New features for the world's first intelligent pantograph

Paul Vahle GmbH & Co. KG is adding new functions to its Smart Collector, the world's only intelligent current collector system. Following a comprehensive release to version 1.2, the innovative product is now also IDAA-capable. The abbreviation stands for Intelligent Dynamic Anomaly Analysis, a method in which the entire system is continuously measured and analyzed in real time in parallel to system operation. In this way, anomalies are detected even more precisely and signs of wear are recognized automatically. At the same time, the methodology forms the basis for the future use of machine learning methods, which can be used to determine the probability of occurrence of certain scenarios and events with a high degree of accuracy. VAHLE has also completely overhauled the system's user interface.

"With the update for the Smart Collector, we are setting a new milestone in the development of our maintenance tool. In addition to anomalies, the IDA analysis now also automatically detects wear. In conjunction with an expanded data structure and additional zoom functions, users now have even more precise analysis and maintenance options," says VAHLE Product Manager Jessica Genz, describing the improvements associated with the new functions.

The basis for this is a new algorithm that the Kamen-based system provider is using for the first time ever with the Smart Collector. The software update makes it possible to detect the smallest anomalies across the entire system in real time with centimeter precision. In combination with even more accurate comparative values, precision in terms of analysis and planning increases considerably. Genz: "Maintenance staff see the results at an early stage and can take the appropriate measures before a system failure occurs. This minimizes downtimes and extends the service life of the system." At the same time, the new algorithm forms a solid basis for future developments - including machine learning.

Another new function included in the release is the expansion of motion detection. In addition to stroke movements, the system now also displays deflection data. "This additional information improves error analysis enormously and enables the user to react at an early stage. This prevents subsequent faults, which in turn has a positive effect on the service life of the system," says the product manager. In addition, the Smart Collector now offers the option of assigning permanently collected data to the rail system with millimeter precision using the ZOOM function. This means that even the smallest defects can be investigated without having to send a maintenance team to carry out an on-site inspection. "This function makes both fault analysis and the targeted planning of maintenance measures considerably more efficient," says Genz.

Smart Collector Release 1.2 is now available worldwide. "With this update, we are following our core idea of further developing the solution in close cooperation with our customers," explains Genz. Various sensors can be connected to the system. This means that all relevant information is displayed in a dashboard. "We analyze the specific problems and requirements of each customer in order to find the right setting of sensors and data together with them." In principle, the Smart Collector system not only enables tracking of the conductor rails themselves, but also of all movements that are transferred to the sensor. For example, it recognizes when vulcanized rollers wear out, as this leads to a lowering of the pantograph or vibrations on the running gear.

VAHLE's predictive maintenance tool is already being used successfully in Germany. The intelligent pantograph, which was specially developed for electric monorail systems and stacker cranes, is also being gradually implemented in other countries such as France, Italy, the USA and India. The focus here is primarily on use in the automotive industry, intralogistics and the sorting sector. Further upgrades and improvements are planned for the current year. The focus will be on integrating new sensors and expanding the tool for various applications in order to further increase efficiency and performance. "Our medium-term goal is a fully autonomous Smart Collector system," summarizes Genz.