AIVR Go
What is it
AIVR Go is a mobile-phone based rail infrastructure monitoring device that captures high‑definition forward‑facing video and telemetry from in‑service trains and makes it rapidly available via the cloud. It forms part of One Big Circle’s wider AIVR suite, integrating with the AIVR Platform so engineers can review lineside and track condition remotely rather than through traditional cab rides or trackside access.
Why it matters
A simple mounting on ordinary In-service trains, AIVR Go turns routine operations into a continuous survey, dramatically increasing coverage of the network without extra train paths or possessions. This helps reduce boots‑on‑ballast inspections, improves workforce safety. With AIVR Go footage, engineers can remotely inspect high‑risk locations within hours of a train passing, which accelerates decision‑making. The collected data can be further analysed to automatically detect assets, including OLE and signalling, and hazards arising from multiple infrastructure condition issues. It can be used for a range of design and maintenance activities, supporting earlier intervention and more efficient maintenance planning.
AIVR Go: a phone-sized device mounted on a train windscreen to capture forward-facing video.
When: key dates
One Big Circle’s AIVR product was developed in the late 2010s to be used to record moving video from any assets to improve the visibility of the environment over which those assets moved. It was deployed on the UK network in 2019 and was widely adopted throughout the COVID Pandemic, where it provided an instant view of the infrastructure to people working at home and unable to complete cab rides.
Who: made it, uses it
AIVR Go was created by Bristol‑based intelligent video specialist One Big Circle, which focuses on automated capture, transmission and analysis of video data using AI and machine learning. Primary users include Network Rail engineers and project teams across disciplines such as track, signalling, telecoms and electrification, as well as train operating companies that host the devices on their fleets. Over 13,000 AIVR users access this data for inspection, planning and reporting activities.
Example AIVR Go footage, capturing overhead line equipment (OLE) gantries and track layout in fine detail.
How it works
AIVR Go is deployed across the GB mainline network, integrated into in-service and monitoring trains. It is mounted either internally on a locomotive windscreen via a simple suction mount or externally in robust external housings. The device automatically powers on and starts recording on motion, geolocates imagery using GPS (mapped to engineers’ line references), and transmits video, location data and other telemetry over 4G/5G to the AIVR Platform, buffering data when connectivity is poor.
On the AIVR Platform, users can measure, annotate, search and apply machine-learning models to detect assets and defects, linking visual evidence with other monitoring systems to build a holistic view of infrastructure conditions.