Train Automatic Performance Analysis System
A train fleet represents a significant challenge to cost effective delivery of highly reliable asset performance. Each unit is required to maximize its active in service time, far away from the depot, maintaining near-continuous operation in a harsh environment, remote from the inspection and maintenance teams. Unexpected failure is very costly, as delay to a single train quickly compounds via the knock-on impact to other services.
Many trains active today lack the built-in condition monitoring technology enjoyed by the latest fleets. To address this, Tessella developed the award winning Train Automatic Performance Analysis System (“TAPAS”). The ‘black box recorder’ required by safety laws mean even unsophisticated trains record a minimum level of continuous ‘running data’. TAPAS is a fully automated, data analysis software framework, to turn basic black box data into a rich source of information on train fleet condition and performance. No alchemy is involved, just clever use of available data.
TAPAS runs completely ‘off train’, making it easy to administer and introduce new analysis tools. TAPAS updates condition reports in near-real time, as the black box data is received wirelessly from trains in active service. TAPAS enables adoption of an intelligence led, condition based maintenance programme, a significant improvement on traditional fixed period maintenance intervals that take no account of actual condition. The result is much greater reliability and significantly better use of available maintenance resources.
Operational Performance Optimization
Add in basic GPS location data and TAPAS also tracks every train journey, recording in detail the stopping patterns and identifying where delays occur. Only through operational data at this level of detail can train operators truly optimize the service they deliver to passengers. TAPAS can also provide train operators with a detailed picture of how each train is being driven, within its complex environment of speed restrictions, red lights, platform stopping positions and low wheel adhesion zones. Individualized profiles for each driver are used to drive continuous improvement programmes, where all drivers can aim to match the best, in both safety and energy efficiency. The TAPAS black box data analysis framework allows legacy rolling stock to deliver the safe, efficient, reliable, low carbon transport service expected of the most modern fleets.
Asset Independent Framework
TAPAS is, by design, an asset independent software framework. All of the information is generated from user-defined tools which track and interpret changes in behaviour relative to explicitly measured operational references. No explicit model of absolute asset behaviour is coded into the framework, allowing TAPAS to be easily adapted for use with any asset type.
SwitchView
Tessella have also worked closely with Balfour Beatty Rail Technologies (BBRT) to develop a sophisticated remote condition monitoring system for railway infrastructure, capable of real time performance trend analysis on fixed assets such as rail switch point machines. Click here for a case study (pdf).
To learn more about improving asset management and monitoring click here (pdf).
To learn more about Remote Asset Performance Optimization the approach underlying TAPAS click here.
