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Tag: Electrial & electronic engineering

Electrial & electronic engineering – Our solutions

Personnel and workshop vehicle for railway construction and maintenance

Developing and authorising new personnel and workshop vehicles

Customer: Gföllner Fahrzeugbau und Containertechnik GmbH, Austria

Project tasks

  • Mechanical engineering in the concept phase
  • Electrical engineering in the concept phase
  • Fire safety (including expert report on fire safety)
  • Workers safety assessment
  • Overall risk analysis
  • Vehicle authorisation

Our approach

Gföllner developed and delivered new Personnel and Workshop Vehicles (PWFZ) for railway construction and maintenance activities. The vehicles combine a carrier wagon specially developed by Tatravagonka for the PWFZ, including bogies, with an equipped user-oriented container (AOC) comprising a lounge area, kitchen, workshop, and storage space for machinery and materials. An emission-free battery system supplies power to the installed electrical infrastructure.

The vehicles are designed both for use directly on construction sites and for transporting personnel to and from work locations. Their development required the integration of mechanical, electrical, structural, fire safety and occupational health requirements into a compliant overall vehicle concept.

PROSE supported Gföllner throughout the concept phase and authorisation process, taking into account both end-customer expectations and the requirements of the Swiss Federal Office of Transport (FOT).

PROSE supported Gföllner throughout the approximately two-year vehicle development process with interdisciplinary railway engineering and approval expertise. Our specialists provided support in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, structural calculations, fire protection, occupational safety, and vehicle approval.

PROSE also conducted the risk assessment for the entire vehicle. Technical aspects were always considered in the context of the overall vehicle and its approval, from the mechanical design during the concept phase to the electrical grounding of the container and its components.

Thanks to our expertise in Swiss railway regulations and FOT requirements, regulatory and other stakeholder requirements could be incorporated into the development process at an early stage.

Customer benefit

​Gföllner delivered the vehicles on time and achieved a first-time-right outcome. PROSE contributed to this result by combining multidisciplinary railway engineering with detailed knowledge of Swiss authorisation requirements, allowing technical, regulatory and stakeholder requirements to be addressed together throughout development.

The operating permission for commercial use was issued only around 2.5 weeks after the first equipped user-oriented container (AOC) was installed on the base wagon and the complete vehicle became available for verification and testing. This short timeframe was supported by addressing stakeholder requirements early and coordinating activities on the critical path efficiently in close collaboration with Gföllner.

As an independent engineering partner, PROSE provided the required specialist expertise through a single point of contact.

    

BDe 576 railcar retrofitted with an energy measurement system for Makies AG in Switzerland.

Engineering and integrating an energy measurement system

Customer: Makies AG, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Program management
  • Project planning
  • Electrical engineering
  • Mechanical engineering
  • Technical documentation

Our approach

Makies AG wanted to retrofit the BDe 576 railcar with an energy measurement system. PROSE, together with our workshop partner, carried out this trial installation. PROSE was responsible for the electrical dimensioning, product selection and the final conversion documentation. The workshop partner was responsible for product procurement, installation of the Energy measurement system (EMS) components, wiring and commissioning.

We developed a structured the template for the installation instructions and completed it with all product selection-relevant data for the current and voltage converter, Ecomodul, fuse protection and router. Product selection was defined based on the infrastructure requirements and existing onboard installations, incorporating experience gained from comparable system installation and operation. The final installation documentation includes the complete installation instructions and the product list.

Customer benefit

By commissioning PROSE, the customer benefits from our extensive experience in rail vehicle integration engineering. The proposed mechanical and electrical solutions supported a robust and sustainable energy measurement system installation. Our neutral advisory role ensured effective coordination between all project participants, particularly the workshop, reducing interface risks and supporting efficient implementation.

 

  

Assessing locomotive compatibility on an SJ Rc6 electric locomotive in Sweden, showing roof-mounted pantographs and high-voltage equipment at a station platform.

Assessing locomotive compatibility under increased overhead line voltage

Customer: SJ AB, Sweden
End customer: Trafikverket, Sweden

Project tasks

  • Technical investigation
  • Documentation research
  • Identification of possible changes in locomotive high-voltage circuits
  • Cost estimation of the changes
  • Integration of the changes in the actual system

Our approach

PROSE began with a structured review of the Rc6 high-voltage system, analysing design documentation, component specifications, and historical modification records to establish the vehicle’s current technical baseline. Based on this analysis, we evaluated the impact of the increased maximum voltage on insulation coordination, component voltage margins, and protection systems. Where necessary, we developed alternative technical solutions to ensure compliance with the new operating conditions. Each option was assessed from both a technical and economic perspective, including feasibility, implementation effort, operational implications, and associated risks. The work was carried out in close dialogue with SJ as operator and Trafikverket as infrastructure owner to ensure transparency and alignment throughout the project.

Customer benefit

The customer gained a transparent and technically sound decision basis for operating the Rc6 fleet under increased overhead line voltage. Our independent assessment clarified voltage margins, component limitations, and protection requirements, creating full visibility of technical risks and modification needs.
By systematically comparing refurbishment scenarios, including cost and implementation implications, we enabled SJ and Trafikverket to prioritise measures based on safety, operational reliability, and long-term investment protection. With PROSE’s in-depth knowledge of Swedish rolling stock and infrastructure interfaces, the operators secured a technically robust and future-proof solution aligned with updated network standards.

 

Blue and red trains at a snowy outdoor station platform at night, illustrating rail coupler upgrade and electrical interface integration for snowblower wagon type B257

Coupler upgrade and electrical interface integration

Customer: MTR Tech AB, Sweden

Project tasks

  • Requirements capture and definition of electrical interface
  • Design review
  • Update of technical documentation
  • Verification of electrical connections and signal integrity
  • Official drawing release and configuration control
  • Coordination with MTR during implementation and validation

Our approach

PROSE contributed to the design definition of the new electrical interface and collaborated closely with MTR engineers during system implementation of the upgraded coupling system be-tween the Snowblower Wagon Type B257 and the C20 train.
While MTR carried out on-site installation and testing, we re-viewed, clarified, and consolidated the draft electrical updates and ensured that all connections and signal interfaces complied with safety and operational requirements.
The verified and approved information was issued as official electrical drawings, released under PROSE authorship and re-viewed by MTR engineers.
This cooperative approach ensured full traceability, correctness, and compliance with railway documentation standards.

Customer benefit

​The customer gained a reliable and standardised coupling solution that reduced manual work in demanding winter conditions. The upgraded interface improved operational efficiency by ensuring full mechanical and electrical com-patibility between the snowblower wagon and the C20 fleet. Independent engineering review by PROSE ensured high quality and compliant documentation, providing confi-dence in the safety and integrity of the system. The result is a future-ready solution that supports safe, efficient, and well-documented winter operations.

 

 

Integration and Authorisation Management: Polish Train Radio, Radio Stop Module, Interior and Exterior Foliation

Customer: ODIG – Ostdeutsche Instandhaltungsgesellschaft mbH, Germany

Project tasks

  • Integration engineering of the Polish train radio
  • Integration engineering of the radio stop module
  • Adaptation of the MESA23 system
  • Consideration of the interior and exterior foliation as well as the modification of the train radio system within the verification process
  • Homologation management
  • Authority communication

Our approach

ODEG – Ostdeutsche Eisenbahn GmbH operates passenger transport services in northern and eastern Germany. The fleet consists of Desiro Classic (BR 642) multiple units, among others, manufactured by Siemens Mobility (SMO). The maintenance and repair of the vehicles is carried out by ODIG – Ostdeutsche Instandhaltungsgesellschaft mbH. This is a 100% subsidiary of ODEG. The vehicles currently operate with the existing German authorisation and a German train radio system on a section of line that runs over Polish territory. In future, the vehicles will have to be equipped with Polish train radio system and a radio stop module (RSM). The RSM is a device that is connected to the existing train radio system and integrated into the vehicle’s safety loop via an electromagnetic valve. In this way, the responsible dispatcher can give the “radio stop” command, which opens the vehicle’s safety loop and brings the vehicle to a standstill. In addition, interior foliation in the WC and full-surface exterior foliation had to be installed.

The functionality of the existing MESA23 system will be expanded to include operation with Polish train radio and the radio stop module (RSM). The foliations are handled with regard to all requirements.

Customer benefit

Thanks to the cooperation with PROSE, the customer was able to successfully convert the Desiro Classic railcars (BR 642) to use Polish train radio and the radio stop module (FSM). This not only offers ODEG passengers increased safety during the journey, but also enables smooth operation on the section of line through Polish territory. The application of the interior and exterior foils also contributes to the attractive appearance of the vehicles.

PROSE managed the project from the initial idea to the authorization strategy, preparation of evidence documents and coordination with NoBo/DeBo/AsBo through to communication with the authorities, so that ODIG was able to obtain a significant part of the project scope from a single source.

 

    

Technical support and documentation for the modernisation of the EMU class 72

Customer: Alstom, Sweden

Project tasks

  • Requirements capture
  • Electrical system engineering
  • Technical writing

Our approach

PROSE provided technical support and documentation for the modernisation of the EMU vehicle class 72. An electrical systems engineer ensured that key upgrades—such as LED front lighting, USB ports, and interior lighting—met modern standards. In addition, two technical writers were assigned to update the existing technical documentation to reflect the improvements.

Our electrical systems engineering team took a methodical approach to ensure that all subsystems met functional requirements and complied with current standards and regulations. Our focus was to check subsystems such as LED front lights, USB contacts and passenger information systems (PIS). When we found gaps between existing components and required standards, we recommended improvements. Our thorough approach ensured that every aspect of the electrical system was optimised for modern operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Customer benefit

Our expertise allowed for a quick project start, helping the customer save valuable delivery time. ALSTOM also appreciated PROSE’s support on safety and regulatory matters, ensuring all requirements were met efficiently.

 

      

Design and authorisation strategy for a rail-bound maintenance machine

Customer: SCHÖMA, Germany

Project tasks

  • Vehicle authorisation strategy
  • Design assurance (Systems Engineering)
  • Concept development
  • Technical evaluation of offers and technical coordination with suppliers
  • Project management

Our approach

SCHÖMA plans to develop a proven, powered, three-part rail-bound maintenance machine with cab, loading platform and crane called HERO. SCHÖMA needs support in developing the authorisation strategy to fulfil the EN 14033 standards and in defining the design process including verification and validation.

PROSE developed the decision-making basis for the authorisation process enabling a defined combination of the three vehicles of the working machine to be approved and the verifications and evidence according to EN 14033 to be provided. PROSE also supported SCHÖMA in the budget planning phase of the development of the HERO work machine in the evaluation of supplier offers for systems and components such as the power train, braking system, power generation, train protection (ETCS) and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC). In addition, PROSE defined the design phases and the design assurance process according to the systems engineering methodology to ensure a defined and structured design process.

Customer benefit

PROSE has structured and optimised SCHÖMA’s development process by systematically applying the system engineering methodology. This approach has not only minimised development risks associated with costs and timelines but has crucially enhanced the predictability and likelihood of obtaining the necessary authorisation.

 

          

Vehicle Authorisation

Customer: various customers

Project tasks

  • Carrying out requirements capture and preparing the safety evaluation, including risk analysis
  • Preparation and management of evidence documents
  • Cooperation and coordination of NoBo, DeBo and AsBo
  • Support in preparing several declarations and dealing with online registers like ERATV or ERADIS
  • Management of the change notification to the ERA or national safety authorities like EBA for changes not requiring an authorisation
  • Management of authorisation applications via One Stop Shop to the ERA for changes requiring authorisation
  • Coordination with the ERA and national safety authority

Our Approach

Vehicle operators or leasing companies make changes to their vehicles for very different reasons, e.g. for obsolescence reasons or to offer passengers a better service by customising the interior and adding features such as sockets or WLAN. In addition to providing engineering services, PROSE supports such projects by taking over the entire approval management process, including communication with all the bodies and authorities involved.

The authorisation process ensures safe rail transport and the best possible interoperability throughout the EU. However, implementing changes to rolling stock presents a significant challenge to operators, keepers, and owners.

At PROSE, we recognise that each railway vehicle is unique. Our team of experts develops vehicle authorisation strategies that address the specific challenges of our customer’s products and needs. From Requirements Capture to One Stop Shop, our experts have the knowledge to guide you through the process. Whether you only need assistance with a single task or are looking for a complete solution, we can provide solutions to meet your particular requirements.

Customer benefit

Modernisations and retrofits guarantee enhanced reliability and superior passenger comfort and open up new applications by integrating new systems. Whilst operators and workshops can focus on their primary tasks, PROSE can handle all the “paperwork” from the engineering and the preparation of evidence documents to the assessment and authorisation phases with bodies and authorities involved. Due to our comprehensive service portfolio, we help reduce interfaces and effort because all services are coordinated and come from a single source.

PROSE ensures that our customers’ railway vehicles comply with the latest standards and regulations. From document preparation to submission, we make sure that vehicle approval hurdles don’t derail your success.

 

      

Vehicle procurement – Manufacturing Supervision, Quality Control and Factory Tests

Customer: various customer

Project tasks

  • Acceptance of the welded car bodies / bogie frames
  • Paint inspection and acceptance
  • Intermediate acceptance of main electrical components
  • Intermediate acceptance of interior fittings
  • Factory acceptance/customer acceptance

Our Approach

By regular participation in the vehicle acceptance tests and constant coordination with the team of the vehicle manufacturer, PROSE checks the quality of the production. The customer is permanently kept up to date by the acceptance team regarding the progress of the production as well as possible complications or deadline postponements. He immediately receives the results of the production controls and acceptances and can follow up changes, modifications etc.

The dates for the acceptance of components, intermediate assembly stands and vehicles ready for delivery follow the production plan but are also handled operationally and flexibly in order to be able to react to specific occasions. In this way, control of the construction process is always ensured and there is the possibility of intervention in the event of difficulties such as quality slumps, scheduling, supply, or capacity problems.

Customer benefit

With manufacturing supervision, the manufacturer’s quality assurance process is checked and monitored in addition to the product quality, because every vehicle has gone through this process before it is presented for factory acceptance. Continuous construction supervision ensures consistent quality at a high level.

      

Managing system and electrical engineering for a tramway

Project tasks

  • Project management
  • System engineering
  • Electrical engineering

Our Approach

Managing the systems engineering of tramways demands a methodological and detail-oriented approach. Bearing the technical responsibility for systems and electrical engineering in the new rail vehicles, our approach is characterised by precision, innovation, and meticulous attention to every intricate detail. We ensure that every aspect aligns with the highest industry standards.

Customer benefit

Our commitment to overseeing tramway systems engineering delivers tangible benefits to our customers. By assuming comprehensive technical responsibility for the systems and electrical engineering of the new rail vehicles, along with substantial involvement in their development, we guarantee a product of unmatched quality. For the vehicles, this translates into enhanced reliability, operational efficiency, and cutting-edge innovation, where our customers are granted risk mitigation, shorter time to market and overall satisfaction at every turn.

     

Re-design studies of the PRIMA BB27000 and BB37000 locomotives

Customer: AKIEM, France

Project tasks

  • Pre-studies (feasibility study and budget estimate on different topics)
  • Electrical and mechanical integration studies
  • Replacement of the headlights with LED headlights
  • Integration of a socket with USB ports in the driver’s cab.
  • Modification of existing circuit diagrams
  • Design of integration plans and schemes
  • Creation of an operating and an assembly manual
  • Budget estimate to modify the entire PRIMA fleet of AKIEM
  • Supply of prototype parts and support for its integration
  • Carrying out the procedure and the test report
  • Updating of documents after the integration of the prototype and the realisation of tests, if necessary
  • Provision of the purchase specifications of the parts for the series
  • Impact assessment of the amendment

Our Approach

To carry out all pre-studies and studies, PROSE has set up an internal organisation:

  • Project Manager / Coordinator
  • Electrical Engineers
  • Mechanical Design Engineer
  • Expert in change impact analysis

PROSE worked in collaboration with AKIEM to provide the best possible solution in the shortest possible lead time.

Customer benefit

Thanks to our expertise in the field of rolling stock and our engineering department with its various competence centres, PROSE was able to offer our best services to propose modifications and carry out innovations on the locomotives.

 

Fire protection monitoring technology IC 2000

Customer: SBB, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Risk analysis for fire protection of the technical components
  • Conceptual design of fire protection monitoring
  • Integration concepts for the different vehicles
  • Electrical integration
  • Complete installation and maintenance documentation
  • Verification documents for approval

Our Approach

Beforehand, PROSE had already developed an initial concept for the cable routing and carried out a risk analysis of the affected components. Together with the component supplier, PROSE then developed a detailed concept for the mechanical integration of the LHD cable and the other components required for monitoring in the vehicles. After the conversion of the first prototypes, the complete documentation as well as the proofs for the approval were prepared by PROSE.

Customer benefit

In particular, the customer was able to benefit from the comprehensive know-how of PROSE’s experts, who were able to comprehensively narrow down the complex topic of fire protection monitoring and its integration based on their knowledge of the vehicles. Due to the intensive support of the workshop, questions could be clarified immediately and thus the target dates could be optimally met.

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