DB Netz AG is involved in designing the digital rail operations of the future as part of the “Digitale Schiene Deutschland” project (also known as Digital Rail for Germany). The objective here is to create a high-performance, fully digital rail system. A key element required to achieve this objective is a smart diagnostics system, which enables automated close monitoring and interpretation of operating messages from trains. As one of the main components, the braking system is therefore a key application for such a diagnostics system. 

SIGNON developed a Simulink model of the braking system on a BR 430 train for this purpose. The user-friendly graphical interface enables the operator to generate real operating messages for the diagnostics system test. The impact of these faults on the braking behaviour was also mapped in the model and can be reproduced using the user interface.