Infrastructure technology for fibre-optic networks and local transport

Modern transport infrastructure is no longer limited to railways or roads. Behind the scenes, increasingly complex networks comprising fibre-optic technology, data transmission and intelligent control systems are at work.

At InnoTrans in Berlin, Langmatz is therefore showcasing solutions that may seem unremarkable at first glance but perform key functions in the background for telecommunications, energy supply and public transport. The Garmisch-Partenkirchen-based company develops and manufactures technical enclosure, shaft and infrastructure solutions for various industries. The focus is less on standardised mass-produced products and more on customised systems developed in collaboration with network operators, local authorities or infrastructure companies. In the field of transport technology in particular, there is a growing need for infrastructure that is easy to maintain and can be flexibly adapted. Digitalisation, the roll-out of fibre-optic networks and intelligent traffic control are significantly changing the demands placed on cities and transport networks.

Langmatz develops systems for railway fibre-optic networks

A key feature at the exhibition stand is a splice and multi-length cabinet developed in collaboration with Deutsche Bahn for the roll-out of fibre-optic networks along railway lines. For years, Deutsche Bahn has been modernising its communications infrastructure and expanding existing networks with high-performance fibre-optic connections. Numerous technical hubs are being created along the routes to facilitate maintenance, repairs and upgrades. The cabinets developed by Langmatz serve as decentralised access points for fibre optic splices and cable connections. If repairs need to be carried out or new cables integrated, technicians can access the infrastructure directly on site. This accessibility plays a particularly important role in route networks stretching for kilometres. Although fibre-optic networks are considered relatively low-maintenance, they are sensitive to damage or interruptions. Access systems distributed at specific points therefore simplify maintenance and network management considerably. The company deliberately describes its products as technically adaptable platforms. The real distinguishing feature lies less in the housing itself than in the customer-specific extensions and technical integrations.

Coupling coil shafts control local transport

A second major area of focus concerns plastic cable shafts for public local transport. Of particular interest here is a so-called coupling coil shaft, which is used to speed up tram traffic. The technology enables communication between the infrastructure and the vehicle. Coupling coils transmit information directly to approaching trams or traction vehicles. This allows, for example, a priority green phase to be triggered at traffic lights. This results in a significant advantage for cities and transport operators. Trams lose less time at junctions, timetables become more reliable and public transport becomes more efficient overall. The system is concealed beneath the road surface. Only the shaft cover remains visible. Key features of the system:

• Inductive loops for data transmission to traction vehicles
• Prioritisation of public transport at traffic lights
• Maintenance-friendly shaft solution instead of direct road integration
• Retrofitting of defective components possible
• Use in tram and transport infrastructure

Fibreglass composites and WPC in use

The choice of materials for the manhole covers is also of technical interest. Among other things, fibreglass composites and so-called WPC materials are used. WPC stands for ‘Wood-Plastic-Compound’ – a composite material made from plastic and wood fibres. According to the company, the wood content is up to 45 per cent. This approach is becoming increasingly important for local authorities, as sustainability and carbon footprint are being given greater consideration even in infrastructure projects. The combination of plastic and wood fibres offers several advantages: high stability, corrosion resistance and lower weight compared to traditional concrete systems. At the same time, such materials play a particularly important role in inner-city areas, as infrastructure components must increasingly be designed to be durable and low-maintenance. Roads, junctions and track areas are among the most cost-intensive maintenance zones in municipal infrastructure.

Transport technology is becoming more data-driven

The presentation at InnoTrans also highlights the extent to which transport infrastructure is currently changing. Whereas the focus used to be primarily on mechanical or electrical components, today communication systems, data transmission and digital networking dominate. Coupling coils, fibre-optic networks and intelligent control systems are increasingly becoming essential requirements for modern transport systems. In local transport in particular, digital processes determine how efficiently vehicles can be moved through cities. Added to this is the expansion of urban infrastructure. Cities are investing more heavily in trams, intelligent traffic light control systems and digital transport networks to reduce congestion and emissions. This is also increasing the demand for robust technical components underground.

Customised development remains a key factor

It is striking that Langmatz does not focus on fixed product lines, but instead emphasises close collaboration with customers. Many projects arise directly from specific requirements of local authorities, network operators or transport companies. In infrastructure technology in particular, standard solutions are often of limited use. Different road structures, network configurations or technical requirements demand individual adaptations. The company therefore also refers to numerous ongoing development projects without yet naming specific future products. The direction of new solutions often emerges only from current customer requirements. This highlights a typical feature of modern infrastructure technology: innovation arises less from spectacular individual products than from the continuous further development of existing systems. Particularly where infrastructure operates invisibly in the background, it is often the technical detail that determines efficiency, maintenance requirements and long-term operating costs.