Sensonic and Chicago Transit Test Latest Rail Safety and Security Innovation
Sensonic Incorporated, a leading international firm specialising in fibre optic sensing in transportation contexts, today announced its exciting partnership with the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) on a new pilot program. This initiative, recently approved by the Chicago Transit Board, aims to deploy Sensonic’s cutting-edge Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) technology to automatically detect intrusions and fallen objects on the CTA’s rail right-of-way, enhancing railway safety and operational reliability.
“Sensonic is proud to bring cutting-edge fibre optic sensing technology to the CTA that enhances rail safety and security in Chicago,” said Ashish Upadhyay, CEO of Sensonic. “By combining Distributed Acoustic Sensing and AI, we’re enabling real-time detection of trackside intrusions and fallen objects along the rail corridor. This actionable intelligence is key to building safer, smarter, and more resilient transit systems.”
The CTA’s decision to advance this pilot underscores a shared commitment to proactively addressing security challenges and improving service for riders. The project will leverage Sensonic’s innovative solution that transforms existing fibre optic cables into a continuous network of highly sensitive acoustic sensors. By monitoring minute changes in light scattering caused by acoustic vibrations, such as those from footsteps, vehicles, or falling debris, the system can distinguish between normal train movements and anomalous events.
A single Sensonic sensing device has the capacity to cover up to a 50-mile range, offering expansive, real-time monitoring capabilities. In the event of a person or object entering the tracks, the system’s intelligent algorithms will analyse the vibration patterns to trigger a real-time alert, notifying appropriate CTA staff for swift intervention.
The 12-month pilot will begin with a feasibility phase, during which Sensonic will collaborate with CTA to identify optimal deployment locations across various track types, including elevated, grade-level, and subway sections. This initial phase will include in-depth feasibility testing, equipment purchase, and installation, followed by a hardware installation at one selected location.
Sensonic has a proven track record of success in enhancing rail safety and security globally, having partnered with rail network providers in Austria, Brazil, Czechia, India, Portugal, and Spain to monitor right-of-way intrusions involving people, large objects, and large animals. This extensive international experience positions Sensonic as an ideal partner for the CTA’s Innovation Studio, which seeks to integrate advanced technologies to create a safer environment, reduce delays, and improve service reliability for Chicago’s transit system.
Through this pilot, Sensonic and the CTA aim to establish a reliable solution for detecting and responding to right-of-way intrusions in real-time, ultimately preventing service delays and ensuring a safe journey for everyone.
