CBOT-1 measuring robot for crane track systems

Siebens Spoorbouw, a subsidiary of Strukton Rail Belgium, has a long expert history in monitoring  industrial rail systems and crane tracks for production companies. These rail systems and tracks are crucial for the operations. Interruptions due to an obstruction in the transport infrastructure must therefore be avoided at all times. This requires measuring and detecting defects on a regular basis.

Industrial rail systems and tracks are generally difficult to access safely for inspection purposes, since construction sites are usually full of machinery and the rail systems tend to be located close to the ceilings. This means that a hydraulic platform for inspection is often not an option.

Remote-controlled measuring robot

Siebens Spoorbouw has developed the innovative CBOT-1 measuring robot. It is the first remote-controlled measuring robot of its kind that can measure the height, rail profile and connections of the track. We can operate the measuring robot remotely. We install it at a specific location on the rails, and from there it is able to reach every position. The robot can scan as many as 200 metres of rail and crane tracks in just a single movement.

Prevention is better than cure

The accurate measurement results attained by CBOT-1 enable rapid targeted monitoring of the crane track infrastructure. The measurements provide insight into the degree to which the rails are straight and level, and they show the track width. Thanks to the laser scanners, we can also detect wear and tear. A photo is taken every second to identify the problem in the event of any deviations. The clear measurement results enable us to draw up a preventive maintenance plan containing details of adjustments end/or replacements that can be made at the most favourable moments for the customer. And this helps to prevent malfunctions in the future.

Internal innovation brought to the customer

The CBOT-1 measuring robot was originally introduced internally as an innovative idea. It has two main components. The mechanical design was done in-house; the electronics were designed by an external party. The fact that this measuring robot improves the safety of our colleagues is a very welcome added bonus. We no longer need to carry out measurements in hard-to-reach places; we can now do this remotely.

The CBOT-1 measuring robot on your site

• 200 metres of rail and crane tracks in one scanning movement
• Measurement of different types of crane rails
• Determination of the alignment, height and span
• A scan of the rail head to identify and record wear
• A 3D scan of rails and fixings/connections
• Delivery of the rail survey with exact positional data of fixings