Vertex vertical switch the foundation for a sustainable railway transport system
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | VERTEX SWEDEN AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 516 500 |
| Project duration | June 2017 - November 2018 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | The strategic innovation program InfraSweden |
Purpose and goal
The objective of the project was to develop and validate the first prototype of an innovative vertical railway switch. The switch is designed to move the blades vertically instead of horizontally. In the project the following activities have been performed: * Construction of a full scale prototype (mock-up) * After evaluation of the prototype, a full scale pilot installation have been designed. * The prototype have been constructed in a 80 metres railway track, and is now being tested and evaluated.
Expected results and effects
The construction prevents the switch from freezing as there is no room for the snow and ice to block the movement of the gear. The innovation has strong potential to solve an annual recurring railway infrastructure problem frozen gears, as well as lowering the energy consumtion. The pilot installation is being evaluated what regards technical and energy performance.
Planned approach and implementation
The project has been given support from the strategic innovation program InfraSweden2030 and has been realized in collaboration with several important actors such the Swedish Transport Administration, Charmec (Chalmers University), RZ Group, Ulricehamn Betong and ÅF. In addition there has been a large number of providers of material and technology such as electricity installations, heating, railway car, technical components and installations.