A total of 26 projects designed to improve passenger safety and experience on the railways have secured £5 million in government funding.
The investment, announced by the Department for Transport (DfT), comes through the First-of-a-Kind (FOAK) competiti
on, run in partnership with Innovate UK, Network Rail and train operators.
The scheme funds innovative projects so they can be trialled on the railways, giving them a greater chance of adoption by operators and freight companies.
This year’s winning projects focus on enhancing platform safety, preventing bridge strikes and incorporating artificial intelligence. Among them is IntelliPan Network, which uses AI to detect faults on overhead lines.
The technology aims to reduce delays and prevent dangerous dewirements. Another project, SafeRide 5G, will allow passengers to report incidents securely via onboard wifi, improving response times and making reporting easier.
Former CILT(UK) President and current Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said: “The winners of this competition are taking cutting-edge technology to address some of the biggest challenges facing the rail industry, making a railway that works better for the people and goods using it.
“These innovations are putting safety, reliability and passenger experience first, like IntelliPan Network using AI to detect faults on overhead lines, reducing disruption caused by dangerous dewirements.
“Through this funding, we are building a platform on which innovation can thrive, giving new technologies a chance to succeed and driving economic growth.”
Previous FOAK winners are already in use, including the Portable Track Geometry Measurement System, which provides engineers with instant track data to help lift speed restrictions and line closures more quickly.
Mike Biddle, Executive Director for Net Zero at Innovate UK, said: “The innovations receiving support through this competition will contribute to a more accessible, safer, and efficient railway system throughout the UK.”
The 26 projects have now begun development, with live demonstrations due to take place in the coming months. See the full list of winners.