Project information
- Acronym: FROTCC2
- Future Railway Operations and Traffic Control Center – phase 2
- Sector: Railway System
- Project start date: 01/01/2024
- Duration: 24 months
- Project director: Frédéric Henon
- Project manager: Francisco Cabrera Jeronimo
- Status: ongoing project
- Project code: 2024/RSF/837
Project description
The Railway Operations Traffic Control Centre (ROTCC) has four primary tasks: optimising network capacities in real-time and for future operations, meeting operators’ contractual needs, especially regarding punctuality and energy savings, providing accurate information to passengers and freight customers, and organising maintenance for system resilience during crises and unexpected events. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility, relevance, and implementation of a standardised international model for Railway Control Centres, aligned with digitalisation and ATS and ATO specifications.
Building on the initial FROTCC phase 1 project, which conducted an international and industrial benchmark of railway control centres, phase 2 will develop guidelines and specifications. This phase will use the insights and conclusions from phase 1, along with research and innovative solutions, in collaboration with the European Rail Joint Undertaking (ERJU). The goal is to create a comprehensive framework that enhances the efficiency, reliability, and safety of railway operations.
By standardising the operational and functional aspects of Railway Control Centres, the project aims to improve coordination, information accuracy, and system resilience across the railway network. This will ultimately lead to better service for passengers and freight customers, optimised energy use, and improved crisis management capabilities.
Project objectives
The primary objective of the FROTCC design and architecture is to enhance the railway’s capacity to plan timetables effectively. By optimising performance, the system can efficiently manage train schedules, allocate resources, and minimise delays. This ensures smoother operations and better service for passengers and freight.
Another critical goal is to ensure the safety of the entire railway system. The FROTCC design incorporates safety protocols, monitoring mechanisms, and real-time alerts. By proactively identifying risks and addressing them promptly, the system can prevent accidents, reduce incidents, and enhance overall safety for passengers, crew, and infrastructure.
The FROTCC architecture also focuses on resilience during crisis situations. By establishing robust organisational structures and effective arrangements, the system can respond swiftly to unexpected events. Whether it’s a technical failure, natural disaster, or security threat, the FROTCC ensures that the railway remains operational, minimises disruptions, and safeguards passengers and cargo.
