Table 2 Qualitative requirements for VCTS enablers to facilitate basic VCTS operation.
From: Technical feasibility analysis and introduction strategy of the virtually coupled train set concept
Enabler | Qualitative requirement |
|---|---|
Brakes and traction | VCTS should be able to control traction and brakes of all consists |
Modulation of the SIL 4 brake system to manage cooperative braking behaviour, short build-up times | |
Calculation of highly accurate brake characteristics to reduce safety margins due to uncertainties | |
Low adhesion and brake failure management | |
Availability of real-time information of all brake and traction parameters | |
Availability of real-time track data | |
Communications | Communication (T2T and T2G) following RAMS and security principles |
Unique identification of message source and destination, timestamping/sequencing, status monitoring | |
Provision of high information quality and distribution rates in correspondence to the headway | |
Utilization of communication sequence protocols for certain actions/manoeuvres (e.g. coupling and decoupling) | |
Field elements (e. g. balises, switches, level crossings) and their management | Updated functions to allow virtually coupled platoons in single block sections and to pass field elements without interference |
Availability of sufficiently low switching times and status update communication | |
Allowance of VCTS manoeuvres (e.g. de-/coupling via switch) | |
Interoperability with existing signaling systems | VCTS shall be independent of the signalling systems which is active on the utilized network |
The signalling and the connected interlocking and ATP shall not inhibit VCTS operation | |
Bi-directional communication between the VCTS platoon and the trackside system (Strategic Layer, TMS) | |
Platforms and stations | Appropriate handling of increased vehicle and passenger throughput |
Availability of sufficient space for platoons and passengers | |
Traffic management system | Implementation of algorithms and functionality to enable VCTS operation and maneuvers |
Train integrity | Continuous information of train integrity by on-board solutions; immediate and safe response in case of train integrity loss |
Train operation: MO, ATP and ATO | Interface to VCTS to set up a platoon, run diagnostics and maintenance |
Availability of both automated and manual control of the leading consist | |
ATP and ATO compatibility with VCTS via interface or direct implementation | |
Train positioning | Provision of highly accurate relative and absolute distance, speed and acceleration and real-time track-data |
