Well this makes a lot of sense. For decades now, passenger trains have had sensors which report important data back to the cab, and even in 'real time' to the maintenance depot.
Problems such as traction motor seizing, isolating cocks operated, compressor failures, doors misbehaving, etc are all being monitored by the onboard Train Managenent System (ie, computer).
Now the same technology is being trialled on freight vehicles.
Interesting times.
Linky here ....
Digital freight wagon