Innovation in the Railway Sector: Continental Unveils Idea for Electronic Height Regulation of Coaches

Rail vehicles face constant irregular movement when in operation. The air spring system that balances the train is subjected to severe stresses. As the train enters the station, the suspension takes on a balancing function. Up till now, a mechanical linkage has regulated the suspension’s air pressure. With the new sensor technology, control can be carried out electronically and automatically – and therefore with even greater precision. This solution for air springs makes Continental a front-runner in the market: The sensor measures the current height of, and pressure in, the air spring ultrasonically. When entering the station, for example, a radar could detect the height of the platform edge and transmit the target value for level access to the train. The required height at the entry edge at the door is transmitted to the controller, where the air spring’s valves are automatically opened or closed. The relevant level can therefore be electronically and actively regulated by means of permanent monitoring between the controller and the suspension. The height and pressure can therefore be precisely determined – which could also enable energy savings.

Another benefit is that the sensor technology will support predictive maintenance in the future. The intention is for the sensor to detect the failure of the pressure feed at an early stage and automatically transmit a warning signal to the train driver in the cab. Unexpected faults and the resulting downtimes can therefore be reduced, leading to increased safety and reliability in the rail transport sector.