Driveability analysis of the european rail transport management system (ERTMS) : A systematic literature review

Train drivers in Sweden had the opportunity to test the new European Rail Transport Management System (ERTMS) during the early implementation of this signaling system in 2011 and 2012. Unfortunately, they have reported many implementation problems. These ERTMS lines have been evaluated as more challenging to drive compared to the previous signaling system. A systematic literature review was conducted to understand what network planning designers typically focus on when analyzing railway driveability and how driveability can be assessed. In the overall picture the impact on driveability originates from both technological, organizational, and train driver aspects. One technological issue found during the investigation is related to the speed profile design. Frequent speed changes were identified as the primary source of negative experiences during driveability evaluations, especially on retrofitted lines. Results also indicate the need for a methodology that includes the driver earlier in the network planning test process, to avoid the costly and time-consuming analysis done after project implementation. The results highlight the importance of the speed profile design to provide good driveability. Cognitive Task Analysis, simulations, and statistical calculations to predict driver and train performance were identified as applicable methods to involve train drivers earlier in the driveability analysis process.Funding Agencies|Virtual Vehicle Research GmbH; InfraSweden 2030Solutions