A centralised control system for Rotterdam bridges

The Municipality of Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands. The city has numerous bridges connecting different parts of the city and the port area. Both city residents and shipping traffic frequently use these bridges. To ensure good traffic flow, these bridges are essential. Only, the bridges’ operating and control systems were outdated. The municipality invested in renovating and converting the bridges and improving the operating system. As a cooperation partner, DWG is responsible for the automation work.

Since 2014, DWG has been working with the Municipality of Rotterdam. This collaboration arose from the broader request from the municipality to develop software for all bridges in Rotterdam. The bridges were built in different periods and there was not yet a uniform operation, control and monitoring of the bridges. It is important that road users always have a safe and predictable bridge at their disposal. The municipality was looking for a software solution that could be operated from a central location, said Ilkay Gül, electrical engineering consultant at the Municipality of Rotterdam. “We wanted a clear system, to operate multiple bridges remotely. That way employees know how the bridge is functioning, what it requires and how it should be maintained.”

DWG helped the Municipality of Rotterdam with the control of its bridges and locks. Our engineers did this using a Software Safety Requirement Specification (SSRS). This specification describes how each safety function within the Safety Management System is implemented software-wise.

For the municipality, we developed software within the Siemens PCS7 system. This is a standard software library. In it we have developed a number of standard software blocks for the modernization of bridges. For example, software for traffic lights, bridge closures and control screens. Our engineers also prepare an SSRS document for employees to use. This describes how the software should be built, as well as how it interacts with the hardware, and identifies safety risks.

The municipality works with several parties who jointly perform maintenance on the bridges. It can happen that there is a problem with equipment or that a barrier does not go up. Mechanics often first try to solve the problem themselves, but sometimes they need additional help. Ilkay Gül notes, “Demanding high availability where deep automation is required for an increasingly busy road and waterway, cooperation with DWG has continued. When a mechanic can’t figure it out, DWG can watch the software remotely to pinpoint the problem. DWG has now also taken on some of the collective maintenance.”

In May 2023, we won a tender where we will perform maintenance of the systems at the bridges for the next four years. At DWG, we are proud to continue working with the Municipality of Rotterdam in the coming years.