Ensuring integrity: Train control and management
Interview with Martin Krawyciński-Schneider, Senior Project Leader, ALTEN in Germany
ALTEN supports Alstom in a variety of activities focused primarily on train control and management systems (TCMS). These include commissioning of TCMS functions, conducting simulations and integration tests, carrying out signaling and regression testing, delivering test reports, problem analysis, communications support and documentation.
How long has ALTEN been working with Alstom?
For more than a decade, ALTEN experts have been applying their extensive technical know-how to support Alstom’s demanding projects. We work with the Train Control and ATP Integration Department, both domestically and internationally, verifying and validating train control and management systems. Our experts operate directly on the trains at sites in Germany, Sweden and Spain. This geographical distribution enables us to offer flexible and effective services across national borders.
What is ATP?
ATP refers to automatic train protection, a group of systems that monitor the speed of the train to ensure that it is within the parameters allowed. It includes monitoring automatic stops at certain signals and activating emergency braking if needed.
Can you tell us about your current projects and tasks?
We are currently working on state-of-the-art trains. These projects require precise engineering skills and dedicated teamwork. Our core tasks include a variety of activities, primarily focused on the commissioning, validation and verification of the train control and management system (TCMS). Among other things, we commission and test TCMS functions and create detailed reports on them. We do simulations and adapt the results for real trains, making reports on any problems we encounter. We also perform various testing activities.
What is your principal challenge?
The primary challenge in any project is coordinating the collaboration among various departments, both domestically and internationally. Another significant hurdle is managing the limited time slots available for inspections or test runs, during which everything must be flawlessly executed, tested, and documented.
How would you summarize ALTEN’s role?
ALTEN plays a valuable role by supporting Alstom in train control and ATP integration. We’ve contributed to the successful implementation of numerous complex rail projects. Our operations at international locations and our broad spectrum of tasks and projects underline our ability to meet demanding technical requirements in the rail sector, implementing innovative solutions. We look forward to further expanding our cooperation with Alstom and mastering future challenges together.
