The terms ERTMS and ETCS are highly related. The ETCS (European Train Control System) is a train control standard which sets requirements to automatic train protection (ATP) equipment installed within the train for supervising train movements and to stop it according to the permitted speed at each line section, along with calculation and supervision of the maximum train speed at all times. Information is received from the wayside ETCS equipment (either balises or a radio block center) depending on the operation level. The driver’s response is continuously monitored, and if necessary the emergency brakes would be taken under control. ERTMS is the abbreviation for European Rail Traffic Management System. ERTMS is the European standard for such an ATP that achieves interoperability throughout Europe. Indeed, it allows a train equipped with an ERTMS onboard device made by any supplier to run on track sections equipped with ERTMS devices made by other suppliers. This also implies the ability for any onboard equipment installed on any train to behave in exactly the same way under the same circumstances. Our ENGIRAMS consultants have built experience in the area of ETCS and ERTMS for achieving new (and modified) systems positively assessed (by Assessment Bodies - AsBo's) and verified (by Notified Bodies - NoBo's) and accepted by the railway authority by:
- developing safety cases showing that a system meets the safety targets set, and
- developing technical files showing that a system complies with the Technical Specifications of Interoperability (TSI).
Rail vehicle certification
To get permission for rail vehicles to operate on the European railways, these must be certified by the railway authorities. In order to receive such permission, the vehicle and its individual components (such as axles, brakes etc.) needs to be proven compliant with the Technical Specifications for Interoperability (TSI) and with national regulation. Our ENGIRAMS consultants have experience in preparing documentation to demonstratie TSI compliancy and CSM-REA based risk analysis for new and modified vehicles.