When the iPad can become a lifesaver
So-called warning apps are now in use on around 5,000 SBB trains. If a train driver ignores a red signal, a warning sign appears on the iPad in a flash.
In Granges-Marnand VD just over two years ago, the "stop" signal in the station was disregarded. At that time, the train driver was killed and several people were injured. Disregarding the red signal should no longer happen in the future. This is because if a train driver sets his train in motion in the station despite a "red light," the app in the driver's cab jumps in. Within seconds, a warning appears on the iPad with a "stop" sign. What's more, an "annoying" tone sounds the alarm.
Today, there are more than 40,000 departures on the SBB rail network that are monitored. Currently, the warning app detects just over 70% of the departures - the target is 90%, according to SBB.
Motion sensor in iPad detects
How does the new system work from a technical point of view? The motion sensor in the iPad detects whether it is moving. In this way, when the train approaches the station, the app checks whether the journey is enabled in the train numbering system. If not, the train driver is alerted to the situation with a message, as mentioned above. In case of doubt, this means the train driver has to take another look.
The warning app in the driver's cab works via the normal Swisscom network. In all SBB stations, there are practically no more radio gaps, says Haller. According to him, the new system's false warnings per day are also less than one percent (approx. 0.6%).
No braking
The warning app has nothing to do with the train control system such as cab signaling with ETCS Level 2 (European Train Control System). The app merely warns and does not intervene in the braking of the locomotive, as Haller emphasizes. He also mentions another limitation: The warning app is only designed for use in the station; it does not work on open track.
The warning app is based on existing systems and is therefore cost-effective, according to SBB officials. They are talking about development costs of 1.2 million francs. (rs)
