28 October 2013

Costain recently showcased a number of innovative solutions for use in the rail industry at a forum organised for the Network Rail Asset Information team.

The event, which took place recently at Costain’s head office in Maidenhead, was organised to coincide with one of Network Rail’s regular team meetings. In addition to discussing Network Rail’s projects, the forum gave members of the Costain Technology Solutions team an opportunity to present some of their ideas to the 24-strong Network Rail team and discuss how the ideas could be harnessed for the benefit of Network Rail.

Andrew Wyllie, Costain’s Chief Executive, also met the Network Rail team and discussed how some of Costain’s innovative solutions could potentially assist the Network Rail Asset Information team.

Some of the technological innovation included a collaboration between Costain and Perpetuum, a world leader in vibration harvester powered wireless sensing systems, to see how data can be used to better understand how track assets are used and where costs can be reduced in the ownership of rolling stock.

The team also presented COpath, a partnership between Costain and Path Intelligence which specialises in providing insights into pedestrian movements. COpath utilises a brand new technology that allows users to anonymously monitor pedestrian movements through a physical space and then interpret that data as passenger behaviour. COpath gives asset owners a better understanding about how passengers use and interact with a physical space, and then allows them to analyse the data to make better decisions about managing their assets more efficiently and effectively.

“It was a great platform as we were able to engage with individuals from one of our largest clients about some of the challenges they face in realising their asset management objectives and how we can assist them with our leading edge technology solutions,” said Ross Agnew, Costain’s Director for Airports and Technology, who hosted the day.

The forum is in line with Costain’s Engineering Tomorrow strategy which is focused on harnessing new and innovative technological solutions, but with the potential to help customers make a step change in their business.

Effective asset management is essential in the successful delivery of all goods and services, not least in the planning and delivery of key infrastructure. Engineering Tomorrow recognises that to satisfy customers’ requirement and to meet national infrastructure needs, the Company needs to invest in technology, formulate innovative solutions, devise new ways of doing things and pass on crucial knowledge, both internally and to its partners and customers.

“This type of direct engagement with our client is imperative for Costain to pinpoint our customers’ specific challenges and provide a solution that is not only more cost effective for operations, but also utilises leading-edge technology and allows them to remain responsive to their customers and end-users,” said Ross.

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