Wayside Object Controller
© Frauscher Sensortechnik GmbH
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Florian Einböck
Apr 02, 2025 | 6 min read
By continuously focusing on reliability and safety, Frauscher is able to deliver world-class field elements for train detection and wayside object control, further solidifying its position in the industry. Wayside Object Controllers (WOCs) play a pivotal role in modern railway signaling. They enable the creation of decentralized systems where the core system responsible for controlling track movements can be centralized, as a dedicated server or in the cloud. Meanwhile, the control of various field elements such as track sections and switches, remains managed locally by the WOCs. These controllers act as vital intermediaries, linking field elements with the central interlocking system. By transmitting commands and relaying information, WOCs ensure seamless communication and operational control of the respective elements. Additionally, WOCs can gather diagnostic information from these field elements and monitor their status, enhancing the overall reliability and availability of the system.
A notable example of a WOC is the Frauscher Point Control System. The FAdp provides a SIL 4 solution that includes all necessary components for control, detection and monitoring of switch machines. Our Point Control System is designed with exceptional flexibility, allowing seamless integration with a wide range of switch machines. One FAdP unit can control 20 switch machines within a single system, enabling efficient management of multiple devices through one communication interface. The Point Control System also adheres to standardized communication, security, diagnostic and maintenance interfaces such as SCI, SSI, SDI and SMI according to the EULYNX standard.
The support for standardized interfaces carries substantial benefits for the operator. I It enables greater interoperability between components while ensuring increased system reliability and simple integration into existing systems. With standardization, WOCs such as the Frauscher Point Control System promote increased product diversity by giving the operator more choice in procuring components. These components can be chosen according to specific project requirements, regardless of the manufacturer.
The Frauscher Point Control System consists of FAdP Point Control, which is a EULYNX compliant object controller designed to control, detect and monitor switch machines, as well as Frauscher Connect, a dedicated connectivity manager for all Frauscher systems. Its maximum scalability results in seamless integration into projects of any size, from smallscale installations to large, complex railway networks to ensure safe and reliable control of single and multi-motor turnouts. The FAdP Point Control is designed with several key features that prioritize efficiency and adaptability in various operational environments. Its compact design makes it an ideal choice for installations with spatial limitations, as the smaller footprint DIN rail mount streamlines installation and provides a standardized, space-saving design.
With its exceptional versatility and flexibility, this solution is designed to be compatible with a wide range of interfaces. A core component of FAdP Point Control is the PCU, which supports 4, 7, 9, or 11-wire configurations while accommodating various power supply requirements. One Point Control System can contain up to 20 Point Control Units (PCU) and control 20 switch machines via a single communication interface, depending on the precise configuration. This versatility ensures the PCU aligns with a diverse set of switch machine standards and interfaces utilized globally. In addition, Frauscher Connectallows the system to adhere to the latest standards in terms of security, meaning it can be utilized in category 3 networks according to EN50159.
The Frauscher Point Control System is also equipped with advanced functionalities including condition monitoring, which is available without the need for additional or external hardware. The solution can track critical parameters of individual switch machines, including their motor current, voltage, power, and turning time. The diagnostic and health data can be conveniently accessed through the cloud-based diagnostics platform, Frauscher Insights.
This built-in monitoring capability provides information about the operational performance and condition of switch machines, aiding maintenance planning and reducing the likelihood of unexpected failures. This helps to improve service availability and reduce maintenance related costs.
The second integral part of the Point Control System comes in the form of Frauscher Connect, a versatile connectivity manager for all Frauscher systems. As a comprehensive connectivity solution, Frauscher Connect is designed to provide secure and reliable communication based on EULYNX and System Pillar standards. Frauscher Connect supports open network communication according to category 3 networks as per EN 50159, providing a secure and robust connectivity framework.
Furthermore, Frauscher Connect provides generic interfaces that are developed in accordance with the EULYNX Baseline 4 standard, including interfaces for diagnostic and maintenance purposes (SDI and SMI), and security services (SSI). Frauscher Connect enables the secure transmission of of data and information between individual Frauscher subsystems, for various tasks such as train detection and switch control, in line with the highest safety and security standards.
In conclusion, Frauscher's Point Control System, with its flexible hardware and standardized, EULYNX-compliant interfaces, offers a versatile solution for modern railway signaling. By enabling seamless integration with various switch machines, the solution ensures that a single system can meet diverse operational needs across different regions and project requirements. The Point Control System provides a robust, scalable, and efficient system for managing railway operations. This level of versatility, coupled with the support for standardized interfaces, puts operators in control of their rail networks. This allows them to reduce costs, choose from a range of product manufacturers, and avoid vendor lock-in, among many other benefits. As "Your partner for confidence" Frauscher provides the world's most reliable field elements for highly available train detection and wayside object controlling, helping rail operators to run their networks with confidence.
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Frauscher Point Control System
You want to find out more on how to optimize your railway operations with Frauscher'r Point Control System?
Share this post
Frauscher Point Control System
You want to find out more on how to optimize your railway operations with Frauscher'r Point Control System?
