Tests of the ERTMS Trackbot rail assembly robot, developed by Strukton Rail, were conducted in the Netherlands, this is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Field Tests of the ERTMS Trackbot Rail Assembly Robot
Photo: Strukton Rail

The ERTMS Trackbot, designed for the autonomous installation of axle counters and balises on railway tracks, is an intelligent assembly robot aimed at enhancing the safety and sustainability of railway operations.

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It performs tasks such as determining precise geographical positions, drilling holes, mounting equipment, and digitizing information.

This innovation is part of the ASAP project, in which Strukton Rail collaborates with AMT, No Man Trackwork, ProRail, and is supported by the Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking innovation program.

The tests marked the first field deployment of the Trackbot on an actual railway track.

Objectives included evaluating battery life, testing installation cycles, and assessing performance during night operations.

Successful tests provided valuable insights and planning for future Trackbot deployments.

Key findings included practical aspects of using the robot and logistical challenges, such as battery charging.

In preparation for these tests, Strukton utilized the Strukton reality model to verify the practical feasibility of installing axle counters and balises according to design specifications.

After the tests, all installed equipment was dismantled.

These tests represent a significant milestone in the development of the ERTMS Trackbot.

By the end of 2024, Strukton plans to create a fully operational assembly robot, anticipating industry-wide changes in installation regulations.

It is expected that the Trackbot will take on the repetitive and labor-intensive task of installing approximately 50,000 balises and 20,000 axle counters necessary for the implementation of ERTMS in the Netherlands.

Photo: Strukton Rail

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