Sentigrate’s solution for the
DB Fernverkehr Challenge.
Passing red signals is one of the most critical safety risks in rail operations. To support train drivers in these situations, DB Fernverkehr is looking for a warning system that issues acoustic or visual alerts when a train is approaching a red signal. The goal is to increase safety and punctuality without interfering with the train control system.
Product video
To demonstrate the potential of our solution, we developed a Proof of Concept dashboard that offers a first look at what the final product could deliver. This interactive prototype visualizes key functionalities, data flows, and alert mechanisms, giving a tangible impression of how the system could support train operators in real time.
The challenge
Passing red signals is one of the most critical safety risks in rail operations. To support train drivers in these situations, DB Fernverkehr is looking for a warning system that issues acoustic or visual alerts when a train is approaching a red signal. The goal is to increase safety and punctuality without interfering with the train control system.
Our solution
What?
A software-driven safety solution that makes existing railway data actionable through a two-tier alarm system. It will use the train’s GPS and dispatch data to alert drivers of upcoming red signals, with the warning range dynamically adjusted based on real-time braking distance calculations.
When approaching a red signal too closely, a vision-based failsafe on the driver’s tablet activates, detecting visible red lights through the tablet’s camera, with all video data staying locally on the device.
How?
The solution integrates seamlessly with existing railway systems, processing live GPS data and continuously monitoring signal statuses via dispatch information. When a red signal is detected ahead, the system calculates the appropriate warning distance based on the train’s speed and braking capabilities.
If a train approaches a red signal too closely, the onboard tablet activates a vision-based failsafe that uses its built-in camera to visually detect the red signal. This adds an additional layer of safety and redundancy. All video data remains stored locally on the tablet, ensuring full GDPR compliance. Alarms are triggered in real time, either by the GPS-based logic or the vision detection system, ensuring timely and reliable alerts for the driver.
