In the railway sector, where safety and technological innovation are crucial, Eletech, the Head of the International Design Centers of Elemaster, R&D division of the Group, introduces its SIL4 system for monitoring of wheel slippage (Wheels Slide Protection) according to EN 50129. This advanced solution is designed to address and overcome significant challenges in rail transport, significantly improving operational safety and contributing to innovation and environmental sustainability. In the following article, we will examine the characteristics, operation and advantages of this technology, providing a concrete example of how technological advances can positively impact rail safety.
Description of the Wheel Slip Monitoring System
This SIL4 system is designed to ensure the highest level of safety in railway operations. The system uses advanced sensors to monitor wheel slip in real time, a risky phenomenon that can occur under adverse operating conditions such as rain, snow or ice. By detecting such events in a timely manner, the system enables rapid and targeted interventions to prevent accidents, ensuring the safety of passengers and personnel.
This system not only identifies slippage, but also communicates critical data to the central train control system, allowing immediate action to maintain or restore optimal safety conditions. The system’s dual-channel architecture ensures redundancy and continuity of operation, which are essential for safety in the railway environment.
Operation and Main Features
The system operates on an advanced dual-microcontroller security architecture, which includes:
- Up to 8 digital outputs redundant to ensure business continuity.
- Up to 4 4-20mA analog inputs for monitoring operating parameters.
- Up to 4 frequency inputs and 8 digital inputs to collect detailed wheel condition data.
- Dual microcontroller architecture in lock-step mode, for increased reliability.
- Dual CAN bus interface for secure and reliable communication.
The system is designed according to EN 50129 SIL4 standards for safety hardware, ensuring reliability even in the most difficult conditions.
Test and Verification
The system has been rigorously tested to ensure compliance with safety and reliability standards, including:
- Development of a HIL (Hardware in the Loop) test bench for functional tests in a simulated environment.
- Type test and failure injection test to assess the robustness of the system.
- Code coverage analysis to verify the completeness of software testing.
These tests confirm that the system functions correctly under all operating conditions and that the risks of failure are minimised.
Innovation and Sustainability in the Project
Eletech has developed this system with a strong commitment to innovation and environmental sustainability. The dual-channel architecture and the use of advanced technologies such as STM32 and CAN bus ensure a high level of safety and optimized operational efficiency.
The design of the system has followed the Ecodesign guidelines, allowing easy maintenance and updating, extending the life cycle of the product and minimizing electronic waste.
This approach ensures that the devices not only meet current needs but are also ready to adapt to future technological developments, representing a long-term sustainable solution.
Towards a Safe and Sustainable Future: The Elemaster Group’s Commitment
The SIL4 system for monitoring wheel slippage underlines the commitment of the Elemaster Group to promote safety and sustainability in the railway sector. By implementing cutting-edge technologies and adhering to the highest safety standards, Eletech develops solutions that not only ensure safer and more efficient rail transport, but also contribute to a greener future. This system is a concrete example of how technological innovation can be integrated with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, leading the sector into an era of ecological and operational responsibility.