Railway Metrics and Dynamics Signs Agreement with German HVLE
The digitalization of the railway sector continues to gain momentum in Europe, and Havelländische Eisenbahn AG (HVLE) has now chosen to test Railway Metrics and Dynamics’ (RMD) advanced technology and products. First up is a pilot test of RMD’s rear-view camera.
About HVLE
Havelländische Eisenbahn AG, which adopted its current name in 2006, has a history dating back to 1892. The company operates in rail transport and infrastructure, with a particular focus on freight traffic, where lime and grain transport make up a significant portion. HVLE is also active in construction logistics, workshop services, shunting operations, and local rail traffic. Its headquarters are located in Elstal, about 30 kilometers west of Berlin.
Forward-thinking and innovation
HVLE has a tradition of embracing new solutions and driving development forward. In 2010, for example, the company developed an optimized bulk wagon with pneumatic unloading. HVLE was also involved in the development of the EuroDUAL BR 159 hybrid locomotive, which was approved for operation in 2020.
Today, digitalization is a central issue in the railway industry, and RMD’s technology and products have caught HVLE’s attention. Several potential projects are under evaluation, with RMD’s innovative rear-view camera being the first to be tested.
Rear-view camera in focus
The purpose of the tests is to examine how the rear-view camera can streamline shunting operations, with a particular focus on safety, time savings, and cost reductions.
– Safety is naturally a priority for HVLE. However, the prohibition against standing on footboards during reversing currently applies only in Sweden. It is gratifying that HVLE also recognizes the purely economic benefits of faster, more efficient shunting work that requires fewer personnel, says Jan Lindqvist, CEO at RMD.
Next steps
A framework agreement regulating the cooperation between HVLE and RMD has now been signed. The rear-view camera will be delivered in September and will be tested and evaluated for the remainder of 2024. At the same time, discussions are ongoing about implementing PMUs (Performance Monitoring Units), particularly for derailment detection and identifying wheel flats.
It is gratifying that HVLE also recognizes the purely economic benefits of faster, more efficient shunting work that requires fewer personnel.
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