Enabling automated driving through CBTC

Trainguard MT is a high-performance communications-based train control system which lets operators maximize their network capacity and throughput. Headways from 90 down to 60 seconds are achieved by using the real moving-block principle for train separation based on continuous, bi-directional communication and free-propagation radio.

WiFi and LTE help reduce the hardware in the field, and this contributes to reduced maintenance costs. With future 5G communication, availability and coverage can be significantly improved. And combining both LTE  and 5G offers great scalability for your network.

Trainguard MT allows for different train control levels. In suburban and commuter areas, where the required headways and train intervals are medium, intermittent train control systems can be deployed. In metropolitan areas, where minimal headways and short train intervals are essential, continuous train control with continual communication provides the required performance.

With this offering, Trainguard MT is a highly scalable solution in terms of functions, performance and costs. Trainguard MT also supports extensibility with IP-based wayside units: They can cover more of the line with less hardware, less cabling, and smaller components.

Trainguard MT optimizes lifecycle costs by reducing the number of outdoor elements like wayside components and the number of track vacancy sections to a minimum. Only a few or no lineside signals at all are required.

The highly efficient CBTC system also operates the trains with an energy-optimal driving algorithm. Energy savings of up to 20% can be achieved on every train run. These savings aren’t based on a limited number of fixed profiles, but are enabled by individual adjustments of the speed profile for each train run.

Trainguard MT uses highly integrated, maintenance-free modules. Trackside transponders (Eurobalises) do not need external power supply or battery power and are also maintenance-free.

Trainguard MT can handle trains with different train control equipment at the same time in the same network. This allows for mixed fleets that can be specifically assigned to operate in the city center or in suburban environments, depending on capacity needs and required headways. Trainguard MT as CBTC solution is therefore the optimum choice for mixed-traffic operations.

It's also possible to operate semi-automatic trains with drivers and fully automatic trains without drivers on the same line simultaneously. And Trainguard MT can be used in conjunction with existing train control systems.

Trainguard MT contributes to the sustainability of mass-transit systems themselves. During stabling periods in the depot, the deep-sleep mode allows for hibernation with minimal power consumption. This saves energy and reduces the time the trains need to be connected to traction power. And on every train run, energy savings of up to 20% can be realized. These savings aren't based on a limited number of fixed profiles; rather, they're achieved by individually optimizing every train run's speed profile.