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Tag: Project Management

Project Management – Our solutions

Railway axle handling equipment with a workshop fixture and CAD model of the axle lift and support console

Design and delivery of an axle lift and support console

Customer: Göteborgs Spårvägar, Sweden

Project tasks

  • Requirement capture
  • Engineering design
  • Manufacturing and logistics
  • Delivery within time, budget and quality
  • Training
  • Verification

Our approach

Our engineering team worked closely with the customer to define the functional and safety requirements for the axle lift and support console. Based on these inputs, we created the original design delivered three years ago, providing a stable and safe solution for axle handling.  For the repeat order, we coordinated the detailed design updates and worked with one of our trusted manufacturing partners to produce the second unit. This follow-up delivery allowed us to refine the proven concept with targeted improvements informed by the customer’s operational experience.

Throughout the project, we ensured clear communication, organised the necessary verification steps, and provided training to support safe and consistent use in the workshop.

Customer benefit

​The customer receives a fixture that supports safer and more controlled axle handling in the workshop. The design reduces the risk of axle movement and helps protect personnel and equipment during maintenance activities.
By working with PROSE, the customer benefits from a partner capable of managing the full chain from requirement capture to design, manufacturing coordination, verification, and training. Our independent engineering approach and familiarity with workshop processes ensure that the delivered solution is practical, reliable, and straightforward to integrate.
The decision to procure a second unit confirms that the original solution met the customer’s expectations and that the updated version continues to support their operational needs.

 

 

Virtual representation of a train maintenance hall with roof structure, trains on parallel tracks and a yellow crane arm positioned above the vehicle for maintenance work.

Concept development for maintaining a new fleet in a historic depot

Customer: SBB, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Project management
  • Requirements analysis
  • VR simulation & validation
  • Concept development

Our approach

New vehicle fleets are to be introduced at the service facility in Lucerne, which will require additional roof access, in particular through the use of a crane. At the same time, there is a need for extensive renovation and replacement measures within the depot and its surroundings. Planning these structural modifications is challenging due to monument protection, limited space and ongoing operations.

PROSE analysed the maintenance requirements of the new vehicle fleets in a structured process and developed several infrastructure options. Each variant was systematically developed, evaluated and documented to support transparent decision-making. Acting as interim project manager, PROSE coordinated specialist planners and internal experts and carried out the detailed elaboration of the variants to ensure consistent progress across all areas. We also supported coordination with monument protection authorities and used virtual reality (VR) technology to simulate, test and validate the proposed solutions under realistic conditions.

Customer benefit

Through comprehensive support during the study phase and our expertise in maintenance planning, PROSE created a transparent and objective basis for all further decisions. The customer gained a clear overview of the planning status of all trades as well as coordinated cost and schedule plans. This enabled a smooth handover to the next project phase. The use of virtual reality (VR) technology supported the evaluation and optimisation of the infrastructure variants and helped to identify an optimal solution that met both operational and heritage conservation requirements.

 

   

Project management and remote monitoring for a Proof of Concept SS-149

Customer: SBB, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Project Management
  • Project Planning
  • Solution Architecture
  • Requirements Engineering
  • Sourcing
  • Supervision of the supplier’s Installation, Integration, and Commissioning
  • Data analysis and Reporting

Our approach

​Switzerland, as one of the first ETCS-only countries, required all active fleets to monitor malfunctioning Eurobalises, as per a national requirement (NNTR). With the TSI-2023 release, this NNTR had to be transferred and further developed into Subset–149, Online Monitoring System.

In December 2022, when the draft specification of the Subset–149, Online Monitoring System became available, PROSE was appointed by the rail infrastructure manager of Swiss Federal Railway to develop and conduct a Proof of Concept. The goal was to evaluate the suitability and completeness of the proposed protocol.

PROSE developed the system architecture and related requirements for an online monitoring of the MVB bus in the ETCS Onboard Unit (OBU) manufactured by Siemens and installed in a new Stadler FLIRT EMU owned and operated by Schweizerische Südostbahn. Railnova was identified as a suitable supplier and provided the related solution, both onboard (sniffer and gateway), and wayside. PROSE performed integration engineering as well as authorisation support.

Once the solution was in operation, PROSE closely monitored the wayside infrastructure and analysed the data and feedback to correct and improve the DRAFT Subset-149, contributing directly to its current maturity and reliability.

Customer benefit

With the assignment of PROSE, the customer benefits from the extensive experience of PROSE in the field of on-board signalling, ETCS and online monitoring, both wayside and onboard. PROSE’s combination of technical insight, hands-on experience, and understanding of the market landscape contributed to a solution that was both robust and fit-for-purpose. The customer could rely on PROSE to manage the project without needing to build up internal resources. In addition our independent advisory role ensured a neutral perspective, while maintaining alignment between the various stakeholders involved in the project.

 

  

X61-X62 Delivery Projects last Technical Issues and Deviation Management

Customer: AB Transitio, Sweden

Project tasks

  • Resolve technical issues
  • Manage X61-X62 documentation
  • Support Rolling Stock Managers
  • Handle Regina, Itino, X61-X62, X11-14 deviations
  • Coordinate with stakeholders

Our approach

​As AB Transitio has successfully completed three key projects—X61 Västtrafik, X61 Östgötatrafiken, and X62 Norrtåg—PROSE is tasked with addressing and resolving all remaining technical and documentation issues, problems, and questions. Additionally, we are responsible for managing all deviations across AB Transitio’s six vehicle fleets, including Regina, X11-14, Itino, Coradia X61-X62, OUT, and Dosto ER1, ensuring that each is processed in accordance with AB Transitio’s established routines and policies.

Our approach involves providing the customer with comprehensive solutions to close all remaining technical and documentation issues for the three completed projects—X61 Västtrafik, X61 Östgötatrafiken, and X62 Norrtåg—by December 31, 2024. In addition, we are committed to supporting and enhancing AB Transitio’s deviation management process, ensuring that all deviations are properly addressed and implemented. We will also ensure that any change requests arising from these deviations are accompanied by the necessary information and documentation.

Customer benefit

AB Transitio had the opportunity to benefit from PROSE’s extensive knowledge and experience. By following this approach, the customer will be able to fully close all three projects—X61 Västtrafik, X61 Östgötatrafiken, and X62 Norrtåg—by the end of 2024, achieving 100% project completion. Additionally, they will benefit from an ongoing, quality-driven process that effectively manages all deviations, ensuring consistent and reliable handling of any issues that arise.

 

Validation Maintenace activities- Mälartåg

Customer: AB Transitio, Sweden

Project tasks

  • Validation of the maintenance process

Our approach

Transitio, as the owner, and MTR, as the operator of the Mälartåg trains, are responsible for validating the maintenance processes. This validation serves to complete the maintenance instructions and identify efficiency improvements in the maintenance processes. The train manufacturer Stadler is obliged to fulfil the contractually agreed specifications to ensure that maintenance is carried out to the highest standards.

The validation of the maintenance process is divided into five main phases:

  • Requirements planning and definition: This is where requirements are determined and clearly defined.
  • Definition of specifications and configurations: In this phase, the exact specifications and configurations are determined.
  • Verification: This phase serves to carefully review the previously defined specifications and configurations.
  • Utilisation: After the definition of requirements, design and qualification, which includes testing and commissioning, the utilisation phase follows. During this phase, continuous checks are made to ensure that the validated status is maintained. This is usually the longest phase and aims to ensure that the defined standards are continuously met throughout the entire service life.
  • Decommissioning: The final phase involves the orderly decommissioning of the system while maintaining the documented standards until the end.

The aim of this structured procedure is to maximise efficiency and safety.

Customer benefit

Monitoring the initial qualification of devices and compliance with defined processes during the utilisation phase are essential. This enables effective process verification, which allows potential deviations to be recognised at an early stage. In this way, preventive measures can be taken before deviations occur. This preventive monitoring and early correction make a significant contribution to maintaining the quality and reliability of operational processes.

 

     

Expert Consulting for the SJ High-Speed Train X2000 Upgrade

Customer: Swedish State Railwyas (SJ), Sweden

Project tasks

  • Upgrade of the drive system
  • Updating the Train Control and Monitoring System (TCMS)
  • Coordination and support for the modernisation of the exterior door system
  • Interior refurbishment of the passenger carriages
  • Test and verification

Our approach

​Swedish State Railways (SJ) is launching a comprehensive modernisation programme for its fleet of 36 X2000 passenger trains, which have been in service for over three decades. This extensive project includes a number of important modernisations designed to improve performance, reliability and passenger comfort. The scope of the modernisation includes a complete overhaul of the trains’ propulsion system to increase efficiency and reduce environmental impact. In addition, the Train Control and Monitoring System (TCMS) will be upgraded to the latest railway technology to ensure better operational control and safety. The refurbishment also extends to the exterior doors. In addition, the interior of the passenger coaches will be extensively renovated to provide a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing travelling experience. These improvements are aimed at extending the service life of the trains and adapting them to current technical and ecological standards.

PROSE is playing a central role in the realisation of this ambitious project by consulting SJ and its suppliers with a range of services. Our approach is based on a comprehensive project management strategy that includes project coordination and technical planning. We are also involved in rigorous testing and inspection phases to ensure that all retrofits meet the stringent standards expected in modern passenger rail transport. Our team consists of experienced professionals with in-depth knowledge of railway systems who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the project. By integrating seamlessly with SJ’s operations, we facilitate effective communication and coordination between all stakeholders, proactively address challenges and ensure that project milestones are met efficiently. Our holistic approach ensures that from initial design to final implementation, every aspect of the project is handled with precision and care.

Customer benefit

By entrusting PROSE with this extensive modernisation project, Swedish State Railways (SJ) has gained access to a team of highly experienced experts with a deep understanding of the complexities of modernising outdated train fleets. Our involvement ensures the project runs smoothly and effectively, maximising the potential for on-time and on-budget delivery. Our expertise helps to anticipate potential issues and mitigate risks to ensure that the modernised trains meet current and future rail transport requirements. Immediate benefits for SJ include improved train performance and increased passenger satisfaction. Ultimately, this project supports SJ’s goals of improving operational efficiency and providing a superior travel experience, reinforcing the company’s reputation as a leader in sustainable and innovative rail transport solutions.

 

 

Design and authorisation strategy for a rail-bound maintenance machine

Customer: SCHÖMA, Germany

Project tasks

  • Vehicle authorisation strategy
  • Design assurance (Systems Engineering)
  • Concept development
  • Technical evaluation of offers and technical coordination with suppliers
  • Project management

Our approach

SCHÖMA plans to develop a proven, powered, three-part rail-bound maintenance machine with cab, loading platform and crane called HERO. SCHÖMA needs support in developing the authorisation strategy to fulfil the EN 14033 standards and in defining the design process including verification and validation.

PROSE developed the decision-making basis for the authorisation process enabling a defined combination of the three vehicles of the working machine to be approved and the verifications and evidence according to EN 14033 to be provided. PROSE also supported SCHÖMA in the budget planning phase of the development of the HERO work machine in the evaluation of supplier offers for systems and components such as the power train, braking system, power generation, train protection (ETCS) and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC). In addition, PROSE defined the design phases and the design assurance process according to the systems engineering methodology to ensure a defined and structured design process.

Customer benefit

PROSE has structured and optimised SCHÖMA’s development process by systematically applying the system engineering methodology. This approach has not only minimised development risks associated with costs and timelines but has crucially enhanced the predictability and likelihood of obtaining the necessary authorisation.

 

          

Program Management ATO Sector Program

Customer: BLS Netz AG, Dr. Florian Kappler, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Program Management
  • Project Planning
  • Coordination among all Swiss ATO projects
  • Leading the marketing team to develop and maintain the ATO website
  • Quarterly reporting to the steering board (railway undertakings, infrastructure managers and industry)
  • Coordination with stakeholders, such as the national authority BAV, as well as the industry
  • Supporting specific ATO projects with technical-, operational- and business advisory

Our Approach

In May 2022, the Federal Office of Transport called on the rail sector to align and better coordinate future ATO activities within the Swiss rail sector.

PROSE was commissioned to manage the programme for all Swiss ATO projects. In close cooperation with the ATO core team, PROSE established regular monthly exchanges and jointly identified and developed central cross-cutting topics.

In addition, PROSE also led the communication team and worked with this team to develop and maintain the ATO industry website (https://voev.ch/ato). Furthermore, PROSE initiated an ATO-related conference day that invited and actively involved the industry in ATO developments.

Customer benefit

With PROSE as a partner, the customer benefits from comprehensive expertise in the areas of on-board signalling, ETCS and ATO, both on the line and on the vehicle side. An entrepreneurial approach, in-depth technical knowledge and market knowledge are essential for a successful programme design in the first year.

The customer does not need to develop its own project-specific management resources, as PROSE, as an independent consultant, coordinates the related interests of all project managers.

 

   

Project audit of the implementation of a depot management system

Customer: Verkehrsbetriebe Zürich (VBZ), Switzerland; PSI Transcom GmbH, Germany / Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Project audit
  • External advice
  • Second opinion
  • Mediation

Our Approach

​Verkehrsbetriebe Zürich (VBZ) is procuring a new depot management system (BMS) from PSI Transcom GmbH to control its tram depots and bus garages. PROSE carried out an independent project audit on behalf of both parties. The audit aimed to determine whether the project was being handled by both parties in accordance with the requirements for a project in the public transport sector. In addition, VBZ wanted to clarify the extent to which the supplier’s project organisation ensured qualitative and timely project execution. Furthermore, it should be clarified whether any suboptimal project organisation could result in additional financial expenditure on both sides.

PROSE carried out the audit in a two-stage process. In the first phase, both parties were interviewed on-site in an audit meeting about the key issues identified and their respective views were recorded. In a subsequent joint meeting, the first draft of the audit report, including the recommendations of the PROSE auditors, was used as the basis for an initial review. The second phase was organised by focusing on individual key topics in joint meetings of all three parties. Finally, the findings based on the audit report and the recommendations were discussed and finalised.

Customer benefit

VBZ and PSI benefited from the PROSE auditors’ independent perspective and experience in project management and operational issues. By analysing individual key topics, it was possible to illuminate the respective points of view and highlight the perspectives of both parties. As a result, both parties were able to identify potential for improvement in the collaboration.

 

 

Delivery of four dummy bogies

Project tasks

  • Project management
  • Manufacture

Our Approach

PROSE was commissioned to develop and manufacture four customised dummy bogies for the depot. The main challenge was to design robust bogies suitable for use in the demanding conditions of a workshop environment. These bogies not only need to have a high load capacity but also have to offer flexible adaptability to different vehicle types and maintenance requirements of the depot. The manufacturing process required carefully selecting materials and technologies that ensure long-term durability and resistance to mechanical stresses and environmental influences. In addition, special attention was paid to ergonomics and user-friendliness to ensure the safety of depot employees and increase the efficiency of maintenance processes. The technical specifications were worked out in detail in close cooperation with the customer to ensure that the finished bogies are optimally adapted to the depot’s specific requirements and existing infrastructure.

PROSE tackled this task with a focused approach to quality and functionality. The four dummy-bogies were manufactured under strict quality control and using high-quality materials. Each bogie was carefully designed to meet the specific requirements of the depot, with particular attention paid to durability and ease of maintenance. The noise reduction target of >1dB set at the beginning of the project was successfully achieved with a theoretical analysis.

Customer benefit

​The provision of these four customised dummy-bogies offers the customer considerable advantages. Thanks to the improved reliability and robustness of the bogies, maintenance work can be carried out more efficiently and safely. This leads to a significant reduction in downtime and an increase in operational safety in the depot. The customised bogies, therefore, not only support daily routines but also help to improve the service life and performance of the vehicles maintained in the depot.

 

   

Gearbox investigation on vehicles

Project tasks

  • Project management
  • Create a feasibility study
  • Test proposals based on the preliminary study
  • Evaluation from tests
  • Recommendations

Our Approach

The feasibility study involved testing the sealing proposals recommended by PROSE on two different gearboxes of the vehicle. One gearbox was found to have a minor leakage, while the second gearbox showed similar levels of leakage as before, despite the use of a sealing compound and a regular O-seal. These tests helped to evaluate the effectiveness of the various proposed sealing methods and provided valuable data for the further development of the solutions.

Customer benefit

​Based on the results of the tests, PROSE can now make specific recommendations for further steps. PROSE, therefore, recommends that the next step is to test the X-seal and simultaneously apply two lines of sealant to the motor output shaft. This recommendation is based on the observed performance of the tested seal variants and aims to develop a more robust solution to prevent oil leakage. This strategic approach allows the customer to make targeted adjustments and improvements to resolve the problem in the long term and improve the operational reliability and service life of the gearbox.

 

    

Examination of an updated production process of the SBB bogie revision maintenance site in Basel

Customer: SBB, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Project and stakeholder management
  • Process analysis and documentation
  • Identification and development of proposed solutions

Our Approach

Thanks to PROSE’s existing expertise in the areas of maintenance facilities, railway production and operations, the PROSE experts were able to quickly drive forward the creation of the production concept in consultation with the responsible site manager. The first step was to record the existing production process on site and define the target process for efficient handling of the production volume (technical inspection, wheelset processing). Any problems arising from the necessary changes to the feed process were analysed by the PROSE experts in consultation with the internal departments and solutions were proposed. Finally, the entire processes, systems and production equipment at the site were documented.

Customer benefit

Thanks to the PROSE experts’ existing knowledge, SBB benefited from rapid implementation of the production concept and focussed, solution-oriented processing of the identified problem areas.

 

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