Author: Livia In-Albon

Customer: Rhätische Bahn AG, Switzerland

Project tasks

• Project management
• Requirements capture
• Conceptdevelopment
• Bogie andcarbody development
• System integration

Our approach

Rhätische Bahn AG (RhB) plans to introduce a smart cruise control (SCC) function on its latest generation of multiple units as part of their automation strategy. The SCC function specifies an optimised speed and controls acceleration and braking between two station stops. In accordance with SN EN 62267, the SCC function is classified as Grade of Automation 1 (GoA1), as speed monitoring under the operating regulations (FDV) continues to be carried out by the locomotive crew.

A trackside platform (xx-TS) is planned for the SCC function. This trackside platform provides the necessary route and timetable data. It is based on existing specifications such as Automated Train Operation over European Train Control System (ATO over ETCS) in accordance with the Technical Specification for Interoperability relating to Control-Command and Signalling Subsystems (TSI CCS) and Connected Driver Advisory System (C-DAS). After registering with the train number, the train receives journey and segment profiles in accordance with SUBSET-126/SFERA. Transmission takes place via a mobile communications interface.

With the introduction of a Traffic Management System (TMS), a networked driver assistance system (C-DAS) will also be implemented, which displays energy-efficient and conflict-free driving recommendations based on optimised production specifications from the TMS.

PROSE was involved in the railway automation programme as co-project manager. We implemented a four-stage approach within the ATO-TS/C-DAS project:

1. Existing requirements and specifications for the operational target vision were recorded and compared with the status quo of the ATO, TMS and C-DAS systems.
2. Once the target vision and target architecture had been defined, a structured market evaluation was carried out and interviews were conducted with various system providers.
3. Based on the market evaluation, a two-stage assessment of the solution options was carried out and proposals for the procurement strategy were developed.
4. Further steps were implemented for the ATO-TS and C-DAS subsystems, including the execution of an RFI and in-depth analyses with selected providers.

Customer benefit

Thanks to our previous involvement in the railway automation programme and our combined operational and technical expertise, we were able to structure and advance the project with clear direction and efficiency.

Based on our market knowledge and cross-project experience, we were able to develop solution scenarios tailored to RhB’s operating environment. We moderated structured discussions with internal experts and programme participants, creating transparent decision-making and a solid foundation for the next implementation phase.

PROSE provided independent technical assessment, clear methodology and procurement support, laying the foundation for a clearly defined architecture and reduced implementation risk.

Customer: tpf SA, Switzerland

Project tasks

• Project management
• Operational target
• Technical feasibility assessment
• Analysis of operational processes
• Cost-benefit analysis

Our approach

The metre-gauge rolling stock used by the transport publics fribourgeois (tpf) operating on the Palézieux – Bulle – Montbovon line is maintained at the Planchy depot in the industrial zone of Bulle. The distance between Bulle station and the depot is around one kilometre. In current operations, staff must walk between the station and depot to perform shunting movements, which limits operational efficiency.

As part of recent service expansion , the infrastructure around Bulle has been modernised to current technical standards. In parallel with the planned modernisation of the Planchy maintenance facility, tpf investigated whether fully automated shunting operations using Automatic Train Operation Grade of Automation 4 (ATO GoA4) could be implemented with the existing vehicle fleet within the Planchy – Bulle area. The study assessed technical feasibility, operational implications, and the economic viability of introducing automated shunting.

PROSE supported tpf SA throughout the entire feasibility study in a structured, multi-stage process involving operational, technical, and management stakeholders. We first analysed the current operational processes, infrastructure, and regulatory conditions. Based on this, we jointly developed a target operating concept for automated shunting.

To evaluate possible implementation strategies, PROSE performed a risk analysis and developed several technically consistent solution variants using a morphological analysis method. These options were then compared through a transparent cost-benefit assessment, enabling a structured evaluation of technical feasibility and operational impact.

Customer benefit

tpf SA received a clear and independent decision basis for the further development of the Planchy maintenance site.

Thanks to the efficient approach, initial results were quickly developed in collaboration with tpf experts and presented to management. Technical feasibility, operational implications and economic effects were presented in a comprehensible and transparent manner.

With our expertise in railway operations and ATO realistic implementation scenarios were developed and efficiently aligned with internal stakeholders. PROSE also supported tpf in initial discussions with potential system suppliers, strengthening tpf’s technical and strategic position.

Customer: BLS Netz AG, Switzerland

Project tasks

• Project management
• Integrated rollout planning
• Cost assessment
• Stakeholder management
• Long-term planning

Our approach

As part of the ERTMS strategy of the Federal Office of Transport (FOT), Swiss infrastructure operators developed a long-term implementation concept for the network-wide introduction of cab signalling based on the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2.

PROSE supported BLS Netz AG in finalising the integrated rollout plan. We reconciled the different requirements of long-distance, regional and freight transport companies regarding rolling stock with the operational needs of the infrastructure. In parallel, we took the life cycles of existing systems and their depreciation effects into account.

On this basis, we developed a consolidated best-case scenario that defines the section-by-section implementation and commissioning, while transparently outlining the resulting investment and depreciation effects.

PROSE supported BLS in project management during the final phase of the implementation concept. Based on the selected best option:

• We refined the planning with the involvement of all stakeholders
• Quantified the resulting costs and depreciation
• Coordinated the final draft resolution internally and externally with the other infrastructure operators.

The implementation concept is based on an integrated consideration of the life cycles of rolling stock and infrastructure. At the same time, the various potential benefits of ERTMS were systematically taken into account. A key element was to ensure operationally manageable migration through coordinated, coherent implementation, with the clear aim of avoiding fragmented ETCS island solutions.

Customer benefit

BLS Netz AG benefited from our comprehensive understanding of the planning triangle of operations, infrastructure and rolling stock, as well as our in-depth expertise in the field of ERTMS. Our structured methodology and independent consulting services provided a robust, coordinated basis for decision-making. The implementation concept was completed on schedule and in close cooperation with the specialists and programme management. PROSE embodied technical clarity and independent expertise.