Artificial Intelligence and Automation Take Centre Stage at the Real-Time Intelligence Event in Borlänge

The Real-Time Intelligence Event, held in Borlänge, Sweden, on 27 May, brought together railway researchers, technology providers and infrastructure specialists to demonstrate how artificial intelligence, automation and advanced decision-support systems can transform the management of rail operations across Europe.

The event showcased a broad range of innovations designed to support traffic controllers, dispatchers and train operators in increasingly complex railway environments. A recurring theme throughout the demonstrations was the use of AI-powered conflict detection and resolution tools capable of identifying operational issues before they escalate into delays and service disruptions. Several solutions demonstrated how machine learning and optimisation algorithms can automatically propose or implement corrective actions in real time, significantly reducing the workload on dispatchers while improving network performance.

Another important focus was the integration of traffic management systems with train operation technologies. Demonstrators showed how real-time operational data can be continuously exchanged between planning and execution systems, creating a closed feedback loop that enables faster and more accurate decision-making. This approach allows railway operators to react proactively to changing conditions rather than responding after disruptions have already occurred.

Human factors also played a central role in the discussions. Several projects explored how automation should support, rather than replace, railway professionals. New interfaces, including conversational AI and large language model technologies, were presented as ways to make advanced traffic management tools more accessible and intuitive for users.

The demonstrations highlighted a shared vision for the future: highly connected, intelligent railway systems where AI, automation and human expertise work together to improve capacity, reliability and operational efficiency. As Europe’s rail sector continues its digital transformation, the solutions presented in Borlänge offered a glimpse of how real-time intelligence could help deliver a more resilient and customer-focused railway network.

A collection of posters from the event is available here.