proud to support,” said Ontario Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade Vic Fedeli.