Automated Vehicle Inspection Systems

We provide specialised guidance in selecting the most suitable automated vehicle inspection systems tailored to your fleet’s requirements. We assess your needs and guide you on the best options and can assist in defining precise specifications and testing criteria to ensure the solution delivers what’s promised.

With a wealth of knowledge on the latest inspection technologies, we offer tailored advice, considering your depot setup, fleet specification, and operational goals. We aim to help you avoid costly mistakes by setting clear specifications and ensuring thorough acceptance testing, giving you confidence in the system before a major investment is made.

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Reviewing & assessing depot suitability for an automated vehicle inspection system

We begin by reviewing your fleet, operations and the layout of your depots to assess the suitability of automated inspection equipment. We look at the flow of vehicles, available space, and technical requirements to recommend the best location for installation. Proper placement is key to maximising the system’s effectiveness and ease of use, ensuring it integrates seamlessly into your depot without disrupting daily operations.

The chosen location must allow the equipment to operate efficiently and safely, while also providing easy access for maintenance. Our review also assesses which aspects of your fleet and maintenance processes would benefit from automation inspections and any alternative options that may be available.

Our services include:

  • Fleet and Operations Review
  • Location Assessment
  • System Integration
  • Process Optimisation

Assisting with the procurement of automated vehicle inspection systems

We support you through the procurement stage by providing technical advice and ensuring that the right system is chosen for your needs. Whether it’s advising on specifications or evaluating potential suppliers, we help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure you’re investing in the right equipment. The system selected should meet all your operational requirements, including performance, durability, and budget. It should also comply with industry standards and regulations.

Our services include:

  • Technical Advice
  • Supplier Evaluation
  • System Selection

Validation & acceptance of new automated vehicle inspection systems

We oversee the validation of new inspection systems, ensuring that they are reliable, accurate, and suitable for your fleet. While the supplier is responsible for making the equipment work, we focus on making sure it meets your specific needs before it’s fully integrated into operations. The system must be fully tested and proven to be reliable and fit for purpose. It should meet the agreed specifications for performance and accuracy, with any issues resolved before it’s considered ready for regular use.

Our services include:

  • System Validation
  • Supplier Oversight
  • Performance Testing

Integrating automated vehicle inspection systems into depot operations

Once the equipment is validated, we assist with integrating it into your daily depot operations. This involves ensuring that staff are properly trained and that the system is easy to use and manage. Many systems fail because end users are not confident in using them, so we make sure the equipment becomes a valuable part of your routine processes.

The system should integrate seamlessly into daily operations with minimal disruption. It’s essential that staff feel comfortable using the system and have confidence in the accuracy of the data it provides. Proper configuration is crucial to ensure that warnings and alarms are triggered at the appropriate levels, enhancing safety without overwhelming the team.

Our services include:

  • System Integration
  • Staff Training
  • Configuration and Optimisation

Optimising the use of existing automated vehicle inspection systems & data

If you already have automated inspection equipment, we can help you optimise its performance and the use of your data. This might involve reconfiguring systems, reviewing data collection methods, or training staff to get better results from existing investments.

Your current equipment and data should be optimised to improve efficiency and reliability. The system should function at its best, and the data should provide valuable insights that help inform decisions and improve fleet management.

Our services include:

  • System Optimisation
  • Data Utilisation
  • Staff Training
  • Improved Reliability

Get in touch

If you’re considering implementing an AVIS or already have one in place and need assistance with integration and configuration, we’re here to help. Our team of experts will guide you through every step of the process, from selecting the right system to ensuring it meets your specific operational needs.

Don’t leave your investment to chance – partner with us to maximise the effectiveness of your automated inspections and enhance your fleet’s performance. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your journey toward safer, more efficient fleet operations!

Testimonials

I am very satisfied with the service provided by Encompass Engineering. They reviewed and finalised the Test Specification for testing the AVIS equipment installed in the depot, attended the site acceptance test, and reviewed the test report with professionalism and efficiency. All tasks were completed on time and to a high standard. I was particularly impressed by the expertise and diligence of the individuals who carried out this work. Their concise and thorough approach made the entire process seamless. I highly recommend their services.

— Natalia Slavianskaia, Class 701 Project Manager, Rock Rail

Frequently asked questions

An Automated Vehicle Inspection System (AVIS) is a high-tech solution used in train depots to conduct thorough and rapid inspections of train vehicles. AVIS uses advanced sensors, cameras, and software to check for defects or wear in critical components like wheels, brakes, and undercarriages. This technology helps detect potential issues early, ensuring safer and more reliable train operations, while reducing the time and labour needed for manual inspections.
AVIS provides numerous advantages, including - Increased Safety. Automated systems can identify potential safety issues more accurately than manual checks. Time Efficiency: AVIS can perform comprehensive inspections much faster than traditional methods, reducing downtime for trains. Data-Driven Insights: The system collects detailed inspection data, which can be analysed to predict maintenance needs and improve fleet management. And Cost Savings: early detection of issues helps prevent costly repairs and service disruptions.
Automated Vehicle Inspection Systems (AVIS) for trains come in various configurations to meet different operational needs. Depot-Based Inspection Systems, installed in maintenance depots, perform detailed inspections of trains as they pass through. They are ideal for routine checks on components like wheels, brakes, pantographs, and underframe features. On-Track Inspection Systems installed along the railway tracks monitor trains in real time as they operate. They can identify immediate issues, such as overheating axles or pantograph defects, and are typically maintained by rail infrastructure managers. Fleet-Specific Modules are tailored to the unique needs of a particular fleet, such as pantograph wear monitoring for Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) or axle heat detection for older trains.

Case Studies

Automated Vehicle Inspection System (AVIS) Implementation Support for Rock Rail’s Arterio Fleet

Rock Rail and South Western Railway sought to take a more proactive approach to the maintenance of their Arterio fleet by installing an Automated Vehicle Inspection System (AVIS).

We supported Rock Rail with the system's implementation, ensuring it met technical specifications and delivered reliable, real-time monitoring of train components for early detection of potential issues.

Read more

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