Unmanned Aerial Systems for Asset Management, Maintenance, and Inspection in Railroad Projects

Abstract: Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) have become a valuable tool for asset management, maintenance, and inspection within the construction industry, showing particularly promising applications in the railroad sector. This article explores the diverse benefits of UAS in the complex railroad environment, where projects involve multiple disciplines and continuously evolving systems in compact spaces. The ability of UAS to access restricted and inaccessible areas, perform photogrammetry surveys, and capture perspective views significantly enhances track design, construction, and maintenance. Key project types include underground, open-cut, and elevated rail structures, all requiring extensive condition assessment.

UAS technology offers versatile payload capabilities, integrating various sensors, cameras, and transducers to collect specialized data sets for analysis. Leveraging advanced software and analytics, these datasets can be processed to yield actionable insights for precise monitoring and management of rail assets.

Currently, UAS supports railroad projects through structural assessments, aerial photogrammetry, dimensional matching, and site surveys. Its role in monitoring construction schedules, tracking project progress, and coordinating maintenance efforts provides invaluable support in meeting timelines and addressing on-site challenges efficiently. Moreover, artificial intelligence (AI) applications can enhance UAS outputs by detecting infrastructure issues, monitoring security, and providing automated comparisons for infrastructure integrity.

While the integration of UAS offers significant operational improvements, challenges remain, including obtaining FAA approval, agency clearances, and landowner permissions to establish base stations. This article addresses these challenges while demonstrating the transformative potential of UAS to improve safety, efficiency, and responsiveness in railroad project management.