RailRider
The RailRider is a Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking and monitoring device used on railroad freight cars and locomotives.[1] It is produced by Lan-Lon. In earlier days of railroading a rail rider was known as a person to ride on a railcar to make sure it arrived unscathed.
The modern electronic RailRiders are deployed worldwide on railcars,[2] and locomotives. The RailRider collects data from a GPS and sensors. The information is communicated through cellular (GPRS), radio, or satellite modem to servers for further processing. Customers can access data from anywhere through the Internet.
Shippers use the location and monitoring data to improve utilization, productivity, reduce maintenance, increase security, and improve customer support. Managers can quickly get answers to their logistics questions by running reports or viewing maps on the website. Data can also be passed directly to corporate fleet management computer systems for a complete integrated system with all lading information.
References
- Dean, Josh (January 8, 2006). "Future train". Popular Mechanics. Retrieved July 6, 2023.
- Railcar monitoring system - Brief Article Railway Age, Feb, 2003