Welcome to our latest Expert Insights, where we delve into the cutting-edge world of intelligent turnouts with insights from three of our top experts at voestalpine Railway Systems. Join us as we explore the future of railway technology through the perspectives of Ivan Vidovic, Robert Bernerstätter, and Dino Velic.
Senior Vice President Product Management, voestalpine Digital Track Solutions
Data Scientist and Project Manager, voestalpine Digital Track Solutions
R&D Project Manager, voestalpine Digital Track Solutions
Working in Product Management is very rewarding because it is at the intersection of Research & Development, Product Management and Sales & Business Development. This interface position allows me to bridge different aspects of the business to ensure that we deliver high quality, innovative solutions to our customers.
Intelligent turnouts are crucial for providing our customers with timely information about their asset health status. This enables them to schedule maintenance tasks effectively, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of their assets. With over 150 years of experience in designing, producing, and maintaining turnouts, voestalpine Railway Systems is uniquely positioned to develop and implement these advanced solutions.
We are currently transitioning from trial installations to full rollouts in our focus markets. Our past trials have equipped us with valuable customer insights, allowing us to refine our offerings and meet the specific needs of our clients.
In my role, I analyze data and develop predictive and diagnostic models to extract valuable insights for our customers. This involves using a range of tools from simple linear models to complex neural networks, all designed to handle vast amounts of data efficiently.
The diversity of the matter is what excites me the most. By viewing the turnout as a comprehensive system, we incorporate the extensive knowledge of voestalpine Railway Systems, leading to highly sophisticated solutions.
Also customer feedback is invaluable in refining our models. Our customers are our most important partners, providing essential insights that help us improve the quality and effectiveness of our solutions.
Impact of AI on intelligent turnouts: Artificial intelligence will significantly enhance data quality and user experience. It allows for more intuitive interactions between the customer and the system, ultimately improving the overall functionality of the turnouts.
Our third expert, Dino, focuses on the research that goes from normal turnouts to intelligent turnouts.
I lead several national and international R&D projects, including "Rail for Future" and "Europe's Rail," aimed at advancing our intelligent turnout solutions.
I am fascinated by the interdisciplinary nature of the product. It combines electronics, telecommunications, IoT solutions, as well as mechanical and civil engineering, creating a truly comprehensive and innovative solution.
We started with proof-of-concept trials and laboratory tests, progressing to installations on regular mixed traffic lines, and recently achieving installations in high-speed networks.
Our next steps involve entering the heavy haul segment and the tram market, expanding the reach and impact of our intelligent turnout solutions.
Performance on Track®: At voestalpine Railway Systems, we are committed to pioneering the future of railway technology through our intelligent turnouts. With the expertise and dedication of professionals like Ivan Vidovic, Robert Bernerstätter, and Dino Velic, we are confident in our ability to lead the industry forward. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to innovate and implement cutting-edge solutions for the railway systems of tomorrow.