In November 2023, the German Centre for Rail Transport Research (DZSF) launched the NDEface-V research project to create a feasibility study for a universal data interface for non-destructive testing (NDT). These can be used to predict the condition of rail vehicles and help to optimise maintenance. The aim of the project is to integrate various testing methods, such as ultrasonic and eddy current testing, into a centralised and standardised data management system. Currently, manufacturer-specific and therefore incompatible interfaces and data formats are used for NDT systems, which makes it difficult to merge data. The feasibility study aims to identify technical, regulatory, and organisational challenges and develop a concrete strategy for implementing a universal NDT data interface. The project is being realised by a consortium consisting of Vrana GmbH, Arxes Engineering GmbH and Dimate GmbH under the leadership of DZSF, and is receiving €200,000 in funding from the German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport Affairs.
