RFID systems for vehicles to be exhibited at RVE Exhibition

18th September 2015

Jordan Mulcare

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At the RVE Exhibition, the HARTING technology Group is featuring its wide range of connectivity solutions and new developments in RFID targeted at rail applications. Key products on show include the M12 range of robust circular connectors, the Han Modular range of heavy-duty connectors, inter-car jumper cables, har-port service interfaces for USB and Ethernet communications, and RFID systems for vehicle or lineside based monitoring and tracking systems.

A major development from HARTING is a recent design of pluggable inter-car jumper cable assemblies which carry electrical power, data and control signals. The jumpers use Han(R) HPR rectangular connectors to ensure a robust connection to the vehicles, with the addition of industrial-grade Ha-VIS RFID transponders built into the connectors to improve the management and maintenance regime.

The RFID transponder tags give each jumper cable a unique identification, allowing full traceability from the tag attached to the connector. In conjunction with an antenna, lineside readers and purpose-designed software, the transponders allow the operator to monitor the performance of each jumper cable throughout its life. This includes the precise evaluation of wear, facilitating a switch to a condition-based rather than a periodic maintenance regime, reducing both downtime and cost.

HARTING's RFID systems also allow data recording from fast-moving trains. Successful tests have been carried out on complete HARTING RFID systems involving robust, metal-housed transponders and communications software to allow the recording of data from trains travelling at over 120km/h. Here, the transponders are mounted on the train and the RFID reader is typically housed in a switching cabinet mounted near the track in conformity with railway standards.