MODTRAIN - Innovative Modular Vehicle Concepts for an Integrated European Railway System |
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| MODTRAIN stands for Innovative
Modular Vehicle Concepts for an Integrated European Railway
System, and as Integrated Project it is the first of its kind in
the area of joint European railway research. MODTRAIN defined
and proved the necessary functional, electrical and mechanical
interfaces and validation procedures to deliver the range of
interchangeable modules, which will form the basis for the next
generation on intercity trains and universal locomotives. The concept of modularity aims at economic advantages for both railway suppliers and operators, such as reduced manufacturing cost and economies of scale, increased productivity of new rolling stock as well as increased reliability founded on a rise in proportion of service-proven components in new rolling stock designs. |
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Added value for SMEs The project’s research focused on four areas which the partners felt were ripe for improvement. The MODBOGIE sub-project focused on improving the performance of the running gear, the working parts of the train, so that they require both less energy and maintenance. The MODCONTROL team worked on standardising trains’ control and monitoring systems and the interfaces with the train’s traction, heating system, doors and passenger announcement system, among other things. The MODPOWER sub-project was charged with optimising and standardising the on-board power system, which includes the interfaces between traction components, high voltage equipment and the pantograph, the device that collects electric current from overhead lines for electric trains. The interfaces between man and machine and between trains were addressed by the MODLINK team, whose results included a prototype of a driver cab and passenger coach. An additional fifth sub-project was responsible for informing the relevant railway stakeholders, such as component suppliers and railway operators not involved in the project, of developments as they arose. This link ensured that the project team was able to react in good time to impacts on operation and production as they were defined. Two of the sub- projects were led by SMEs. |
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Download the project description in PDF |
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More information: www.modtrain.com |
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