Overview

This presentation examines the evolution of rail signal sighting, a process that has traditionally been fraught with challenges, through the lens of digital technology. We explore how digital tools have not only improved the accuracy of signal sighting but also made the process more accessible to a wider range of stakeholders. Rail signal sighting was once limited to 2D schematic drawings and physical site-based activities, which presented a number of constraints. These constraints, often caused by trackside equipment and underground services, were not apparent in 2D documentation, resulting in a delay in feedback between design and rail signal sighting committees. This disconnect often led to human error, causing construction delays and requiring site rectification works. However, UNITY Alliance has harnessed the power of structured data and automation to revolutionize this process. By deriving 3D model elements from 2D schematic drawings, UNITY Alliance has enabled virtual signal sighting and clash detection with in-ground services and rolling stock dynamic kinematic envelopes in the project's cloud-based coordination platform.

Learning outcomes 

Positive outcomes of implementing this new workflow process include: 

1. Real-time engineering coordination prior to construction with all stakeholders. 
2. Clash analysis of physical assets and rollingstock envelopes during design and before construction – refer attached presentation for example. 
3. Improvement of accuracy and reliability of spatial 2D and 3D signalling information, informed from a controlled data (using a master signalling equipment register spreadsheet). 
4. Safer approach for assessing signal sighting earlier by minimising the need of on track sighting inspections during design and construction.

Event program 

• 5:30 pm AEST: Registrations opens 
• 6:00 pm AEST: Presentation starts 
• 6:45 pm AEST: Q&A
• 7:15 pm AEST: Close

About the speaker 

Matt Quigley

Principal Technical Officer, AECOM

Biography

Matt is a Principal Technical Officer at AECOM and the UNITY Alliance CAD Manager for Cross River Rail – Rail, Integration and Systems project and has a breadth of experience in delivering major rail projects in Australia and overseas. With a strong interest in efficiency and structured data, Matt specialises in digital delivery, workflow innovation and data management, linking various data sets to achieve compliant, efficient, accurate and reliable digital deliverables.