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Through a hybrid environment of technical installations
In infrastructure projects, the greatest challenge often lies not in new construction, but in the moment when old and new meet. Such is the case with the widening of the A2 motorway between the Het Vonderen and Kerensheide interchanges. Existing technical installations must continue to function, while at the same time modern techniques are introduced in phases. The continuous synergy between old and new systems requires direction and a deep understanding of how both worlds interact. Mijnsen understands this like no other.
Within this project, it is precisely this balance between old and new that forms the core of our work, explains Theo Pernot, technical manager at Mijnsen. “We specialize in electrical installations within infrastructure projects. Commissioned by Boskalis, we are performing the coordination of work on the traffic management systems on the A2 project. Design and realization are carried out by HIG, while on the Boskalis side we are responsible for the integral coordination and monitoring of the installation work.”
According to Pernot, Mijnsen's role has two clear dimensions. “On the one hand, we test the designs that HIG prepares: do they meet the contract requirements and do they match the agreements with Rijkswaterstaat? On the other hand, we monitor the substantive coherence between design, execution and central systems. We literally and figuratively stand between the parties and ensure that technology, contract and practice are in line with each other.”
The biggest challenge in this project is the phased conversion, according to Pernot. “The existing installations are based on old techniques, while the new installations work with intelligent systems and fiber optic transmission. This creates a hybrid environment during implementation: parts of the old system remain operational alongside newly realized installations. Communication takes place partly via (old) copper connections and partly via fiber optics. These interfaces between old and new are technically complex and require precise coordination, because the road must remain fully operational during all phases.”
What is modified outside must also correspond exactly to the configuration in the systems at the Helmond traffic center. “Every change along the roadside in signaling, lane layout or camera surveillance must be digitally translated into the central systems,” Pernot explains. “A seemingly simple change outside, for example the lifting of the rush-hour lane, means a fundamental adjustment of control and monitoring inside. Where previously intensive camera surveillance was required to safely release the rush-hour lane, the focus now shifts to incident management. With fewer cameras and a different functional deployment than before.”
According to Pernot, Mijnsen's added value is that they know both the exterior installations and the central systems inside out. “We understand the technical limits on both sides: what is possible outside must also be able to be processed inside, and vice versa. This mutual dependence requires experience and overview. We also have historical knowledge, as we were involved in the design of rush-hour lanes in the past. That knowledge means that dismantling and redesign can be done carefully, without any unwanted surprises.”
With our regional involvement and years of experience in signaling and traffic management, we provide more than just technical coordination, Pernot believes. “We ensure a controlled transition in which old and new do not clash, but temporarily work together to ultimately achieve a future-proof A2.”
