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ZÖLLNER integrates over 1,000 customer devices into a cloud platform
Real-time monitoring & integration of over 1,000 customer devices
ZÖLLNER Signal GmbH, a leading international manufacturer of signaling systems, is active in the fields of acoustic signaling systems for shipping and automatic warning systems for track construction. The company faced the challenge of developing a solution that would enable real-time monitoring and localization of warning systems on construction sites along railroad lines.
The challenge
The railroad industry demands the highest safety standards and permanent availability of the systems and devices used. Among other things, this requires real-time monitoring and localization of warning systems for the rail network.
For this reason, it became necessary to create a scalable and secure cloud platform that allows real-time data to be retrieved and comprehensive logs to be kept. ZÖLLNER was looking for a partner with in-depth expertise in custom software development and platform engineering to realize this sophisticated solution.
The idea
In order to meet ZÖLLNER’s specific requirements, the development of a cloud-based platform based on Microsoft Azure and supplemented by a user-friendly web front end was envisaged. This solution should make it possible to monitor the warning systems in a central dashboard and analyze their status in real time.
Important elements of the idea:
- Proof of Concept (PoC): An initial prototyping to validate the target technology.
- UX concept phase: Development of a user-friendly interface that integrates seamlessly into workflows.
- Agile development: Flexible adaptation to changing requirements and priorities through iterative development processes.
- Continuous development: Design of the platform for future enhancements, such as the integration of additional device types and functions.
The solution
The developed ZCloud platform consists of a powerful backend based on Microsoft Azure and a user-friendly web frontend. This architecture enables the central management and precise real-time monitoring of ZÖLLNER’s various warning systems. This makes it possible to check the positions and battery status of the warning systems at any time.
The agile development approach made it possible to iteratively improve the platform and react quickly to new requirements. The platform was also designed to be easily scalable and to support future expansions and integrations, giving ZÖLLNER a high degree of flexibility.
The value
More than 1,000 ZÖLLNER customers’ devices have been integrated into the ZCloud. Users can call up real-time data from their devices and access various functions:
- Real-time monitoring: Keep an eye on construction sites, device data, system statuses and location information in real time and regardless of location.
- Notifications & alarms: Timely notifications and alarms about critical device and system statuses, such as low charge levels.
- Tracking: Maintain an overview of system operations, components in use and all other devices at all times and from anywhere.
- Distance monitoring: Permanent determination of the distance between the switch-on transmitter and the construction site. The current distance is shown on the display of the switch-on transmitters.
- Data analysis: Evaluation of operating times possible by analyzing and exporting the stored device data.
Our partner
ZÖLLNER Signal GmbH
ZÖLLNER pursues the vision of making a significant contribution to safety in rail traffic worldwide. The company is the world's leading supplier of automatic warning systems for track construction sites.
To ensure the safety of people on construction sites, ZÖLLNER offers a wide range of multifunctional solutions that can be adapted to different types of construction sites.