TGS is a leading provider of transportation, specializing in railroad operations, all aspects of railroad construction, earthwork, and infrastructure for municipalities, utilities, industrial-petrochemical facilities, as well as site development for both public and private sector clients.

Opportunity

Trans Global Solutions (TGS) joined Operation Clean Sweep, an initiative aimed at reducing plastic released into the environment, with a significant portion ending up in the ocean. In pursuit of this goal, TGS implemented a multifaceted approach, including the installation of drain filters, the establishment of cleanup procedures, and a meticulous inspection process for inbound plastic hopper cars to identify and secure unsecured caps.

However, faced with the complexity of monitoring unsecured caps using the existing system—comprising three cameras situated at the CPIP entrance—TGS encountered operational challenges. The real-time monitoring of three cameras simultaneously proved impractical for a single individual, necessitating manual inspections by crews as each train enters the yard. In response to the difficulties encountered and to streamline the process, TGS made the strategic decision to transition from manual inspections to an automated system.

To facilitate this transition, TGS enlisted the expertise of Liquid Technologies who came up with the solution to develop a video analytics application dedicated to detecting and classifying unsecured hopper caps. The project scope included digital storage, image logging, and the integration of alteration mechanisms into the system. The collaboration with Liquid Technologies aimed to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of the inspection process, ultimately contributing to the success of Operation Clean Sweep.

Actions by Liquid Technologies

1
Conducted In-Depth Research and Needs Analysis: Liquid Technologies initiated the development of a video analytics app called Vidan as a solution for TGS. They delved deep into AI-based video analytics, studying the latest advancements in technology and understanding the specific needs of various industries. This foundational step ensured that Vidan would be equipped with the most cutting-edge features relevant to the sector it aimed to serve.

2
Implemented Dynamic Data Tagging System: We implemented a dynamic data tagging system allowing TGS to tag and categorize video data flexibly, enabling more nuanced and detailed analysis.

3
Connected Video Analytic Application to TGS On-Premise MS-SQL Database: We developed and integrated advanced AI algorithms into the core functionalities. establishing a seamless connection between the video analytic application and TGS’s on-premises MS-SQL database. This ensured accurate storage of output data in a designated car inspection table, containing crucial information such as equipment ID, date and time, alert type, and precise alert location details.

4
Implemented Real-Time Alerts: Acknowledging the paramount importance of swift responses to security breaches, Liquid Technologies successfully implemented a robust real-time alerts system. This crucial feature ensured that users received immediate notifications in case of open caps, enabling TGS to address potential leaks promptly and proactively.

5
Followed Project Development Methodology: Liquid Technologies followed the Agile framework for product development. This involved short sprint cycles, continuous feedback, and a time-bound approach to implementing solutions incrementally. Close communication with TGS throughout the development life-cycle was maintained.

6
Conducted Testing: Liquid Technologies conducted comprehensive testing, including training and testing of models. This involved making physical changes to the position or angle of cameras to capture the required datasets (videos/images). TGS whitelisted Liquid Technologies’ development and test systems’ IPs for seamless access during development, testing, and sign-off phases.

Results

1
Automated Safety Alerts: Vidan’s dynamic data tagging system efficiently identifies open compartments, generating immediate alerts, enabling timely reaction and preventing potential accidents or environmental hazards.

2
Automated Detection Minimizes Manual Oversight: The integration of Vidan into TGS’s rail operations significantly reduced the need for manual oversight. The system’s ability to automatically identify open caps eliminated the requirement for personnel to monitor cameras 24/7, allowing for a more efficient and cost-effective operational setup.

3
Integrated Data Management and Accountability: Vidan not only facilitated immediate detection of open caps and spills but also identified the responsible client, enabling swift and accurate fine imposition for railway cleaning. This proactive approach fostered client mindfulness, reinforcing a culture of environmental responsibility within TGS’s transport network.

4
Increased Operational Efficiency: By replacing continuous manual monitoring, Vidan contributes to significant cost savings and enhances operational efficiency.

5
Regulatory Compliance: Integration with TGS’s on-premises MS-SQL database ensures transparency, aiding regulatory compliance and accountability.

6
Environmental Protection: Timely responses to open caps mitigate the risk of chemical spills, protecting the environment and avoiding regulatory fines.

7
Strategic Resource Allocation: Vidan allows TGS to allocate resources efficiently, focusing on areas requiring immediate attention and minimizing operational risks.

Product Journey

Our Solutions

Our team at Liquid Technologies, after thoroughly documenting all the requirements and processes of TGS developed an internal employee portal that functioned as a web application and mirrored it into an iOS and Android mobile App.

To add value to our business relationship, we deployed our visual analytics “Vidan” to track and monitor their railroad KPIs. This, in turn, helped in automating multiple processes that were previously being managed manually, resulting in cost savings.

Team Size Deployed

Architect
PM
BA
Front End Engineers
Back End Engineers
Devops
Data & ML

Outcomes

The software deployed by our team helped TGS cut ties with their third-party application, which was their primary goal. Our project scope helped accommodate all their needs in one place, thereby providing them with a high-quality final product.

TGS has successfully rolled the software out to multiple departments that have received it well. With everything being in-house now, they can proactively track analytics, enabling their employees to implement and manage safety and security protocols.

Time Invested : 500+ Hours
Team Member allotted : 12
Key Results : TGS can now onboard employees seamlessly and track KPIs with the help of Vidan AI, keeping processes lean, efficient, and safe.