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Bombardier strengthens cooperation with the Technical University of Dresden

Posted: 29 January 2013 | | No comments yet

Bombardier Transportation and the Technical University of Dresden have extended their successful cooperation…

Bombardier

Rail technology leader Bombardier Transportation and the Technical University of Dresden, in Germany, have extended their successful cooperation in the field of railway research for another five years.

Several successful research projects were conducted during the first five years of cooperation from 2007 to 2012, including a video monitoring system for the number and density of passengers in driverless rail vehicles. The technology will enable the remote monitoring of conditions on driverless transit systems to adjust vehicle speed accordingly for increased efficiency, availability and safety.

Developing new methods to calculate the structural dynamics of trams and light rail vehicles formed another part of the collaboration. In support of the project, a tram equipped with measuring technology recorded real time data about forces on the vehicle during daily operations.

The joint programme also contributed to the development of the BOMBARDIER TRAXX multi-engine locomotive. The new locomotive has proven to be a game changer in the European railway market, contributing to Bombardier signing a nine-year frame contract with DB Regio AG for 200 TRAXX locomotives in April 2011. The novel concept, which fulfils the latest emission norms, is based on four diesel-electric engine-generator sets replacing the typical large unit. The concept also allows the implementation of an intelligent engine control system, allowing each engine to be operated independently to maximise fuel efficiency. Low lifecycle and maintenance costs are further advantages for the operator. Bombardier recognised the product concept as its top technology solution of the year at the Bombardier Transportation Innovation Awards 2011.

Four completed doctorates at the Technical University of Dresden, numerous academic publications and student theses highlight the cooperation’s academic value. Over the next five years, the two organisations will intensify their work on rail vehicles’ dynamics, energy efficiency, reliability and safety.

Professor Beitelschmidt of the Technical University of Dresden said: “I value the cooperation with Bombardier very much. As a trusted partner, the company supports long-term research projects in my department. The numerous completed and future studies offer students a valuable insight into a future-oriented high-tech industry. Research assistants can advance to become rail industry experts.”

Michael Clausecker, Chairman of the Management Board, Bombardier Transportation Germany, added: “Innovation is an integral part of Bombardier’s DNA. Our long-standing collaboration with the Technical University of Dresden offers an ideal exchange of expertise between science and industry. The cooperation in Dresden is an example of how Bombardier takes its role as a responsible corporate citizen seriously. It provides exciting career opportunities to young, highly qualified employees. In turn, the university will continue to have access to our rail engineering expertise to develop scientists’ knowledge and skills.”

Partnerships with academia like the Technical University of Dresden form an integral part of Bombardier’s dialogue with stakeholders. The joint research addresses sustainability challenges in the rail industry and contributes to the company’s growth strategies globally.

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