Plowman Craven Rail Surveys

A revolutionary new service from the surveying experts at Plowman Craven, Vogel R3D is a unique, UAV-based system that enables the comprehensive surveying of rail infrastructure to a sub-5mm accuracy in a fraction of the time of a traditional survey.

“The application of the Vogel R3D system is a real game-changer for Network Rail and helps us to satisfy many of our survey requirements in a safe manner without the cost implications or potential programme delays associated with multiple possessions. Chris Preston, Senior Engineer, Network Rail”

Accuracy, Safety & Efficiency

Able to cover even the busiest and most inaccessible areas of the rail network from a working height of 25m, Vogel R3D can capture data from a position of safety even during traffic hours, removing the need for possessions and line blocks, and drastically reducing the exposure of workers to risk. The result is a shortening of programme times and significant cost savings.

Developed from years of expertise in laser scanning and photogrammetry, and underpinned by robust survey principles, this ground-breaking system uses a state-of-the-art UAV platform and 100-megapixel camera to capture overlapping aerial images of an entire site.

Bespoke workflows and software algorithms are then used to convert the imagery into 3D data – to an accuracy that is superior to any other method of data capture, including even static laser scanning and train or trolley-based kinematic scanning systems.

Vogel R3D – EF28 Sleeper – Zoomed In
Tangible Benefits

Less Risk – removes the need to physically access the track
Less Cost – reduces the expense of possessions and line blocks
Less Time – shortens programmes as data capture is significantly faster
More Speed – rapid mobilisation means no waiting for next available possession
More Value – high definition photography supplements current survey deliverables
More Accuracy – proven to deliver sub-5mm accuracy
Enhanced Deliverables

Track alignments for P-way design
Topographical surveys
3D point clouds
Building Information Models
Orthophotos
High-resolution imagery for asset inspection
Site visualisations & TruView
Vogel R3D – The Future of Rail Surveying
Safety, Trust & Experience

With enhanced flying permissions from the Civil Aviation Authority and a five-star RISQS rating, Plowman Craven is already an industry-leader in the provision of Rail survey data. The Vogel R3D system has been approved by Network Rail – contact us today to find out how Vogel can help on your next project.

Data-Backed, Proven Accuracy

Trials have been undertaken to prove the accuracy of Vogel R3D and compare the data to traditional survey techniques. Vogel R3D meets Network Rail’s Band 1 accurracy requirements and is suitable for track alignment and topographic survey at all GRIP stages.