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Increasing railway line capacity starts with increased automation
An important aspect of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) is its ability to meet increasing demand for better on-time performance, line capacity, and energy optimised driving.
While the answer is automation, thequestion remains: ‘how much’?
The ‘how much’ is indicated by the Grade of Automation (GoA), with GoA1 being a train with no automation and GoA4 indicatinga train that is automatically controlled without any onboard staff.
Automation defined
Automatic Train Operation (ATO) is a method of operating trains automatically where the driver is either not required at all or serves a supervisory function at most.
ATO over European Train Control System (ETCS) is a system that allows trains to drive automatically while adhering to timetables and European signalling.
Potential benefits of ATO over ETCS
- Has the potential to help railway operators increase capacity and optimise existing networks.
- Will allow trains to run at closer intervals, which can improve passenger service.
- Can reduce energy use, lower operating costs, improve punctuality, and provide smoother, more comfortable journeys for passengers.
The Challenge
Leveraging the full potential of ATO over ETCS will require a higher grade of automation. But this first requires the development and validation of appropriate ATO over ETCS standards applicable to all types of rail lines.
Enter Europe’s Rail.
EU-Rail delivered a solid basis for future standard specifications for ATO over ETCS (up to GoA3/4) and
demonstrated that the specifications were practicable and interoperable.
Specified
Key Finding
A set of specifications known as ATO GoA2 allows railway undertakings and
infrastructure managers to start deploying ATO.
Fast Fact
The TD developed a detailed specification at higher grades of automation that includes a perception component and an automatic processing module.
Did You Know?
These two components help automate several functions that are currently performed by a driver.
Demonstrated
Key Finding
An ATO over ETCS up to GoA3/4 technical demonstrator (TD) was prepared for a real railway line.
Fast Fact
8 different configurations were successfully integrated, with each configuration using devices that are interoperable, interchangeable, and able to provide basic functionality.
Did You Know?
Two remote driving configurations were successfully tested in such operational situations as passing an unprotected level crossing and reacting to an obstacle.
Conclusion
Achieving higher grades of automation with ATO up to GoA3/4 will reduce headways and increase line capacity, improve the performance of railway traffic, and lower operational costs.
Who benefits
Infrastructure managers, railway operators, suppliers, and final users.
Infrastructure managers
Railway operators
Suppliers
