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The PJ Monitoring GmbH (PJM) has developed a system that enables comprehensive automation in rail freight transport while providing in-depth monitoring of all relevant wagon components in real-time on a single platform. This solution aims to optimize operational processes and ensure system safety for the future. Compatibility with other applications and couplings, as well as integration into future digital automation concepts (DAK), are central features of the system.
Proven Digital Solutions in Use
According to PJM, the digital train functions have already been successfully implemented internationally. Several thousand systems have been put into operation for renowned customers such as SBB Cargo, FS LogistiX, Mercer, Plasser & Theurer, TRANSWAGGON, VTG, and Tatravagónka. The functions of the WaggonTracker system have proven themselves in practice. Notably, the powerful, autonomous power supply provided by the axle bearing generator enables reliable data transmission. The Automated Brake Test, in use since 2017, is considered the only globally approved system of its kind and represents an important step towards optimizing and accelerating train preparation.
The Automatic Brake Test has also proven effective in DAK test trains, most recently with the Westfälische Landes-Eisenbahn as part of a DAC4EU project. The functionalities of the Waggon-Tracker already meet the requirements associated with the rollout of the basic package of FP5 Trans4MR from the European DAC Delivery Program. This includes the power and data supply of freight wagons, which is necessary for determining train composition, train length, and train integrity. The possibility of automatic uncoupling of the wagons from the driver’s cab is also anticipated, once the technical prerequisites for the coupling are established.
Flexibility and Safety in Freight Transport
The WaggonTracker system is suitable for various vehicle types and is also appreciated by companies such as Plasser & Theurer, which utilize the benefits of the Automatic Brake Test and brake monitoring for railway construction machinery. The system is applied to new wagons and is also used for existing wagons due to its efficiency and safety features. The modular design allows for the selection of monitoring features as needed.
Günter Petschnig, CEO of PJ Monitoring, emphasizes: “Overall, our system offers maximum flexibility, optimizes operations and fleet availability, and enhances safety. We have a coherent system designed for railway logistics operations that has proven itself over many years of use from Scandinavia to the southernmost point of Italy – and is system-safe for the future.”
Rail transport is regarded as an environmentally friendly and reliable solution for long-distance freight transport. A freight train can replace up to 52 trucks and produces 80% less CO2 emissions compared to truck traffic. Through digital and automated applications, competitiveness, cost-effectiveness, efficiency, availability, and safety in freight transport can be significantly increased. Petschnig emphasizes that the digital train functions and the Automatic Brake Test from PJM already provide added value today and create a secure technological foundation for the future. The faster train processing through the Automatic Brake Test not only saves time but also increases the capacity of the existing infrastructure.
