Challenge:
Our confidential client provides operating system software for network devices that are used in modern trains. They needed a partner to design and implement a robust, reliable communications solution for a new fleet of express trains. The infotainment, CCTV and WiFi design had to include separate audio/video/data streams as well as redundancy inside, and between, train wagons.
With an impressive track record in delivering redundant coupling network solutions, Luxoft was the ideal strategic partner for the task.
Approach:
Luxoft’s uniquely qualified team ticked all the relevant skill boxes, including developing advanced networking solutions and embedded software development. The team created a prototype for the train software, received feedback from the client and deployed the final product. This, plus an easy flow of knowledge between Luxoft and the in-house engineering team, delivered top-quality code for the project. In line with our agile scrum methodology, the project was divided into manageable sprints that produced beta releases to optimize time-to-completion.
Solution:
Luxoft proposed creating a Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP)-based solution to couple MSTP with other redundancy protocols.
The solution was developed around two protocols:
- Multiple Spanning Tree
- Redundant Coupling
This networking solution offered multimedia streaming divided between separate MSTP instances inside one train wagon. Using a coupling mechanism allows the LAN network to couple with networks from other wagons.
Result:
Our client gained the following benefits from their new communication software solution:
- Significant costs savings and improved efficiency
- Fast topology recovery and flexibility, with switchover times of 3 seconds and recovery times of 50 seconds maximum
- Predictive maintenance to minimize costly downtime
- An innovative design that sets new standards in availability and passenger comfort
