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AI software firm that ‘keeps trains on track’ opens new HQ in Bristol
A Bristol-based AI firm has opened a new HQ next to Bristol Temple Meads Station.
One Big Circle, which was launched six years ago by a team of four tech experts and Bristol university alumni, now boasts 35 employees with ambitions to expand into Europe.
The firm uses artificial intelligence to clean up the country’s railways, and its tech is deployed across 20,000 miles of track by Network Rail.
Their small “smart capture” devices are mounted on the front of trains across the country, providing high-definition “train and track-view” video.
Dan Norris with the staff at One Big Circle – photo: WECA
The huge quantity of footage is then analysed at speed by AI to spot hazards such as scrap rail, which is then mapped using GPS, ready for train maintenance teams to safely remove.
Co-founder and director, Emily Kent, said the technology was crucial to reduce disruption to passengers and preventing slips, trips and falls, one of the largest causes of injury for train workers.
One Big Circle has acquired the additional office to accommodate their expanding Bristol-based team, moving into the Temple Studios with a dedicated office and lab space, opened by metro mayor Dan Norris.
He said: “We hear a lot about AI at the moment. How it can be used for good or evil. Here we can see a great application of a new technology that has the potential to really improve public services.
“The skill and innovation at One Big Circle is keeping the west of England and the rest of the country on track.”
The Bristol company is now trialling its systems across Europe where other countries could soon benefit from their technology to make railway lines safer.
Main photo: WECA
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