Positive Train Control (PTC)

Providing real-time data that makes trains safer

Siemens Mobility’s Trainguard® Sentinel is a PTC solution that has been proven in industrial, and freight applications around the globe. It provides safe, efficient train control in signaled and unsignaled areas. Trainguard Sentinel can operate as an independent train control system or as an overlay on an existing signaling system. Digitalization of rail infrastructure offers new opportunities for flexibility, effectiveness, and efficiency in PTC applications. By leveraging available data and digital solutions, operators benefit from higher availability and increased levels of automation, safety, and sustainability.

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Product overview Trainguard Sentinel is a highly scalable solution that can be tailored to meet your specific requirements. You’ll benefit from improved safety, enhanced efficiency, better service recovery, and greater reliability. In addition, maintenance becomes more predictable so you can plan for it well in advance. Because set-up, operation and expansion are affordable, Trainguard Sentinel is your answer for smooth, cost-effective operations.

'Trainguard Sentinel' product brochure

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Benefits at a glance

Safety

Zero collision
Derailment prevention
Enforced line speed
Train separation alert
Railroad worker protection

Efficiency and flexibility

Braking algorithm
Process automation
Timetable management
Improved energy efﬁciency
Cost-effective entry
High scalability
Free choice of communications

Reliability

On-time performance
Speed forecast
Reduced maintenance

Cost savings

Lower CAPEX
Lower OPEX
No need for signals/track vacancy devices
Optimized energy consumption

'Positive train control' whitepaper

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Safe and reliable PTC operation

Trainguard Sentinel consists of a primary control module and cab display unit, with an option for a second display unit. Speed and location are determined by an on-board track database, a commercial GPS receiver, and axle tachometers. Trainguard Sentinel provides integrated head- and end-of-train operation. It also uses AAR interoperability standards to create open interfaces to data radios or other locomotive equipment.

1. Control your trains and improve operations

The gateway to Trainguard Sentinel is a standalone on-board unit (OBU). It uses GPS positioning to deliver speed monitoring, a time-optimized speed proﬁle, and a fuel consumption estimate (it uses an odometer sensor to determine location in areas without GPS coverage). You can add optional brake interfaces as well as train integrity monitoring by head-of-train and end-of-train devices that use wireless communication for voice and data.

2. Centralize your control and increase efficiency

By integrating an Operation Control Center (OCC) into your Trainguard Sentinel solution, you can centralize control and increase operational efficiency. The OCC enables movement authority, temporary speed restrictions, and transparent train position and data. It also enables updates and releases of locked areas in case of communications failure. For security purposes, the OCC uses a double conﬁrmation process between the driver and the OCC operator. It is also possible to lock areas or deﬁne reduced speed areas when there is track work.

3. Automate your business to maximize results

Trainguard Sentinel also has an optional operations management solution that allows you to automate other business operations. You can use it to integrate train control into your production and logistics chain so you can better manage your fleet and staff. This helps you reduce costs, minimize inefﬁciencies, and eliminate failures. Trainguard Sentinel can also be configured for tunnels and underground operations.

Three scalable levels

Trainguard Sentinel is a best-in-class and cost-optimized train control solution. The system is scalable in size and scope, assuring the highest operator beneﬁts with the lowest investment costs.