Innovative Transparent Noise-Absorbing Screens on Germany’s Railways

Germany’s railways (DB) continue to actively implement advanced technologies to improve infrastructure and passenger comfort, this is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

One of the latest innovations is the development of transparent noise-absorbing screens, MetaWindow, the installation of which will begin at the end of 2024.

Pesa has completed production of the first low-floor tram, Twist, for Tallinn

These screens will first be installed on line 4 of Hamburg’s urban railway and on a reconstructed section in the city of Dinslaken, located in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

The MetaWindow panels are unique in that they combine the noise-absorbing properties of traditional materials with the advantages of transparent structures.

This not only effectively protects against noise but also visually expands the space, creating a more pleasant and open environment for passengers.

The development of the MetaWindow panels has been underway since 2020 as part of the DB mindbox program, in collaboration with the Italian startup Phononic Vibes.

This project is a vivid example of successful collaboration between a large corporation and a startup, where innovative ideas and modern technologies find practical application in major infrastructure.

Technical Characteristics and Advantages

The MetaWindow panels have several significant advantages over existing market analogs.

Their sound absorption coefficient is 34–37 dB, while 72% of the panel area remains transparent.

In comparison, other transparent noise protection screens on the market cannot boast such efficiency and are often prohibited from being installed along railways due to insufficient noise insulation.

The use of metatechnologies in the design of the panels has significantly enhanced their acoustic efficiency.

The unique geometry of the noise-absorbing elements of MetaWindow ensures a higher degree of sound absorption, which is especially important in urban environments where the noise level from railway transport can be critical for the comfort of residents and passengers.

Economic and Environmental Aspects

Although the innovative panels are more expensive than conventional noise-absorbing screens, the total installation costs can be comparable due to savings on obtaining permits.

Transparent screens are easier to integrate into urban environments and natural areas, reducing administrative and bureaucratic barriers.

This is particularly relevant for tourist areas and nature reserves, where it is important to maintain the visual aesthetics of the environment.

Thus, DB is making a significant step forward in improving infrastructure and passenger care.

The introduction of transparent noise-absorbing screens, MetaWindow, will not only enhance comfort and quality of life in urban areas but also serve as an example of successful innovation in railway construction.

In this context, the success of the project in Hamburg and Dinslaken is expected to spur broader adoption of such technologies across Germany and beyond.

DB continues to demonstrate leadership in the implementation of modern technologies aimed at improving infrastructure quality and environmental sustainability.

Rail business, industry, and railway technology news from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

InnoTrans 2024: Express Service OOD, Outdoor Display, O2/75, T2/75

Find the latest news of the railway industry in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union and the rest of the world on our page on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, read Railway Supply magazine online.

Place your ads on webportal and in Railway Supply magazine. Detailed information is in Railway Supply media kit