GSM-R Communication Pillar: Wirelessly clearing the way - Photon

Call barriers are barriers at seldom-used railroad crossings in Germany, which are kept closed permanently or during certain periods and are opened at the request of road users if required. Communication with the control centre takes place via a communication pillar.

As part of the modernisation of the railway infrastructure, the existing wired communication pillars are to be replaced by new wireless pillars.

For this purpose, Photon developed a communication pillar for the Deutsche Bahn AG, which enables wireless communication and integrated monitoring via integration in the GSM-R network. Power is supplied via solar panels on the column. In addition to improved functionality, the new pillars are also much more economical than the old ones, costing two-thirds less.

With this solution, which is unique in Germany to date, Photon is responsible for the manufacturing as well as the development of the plastic housing, as well as for the final assembly of the functional modules, including a functional test. 100 to 150 level crossings are to be equipped with two GSM-R communication pillars respectively.

Thanks to many years of experience in the rail sector, Photon was able to successfully master the considerable challenges with regard to safety, compatibility and compliance in close cooperation with DB AG.

An innovative Photon product, which should also be interesting for other markets.