Implementation of the Railway 4.0 concept

The optimal procedure for infrastructure modernisation

  1. Creation of network plans with the exact location of all field elements
    • points, detection devices, crossings, signals… = positions of object controllers
    • radio network base stations
  2. Construction of backbone line infrastructure – optical and power lines
    •  lines must not restrict future infrastructure modifications and upgrades
    • allows routine maintenance and modifications of the infrastructure
  3. Location of external technology elements – installation of object controllers and BTS
    • less demanding in terms of space and costs compared to the current option with centralised control within the train station

solutions for level crossings

  • connection of level crossing interlocking to linear infrastructure
    • no need to connect to the energy network in the area
    • moving the battery backup from the crossing location to more convenient power supply facilities in the train stations
    • connection of detection devices via a fibre optic network – no additional costs for laying wires
  • significant reduction in construction and operating costs  – opportunity to significantly increase security at all level crossings
  • secured level crossing allows increased train speeds – reduced journey times – increased attractiveness of the railway

Power supply

Voltage 400 V DC

  • Reliable
  • Lifetime up to 50 years
  • cost-effective
  • lower required electrical strength of materials
  • smaller equipment
  • sufficient for a distance of up to 7 km between neighbouring substations
    • easy boosting and range extension if needed
  • linear power lines along the entire network
    • availability of a power source for all existing and future added technologies without the need to lay additional lines
  • power supply in stations
      • existing or easily upgradeable connections to the distribution network
      • possibility of double-sided power supply
        • redundancy
        • lower demands on individual power nodes

Uniform interfaces of FIELD elements

  • I/O definitions for individual types of controlled objects (switch, signal, warning device, …)
  • simplification of design and installation
    • configuration of the station by assigning addresses of individual elements in IZZ
  • faster and cheaper modernisation process

Let’s not wait anymore.

  • the defined target for the coverage of the entire railway network by ETCS and GSM-R is set at 2040
    • part of this should be the implementation of the whole Railway 4.0 concept.
  • investment actions of the “heavy” or “medium” repair type are very demanding in terms of time and money
      • it is not realistic to meet the objective of building digital infrastructure only within the mentioned projects
  • construction of line infrastructure for Rail 4.0. is relatively easy to prepare
    • the benefits associated with the introduction of the new signalling method using IZZ can be in many places equal to the benefits resulting from extensive track modifications
    • new technologies are more adaptive
      • further adjustments during major infrastructure interventions will be easier
        • line power and communication connection is available
        • reconfiguration of the track means a simple intervention into the configuration parameters of the area for IZZ

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