Digitalization
to Optimize Rail Operations
With the need for rail lines to adhere to
safety standards and keeping agencies
running on time; how can data make the
process more eff ective?
By Maile Bucher
R
AILWAYS IN THE UNITed
States are utilizing
developing technologies
within the digitization
of their systems. Th e addition
of technology offers
increased effi ciency,
making it easier for agencies
to operate at a higher level.
Agencies across the country are
incorporating a number of different
types of technology within
the system, including;
• Signaling
• Th e Internet of Th ings (IoT)
• Cyber security
• Predictive maintenance and asset
management
• Passenger amenities
Th e Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid
Transit Authority (MARTA) has
implemented the use of technology
to increase security systems on its
routes, provide passenger information
and alerts.
Signaling
With the Positive Train Control
(PTC) deadline approaching,
signaling is one of the prominent
areas in which to digitalize
a transit network.
“MARTA is one of the few
properties in the U.S. which has
been using automatic train control
(ATC) since rail transit service began
in 1979. Th is system exceeds
the requirements of PTC,” said
David Springstead, assistant general
manager of Capital Programs
& Development.
Springstead highlighted the
key functions of MARTA’s PTC:
• Automatic Train Operations
(ATO): Regulates train start/
stop and speeds
• Automatic Line Supervision
(ALS): Regulates dispatch, routes
and communication
• Automatic Train Protection
(ATP): Enforces safe operation
through speed control
and train separation
System, asset
management
To keep a network effectively
digitalized, an
agency needs to have a
strong infrastructural
support system. Facilities
for operations, safety
operators and maintenance
connect the
network and ensures
that it runs effi ciently.
“MARTA recently
commissioned a new
state-of-the-art Integrated
Operations
TECHNOLOGY HAS brought many benefits to MARTA’s rail lines.
22 | Mass Transit | MassTransitmag.com | DECEMBER 2018/JANUARY 2019
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