LocoTech-Signal opens new research laboratory in Moscow

LocoTech-Signal has opened a new research laboratory in Moscow, Russia, to test the interlocking system (HMR9) developed by Italian company ECM S.p.A., a subsidiary of Progress Rail, A Caterpillar Company, for application in the Eurasia market. Creation of the laboratory aligns with LocoTech-Signal’s strategy to adapt ECM’s HMR9 computer based interlocking system to the conditions of the 1520 gauge. Customers will be able to implement Ctrl@Lock 400, a modern interlocking system based on ECM’s HMR-9 platform, for railway transportation projects.

In conjunction with wayside equipment used in Eurasia countries, the new research site will focus on testing the interlocking logic software and station configurations developed by LocoTech-Signal on the core operating system of ECM’s HMR9. The system will be adapted to customer standards and requirements, with subsequent testing of the Ctrl@Lock400 integrated application.

In 2021, Ctrl@Lock400 will be introduced at the Mailytogay railway junction, the Kyzylorda signalling and communication station. Supply of the Ctrl@Lock400 system will support modernising signalling systems on railway stations in the Republic of Kazakhstan network.

Through conducting field tests with operating equipment at the facility, the laboratory provides an opportunity to reproduce and investigate abnormal situations in device operations. Additionally, the laboratory will be used to test interfaces on new types of devices and related systems, such as the Ctrl@Track100 microprocessor track circuit system.

Focusing on modern standards and innovative technologies, the laboratory is equipped with a stand for carrying out necessary tests. Based on the application, stand consist of server and network equipment, central processors, object controllers (input/output, switch and signal), power supply equipment, wayside simulators and the subsystem HMI Ctrl@Screen developed by LocoTech-Signal.

“The accumulated experience of LocoTech-Signal specialists in preparing railway systems for operation in the 1520 space, combined with the openness of the HMR9 platform software, make it possible for the Ctrl@ Lock400 to be adapted in a short time,” commented Andrey Romanchikov, Managing Director of TMH JSC and Head of LocoTech-Signal LLC.

“Customers will have the opportunity to choose the most suitable configuration – from fully centralised, to the most decentralised, which is facilitated by the availability of equipment with an extended operating temperature range.”

ECM Managing Director Paolo Covoni added, “We are proud of our cooperation with LocoTech-Signal and believe the research laboratory will be a success for both companies. Combining our state-of-the-art HMR9 system technology with the experience of LocoTech-Signal in delivering railway solutions will provide innovative and effective solutions for customers.”