Technology specialist ADComms has today announced the introduction of its new data aggregation and intelligent connected software system: Monica Hub.
Monica Hub is set to transform rail operations through the real time integration of critical operational systems data. Secure remote real time access and powerful analytical tools supported by AI, enable operators, infrastructure managers and rolling stock maintainers to deliver safe, reliable, high quality and cost-efficient journeys for their passengers.
The platform has been in live operational use since 2021 and by 2025 more than 3000 carriages (around 15 per cent of the UK rail and underground subway fleets) and dozens of rail stations will be connected to Monica Hub. Many of the systems are being integrated for the first time creating a wide range of new operational use cases.
Data is integrated and combined from a varied range of sources driven by individual customer requirements including on-train, station and infrastructure sensors, Train Management Systems, CCTV, Passenger Counting alongside train planning data, DARWIN, GPS, downstream systems such as passenger information systems, customer apps. In total more than 70 discrete systems have been successfully integrated so far and counting.
Data is transmitted from the train, station or infrastructure via a wayside, utilising mobile and fixed telecoms, track-to-train antennae systems or leaky feeder depending on customer requirements. Sophisticated protocols are used to make efficient use of constrained telecoms networks.
The data is stored in a cyber-secure cloud-based platform or on-premises servers. Configurable access controls allow users, sometimes split across organisational boundaries, access to a user-friendly web-based platform incorporating a wide range of analytical tools. Additional bespoke functionality and analytics can be added to the solution based on customer requirements.
Craig Scott, CEO of ADComms, said: “Developing technology such as Monica Hub is going to be vital for running the railways of the future as operators need to manage more and more data. Our innovations team has worked tirelessly to make Monica Hub practical, easy to implement and completely flexible. The fact that Monica Hub can work with any data feed means it is extremely economical to install: there is no need to replace existing systems or buy new ones. – something that our customers appreciate. The fact that we have already installed the system on fleets for Northern, Merseyrail and Transport for London – both legacy and new stock – shows how adaptable it is.”
A spokesperson for Northern Trains, added: “Northern Trains continue to work with ADComms supporting the legacy fleet wide deployment of a combine solution of CCTV and Passenger Counting. We have seen significant improvements in real time information both onboard and off the train, bringing real insight to Northern operationally. As ADComms advance further into the technology enhancement the use of AI will further benefit how Northern provide critical systems for 2024 and beyond.”
Monica Hub is licensed on a pay-as-you-go model, with limited initial investment. A range of complimentary systems are offered including:
Monica View CCTV
Monica Count APC
Monica Go OPO and DCO
Monica Call SPSO
ADComms will be showcasing Monica Hub at this year’s Rolling Stock Network event in Derby on 4t July at Stand A7. Ben Mzondo, Jane Metcalfe, Peter Given, John Deering and Alice Gillman will be on hand for demonstrations and meetings.
