Finland is making significant strides in modernising its railway operations through the innovative Digirail project, which aims to establish a unified European radio-based train control system across the entire Finnish rail network. This ambitious initiative involves collaboration among various experts and companies, notably Mipro Oy and Frauscher Sensor Technology, which are supplying EULYNX-compliant object controllers for point control and train detection.
The Digirail project is focused on enhancing the safety, efficiency, and reliability of railway operations nationwide. One of the project's foundational goals is to standardise interfaces within digital railway operations, which is vital for leveraging the latest technological advancements. EULYNX, a standard designed for interoperability, is instrumental in this regard, enabling the integration of innovative object controllers from specialised manufacturers. These controllers facilitate secure connections between trackside infrastructure—such as points and track signals—and the Central Safety System (CSS), even over open networks.
As part of the Digirail initiative, the 190-kilometre-long Lielahti-Rauma/Pori line is being equipped with advanced technologies as part of what is referred to as the ‘EKA project’. An agreement has been reached between Frauscher Sensor Technology and Mipro Oy to provide two object controllers for this endeavour. The delivery includes the newly developed FAdP Point Control, which is designed for the control and monitoring of point machines, as well as a train detection system (TDS) based on the established Frauscher Advanced Counter (FAdC®).
Juha Lehtola, Project Manager at the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency, highlighted the project's significance: “With the Digirail project, we are entering a new territory. The control and security system has been divided into interlocking and field elements for the first time.” He noted that the partnership with Siemens for the centralised safety system and the collaboration with Mipro to supply object controllers represents a pioneering effort in Europe to test the EULYNX interface's functionality.
Michael Thiel, CEO of Frauscher Sensor Technology, emphasised the company’s commitment to enhancing its portfolio with future-proof solutions for the rail sector. He stated, “The experience gained from the Digirail project will contribute significantly to the modernisation of European rail networks.” Thiel also noted that the standardisation initiatives, like EULYNX, foster innovation and reduce lifecycle costs across the industry.
Mipro’s Business Unit Director, Jari Pylvänen, expressed the importance of the object controller system contract for his company, stating, “Collaborating with our partner Frauscher Sensor Technology to deliver future-proof object controllers in a commercial project is a huge milestone for our company.” He remarked on the significance of this collaboration as a step towards implementing the European Train Control System (ETCS) architecture in Finland.
The FAdP Point Control offered by Frauscher is equipped with various features vital for the Digirail project's requirements. This EULYNX-compliant object controller allows for efficient control of point machines while integrating condition monitoring capabilities, including motor current, voltage, power measurements, and comprehensive diagnostic data. These functionalities are embedded within the Point Control Unit (PCU), allowing easy access to data through Frauscher Insights or the operator's diagnostic tools via the SDI interface.
The Digirail project not only stands out for its technological implications but also for its role in positioning Finland as a leader in the European railway landscape, thereby contributing to the safety and efficiency of railway operations across the continent.
Source: Noah Wire Services