Skip to main content
Västtrafik regional train used in a heavy maintenance tender project supported by PROSE through technical documentation and Bills of Materials.

Establishing the technical basis for a heavy maintenance tender

Customer: Mantena, Norway

Project tasks

  • Reviewing and analysing technical documentation
  • Identifying and verifying maintenance components
  • Developing and structuring Bills of Materials (BOMs)
  • Validating technical data and document consistency
  • Providing technical support for supplier enquiries and cost estimation

Our approach

Mantena required technical support to prepare its bid for Västtrafik’s heavy maintenance contract covering the X5x, X61 and Y31 regional train fleets.

A key challenge was to establish a reliable technical basis for maintenance planning within a limited tender timeframe. The available technical documentation was extensive and varied in structure, making it difficult to identify the components and materials required for planned maintenance activities. Accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs) were therefore needed to support supplier enquiries, cost estimation and the definition of maintenance scope. The project required high technical accuracy, consistent engineering deliverables within a demanding tender schedule.

PROSE applied a structured and agile engineering approach tailored to the demanding tender schedule and the complexity of the available technical documentation. Our specialists systematically reviewed, analysed and consolidated information from multiple documentation sources to develop accurate and consistent Bills of Materials (BOMs).

Deliveries were provided incrementally, allowing Mantena to initiate supplier enquiries and cost estimation in parallel with the ongoing engineering work, thereby reducing schedule risks. Throughout the project, PROSE worked in close collaboration with Mantena, to validate assumptions, resolve documentation inconsistencies and adapt priorities to changing project needs.

Customer benefit

By engaging PROSE, Mantena gained a reliable technical foundation for preparing a well-informed and competitive heavy maintenance tender.

The verified Bills of Materials (BOMs) enabled efficient supplier communication, more accurate cost estimation and well-informed purchasing decisions within the tender timeframe. Delivering the work in stages allowed engineering activities and supplier pricing to progress in parallel, reducing schedule risks and helping Mantena to meet the tender deadline. PROSE combined railway engineering expertise with technical documentation competence to provide an independent and dependable engineering service. This improved data quality, increased transparency and gave Mantena a robust technical basis for making informed decisions throughout the tender process.

 

 

Modernised lower station of the Leubringen Funicular in Biel, Switzerland, following automation and accessibility upgrades led by PROSE.

Leading the modernisation and automation of the Leubringen Funicular

Customer: Verkehrsbetriebe Biel, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Overall project management
  • Client representation
  • Project organisation and governance
  • Stakeholder management
  • Authority coordination (Federal Office of Transport (FOT) and cantonal authorities)
  • Procurement and tender management
  • Schedule, cost and risk management
  • Coordination of civil works, infrastructure and ropeway engineering
  • Quality assurance and project reporting

Our approach

The Leubringen Funicular connects Biel with Evilard and is an important transport link for commuters, residents and visitors in Switzerland. As part of a comprehensive modernisation programme, the line was automated and upgraded to improve safety, reliability, accessibility and long-term operational performance.

The project included the renewal of the control and safety systems, platform screen doors, passenger monitoring, communication and camera systems, as well as the overhaul of the vehicles, drive system, brakes, haul rope and infrastructure. Accessibility improvements were implemented in accordance with the Swiss Disability Discrimination Act (BehiG). All all work was carried out in compliance with ropeway regulations and the requirements of the Swiss Federal Office of Transport (FOT).

PROSE acted as the client’s representative and overall project manager, providing independent leadership throughout the project lifecycle. We established a structured project organisation based on HERMES (Swiss Federal Administration’s standard project management methodology) and SIA (Swiss Society of Engineers and Architects) principles, coordinated multidisciplinary workstreams and managed the interfaces between authorities, suppliers, designers and operators.

Our responsibilities included procurement and contract management, approval support, project communication, quality assurance, and the management of cost, schedule and risk from project initiation through to commissioning.

Customer benefit

By acting as the client’s representative and overall project manager, PROSE provided a single point of coordination across all technical disciplines and stakeholders. Our structured approach reduced project complexity, supported regulatory compliance and enabled informed decision-making throughout the project.

The completed modernisation provides the foundation for higher transport capacity, improved operational reliability, enhanced passenger safety and accessibility while creating the foundation for a longer service life of the Leubringen Funicular. As an independent engineering and consulting partner, PROSE delivered objective technical expertise while safeguarding the client’s interests throughout the project.

 

     

High-speed railway bogie for EMU and DMU vehicles featuring Jacobs and motor bogie design, structural analysis, and running dynamics validation.

Development support for a high-speed bogie family for EMU and DMU vehicles

Project tasks

  • Rough and detailed design assessment
  • FEA of motor and Jacobs bogies
  • Running dynamics simulations incl. crosswind effects for EMU and DMU
  • Noise analysis
  • Torsional vibration analysis of a wheelset with motor and gear

Our approach

The customer had already developed bogies for a Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) for an end customer in the Czech Republic. These designs formed the basis of a new bogie family intended for use across a range of Multiple Unit variants.

The vehicles were intended for high-speed operation, resulting in increased demands on running dynamics, structural strength, vibration behaviour, and noise performance. The trains are articulated and equipped with Jacobs bogies, with the objective of applying a common Jacobs bogie design across all vehicle variants. For powered bogies, the design requirements differ between DMU and Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) applications. In the DMU configuration, the motor bogie features a cardan shaft and no electric traction motors, resulting in a fundamentally different design. This DMU motor bogie was intended to serve as the base concept for the entire bogie family and therefore required detailed technical assessment and validation.

The project objective was to evaluate the existing bogie designs, identify improvement potential, and confirm their suitability as a common platform for both EMU and DMU vehicle variants.

PROSE first assessed the DMU bogie designs developed by the customer to identify optimisation potential in the base design. This was followed by a comprehensive and systematic analysis of motor bogies and Jacobs bogies.

Our approach combined Finite Element Analysis (FEA), running dynamics simulations for both EMU and DMU configurations, including crosswind effects relevant for high-speed operation, as well as noise analyses. In addition, a detailed torsional vibration analysis of a wheelset with motor and gearbox was carried out. Close collaboration with the customer ensured that all analyses were aligned with project requirements and practical design constraints.

Customer benefit

By working with PROSE, the customer benefited from independent expertise in bogie design. Our broad experience across the railway industry enabled the structured application of proven best practices to be applied effectively.

An interdisciplinary engineering approach, combined with our independent role, enabled a holistic and objective evaluation of the bogie designs. PROSE’s specialised competence in torsional vibration analysis provided additional confidence in the design and validation of drivetrain components.

This comprehensive assessment supported the development of a robust and scalable bogie platform, while reducing technical and approval-related risks at an early project stage.

 

 

Technician performing digital railway bogie inspection using augmented reality (AR) headset and tablet during rolling stock maintenance.

Implementing Digital Maintenance with Augmented Reality

Project tasks

  • Defining a relevant digital maintenance use case
  • Parametrising the AR-based inspection system
  • Localising software and adapting interfaces
  • Setting up and supporting an on-site pilot project
  • Training personnel and supporting prototype testing
  • Evaluating results and delivering an application report

Our approach

PROSE implemented an AR-supported prototype for a railway sector customer as part of a pilot project to digitalise maintenance processes for bogies. The objective was to replace paper-based inspection workflows and improve data quality and traceability.

The selected use case covered dimensional inspection under defined load conditions with structured checkpoints and tolerances. PROSE digitalised existing inspection processes and transformed them into guided digital workflows for mobile devices and AR headsets. Nominal values and wear limits were integrated to ensure systematic inspections and direct recording of deviations. The application enables hands-free operation as well as structured real-time data capture and further processing.

The pilot project included configuration of the application, execution under real workshop conditions, and evaluation with regard to usability, data quality, and operational limits.

PROSE combined railway engineering expertise with digital technology know-how and worked with a specialised AR partner.

We defined a suitable use case together with the customer and implemented it directly on-site as part of the pilot project. We configured and validated the application iteratively based on real maintenance processes.

Our approach included close collaboration with customer personnel, rapid adaptation of digital workflows, and targeted training of users.

Customer benefit

The customer received a validated prototype demonstrating how digital and AR-supported maintenance can improve efficiency and quality. Paper-based processes are reduced, training time is shortened, and inspections become more consistent and guided.

Hands-free operation and real-time documentation improve usability and data quality in workshop environments. At the same time, digital records enhance traceability and support integration into existing maintenance systems.

Through PROSE’s independent expertise and cross-industry insights, the customer gained a solid basis for further development and implementation of digital maintenance solutions.

 

Fault tree diagram showing hazard decomposition into SIL 4–1 functions with logic gates and events for railway safety analysis.

Designing a safety strategy for embedded onboard systems in railway applications

Project tasks

  • Defining Safety Integrity Level (SIL) classification methods across international regulatory frameworks (CSM DT, CENELEC, RSSB, ANSF, ANSI, GOST, SIRF, IEC 61508 risk graph)
  • Describing and applying the interaction between Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA)
  • Developing a structured safety strategy (e.g. top-down and function-oriented approaches) for embedded onboard systems
  • Establishing a safety case concept based on safety-critical and safety-related functions, including visualisation (e.g. Goal Structuring Notation (GSN))
  • Specifying safety evidence documentation, including content, key messages, and effort estimation for Independent Safety Assessor (ISA) approval

Our approach

The project covered the development of a generic application for embedded onboard systems (hardware and software) on rolling stock, intended for use across multiple regions, including the European Union, the United Kingdom, and international markets.

Furthermore, the project included the definition of a safety process and strategy for systems up to Safety Integrity Level 2 (SIL 2), with consideration for scalability to higher integrity levels. The interaction between Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) was described and demonstrated through application examples.

The project also included the determination of suitable SIL classification methods based on applicable regulatory frameworks such as CSM DT, RSSB, ANSF, ANSI, GOST, SIRF, and CENELEC. In addition, the alignment of qualitative and quantitative safety metrics across these standards was also considered.

Relevant directives ((EU) 402/2013, (EU) 2015/1136) and standards (e.g. EN 50129, EN 50716, IEC 61508) defined the regulatory and methodological framework for the safety process and documentation.

PROSE created a comprehensive safety plan covering system, hardware, software, and communication aspects of a generic onboard application. Our approach combined regulatory analysis with practical safety engineering methods, ensuring alignment between international standards and project-specific requirements.

We defined a structured safety demonstration concept, forming the basis for all safety activities and evidence generation. By aligning methodologies such as Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA), we ensured a consistent safety process.

Customer benefit

The safety plan provides a structured foundation for all safety activities throughout the project lifecycle, covering system, hardware, and software levels. It forms a key part of the documentation submitted to the Independent Safety Assessor (ISA), supporting the development and evaluation of the final safety case.

By establishing a harmonised and reusable safety process, the customer can efficiently apply the strategy to future generic applications while ensuring compliance with CENELEC and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards.

The defined safety strategy enables scalability from Basic Integrity up to SIL 4 and supports the development of robust safety cases based on clearly structured safety functions. PROSE’s independent and methodical approach ensures transparency, regulatory compliance, and long-term usability across international markets.

 

      

Augmented Reality assisted maintenance

Project tasks

  • Collecting European use cases
  • Providing a report for chosen use cases and a presentation on various customer sites
  • Prototyping of an on-site application
  • Definition of the use cases
  • Initial parametrisation of the Augment Reality inspection system
  • Software localisation
  • Definition of performance parameters
  • Setup of pilot project on site
  • Tuning of the parametrisation of the AR inspection system
  • Training of personnel for prototype application testing
  • Digital O&M prototype usage instructions and application report

Our approach

The project addressed the need to identify, assess, and practically evaluate digital technologies for rolling stock maintenance used in Europe. The objective was to provide transparent insight into proven and emerging digital maintenance solutions for railway vehicles, including trains and rolling stock fleets, based on information available in the public domain.

On top of that, the project aimed to move beyond theory by implementing and validating a selected digital maintenance use case. A virtual reality (VR)-supported maintenance application was chosen and realised at one of the customer’s major production sites to validate feasibility and operational relevance under real industrial conditions.

PROSE conducted a structured survey of European digital maintenance technologies based on industry experience, expert exchanges, and reference projects implemented by railway operators and maintainers. The resulting report focused deliberately on non-patented, legally uncritical use cases to ensure transparency and independence. Based on this assessment, we supported the selection of a suitable digital maintenance application with high practical relevance.

We then realised a VR-supported digital operation and maintenance application directly at the customer’s site. For that purpose, we coordinated a specialised VR technology partner and combined advanced digital tools with our in-depth railway maintenance and engineering expertise. Our independent role and hands-on industry knowledge ensured a solution that was both technically robust and operationally relevant.

Customer benefit

By selecting PROSE, the customer gained access to deep, experience-based insight into European digital maintenance practices beyond pure desk research. The survey provided realistic, industry-proven solutions grounded in actual railway projects and expert discussions.

Through the realisation of a concrete VR maintenance use case, the customer was able to validate digital technologies in practice rather than relying on theoretical concepts. PROSE’s combination of independent consulting, deep railway domain expertise, and the ability to bridge technology providers with operational requirements enabled a reliable and low-risk introduction to digital maintenance innovation, strengthening long-term maintenance efficiency and capability.

 

Train driver cab with diagnostic display screen and control panel inside a FLIRT1 electric multiple unit.

Ensuring long-term availability of FLIRT1 EMUs

Customer: Hessische Landesbahn GmbH, Germany

Project tasks

  • Obsolescence analysis
  • Definition of replacement hardware architecture
  • Software porting to new Compact-PCI platform
  • Linux OS adaptation
  • EMC planning (EN 50121-1)
  • CSM analysis
  • Requirement capture
  • Test specification development
  • Laboratory validation
  • Prototype retrofit support (on-site)
  • Creation of retrofit documentation
  • Support during fleet rollout

Our approach

The FLIRT1 Electric Multiple Units (EMU) operated by Hessische Landesbahn GmbH were equipped with a Compact-PCI diagnostic computer that became obsolete and unavailable on the market.

The diagnostic computer records vehicle events and fault logs while displaying failure messages and troubleshooting guid-ance to the driver. Although the system is not safety-relevant, it is operationally essential for efficient maintenance and fleet availability.

Due to increasing component ageing and an expected rise in hardware failures, the obsolete unit had to be replaced by a successor model with full functional equivalence. The validated vehicle software architecture needed to remain unchanged, in order to classify the measure as maintenance acc. to (EU) 2016/797.

PROSE developed a risk-minimised hardware migration concept that preserved the existing vehicle software architecture.

We replaced the obsolete MEN Compact-PCI computer with a Duagon Compact-PCI successor model and ported the existing application software to the new platform. The Linux operating system environment was adapted to ensure identical system behaviour.

We implemented necessary interface adjustments without changing the validated vehicle software architecture. Our scope included:

  • Porting and validation of the application software
  • Creation of installation images
  • Development of test specification
  • Execution of a Common Safety Method (CSM) analysis
  • Requirement capture documentation
  • Preparation of an Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) plan according to EN 50121-1
  • Laboratory validation and on-site prototype verification

We implemented and validated a prototype retrofit as the basis for a seamless fleet-wide rollout. In close collaboration with a specialised software partner, we ensured efficient implementation and full technical traceability.

Customer benefit

Hessische Landesbahn secured the long-term availability of its FLIRT1 fleet without functional changes or impact on the validated vehicle software architecture.

The reuse of the existing installation space reduced retrofit effort and vehicle downtime. The structured CSM process and comprehensive documentation ensured regulatory compliance and full technical traceability.

Through a structured engineering approach and comprehensive documentation, PROSE ensured regulatory compliance, tech-nical traceability and a reliable basis for long-term fleet opera-tion. Our independence from original equipment manufacturers enabled a pragmatic, lifecycle-oriented solution focused on availability and maintainability. A successfully validated prototype forms the basis for the fleet roll-out currently being prepared.

 

      

Driver operating a modern high-speed train cab with digital controls, representing advanced railway systems and certification processes.

Establishing a structured framework for TSI certification and authorisation

Training provided for:

  • TSI certification (NoBo) system for locomotives, passenger rolling stocks and freight wagons
  • NNTR certification (DeBo) and risk assessment (AsBo) systems for locomotives, passenger rolling stocks and freight wagons
  • Risk assessment (AsBo) systems
  • Access process for railway products to the European Union
  • EC certificate system and standard for European Union rolling stock equipment and products

Our approach

The project addressed the need to strengthen organisational knowledge and capability in relation to Technical Specifications for Interoperability (TSI) certification and the accreditation process for acting as a Notified Body (NoBo). The customer is involved in high-speed rail systems and required a structured understanding of authorisation processes applicable to rolling stock and infrastructure projects.

Increasing regulatory complexity and evolving European authorisation requirements made it necessary to build internal competence in certification workflows, roles, and responsibilities. The objective of the project was to establish a clear, practical and reliable framework for understanding, structuring, and managing TSI-related authorisation activities across different project types.

PROSE delivered interactive, on-site training workshops tailored to the customer’s specific role and regulatory context. Our approach combined structured theoretical input with practical examples drawn from real TSI certification and authorisation projects across the European railway sector.

Key elements of the TSI framework, the NNTRs, the CSM Regulation, the role of a Notified Body (NoBo), a Designated Body (DeBo), an Independent Assessment Body (AsBo), and typical certification and authorisation processes were explained step by step and discussed in detail with the participants. Throughout the workshops, PROSE addressed customer-specific questions and scenarios, ensuring direct applicability to ongoing and future activities.

Customer benefit

Through its collaboration with PROSE, the client gained a clear, structured and practical understanding of the certification and approval processes in accordance with the TSI, NNTR and other safety regulations. The training strengthened internal competence and confidence in dealing with regulatory requirements and interactions with external stakeholders.

PROSE’s independent position and broad industry experience ensured an objective and practice-oriented perspective, grounded in real-world railway projects. This enabled the customer to build sustainable internal know-how, reduce dependency on external clarification, and establish a solid foundation for future certification and accreditation activities.

Hyperloop capsule vehicles in tube infrastructure, illustrating maglev transport concept and advanced bogie design development.

HyperTransfer: Assessment of conceptual bogie design

Customer: HYPERLOOP Transportation Technologies Inc., USA

Project tasks

  • Review and assessment of existing conceptual bogie and chassis designs
  • Technical clarification with the customer and co-development partners
  • Development of a multibody simulation (MBS) model of the HyperTransfer vehicle
  • Representation of magnetic levitation forces using simplified spring models
  • Modelling all relevant kinematic degrees of freedom
  • Integration of mechanical backup suspension systems (wheels and/or skids) to analyse limit cases and residual clearances

Our approach

The project supported the early development and feasibility assessment of a magnetic levitation vehicle within the HyperTransfer concept developed by HYPERLOOP Transportation Technologies. The vehicle represents a new class of guided transport systems, combining railway vehicle engineering principles and magnetic levitation (maglev) technology.

In an initial step, the customer required an independent assessment of a conceptual bogie and chassis design to support ongoing feasibility studies and early design decisions. This required engineering expertise with proven experience in rolling stock design as well as magnetic levitation systems.

In subsequent development phases, the feasibility assessment of the HyperTransfer vehicle required a detailed multibody simulation (MBS) model. The model enabled dynamic simulations, derivation ofload assumptions, and kinematic analyses, providing a technical basis to support further design and validation activities.

PROSE applied a structured two-step engineering approach tailored to the early development phase of the HyperTransfer vehicle.

In the first step, we reviewed the existing design documentation, formulated targeted technical questions, and performed an independent assessment of the conceptual bogie and chassis design. This work was carried out in close collaboration with the HYPERLOOPTT design team and its co-development partners through technical meetings and focused design reviews.

In the second step, PROSE developed a multibody simulation (MBS) model representing the HyperTransfer vehicle. The model includes the capsule, the secondary suspension between capsule and chassis, and the load-carrying chassis components up to the primary suspension interface to the levitation magnets.

PROSE’s combination of railway vehicle engineering expertise and specific know-how in magnetic levitation systems differentiated our approach and ensured a technically robust and application-oriented solution.

Customer benefit

By working with PROSE, the customer received independent and experienced engineering support during a critical early development phase of the HyperTransfer concept. PROSE’s in-depth expertise in chassis and railway vehicle design, combined with practical experience in magnetic levitation systems provided valuable technical assurance.

The structured assessment and simulation-based approach enabled the customer to make informed design decisions identify technical constraints at an early stage, and reduce development risks.

PROSE’s ability to bridge conventional railway engineering and advanced maglev concepts enabled the customer in progressing efficiently from concept evaluation towards detailed development, with a clear and technically robust basis for further design activities.

 

TILO FLIRT train of SBB in Switzerland during service life extension project, modern electric multiple unit on track.

Vehicle life extension TILO FLIRT

Customer: SBB, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Overall project management of the TILO FLIRT service life extension
  • Project reporting to the steering committee
  • Project planning and realisation of the detailed concept phase
  • Funding application ARPV
  • Project planning and implementation of the realisation phase
  • Leading the SBB project team

Our approach

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) operates 54 Flirt trains with TILO. These trains were purchased in five phases between 2007 and 2020 and were designed for a service life of 25 years. In order to be able to replace all TILO Flirt trains simultaneously as part of a new procurement project, SBB plans to extend the service life of the two oldest sub-fleets to 32 years.

PROSE is responsible for the overall management of the project to extend the service life of the TILO train fleet. Over 2 ½ years, we led a dedicated project team within SBB, ensuring seamless collaboration between customer requirements, technology, development, production, quality, and supply chain management.

A key milestone was the detailed concept phase, where PROSE’s structured approach ensured that requirements management, technical concept development, and prototype conversion were all completed on time and within budget. Our expertise in certification played a crucial role in securing the necessary licences for both Switzerland and Italy, a fundamental step in keeping the project on track.
PROSE also spearheaded the successful funding application (ARPV) to the responsible cantons and the Federal Office of Transport (FOT), securing approval to finance the conversion of the entire fleet of 30 trains.

During the production phase, we worked closely with the SBB production plant to ensure a smooth transition to series conversion. With production successfully underway, PROSE carefully handed over the project to SBB, ensuring continued progress and a reliable future for the TILO fleet.

Customer benefit

With PROSE as a partner, the customer benefits from comprehensive expertise in the areas of project management, stakeholder management, project planning, change management and cost control. An entrepreneurial approach, sound technical knowledge, but also knowledge of SBB processes and organisation are essential for successful project implementation.

Beyond technical know-how, our understanding of SBB’s processes and organisation was a key factor in keeping the project on track. By working with PROSE, the customer was able to bridge resource gaps, tap into our extensive railway industry network, and benefit from independent, expert advice that led to a successful project outcome.

 

    

AI-based tram rail lubrication system showing data acquisition from acoustics and GPS, fleet swarm intelligence, and predictive lubrication decisions.

Noise and wear reduction for trams with AI-based rail head lubrication

Customer: BERNMOBIL, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Project management
  • Concept development
  • System integration
  • Data analysis

Our approach

The operation of a railway vehicle causes noise and wear on wheels and rails. These issues can be reduced by lubricating the wheel-rail contact point. However, excessive lubrication can pose a safety problem, as it reduces traction forces and increases braking distance, potentially causing ecological pollution.

Together with our partners, we have developed a system as part of a research project supported by the Federal Office of Transport (FOT) that makes it possible to condition the rail head as needed. Sensors installed on the vehicle measure status parameters and feed them to an AI installed on the vehicle. The machine learning model analyses the data, determines the need for conditioning and synchronises this with other vehicles operating on the rail network. Based on this information, each vehicle decides for itself at which point in the rail network conditioning must be initiated by the on-board lubrication system.

Customer benefit

In addition to fully automatic lubrication, the customer has access to comprehensive noise monitoring, which allows sources of noise to be localised at an early stage if they have not already been completely eliminated by the system. Since relevant influencing variables are known through the machine learning model, most noise sources can already be detected predictively and avoided altogether.

Communication between the vehicles creates a form of fleet-wide intelligence, enabling complete coverage of the fleet and the entire route network without having to equip each individual vehicle with expensive measurement technology. Thanks to the measuring system installed, other conditions can be monitored in addition to noise, such as ride comfort, wear between wheel and rail, and the infrastructure.

The customer benefits from our deep understanding of wheel–rail interaction and tram system behaviour, as well as our hands-on technical engagement throughout development.

 

   

Illustration of a connected train with C-DAS and ATO trackside platform showing automated train operation, data connectivity and driver advisory system.

Co-leading the Driver Advisory System and trackside platform for Automated Train Operation

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.

 

  

 

info@prose.one

 

Our solutions
© PROSE. All rights reserved
Disclaimer     Privacy Policy