THE NEW LUCCHINI RS SYSTEM TO ENHANCE TRAIN MAINTENANCE
Lucchini RS Group has officially unveiled SMARTSET® VIBE, an intelligent sensor developed to measures and processes the wheelset vibration in real time, collecting data on the operating condition of wheelset components. This innovative solution aims to improve the efficiency and safety of railway vehicles by detecting the formation and progression of defects far earlier than traditional inspection methods.
Following the success of SMARTSET® LOAD - the first IoT system developed by Lucchini RS based on predictive models to optimize NDT inspection intervals - SMARTSET® VIBE takes a step further. The system continuously collects vibration data generated during service due to the wheel-rail contact. Thanks to advanced algorithms it enables immediate detection of emerging defects on wheels, bearings, and other wheelset components. This early detection allows maintenance activities to be carried out while issues are still contained, significantly reducing costs for railway operators but also increases fleet availability.
SMARTSET® VIBE is a compact electronic unit in a small box that can be easily installed on the axlebox (uses one screw of the axle box cover). One of the main advantages is its easy integration: no vehicle modification or additional certifications are required. Therefore, the sensor can be installed directly on both new and existing wheelsets.
Its benefits extend across multiple rail segments:
- High-speed services, by increasing safety levels.
- Heavy freight operations, by minimizing the risk of unexpected downtime at terminals.
- Regional passenger transport, by customized maintenance plan based on the wheelset components usage on specific regional service.
- Metro and LRV services, by improving urban comfort and overall passenger experience.
Why SMARTSET® VIBE
- Optimization of maintenance cycles shifting from a logic based on time or mileage to a Condition-Based Maintenance.
- Reduction of unnecessary stops: by avoiding standardized periodic inspections, downtime is reduced and rolling stock availability is improved.
- Longer component life cycle: thanks to real-time condition monitoring, components can be kept in operation for longer.
- Transparency and direct control: customers can independently verify the data collected by the sensor to schedule targeted and timely maintenance activities.
Discover more information about our Condition Monitoring solutions and how we can partner with you to increasemaintenance intervals and availability of your fleet: www.smartset.lucchinirs.com
