For a quarter of a century, German firm Himmelsbach GmbH has been at the forefront of innovation in the automatic identification, registration, and inspection of railway wagons. With analysis systems deployed across continents – from Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia to numerous European nations – Himmelsbach continues to redefine efficiency and safety in rail freight operations.
Himmelsbach’s journey began 25 years ago, focusing on the crucial task of automatically identifying UIC wagon numbers. However, the company didn’t stop there. Fifteen years ago, Himmelsbach made a groundbreaking leap by integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into its systems. This pivotal move exponentially increased the scope of features that could be automatically recognised and analysed from captured images.
Today, Himmelsbach systems can identify a vast array of critical details, including:
– UIC, Russian and intern wagon numbers
– Hazardous goods codes (RID), UN numbers, and hazard symbols
– Status of tank wagon domes (open/closed)
– Specific types of metal scrap being transported
– Clearance profile infringements
– Shifted cargo and thermal profiles
– Undercarriage monitoring
– Automated reading of RFID tags
This comprehensive analysis is made possible through sophisticated CONTROLPoint and RECOGNITIONPoint systems, utilising an array of sensors like high-resolution cameras, lidar, lasers, radar, induction and acoustic sensors. Designed for resilience, these systems operate reliably day and night, in extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to +60°C, and capture data from virtually any angle, even at speeds up to 120 kilometres per hour.
Tailored Solutions for Diverse Needs
Understanding that different operations have unique requirements, Himmelsbach offers specialised solutions. One of these is CONTROLPoint: These comprehensive checkpoints act as vigilant eyes on the track, detecting passing trains, recording vital data, and automatically checking for a wide range of damages, irregularities, and safety concerns like clearance profile violations or hazardous material placarding. They provide 2D and 3D video analysis for a full scan of the train.
Another one of Himmelsbach’s solutions is RECOGNITIONPoint, an AI-driven video gate that is tailored for specific industries like steel plants, refineries, ports, and more. RECOGNITIONPoint excels at identifying not just the wagon, but also its contents. Using AI, it accurately identifies different types of scrap metal, seamlessly combining this data with weighing information from integrated scales and transmitting it to central systems via standard XML/JSON interfaces.
The power of Artificial Intelligence is central to Himmelsbach’s success. AI algorithms handle the complex task of reading numbers and symbols under various conditions, identifying specific materials like scrap types, and automating inspections that were previously manual, time-consuming, and prone to error.
Global Trust, Proven Performance
Himmelsbach’s expertise is recognised globally. With over 200 installations operating worldwide, the company serves critical industries, including major refineries and leading steelworks such as ÖBB, DB, ProRail, BP, OMV, Lucoil, Rosneft, Voestalpine, Eurotunnel, ArcelorMittal, ThyssenKrupp, Dillinger Hütte and more. Their systems ensure smooth operations on vital infrastructure, like the cross-continent Marmaray commuter railway line in Istanbul, which features Himmelsbach installations on both its European and Asian sides.
The benefits delivered by Himmelsbach systems are clear:
Enhanced Efficiency: Automating identification and inspection significantly speeds up processes.
Increased Safety: Proactive detection of damages, hazardous materials, and clearance issues prevents accidents.
Cost Reduction: Minimizing manual checks and preventing damage reduces operational expenses.
Operational Transparency: Real-time data and reports provide clear insights into rail movements and wagon conditions.
24/7 Reliability: Automated systems monitor traffic around the clock, ensuring constant vigilance.
As a pioneer with 25 years of dedicated experience and a relentless focus on leveraging AI, Himmelsbach GmbH continues to drive the future of automated rail wagon recognition and inspection. Their proven technology and global footprint make them the ideal partner for any organization seeking to optimize the safety, efficiency, and transparency of their rail freight operations.