Control posts

Control Points for RFID-Based Asset Tracking

In a modern railway enterprise, the implementation of RFID technology enables automated, real-time tracking of physical assets throughout their entire lifecycle. One of the core elements of such a system is the deployment of control points — strategically placed RFID portals, readers, and checkpoints that monitor asset movements across the infrastructure.

Applications and Areas of Control

• Depots and maintenance facilities: RFID gates at entrances and exits of depots automatically record the entry and departure of rolling stock, components, and tools. This prevents unauthorized removal and enables precise inventory control.
• Warehouses and storage zones: Fixed RFID readers at storage entrances track goods and spare parts movement. Each storage cell can be tagged and associated with specific items, ensuring accurate location-based inventory tracking.
• Production and assembly areas: Control points here register the use of components and assemblies in real time, providing traceability and accountability for maintenance and production operations.
• Track-side control points and section transitions: RFID checkpoints along railway lines can register when tagged equipment (such as maintenance trolleys, toolkits, or signaling assets) passes predefined boundaries or enters controlled zones.
• Weighing stations and checkpoints: RFID is used alongside weighing systems to automatically identify wagons and cargo units being weighed, minimizing human error and ensuring data consistency.

Types of RFID Control Points

• Gate-type RFID portals – installed at facility entry/exit points to register all tagged items that pass through.
• Zone-based readers – track tagged assets within a defined radius, useful for indoor zones and open yards.
• Handheld RFID terminals – used by personnel for mobile checks, inventory rounds, or exception handling.
• Integrated control stations – combine RFID, video surveillance, access control, and SCADA systems for comprehensive monitoring.

Integration and Automation

All RFID control points are connected to the centralized Railway Asset Management System (EAM.Railway) where data is logged, processed, and visualized in real-time. This enables automated reporting, incident alerts, usage statistics, and synchronization with maintenance and financial systems (e.g., ERP or 1C).

Benefits

• Accurate asset accounting without manual data entry
• Real-time visibility of movements and statuses
• Theft and loss prevention through access monitoring
• Full traceability of asset location, usage, and lifecycle events
• Increased operational efficiency and audit readiness

The strategic deployment of RFID control points transforms railway logistics, maintenance, and safety management into a transparent and automated ecosystem.