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title: "V3.0 Ballast Connect - Overview"
canonical: "https://support.cordel.ai/space/CSD/2840758191/V3.0%20Ballast%20Connect%20-%20Overview"
format: markdown
---
Ballast Connect empowers rail networks to make data driven decisions and prioritise ballast maintenance schedules effectively.

This module compares the network’s ideal ballast profile to the measured ballast profile. This comparison provides key insights into ballast excess/deficiencies in terms of volume, height and location.

The ideal ballast profile is configured specifically based on engineering standards, and multiple engineering standards can be configured depending on aspects such as track class, rail type, curve radius, etc. Cordel uses the engineering standards provided by the client to generate the ‘ideal ballast profile’ - .PLY files that represent the ballast in perfect condition.

The measured ballast profile is generated using complex machine learning algorithms, where the captured ballast data is analysed and the volume and height measurements are then inferred. Cordel then constructs the ‘measured ballast profile’ - .PLY files that represent the ballast volume and height as it at the time of capture - at intervals of 1 metre.

These two profiles are then overlaid, and the difference between them (delta) is calculated at 1 metre intervals. 

![image-20241202-023708.png](media://08759417-a75c-4f35-b3a6-dc73594b7f20)

Where the measured ballast profile differs from the ideal ballast profile beyond what is acceptable (client defined) an exception is flagged. 

## Key Features: 

- Automated data capture or Bring Your Own Data.
- Identify minor and major ballast deficiencies and excess using sophisticated AI technology.
- Adjust your ideal ballast profile based on track class, rail type, curve radius, and other practical considerations specific to your network.
- Identify and locate excess ballast which can be used to repair deficient sections.
- Make data-driven ballast purchasing decisions and avoid over-expenditure.

## Payload Data

.CSV Reports:

- the ballast delta height .CSV report
- the clustered volume .CSV report

.LAZ Point Clouds:

- the ballast deficiency .LAZ
- the ballast excess report .LAZ

.PLY Polygon Files:

- mesh .PLY
- ideal mesh .PLY