Siemens Mobility and ÖBB digitize Austria’s rail network

Siemens Mobility and ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) are collaborating to digitize the Austrian rail network, aiming to enhance the appeal of public transportation. ÖBB intends to double Austria's rail system capacity by 2040 to accommodate rising passenger numbers. A significant step towards this goal has been achieved: The advanced European Train Control System (ETCS) technology, which governs train operations digitally, has been successfully implemented and activated on the 57-kilometer route between Linz and Vöcklabruck. This innovative system manages train spacing, direction, and speed in real-time, enabling increased passenger and freight capacity while ensuring more reliable, punctual, and secure train services.

During a press conference in Linz, Siemens Mobility and ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG introduced a comprehensive framework agreement for long-term collaboration. They also announced the successful deployment of the first segment. This agreement outlines the expansion of the ETCS Level 2 system across Austria's main rail network. Additionally, it involves setting up redundant ETCS Radio Block Centers (RBCs) and the maintenance of these facilities. Over the project's course, 21 RBCs are planned to be installed by 2038, providing fail-safe coverage for Austria's high-level rail network.

Starting in August, ETCS Level 2 operation has commenced on the Linz–Wels–Vöcklabruck and Wels–Haiding line sections, marking the inaugural commissioning under the new framework agreement. The ETCS Radio Block Center for this section is situated in Vienna, overseeing digital monitoring and control of trains operating in Linz.

Dr. Johann Pluy, CEO of ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG, emphasized the significance of efficient railway infrastructure for Austria's climate goals and the pivotal role of digital initiatives like ETCS Level 2 in shaping the railways of the future.

Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rail Infrastructure at Siemens Mobility, expressed pride in partnering with ÖBB to equip Austria's rail network with ETCS Level 2. He highlighted the use of ETCS Radio Block Centers and their innovative software-based DS3 safety platform, which will significantly increase route capacity and elevate Austria's railway system to global modern standards.

ETCS Level 2 involves transmitting data from the ETCS Radio Block Center to trains through GSM-R train radio. Track data balises ascertain train positions and relay route data. The corresponding interlocking system shares track vacancy information and other data with the RBC. This two-way data exchange substantially boosts line throughput, allowing shorter headways and faster speeds, forming the basis for energy-saving autonomous train operations.

ETCS enhances efficiency on lines such as Vienna–Breclav, Vienna–St. Pölten, and Kufstein–Brenner, enabling shorter travel times and increased transportation capacity. The plan is to extend this system to all major and main lines in Austria. The use of the DS3 platform, part of the framework agreement, ensures cost-effectiveness through reduced investment and maintenance expenses.

The DS3 platform, or "Distributed Smart Safe System," developed by Siemens Mobility, underpins safety-critical logic. It facilitates the migration of existing applications like ETCS or interlockings to a high-performance platform based on Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) technology, utilizing multicore architecture and a new communication concept. The DS3 platform optimizes ETCS control centers and enhances flexibility.

The partnership between ÖBB and Siemens Mobility will incorporate the DS3 platform in all RBCs, building on its successful implementation in other projects, including the Achau railway station in Lower Austria. This digitization contributes to cost-effectiveness and increased efficiency for ÖBB.

Source:press.siemens.com