The system, which is undergoing trials on routes 705, 706 and 751P, combines on-board GPS and radio frequency identification (RFID) readers with trackside RFID tags to relay the LRV’s position and speed to the operations control centre via a mobile communications network for real-time monitoring.
Drivers receive an audio reminder from the system when the vehicle is about to reach the speed limit. The system also has other features including alerts to remind drivers to perform platform duty, and when passing through designated junctions and turnouts.
MTR is planning to launch the system across the entire rail network progressively from the second quarter of 2019.
“As there is no commonly adopted solution for light rail speed monitoring in the market, our engineers had to innovate and develop one on our own,” says MTR general manager - rolling stock fleet, Mr Lu Wong. “Our team had assured the stability of the system in GPS position accuracy, reception and RFID detection through rigorous tests and assessments before it was adopted for service. The electrical and mechanical services department has also rendered great support to the corporation on launching iSPS to enhance railway safety.”
