Knorr-Bremse Tests New Function, Builds DAC Prototypes

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Source: Knorr-Bremse announcement

MUNICH — Working together with operator Havelländische Eisenbahn (HVLE), Knorr-Bremse is equipping a freight train with an automation system that will support automated brake testing. At the same time, Knorr-Bremse is producing the first prototypes of its own DAC. Both innovations are being systematically prepared for market launch as part of a package of rail freight solutions.

Dr. Nicolas Lange, Chairman of the Management Board of Knorr-Bremse Rail Vehicle Systems and responsible for the development activities, explained: “The key to shifting freight to rail is to digitalize and automate the rail freight sector in Europe, which still largely depends – for the time being, at least – on manual operations. With our current initiatives for developing new automation functions, as well as our DAC prototypes, we’re showing that we lead the field when it comes to producing the key innovations that will make rail freight substantially better, more efficient and more competitive over the next few years.”

Automating multiple processes makes rail freight more flexible and efficient

Knorr-Bremse’s FreightControl automation system comprises a new kind of electronics that combines centralized railcar intelligence with innovative sensor technology for the braking system.

Because the train is not yet fitted with DACs, so does not have a train-wide data bus, the data signal for the brake testing system is transmitted wirelessly. The train will be retrofitted starting in 2023 and is due to go into service in 2024.

The trial promises to deliver valuable insights into the potential benefits of automated brake testing for rail freight in general. Today, the brakes on the 500,000 or so freight cars in the EU are still manually tested by rail yard personnel – so brake testing is an exceptionally time-consuming step in the setup process. Once testing can be carried out from the driver’s cab using, for example, a handheld tablet, it will help ensure that freight trains are ready for departure significantly faster.

Knorr-Bremse will take advantage of this trial to further accelerate the development of its train automation system.

As well as automated brake testing, this will include other functions such as train composition recognition, train integrity monitoring and an electropneumatic brake control system.

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Together with the DAC, this will result in a package of tightly interconnected solutions for digital freight trains. And thanks to Knorr-Bremse’s active involvement in the Europe’s Joint Rail Undertaking (ERJU), the package will be interoperable, meaning fully compatible with all operators’ systems and fleets. Consequently, it will help dramatically improve the process efficiency and competitiveness of the rail industry as a whole.

To view the entire announcement, click HERE.

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