Real-time wagon monitoring
02/10/2024
This advanced technology was developed through the joint efforts of VTG Rail AG and Knorr-Bremse and will now be integrated into 32 wagons owned by Heidelberg Materials.
The iWagon system is a comprehensive solution aimed at ensuring the safety and reliability of wagon movements on railway tracks.
It includes several key components: four generators installed on the outer axles of the wagons, a wheel stabilisation system (WFP), vibration and pressure sensors, a data transmission module and a unit for processing data on the condition of major components.
The main advantage of iWagon lies in its ability to collect and transmit data on the condition of wagons to a cloud server in real time.
This allows transport operators and train drivers to remotely monitor the condition of the rolling stock, quickly respond to any deviations and prevent possible accidents.
A particularly valuable feature is its ability to synchronise data transmission via Bluetooth, which is especially useful when using more than four wagons in a train.
Additionally, VTG has developed a special application that instantly notifies the driver of any current wheel and brake system malfunctions, significantly increasing the efficiency and safety of transportation.
The need for the development and implementation of such systems has become especially relevant against the backdrop of an increase in the number of freight train derailments in Europe over the past ten years.
In October 2023, VTG also announced plans to implement an automated brake check system with PJ Monitoring GmbH (PJM) for freight rolling stock, confirming the company’s commitment to enhancing the safety and reliability of rail transport.
Innovative transport technologies such as iWagon open up new opportunities for the industry’s development and make cargo transportation more reliable and efficient. Smart logistics and the Internet of Things (IoT) in transport play key roles in improving the monitoring and management of rolling stock.
