ATC System with Continuous Speed Profile Requiring Neither Onboard Track Data nor Transponders on Tracks

Abstract

Many types of continuous ATP (automatic train protection) systems, which are called ATC (automatic train control) in Japan, have been used over the years for safe train operations of rapid transit systems in Japan. Generally, ATC systems are classified into three categories: 1) systems with discrete intervention speeds determined by the trackside equipment for multi-step deceleration, 2) similar systems for single-step deceleration, and 3) systems with continuous intervention speeds determined by the onboard equipment. With track profiles stored on onboard equipment and transponders on tracks, the third category offers shorter train headway than the first two categories in exchange for heavier maintenance effort.

As a replacement for older ATC systems in the first two categories, authors propose a new type of ATC system that is classified under a new category with continuous intervention speeds determined by the trackside equipment. It offers shorter train headway than the two categories without track profiles stored on the onboard equipment and transponders on tracks, which are required for the third category. This paper describes the proposed ATC system and evaluates shortening of train headway and traveling time, which will be attained by the proposed system on busy commuter rail lines.