ProPhotonix Ltd announced on Tuesday that it had launched a new application of digital lasers for train wheel inspection systems.

It added that it had delivered an initial set of eight prototype laser modules for use in a new wheel wear monitoring and control system called Wheelwatcher.

Jeremy Lane, ProPhotonix managing director, said: “Upon completion of extensive field testing and refinement, Wheelwatcher is expected to be commercialised in the summer of 2018 with ProPhotonix supplying laser modules for installations throughout Europe and worldwide in 2010 and beyond.

“In addition, the various features and technologies developed for Wheelwatcher are intended for broader applications and customer requirements.”

Wheelwatcher will provide rail transport operators with precise real-time information which will improve preventive maintenance of rail systems, which ProPhotonix said could also enhance rail safety.

ProPhotonix said that it has provided its “expertise in laser module design and manufacturing”.

The system is designed to function in extreme climatic conditions within a temperature-regulated enclosure, it added.

Its laser modules incorporate a host of digital control and monitoring features which allow the end user to set operating parameters appropriate to the local conditions and to maintain multiple lasers at remote on-track locations from a central control point.

The Wheelwatcher system is being developed alongside a consortium of European partner companies and is partially funded by the EU’s Horizon 2020 programme.

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