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Future on Track: DAC Innovation and VR Experience Unveiled at InnoTrans 2024

Future on Track: DAC Innovation and VR Experience Unveiled at InnoTrans 2024
photo: RAILTARGET/InnoTrans 2024 VR simulation
10 / 10 / 2024

Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC) is a revolutionary technology set to transform European rail freight. Attendees experienced this innovation through a Virtual Reality (VR) simulation using the DAC5 model developed by Knorr-Bremse. The event also featured a Round Table Discussion among industry leaders focused on collaborative projects aimed at advancing the future of rail transport.

Revolutionising Rail: The Future of Freight with DAC and Virtual Reality at InnoTrans 2024

The InnoTrans fair in Berlin, one of the world's largest trade fairs for transport technology, showcased the cutting-edge Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC) technology, providing a glimpse into the future of European rail freight. On Tuesday, September 25th, Swissrail offered attendees a unique opportunity to experience DAC through Virtual Reality (VR). This immersive experience was made possible using the DAC5 model, developed by the German company Knorr-Bremse. The model was displayed in its full form at the company’s booth, drawing the attention of industry professionals eager to understand its revolutionary potential.

DAC is a next-generation rail coupling system designed to transform how freight trains connect, enhancing both efficiency and safety. The VR simulation of DAC is not just a technological demonstration but also a practical tool for training personnel in the technical aspects of operating the coupler. According to the presenter at the fair, the usefulness of this simulation lies in preparing workers for the real-world application of DAC, which is set to debut on pioneer trains by 2026. 

Driving Change Together: Insights from InnoTrans 2024's Round Table on European Rail Innovation

Later that day, the InnoTrans visitors could attend a Round Table Discussion, hosted by the French research center Railenium, which brought together leading figures in Europe’s rail industry. Mr. Giorgio Travaini, Executive Director of Europe’s Rail, joined the coordinators of three Europe’s Rail-funded projects to discuss innovations and challenges shaping the future of rail.

The projects included DACcord, which focused on developing Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC) technology, represented by Mr. Jens Engelmann; LEADER 2030, led by Ms. Veronica Elena Bocci, addressing the resilience of European rail supply chains and aimed to strengthen Europe's autonomy in raw material supplies for the railway sector; and Academics4Rail, represented by Mr. Armando Carrillo Zanuy, fostering collaboration between academia and industry through a network of PhD researchers. A representative from SNCF was also present.

Participants agreed that these projects are exploratory, hence they facilitate "finding new ways to fuel the future or to solve present-day issues."

The discussion provided a valuable opportunity for attendees to connect with industry leaders and explore the future of European rail innovation. The overarching theme of the three projects is simple: We need to work together!

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