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• double camera setup allowing for two synchronized points of view, right above line of contact, for highest detail level and quality
• improved synchronization system for capturing perfectly centered images for any type of pantograph
• two-axis high precision pan and tilt system for each camera, with remote digital control
• remote controlled high quality optic, with motorized zoom, focus and iris
• robust custom metallic enclosures, with internal thermal regulation, allowing for optimum operation even in extreme weather conditions
• acquisition timestamp and logos printed on each picture
• strobe lighting system for capturing images of both pantographs

Advanced user interface for image analysis

This new version results of a continuous technological evolution started in 2005, when Netsens was commited from RFI – Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (Italian Railway Network operator), to develop and deploy a novel monitoring system; this first system was installed on the High Speed railway track near Arezzo, and it is still running.

General description

TrainTrack visual inspection system is designed to capture and transmit in real-time high quality color pictures of train pantographs. Those systems are commonly installed in critical intersections or at the beginning of high speed railway sections.Each captured picture is transmitted to a central server and stored in a permanent database; software tools allow to easily and find specific pictures (sorting them for acquisition time) and to analyze all the desired details, as well as convoy measured speed.

When both cameras are installed, pictures are automatically jointed and previewed; on each picture, the timestamp of acquisition is automatically printed just in the camera (before JPEG compression), as well as acquisition site name, therefore each picture can become a real evidence of anomalies revealed.

TrainTrack allows to simultaneously analyze the details of two pictures, on the top the strip for contact details and for horizontal buoyancy. High performance “global shutter” cameras, capable of few tens of microseconds exposures, provide perfectly stable images, even for high speed convoys (over 250 km/h). The flashing system, with Xenon strobe lights, allows images to be insensitive to ambient lighting conditions, in order to get perfect images at night or in bad weather conditions.

Sample picture acquired in night conditions

A new two-axis pan & tilt system, completely designed and manufactured by Netsens, lets you adjust points of view with extreme precision. This helps to get perfect shots without protracted in site operations. The cameras also feature a new optical module, with motorized control for fine-tuning of zoom, focus and iris. Both pan & tilt system and optics can be controlled from the cabinet (located near sidewalk) and remotely.

TrainTrack features an embedded GPRS communication module and does not require any dedicated link (ADSL, LAN etc.); this helps in strongly reducing installation and management costs. Alternatively, using the Ethernet-LAN interface still available, any network resources on site can be used.

TrainTrack is designed to transfer images and data in real-time to a remote server. Maintenance operators can access pictures using a simple Internet connection. All images are stored permanently and can be easily browsed. Netsens can also provide - on request - a service for remote management and maintenance of informatic systems, as well as provide customization of the user interface level.

A central monitoring system, also developed by Netsens, is designed to manage communication with TrainTrack systems, and to receive pictures and diagnostic data, using IP based communication protocols.

The images stored on the server can be browsed from any PC, notebook or smatphone connected to the Internet; several authentication levels can be implemented.




A TrainTrack system is designed to acquire up to two simultaneous images for each railway track. Installation request just the availability of 220 VAC power supply, and does not require any network connection to telephone lines or LAN, ADSL.

All components are designed for durable and permanent installations: electrical connections between the various subsystems are manufactured with IP68 cables and metal high quality connectors; all metal parts are in galvanized steel or anodized aluminum, to prevent possible corrosion phenomenon.


All major components, including cameras, lighting strobo, pan and tilt mechanisms and controls, electrical cabinets, software and mechanical installation, are designed and manufactured by Netsens and their specialist suppliers.

Netsens technical staff can also provide all the support during installation, also specific mechanical supports can be manufactured, allowing the system to be installed on existing infrastructures.


Image acquisition and synchronization subsystems
Train speed: up to 350 km/h
Synchronization independent from weather conditions (rain or snow)
Cameras for each track: up to 2 (pantograph trim and strip detail)
Optics: digital zoom, iris and focus control (remote or local)
Pan & tilt motorized control for each camera (remote or local control)
Heated and ventilated cases, with remote diagnostics
Lighting system with Xenon strobo lamps
Image quality not affected by day or night operation
Image sensor: Global Shutter CMOS
Shutter time: min. 45 uS
Automatic adjust of analog and digital gain
Automatic adjust of white balance
Remotely adjustable imaging parameters
Picture format: JPEG
Internal memory: up to 100 pictures
Time and date timestamp, installation site and logo printed on each picture

Power supply and communication subsystems
Main power supply: 220 VAC
Backup batteries: up to 24 hr
Overvoltage and overcurrent protections
Double independent power supply circuitry, with remote alert and diagnostics
IP68 rated cables and connectors
Digital temperature control and regulation in camera cases and cabinet
Embedded LAN Ethernet IEEE 802.3 interface
Embedded quadriband GPRS-EDGE modem device

Hardware and software requirements
Server side: Linux OS, SQL database, 1 GB RAM memory, HTTP Apache server
Client side: desktop, notebook or smartphone device equipped with Internet connectivity and web browser

Documents
	Brochure Train Track (3 MB)
	Manuale interfaccia Train Track (3 MB)

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