Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS, Division Engineering of Adaptive SystemsSafe and resilient mobility and transportation infrastructure poses a particular challenge for the automated, cooperative, and autonomous mobility of the future. A key challenge is integrating reliable electronic components that are essential for the operation of these infrastructures. The focus is on collecting reliable diagnostic data from sensors installed on critical elements of the rail infrastructure, such as bridges and tracks.
Railroad bridges are crucial to the safety and cost-effectiveness of regional infrastructure, but they are susceptible to damage caused by heavy loads and increasing train speeds. Many of these structures are nearing the end of their life cycle, but they can’t simply be replaced. To prevent failures and extend service life, sensor-based monitoring systems are used for damage detection and condition monitoring.
Finding the solution
The project consortium, consisting of partners from Saxony and the Czech Republic, brings together complementary expertise in the modeling of rail infrastructure, the development of sensor systems, and test and measurement systems. This enables the joint handling of complex issues and enhances reliability in cross-border rail transport.
Achieving the project objectives requires highly sensitive MEMS sensors that are tested for reliability and measurement accuracy. In addition, the project partners are further developing vibration measurement technology and setting up a laboratory test bench to qualify and develop smart sensors.
