KL Students Earns ₹4 Lakh STPI Grant for Innovative Track Inspection Robot

A talented team of KL Deemed to be University students, led by Salar Khan and Smd Farooq Ali, has secured Rs.4 lakh in seed funding from the Kalpataru Center of Excellence (CoE) under the prestigious STPI program for their 'Track Inspection Robot' innovation. This advanced, autonomous device is equipped with cutting-edge ultrasonic detectors, infrared cameras, laser analysis sensors, and AI-driven fault detection systems. Designed to enhance railway track safety and maintenance, the robot can efficiently identify misalignments, cracks, and obstructions in real-time, offering a more efficient, automated alternative to traditional manual inspections.

The Track Inspection Robot project aims to transform track inspection processes by automating key tasks, minimizing human risk, reducing maintenance costs, and supporting sustainable operations through solar-powered integration. By integrating these energy-efficient elements, the robot is able to operate in field conditions for extended periods, underscoring its utility in large-scale railway operations. The automation of track inspections not only reduces the potential hazards faced by human inspectors in challenging environments but also improves the overall efficiency, speed, and accuracy of the inspection process. Additionally, the robot enables predictive maintenance by allowing early detection of track faults, ultimately leading to reduced maintenance costs for railway operators.

The team's proposal was submitted to STPI's Open Challenge Program 4.0 under the Kalpataru CoE, which focuses on fostering innovations in Industry 4.0 technologies. Recognizing the potential impact of this project on public infrastructure, STPI awarded a Rs.4 lakh grant to the team, disbursed in two phases for development and testing and successful completion and the achievement of key performance metrics. Additionally, the team will gain access to Kalpataru's specialized labs, mentorship, and resources, providing an enriched platform to refine their project for potential large-scale implementation.

The Track Inspection Robot shows promising applications for potential partnerships with Indian Railways, aiming for future deployment across the railway network. This project not only creates significant career opportunities for the team in the railway safety sector but also strengthens K L Deemed to be University's position as a champion of practical, impactful innovation in technology.

KL Deemed to be University provides vital resources, research facilities, and faculty mentorship to guide the students in their project. The support KL CIIE, KL ACIC and backing from the MDI&E and EEE departments, enabled students to translate classroom learning into real-world application.