Enhancing Rail Logistics: IntertechRail's Monitoring System
Maintaining the flow of commodities depends on effective rail logistics in large-scale operations. One of the top logistic companies in Brazil implemented a complete system created by IntertechRail to enhance the tracking and monitoring of its railcars. Axle counting and RFID technology are used in this system to improve accuracy and operational autonomy while meeting the demand for consistent, dependable data processing in rail transportation.
Monitoring Infrastructure
A strategic architecture that guarantees accurate railcar tracking across the network serves as the foundation for the system. Two monitoring poles are part of the installation and are placed at strategic locations along the track:
• Pole 1: Outfitted with an RFID antenna that ensures precise tracking data by reading the tags on the railcars as they pass.
• Pole 2: Features a reinforced box containing the system's essential parts, a solar panel for self-sufficient power, and an extra RFID antenna, ensuring that the monitoring system continues to function even in the absence of external power sources.
Key System Components
Several essential parts are incorporated into the system to enable ongoing operation:
• AEI System (Automatic Equipment Identification): The Xtreme Intertech Rail RFID reader, which collects and processes data from passing railcars, makes accurate identification and tracking possible.
• Battery: By storing energy for ongoing operation, a high-capacity battery guarantees the system's performance even under low light levels.
• Charge Controller with Solar Power: By using solar panels to recharge the battery, the system reduces the requirement for external electrical infrastructure and offers a sustainable power source.
• RAILID Edge: Adapted to customer integration, its Embedded Industrial PC/modem ensures flawless system connectivity by enabling steady and uninterrupted data transfer to the cloud.
Axle Counting for Enhanced Precision
The Axle Counter, which is situated directly on the railroad track, is a crucial component of the monitoring system. This device adds another level of accuracy to the tracking process by precisely counting the number of axles of each railcar that passes by the monitoring location and ensures the system can build the 'train consist,' determining the direction of the composition and recognizing railcars without RFID tags.
Data Processing and Integration
Axle counter and RFID data are processed by the AEI system before being sent to IntertechRail's RAILID platform via EDGE. After that, the data is arranged and made accessible through API, enabling smooth integration with customers' internal systems. Without requiring user intervention, the interface provides real-time data for operational improvement, improving overall logistics management.
Project Advantages
• Autonomous Operation: By running on solar power, the system minimizes operational disruptions and depends less on external electrical sources.
• Accurate Tracking: Railcars are identified and tracked with extreme precision as they pass through the monitoring locations thanks to the combination of RFID and axle counting.
• Sustainable Power Source: The system's battery is charged by solar panels, which guarantees a dependable and environmentally responsible power source.
• Real-time data transmission allows for current monitoring and decision-making since data is sent to the cloud instantly.
• Seamless System Interaction: Operations are made easier and logistics data is better managed thanks to the API-based interaction.
At the end of the line:
IntertechRail's monitoring system serves as an example of how strategic infrastructure and cutting-edge technology can improve rail logistics. With the use of solar energy, the system promotes sustainability while providing increased operational autonomy, data accuracy, and integration possibilities. This solution gives customers the resources they need to improve train operations and promote future logistics management that is more effective.
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