Operative tests of a new system for train traffic control

Tomorrow’s train traffic systems requires new strategies and solutions for efficient traintraffic control and utilization of track capacity, especially in traffic systems with a highdegree of deregulated and mixed traffic. There are many different goals associated withthe traffic control tasks and the work of the traffic controllers (dispatchers). Examples aresafety, efficiency of the traffic with regard to timeliness and energy consumption, goodservice and information to passengers and customers etc. Today’s traffic controlsystems and user interfaces do not efficiently support such goals. In earlier research wehave analyzed important aspects of the traffic controller’s tasks, strategies, decisionmaking, use of information and support systems etc. Based on this research we,together with Banverket (Swedish Rail Administration), have designed prototypesystems and interfaces that better can meet future goals and contribute to more optimaluse of infrastructure capacity. These prototype systems have now been developed into afully operational system which has been tested during 6 months, for control of train trafficin a section of the Swedish rail system. The evaluation shows that the system efficientlysupports control tasks and is well accepted by the involved traffic controllers.