Digital Twin and AI: How SMRT Is Using Technologies for MRT Operations

Digital Twin (DT) is not a new concept; it is a combination of artificial intelligence (AI) and the internet of things (IoT). DT enables organisations to optimise their operations by connecting the physical world with the virtual world. It helps to provide real-time intelligence on urban landscapes and infrastructure by using IoT sensors. SMRT Corp, the premier multi-modal transport service provider in Singapore, is the leading adopter of digital twin capabilities in mass rapid transit (MRT) operations. The DT technology has helped the company to empower its MRT-related research and development process and virtual experimentation. Here is how SMRT is utilising digital twins in MRT operations:

SMRT is working with stakeholders to identify the potential applications of DT. The transport operator is investing in innovative technologies, such as Simulation and Modelling, Data Analytics & Visualisation, and Condition Monitoring to enable the integration of DT into operations.

Currently, SMRT is focusing on four new concepts for the development of DT:

• iStation – Intelligent Stations and Interchanges
• iControl – Intelligent Rail Operations
• iDepot – Intelligent Depot Operations & Predictive Maintenance
• iLifestyles – Intelligent 5G Lifestyle & Digital Experience

1. Intelligent Station and Interchanges - Integrating technology in MRT stations and interchanges will improve station communication capabilities, ticketing, and wayfinding. Intelligent stations will enable station operators to manage passenger flows and safety.
2. Intelligent Rail Operations - By using IoT and AI technologies in rail operations, the transport operator aims to increase the capacity, reliability, and safety of their operations for passengers and rail lines. It will also improve efficiency and reduce costs across train control, safety, and asset management systems.
3. Intelligent Depot Operations & Predictive Maintenance - SMRT is utilising predictive maintenance strategy by deploying sensor-based condition monitoring in real-time for rail assets and sub-systems. To understand the data, the engineering team of SMRT is using Data Analytics and Visualisation tools to drive accurate asset status, what-if analysis, and improved decisions.

4. Intelligent 5G Lifestyle & Digital Experience - 5G is the foundation for realising the full potential of IoT. As 5G network offers faster speed, it minimises latency and maximises the reliability of the communication network. Smrt is working on intelligent digital experiences and 5G lifestyle to provide seamless, personalised customer journeys and immersive experience to commuters at all points.

Commenting on the efforts taken by the company on integrating emerging technologies in rail operations, Neo Kian Hong, SMRT CEO, stated: "We will leverage digitalisation and technology to be cost-efficient and effective, and will continually upskill our workforce through workplace learning."

He further commented, "While we strive for high operational performance, safety and reliability remain our top priority and we are determined to create a Zero Safety Incident operating environment by strengthening our culture, systems and processes using technologies."

Conclusion

Powered by IoT, artificial intelligence, and advanced visualisation tools, digital twins are becoming a great option for companies looking to introduce innovation, improve productivity, and enhance operations. Experts believe that the use of digital twins will skyrocket in the near future. Smrt Ceo and stakeholders believe that implementing a digital twin and other emerging technologies in MRT operations will allow the company in performance optimisation and process improvement. Working on maintenance, development, and other processes using digital twins will prove to be a more manageable and profitable model.

Noella Goh is a sub-editor with a leading Singaporean magazine. In her free time, she likes to write about Singaporean lifestyle, cities, amenities, and transportation. From the Asian culture, Metro Manila, to Smrt services,