Railway vehicles around the world are controlled using master controllers made by Schaltbau: trams and underground trains, shunting engines and diesel multiple-unit sets, heavy goods locomotives and high-speed trains.

Our applications engineers assemble each separate master controller according to the modular design principle – from both proven and new functional groups. The controllers are constructed in accordance with UIC 612 and the modern design aims for optimum operation. In the following we would like to present two trends in the development of master controllers:

Combined master and brake controller

For a well-known brakes manufacturer we have developed a combined master and brake controller that controls the drive systems electrically and the brakes pneumatically. One of the peculiarities of the controller is its small size, in which our designers have integrated numerous functions:

• A key-operated switch with which the train driver is required to authorise himself
• The operating mode switch for presetting the direction of travel and other functions
• A “dead man’s” switch to turn (instead of pressing)
• Pneumatic valves that sensitively and precisely regulate the brake pressure

The controller is installed in the driver’s cab by means of a ready-to-install, pre-labelled front plate with background lighting. The electrical, electronic and pneumatic signals are displayed on terminals: this allows the device to be quickly connected and economically maintained.

Our combined master and brake controllers take over the tasks of several control elements and functional groups. Thus they simplify the driver’s cab and enable the designers to make better use of the available space.

Application of electronic assemblies

We have equipped our new master controllers with angle encoders. This contact-free technology for adjusting the tractive and braking forces saves space, is extremely robust and maintenance-free for the entire service life of the controller.

The electronic assembly can also be used to read in additional snap-action switch signals or other digital signals. Errors are recognised and transmitted to the controller either via wanted signals or its own lines.

Optional modules such as cycle or operating hours counters store valuable information for maintenance and servicing.