Basic Training Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC)

Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) helps to achieve maximum capacity and brings flexibility in responding to traffic demand whilst maintaining safety requirements.

Basic Training Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC)
Course Level
Type of Course
Method
Requirements

No prerequisites or pre-knowledge necessary

Your benefits 
  • Increase your understanding of CBTC signaling, architecture, components and functions improving your knowledge about the infrastructure needed to implement CBTC
  • Enhance your understanding of different Automatic Train Control (ATC) and Automatic Train Protection (ATP) systems and apply your knowledge about CBTC comparing it with other automated train control systems
  • Gain insights into how to handle challenges in operating CBTC rolling stock on non- CBTC network
  • Learn more about evaluating reliability, costs and benefits of CBTC networks as well as migration and testing
Course content
In modern railway signaling systems Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) can mainly be used in urban railway lines, either for metro or heavy rail systems. CBTC systems are widely accepted worldwide as they help towards achieving maximum capacity, minimum headway and maintaining safety requirements. Modern CBTC systems also allow the incorporation of different levels of the Grades of Automation (GoA).

This online training is made up of various modules covering different aspects of CBTC with practical project references, and Q&A sessions in every module.

Module 1: Motivation and background for CBTC systems
  • Development of urban mobility
    • Urbanization and resulting demands on the transport system
  • Transport capacity of urban transport infrastructures
    • Capacity increase as the result of an overall  system approach
  • Advantages of automated rail transportation systems
    • Increase of transport efficiency and shorter headways
    • Quality improvement
      • Creation of capacity reserves in operation
      • Extension of operating periods (24/7)
    • More flexible use of resources
    • Increased safety
    • Improved economic efficiency
Module 2: System components of automatic train control systems
  • Definition of the key concepts used in automated public transport systems:
    • Automatic Train Control (ATC)
    • Automatic Train Protection (ATP)
    • Automatic Train Operation (ATO)
    • Automatic Train Supervision (ATS)
    • Data communication system
Module 3: Surrounding systems of automatic train control systems
  • Building automation (of station buildings and civil structures)
  • Passenger information
  • Train Interface
  • Infrastructure (engineering structures and track systems)
  • Traction power supply
  • Maintenance
  • Interface to traffic management system (for light rail systems)
Module 4: Grades of automation and main functions
  • Overview of the grades of automation (GoA)
  • Overview of main functions:
    • Main function „protection of  the train movement“
    • Main function „driving the vehicle“
    • Main function „monitoring of distance to go and permissible speed“
    • Main function „fault detection and fault management“
Module 5: Operating modes and operating mode transitions
  • Components of the driver's cab
    • Display
    • Switches and buttons
  • Operating modes at a glance (including scope of functions associated with them)
    • Operating modes for regular train operations
    • Operating modes for fallback level train operations
  • Operating mode transitions
    • triggering conditions for mode transitions 
    • sample operational scenarios
  • Transition to driving on sight in road traffic
Module 6: Reliability, costs and benefits
  • Safety
  • Availability (including aspects of reliability and maintainability) 
  • Life cycle costing
  • Performance studies (possible headways, robustness of schedules)
Module 7: Migration, testing and implementation
  • Definition of the migration strategy
    • Double fitment of wayside systems
    • Double fitment of onboard systems
  • Preparation of wayside data engineering: as built documentation and survey of track geometry
  • Design of onboard subsystem 
    • Conceptual design (Usecases for operational integration, Mechanical integration, Electrical integration, Clarification of vehicle parameters)
    • Fitment of prototype vehicle
    • Trial runs to determine fitness for purpose of the vehicle
    • Approval of the prototype vehicles
    • Fitment of vehicle fleet and approval of individual trains of a train series
  • Definition of the test strategy and test execution
  • Training of the operating personnel before the start of operation
Next Steps
Once you have successfully completed this course you can go on to certify yourself with our Certification as CBTC Expert.

IMPORTANT NOTICE
DB Rail Academy focuses solely on offering training courses to larger groups from companies. If you and your company are interested in this course, please contact us via email: db-railacademy@db-eco.com so we can plan the next steps with you.