A world first: coupling gangways at the press of a button

The HÜBNER Group is working on the development of a new system solution that allows for fully automated coupling and uncoupling of gangway systems. The new HÜBNER AutoCouple System promises to make the operation of passenger trains more flexible, more efficient and more cost-effective. The groundbreaking solution will be presented for the first time at InnoTrans.

The HÜBNER AutoCouple System is intended for use in passenger trains, particularly for metro transport, and can be integrated in new designs for nearly every type of vehicle. It is also possible to retrofit the system for existing fleets. The HÜBNER Group is currently in discussions with the first interested operators in North America about adopting the system.

Automated solution to replace manual coupling processes

Until now, the coupling and uncoupling of cars typically takes half an hour, and two employees in addition to the train driver are required to manually separate or connect the gangway systems. For safety reasons, the entire train must be disconnected from the power supply during the whole coupling or uncoupling procedure. 

With the new automatic gangway coupling system, the HÜBNER Group is planning to make it possible for operators to have a fully automatic system to manage this process for more efficient, convenient and safe operation. This will also make it possible to increase operational reliability for train services. Operators should be able to quickly and flexibly adjust their train capacities to meet current capacity requirements.

With the new system, personnel would not be required on the tracks to undertake coupling and uncoupling tasks, minimizing the risk of accidents. The new system is also exceedingly robust and durable and in future should facilitate power and data transmission from one rail car to the next.