Germany: Freight operator DB Cargo has begun testing an underfloor system equipped with cameras and microphones.
The solution, developed by German company Dralle, has been installed at Munich North marshalling yard. It complements the existing gates already in place there, which uses multiple cameras to capture top and side images of passing freight wagons.
Camera module from Dralle. Source: DB Cargo
The new installation consists of five camera modules that record detailed images of axles, braking equipment, wheelsets, and other underframe components. In parallel with the visual inspection, the system records audio of wagons as they pass to help detect wheelset defects through sound analysis.
Image from the camera module from Dralle. Source: DB Cargo
During the trial, data collected from both the new modules and the existing inspection portal will be combined and processed using AI models. According to DB Cargo, this integration will enable more precise assessment of wagon component condition and improve fault prediction capabilities.
Image from the camera module from Dralle. Source: DB Cargo
The tests form part of the ASaG programme, which aims to automate damage detection on freight cars. The initiative is being carried out jointly by DB Cargo, DB Systel, CoDiVe, DB InfraGO, and the University of Wuppertal, with funding from the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport.
