From Proof of Concept to Pilot Setup

The pilot phase is a practical test under real operating conditions and, after the proof of concept (which we have already written about here), the next step in setting up the network infrastructure. The purpose of the pilot phase is to test the finished network concept, in which all devices have been defined, correctly set and successfully connected, in regular operation on several vehicles. The network created under laboratory conditions is now to prove itself in real operation on the bus or train.

A Practical Test Provides Important Findings

The new pilot network will be set up in a few vehicles as defined in the network concept and tested in productive operation for a certain period of time. The aim is to find out to what extent there is a need to adapt the systems.
In the practical test, the following questions, among others, can be answered:

• Can the vehicle equipment be fitted out as planned?
• Do the devices deliver all data as expected?
• Do terminal devices (e.g., cameras, passenger counting systems) need to be readjusted?
• Is there access to the network across the entire route or only at specific locations?
• When and where is diagnostic data needed?
• Does the operation meet the requirements?
• Does the application function as expected?

In general, it is important to scrutinize the pilot network as closely as possible in order to gain a lot of knowledge and experience as well as to uncover any problems. This will determine the success of the pilot phase. No open questions or unresolved conditions should remain after the test run, and the data obtained should be valid and meaningful.

Preparation for Roll-out

After the pilot network has been extensively tested and, if necessary, adapted, all configurations should be finalized, saved and made available for the roll-out. Nothing more should be changed, the network is in an optimal state. The series setup is just around the corner.