Reduction of material wear

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An insufficiently accurate connection between a train's wheels and the rails, also known as poor wheel-rail interaction, can cause various damages and problems. These affect both the infrastructure (rails and switches) and the train itself. Here are some of the potential damages and consequences:

Conclusion: A precise connection between a train's wheels and the rails is crucial for the safety, comfort, and efficiency of rail operations. Lack of accuracy in this connection leads to increased wear, potentially dangerous situations like derailments, noise, higher energy consumption, and increased maintenance costs. Therefore, it is essential to regularly check and optimize wheel-rail interaction.

Challenge

In tram traffic, the wheels of trams often produce unpleasant noises when navigating curves, which are caused by inadequately lubricated rails. Efficient lubrication is not only a matter of noise reduction but also of environmental protection and resource conservation. The challenge lies in accurately predicting where and when lubrication is needed to minimize lubricant consumption while simultaneously preventing wheel squeal.

Solution

Our solution is based on an intelligent combination of deep learning and real-time data processing. Equipped with the RET4000 measurement device, which continuously captures noise and vibration data during operation, and an RAR4000 edge computer, which analyzes the data, the system can precisely determine when and where lubrication needs to be applied. This prediction is made possible by a deep learning model that learns from the captured data and continuously improves.

Advantages

• Efficient Lubrication: By precisely controlling the mobile grease pumps, lubrication is applied only where it is actually needed. This reduces material consumption and is environmentally friendly.
• Noise Reduction: Trams operate more quietly as the wheels are consistently optimally lubricated, preventing disturbing squeaks.
• Longer Lifespan: By minimizing wear on the rails, their lifespan is extended, which saves costs in the long run.

System Architecture

Our solution is fully integrated into Bernmobil's infrastructure and uses an edge system to process data directly on-site. The RET4000 measurement devices are installed in the trams and continuously collect data on noise and vibrations. The collected data is sent to a central RAR4000 edge computer, which performs the calculations and controls the grease pumps as needed. An LTE connection ensures that the data is transmitted in real-time to a cloud database, where it is available for further analysis.

Components

• RET4000 Measurement Device: Continuously measures noise and vibration data.
• Mesh Network: Connects multiple devices to each other if needed.
• Microphones: Capture both internal and external noises.
• Vibration Sensors: Optional for additional vibration measurement.
• LTE Connection: Provides remote access and data transmission to the cloud.
• RAR4000 Edge Computer: Performs calculations and controls the grease pumps.