A modular architecture for the entire railway system, which focuses on signalling application on the infrastructural side, is gradually being defined and developed within Reference CCS Architecture (RCA), the European standardisation initiative. This also includes the definition of functions and consideration of safety verification records. Existing standardisations, such as the European Train Control System (ETCS) and standards arising from the EULYNX initiative, are taken into account to link the field elements. SIGNON provides support here in defining the “Advanced Protection System” (APS) signalling core.

The objective of standardisation is to have a generic application as a complete reference in order to implement it in line with specific requirements. The application stages therefore also include automation up to Grade-of-Automation 4. This development also aims to facilitate operations with different vehicle equipment configurations.

Model-based development is undertaken to support definition and development work. This includes to begin with a description of the following basic principles where SIGNON was primarily involved:

• System development processes in compliance with standards (e.g. ISO 15288)
• Methods to implement process activities (e.g. functional vs. object-oriented analysis)
• Architecture frameworks for using project-specific system model views (behaviour, structural, parameter and requirement specification)
• Modelling standards for using modelling languages (e.g. UML/SysML, Capella, Modelica) in modelling tools

The following key benefits arise as a result:

• Improved quality: consistency and unambiguity arising from formalised language
• Customised artefacts: specific model content (e.g. flow diagrams) is extracted
• Shortened time-to-market: tool-based impact assessments, automated verification, simulation
• Lower costs: fewer design iterations required thanks to improved quality and communication and reduced sources of error

The results in RCA are gradually being aligned in parallel with the requirements for the “Sektorinitiative Digitale Schiene Deutschland” (DSD) innovation project and enhanced with additional functions outside of the reference architecture. This means implementation at a national level can also be accelerated based on standardised developments. SIGNON provides support to DB Netz AG here, both in RCA as well as in DSD.

Preparatory work for transforming work within the “System Pillar and “Innovation Pillar” in the new “Europe‘s Rail Joint Undertaking” standardisation programme is being undertaken at the same time based on this support. The aim here is to bring about full standardisation of the railway system with centralised development management.