HS2 is linking up with Digital Catapult, the advanced digital technology innovation centre, to explore the potential construction, operation and maintenance benefits provided by the likes of 5G and machine learning.
The partnership’s first project, starting next month, will explore how 5G wireless technology could help monitor HS2’s infrastructure such as bridges and tunnels. By replacing fixed cabled equipment, it could potentially enable flexible, easy and fast deployment of monitoring systems anywhere along the route.
HS2 Ltd innovation manager Andrew Pestana said: “The boundaries of what digital systems could deliver for HS2 are likely to be far reaching. Linking with Digital Catapult will ensure that HS2’s innovation programme is plugged into this dynamic and exciting environment to harness digital opportunities for designing, building and running Britain’s new high speed rail network.”
Dr David Pugh at Digital Catapult added: “Innovation with cutting edge, emerging technologies like 5G and artificial intelligence are set to play an increasingly large role in the success of significant national infrastructure projects like HS2. We’re looking forward to working with HS2 to explore how these technologies can create a long term innovation legacy and impact.”
Image: artist’s impression of the Small Dean Viaduct (courtesy of HS2 Ltd)
