TD3.9:
Successful tests in France demonstrated that FACTS have the potential to enhance existing 25 kV 50 Hz systems. RIPFC and SFC enable new topologies, reducing power quality issues. SVC, RPC, and STATCOM balancers address power quality concerns. Upgrading rail power supply with FACTS could boost capacity and improve power management due to interconnected networks. The ongoing ERJU project will build on this work, aiming for a site demonstration by 2030. Additionally, work on introducing process bus technology for control and protection systems in railway power supply has been completed. Tests showed adaptability of 50 Hz merging units to a 16.7 Hz environment. Some existing 50 Hz protection devices partially worked for 16.7 Hz applications, but specific railway requirements need consideration. The process bus application had minimal signal delays or distortions and allowed typical railway protection devices to function within the network. A final trial for approval by DB Energie GmbH will integrate process bus technology into DB's 16.7 Hz railway power supply system.
TD3.10:
The In2Stempo project recognised the need for real-time measurements, standardised measurement structure, and energy data analytics in an open-source ODM platform. This provides user applications for informed energy and asset management decisions. Collaboration with UK and Spain's infrastructure managers led to custom smart metering development using non-intrusive sensors and data loggers for efficient data transfer. High-frequency measurements supported advanced analytics for electric infrastructure health and fault diagnosis. A data management system stored and evaluated smart metering data, aiding user applications. User-friendly dashboards helped users understand energy flows and support asset management. This enhanced energy efficiency, asset life estimation, and preventive maintenance, contributing to a more sustainable railway.
TD3.11:
At Warsaw East station, digital twins with machine learning improved station management's situational awareness. The new OCC could adapt to station environments cost-effectively. Real-world data, simulations, and video analysis within the station's digital twin, with machine learning, enabled dynamic short-term forecasts for overcrowding alerts. This empowered staff to respond to train-related events. In Slovenia, the train passenger occupancy system facilitated faster boarding, optimised communication, and better train capacity planning through real-time train segment occupancy information. These accomplishments in managing passengers and crowds at railway platforms were achieved through practical trials.
All the above results were presented at the biggest industry events (including Shift2Rail (S2R) / Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking (ERJU) Innovation Days, RIA Innovation Conference, WCRR, InnoTrans, TRA, ATEC ITS) and during final dissemination showcase of the project. Project research paper, publications, presentations and relevant videos can be found on the project website.
