KeTech creates and introduces situationally aware C-DAS

Full ETCS implementation will take many years to completely deploy, however, KeTech prides itself on forward-thinking and driving innovation in the rail industry. Punctuality and energy efficiency are key issues within the rail industry and, recognising this, KeTech has created a full Connected Driver Advisory System (C-DAS), utilising signalling and other data sources in order to provide a bespoke solution, with rail industry experts describing KeTech’s C-DAS as an important game-changer for the industry.

C-DAS: taking things a step further

A Driver Advisory System (DAS) is an on‑board processor-based system that provides a driver with information to achieve the timetable sustainably. A C-DAS takes things a step further by providing an enhanced communications link, to truly deliver real‑time information. KeTech has experienced industry‑expert designers and engineers and, as a result, has proven experience in the design and delivery of real-time railway systems linked to operational signalling equipment. To date, KeTech has real-time information systems deployed with over 50 per cent of UK train operating companies (TOCs). All these systems work reliably in the harsh EMC and challenging environmental envelopes. KeTech is, therefore, ideally placed to design a reliable, user-friendly C-DAS system.

KeTech’s C-DAS intelligently manages communications connectivity and is able to fall back gracefully to DAS mode in the event of comms loss. It is the first, and only, situationally aware system capable of dynamically informing train drivers of critical changes on the route ahead of a train. The user-friendly DMI display presents important and useful information, such as route position, optimal speed, and coasting. Any significant events on the track will automatically be interpreted into driving advice and passed on to the driver in real-time. If the train is behind time, and the line and train speed limits are capable of a higher speed, then this will be advised to a driver. Or, if the train is running early, a more efficient speed profile can be advised, both to save energy and any wear and tear of the train. This is complemented by a suite of reporting facilities.

KeTech’s C-DAS has the capability to be completely connected to the whole rail network. KeTech’s C-DAS does not just rely on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers, but has access to many other sources of positional information, including signalling data and the train management system (TMS) – a train-borne distributed control information system, which uses data such as wheel rotation counting to ensure a reliable and accurate location information feed. KeTech’s C-DAS uses signalling data to identify when a train has changed from its planned route and reforecasts the revised route that the train will be taking, adjusting the route profile automatically.

Flexible and adaptable to deliver improved performance

KeTech’s C-DAS can be provided as a software or mixed technology solution, as the system is flexible and can be adapted. It is easy to operate and interpret, giving drivers peace of mind throughout their journey, while providing a better, smoother journey for customers. A true C-DAS is here, now, delivering results as we speak.