Conducting a feasibility study for fully automated shunting operations
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.
