Train Control and Monitoring System (TCMS)
02 January 2007
Modern, forward-looking I&C systems are increasingly important for rail vehicles. Operators and manufacturers are working according to standards that have long been used in industry. Safety, maintainability and costs are important aspects. The CAN bus meets these requirements.
The CAN bus has been successfully used in the automotive industry for over 15 years and is now also found in I&C systems for rail vehicles. There are two basic systems. Firstly, the vehicle bus connecting the individual technology modules such as air-conditioning control, lighting control and the anti-slip and skid computer. Secondly, the train bus connecting the individual vehicles, such as the locomotive and carriages.
CAN has established itself as the vehicle bus and guarantees a fast data rate and operating reliability. CAN Powerline can be used as a low-cost alternative to the WTB for the train bus in metros, trams and regional trains. Thanks to higher voltage levels, this ensures reliable connections between individual vehicles. A train bus coupler performs the automatic train setup, so additional settings are unnecessary when assembling the train. Using this system, it is easy to make redundant systems that also guarantee excellent operational reliability even if there is a fault. Renowned rail vehicle manufacturers and operators have selected this solution and are using it successfully.
On the occasion of the RAILTEX 2007 in London, Selectron is going to be showing off the I&C system described above. As an innovation, the company is presenting the expansion to the MAS 73x controller family in the form of SIL2-capable modules in accordance with EN 50128 and EN 50129. During its development, particular attention was paid to achieving compact dimensions and a high number of I/O connections. The modules have a robust steel housing and comply with the EN 50155 standard. High-performance processors of the latest generation accomplish a wide range of control tasks such as open and closed-loop control and monitoring of doors, air-conditioning systems, sanitary areas, lighting, anti-spin and anti-skid systems, etc. Both inter-module communication and links to external system are made easy thanks to the open.
