Frauscher Point Control: Railway Tech Award, EULYNX & Future Rail

Frauscher Sensor Technology Wins Railway Technology Excellence Award for Innovative Point Control System

Frauscher Sensor Technology, a leading innovator in train detection and wayside object control, has been awarded a Category Award in the 2025 Railway Technology Excellence Awards, recognizing its groundbreaking Point Control System. This modular, EULYNX-compliant system is poised to revolutionize railway signaling through its integrated predictive maintenance capabilities. The award acknowledges Frauscher’s commitment to advancing digital transformation, empowering railway operators to future-proof their networks. Who is leading this change? Frauscher Sensor Technology, recognized as a leader in this field. What has been recognized? The Point Control System. When was this launched? At InnoTrans 2024. Where will this be implemented? Globally. Why is this important? It drives innovation and digital transformation in the railway industry. How is this achieved? Through modular design, EULYNX compliance, and integrated predictive maintenance, leading to flexible upgrades, robust cybersecurity, and sustainable operations.

Modular Design and EULYNX Compliance: A New Era for Signalling

The Frauscher Point Control System is designed to support the transition from traditional signalling systems to digitally controlled networks. Central to its design is modularity and compliance with the European Railway Union Interoperability Specifications (EULYNX) standards. EULYNX compliance allows seamless integration across various manufacturers and equipment generations. This approach supports modernizations and modular upgrades, reducing overall complexity. The Point Control System can be adapted for new installations and upgrades of existing infrastructure. By unifying diverse interfaces, lifecycle management is simplified, reducing spare parts complexity and costs. The system’s modular architecture is adaptable to small and complex installations, with object controllers distributed across wayside cabinets in larger stations and combined in central settings in compact environments. This offers unparalleled flexibility and scalability, with the system communicating to the interlocking system through a unified channel, reducing planning, installation, and maintenance efforts.

Advancing Predictive Maintenance with Integrated Condition Monitoring

A key benefit of the Frauscher Point Control System is the integration of condition monitoring directly into the object controller. This provides real-time data on the status and performance of point machines without requiring additional measurement devices. Through standardized interfaces, this data enables operators to transition from reactive to predictive maintenance strategies. By identifying potential issues early, targeted interventions can be performed before failures occur, minimizing unplanned downtime, lowering maintenance costs, and increasing overall system reliability. This proactive approach ensures optimal operational efficiency and reduces overall lifecycle costs, directly contributing to sustainable railway operations.

Cybersecurity and Secure Communication in a Connected Railway

In the increasingly interconnected railway landscape, robust cybersecurity is paramount. Frauscher recognizes this need, integrating safety and security lifecycles in product development. The Point Control System incorporates advanced security measures, including its use in category 3 networks according to EN50159. These features enable secure remote access for data retrieval and software updates while maintaining strong protection against cyberattacks. Market feedback highlights the importance of object controllers meeting both safety and security requirements, allowing railway operators to capitalize on the benefits of secure remote access while minimizing risks. This holistic approach underscores Frauscher’s commitment to providing reliable and secure solutions.

Compact Design and Lifecycle Cost Advantages

The Point Control System features a compact design, minimizing installation space, making it suitable for tight environments. Minimal cabling simplifies on-site wiring, reducing project timelines, material, and labor costs. Faster maintenance and component replacement are also possible. Furthermore, the system’s low energy consumption, small footprint, and minimal heat generation reduces its carbon footprint. Built-in cybersecurity and remote access further optimize the system’s sustainability and lifecycle costs. With a service life of up to 30 years, the system is designed for long-term sustainable operation, and cost-effective railway infrastructure.

Conclusion

Frauscher’s Point Control System represents a significant advancement in railway signaling technology, as validated by the recent Railway Technology Excellence Award. The system’s modular design, EULYNX compliance, integrated condition monitoring, and robust cybersecurity measures offer operators a future-proof solution. The scalability and adaptability of the system contribute to the gradual modernisation of railway infrastructure. In the “Digirail Project” in Finland, the first installations are taking full advantage of the possibilities created by standardisation. Looking ahead, the railway industry is poised to witness wider adoption of next-generation control systems. Frauscher’s approach encourages operators to adopt new systems early, ensuring a smoother transition to future-proof railway infrastructure and realizing the potential of fully digitised networks.

Company Summary

Frauscher Sensor Technology is a globally recognized provider of innovative train detection and wayside object controlling solutions. With a strong emphasis on research and development, Frauscher offers advanced and reliable systems for railway applications. Frauscher’s product range includes wheel detection systems, axle counters, and point control systems. The company’s dedication to quality, safety, and sustainability has enabled them to supply to a wide array of railway networks worldwide. They continue to drive advancements in the industry, providing operators with cutting-edge technologies to improve safety, efficiency, and performance.