RailPlan to Provide PTC for Metrolink

March 17, 2015

RailPlan Intl. secured a technical services contract with the Southern California Regional Rail Authority and Metrolink’s team developing Positive Train Control (PTC) to provide modifications to the PTC powering system in its fleet of Hyundai Rotem Cab Cars.

“Working with Metrolink and other long-distance and commuter railroads on innovative PTC systems is another way for RailPlan’s diverse and experienced teams to contribute to the overall safety of our nation’s rail system,” said Terry B. Soesbee, president.

In order to ensure consistent behavior of the PTC powering system, RPI will provide modifications to 57 of the 59 Hyundai Rotem Cab Cars in Metrolink’s fleet. Those modifications aim to prevent incomplete software uploads by providing sufficient battery life. Two Metrolink cars already have the modification being used in SCRRA PTC testing.

Because complex onboard software systems are a main component of the PTC system, providing an optimal power source for sufficient download time is vital. With the challenges of managing differing powering systems from divergent fleets, maintaining consistent communications between equipment and Back Office Servers (BOS) must be optimum.