Controlguide OCS / TMS

The tracking of individual trains with their train numbers within the network and the provision of information for train locations are prerequisites for centrally operating large rail traffic areas. At all times, Controlguide OCS offers an overview of the current train locations. To do so, it uses the status changes of interlocking elements, such as clear and occupied indications from track vacancy detection equipment, stop and proceed aspects of signals, and point positions. Of course, Controlguide OCS can also use information from other systems (e.g. position indications from state-of-the-art train control systems) for train tracking.

Automatic route-setting requests to the interlocking systems relieve the signal operators of standard actions. Commands are issued on time, as late as possible to prevent tracks or points from being unnecessarily blocked and as early as needed so that unnecessary decelerations or stops are prevented. Controlguide OCS supports various route-setting strategies. It is based on either trip destinations or lines by establishing the route using the train number’s destination code or the timetable with full evaluation of the train number.

All information about current operations is displayed by Controlguide OCS in real-time. Different types of interlockings and train control systems, such as ETCS Level 2, can thus be operated and monitored individually on site or centrally for lines and regions or even for entire networks. Controlguide OCS also offers support in maintaining availability in the event of technical faults in the infrastructure. If the operating rules implemented in the signaling and safety system provide for the by-passing of technical faults, the vital control and display feature of Controlguide OCS ensures maximum safety even in the case of the safety-critical operator actions.

Seasonal timetables set up during timetable construction are used to derive production timetables for operations. These production timetables are then adjusted to actual day-to-day operations. Controlguide OCS can be used to manage and modify these production timetables as with special or emergency timetables for exceptional situations. The subsystems are supplied with up-to-the-minute timetable data during runtime.

Controlguide OCS determines timetable deviations resulting from current operations and indicates them, e.g. as delay minutes or time/distance diagrams. This means that, together with the current train locations, the relevant information is available for manual dispatching.

In the event of any scheduled operational restrictions, local staff can use mobile terminals to request and release track possessions and speed restriction sections. Controlguide OCS ensures that track possessions can only be activated when staff are on site and only released when the maintenance team has safely vacated the location. Controlguide OCS prevents any confusion in setting up and releasing track possessions by correspondence-checking of the planned and actual locations. All measures help to minimize necessary track possession times and provide maximum work safety.

On the basis of current train locations and the original planning specifications, Controlguide OCS uses driving dynamics parameters, topographical line data and timetable data to make reliable train forecasts.

Controlguide OCS calculates suitable solutions for detected conflicts in order to exclude or minimize resulting disruptions, particularly due to forecasts following conflicts. The objective is to restore planned operation as fast as possible.

Controlguide OCS enables continuous improvement of rule-based conflict resolution by adjusting the rules on the basis of the customer’s own operational experience. Changing operating sequences can be mapped by new or adjusted rules. Integrated effectiveness monitoring indicates necessary action in the revision of rules.

Automatic train regulation adjusts running and dwell times or speed profiles in order to compensate any deviations from the timetable both quickly and effectively. Controlguide OCS implements headways relating to stations and directions of travel and line-specific sequence controls for optimum operating sequences without manual intervention.

Controlguide OCS detects conflicts in operating sequences which evolve from current and forecast operations. These conflicts can, for example, be depicted in a time/distance diagram so that the dispatcher is notified in good time of any necessary action.

Optimization-based conflict resolution is applied particularly in extensive, complex networks with different train priorities and highly interlinked train services. An optimum conflict-specific solution is calculated in line with individually defined key performance indicators.