Previously, rail maintenance staff had to travel around the country in groups of two to manually measure the temperature. The real-time data can also be checked through smartphones. Apart from measuring heat, the sensors also collect a range of data relating to the health of a train including vibrations, voltage and wheel tension. While SK Telecom was in charge of connecting the system using an IoT network, Korail installed the sensors while Nable Communications developed a monitoring platform and device. Currently there are 80 sensors installed on tracks between Seoul and Busan, with testing still in process. The mobile carrier and Korail expect to commercialize the device and systems by next year. SK also hopes to export the technology when it is completed. “We are happy to present an IoT device and system that can enhance safety for passengers on trains as well as staff at Korail,” said Kim Jang-gi, SK Telecom’s head of IoT business.