The track slabs are unloaded separately with a travelift from the truck and placed on the trace. Deposition aids in the form of centering wedges are already ensuring a position accuracy of 1 cm (0.39 in.).
Subsequently, the exact vernier adjustment in height and position takes place with a specially developed and patented measuring system and corresponding equipment. The adjustment is made on the upper side of the grinded track slabs, not as usual, with the aid of assembly rails.


The sensor-based vernier adjustment of the trackway components by MEL laser scanner is a cost-effective alternative to other practices.
The laser scanner determines the gap width and the height set-off in real time, so that the trackway elements can be fine-tuned online. As the camera of the laser is insensitive to stray light, a simple cover with a tent roof is sufficient. For the simultaneously control to fit in the four edges of a trackway unit, eight sensors are necessary.


The sensor electronics is available in form of a plug in card for the PC. Per card, two sensors can be attached. In addition to the sensors, we are delivering software for windows, adapted for identification of profiles.


Some steps in process sequences, both on production and on assembly, are automated already. Further optimizations and improvements for economical series production are developing.


On January 7, 2003, the route could be put into service. The Transrapid is traveling on the route Shanghai - Pudong regularly, with a speed of 400 km/h. (248.5 miles/hour).