An IoT solution for rail freight safety monitoring

Our team assisted a Western European rail operator in developing a system for real-time cargo fleet positioning. By incorporating safety parameter monitoring and instant alerts for deviations, the client received streamlined fleet management and reduced manual checks. Utilizing the MQTT protocol ensured reliable data transmission and top-notch security, providing our client with IoT-based solution for their cargo operations.

The client is a major passenger and cargo transport operator active in Western Europe. The company operates high-speed, regional and city trains, and also has a franchise for national transport. The Company is a major player in the rail cargo market, with an extensive route network and rolling stock fleet.

The lack of a real-time wagon monitoring system made it impossible for the customer to track the location and condition of the cargo. These limitations made it difficult to respond quickly to problems and prevent accidents. The client had idle wagons and reduced productivity.

The client wanted to implement a wagon monitoring system, to create an early warning system of potential safety hazards using sensors and detectors.

Our engineers have developed a real-time freight tracking system that provides operators with accurate positioning of cargo wagons. This also includes data on important safety parameters: volume, pressure, and temperature. The system automatically notifies operators when measured parameters deviate from the norm.

The main components of the system include:

• Sensors: installed on wagons to collect data on safety parameters.
• Data acquisition system: collects data from the sensors and transmits it to the central system.
• Central system: analyses the data and generates alerts.
• User interface: allows operators to monitor freight data and receive alerts.

The decision to implement IoT in cargo wagons tracking resulted in a reduction in the need for manual inspection of wagons. Before the implementation of the system, 2 manual inspections per day were required. After the implementation of the system, the number of manual inspections decreased. The customer also became more aware of the condition of the wagons. The system provides 24/7 monitoring of safety parameters such as volume, pressure and temperature.

Explore the case study for more insights and details.