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At its simplest, ATMS is a smart train
management system that can locate and
manage trains on the network allowing them
to travel at closer intervals safely.
Using GPS and special inertial navigation
technology, train drivers can see where they are
on a digital display, where other trains are and
how close they are allowed to get to each other.
Operators in control rooms will be able to see
the whole network under their control and
issue movement authorities electronically to
trains. The system can also reduce the limit of
a train’s movement authority remotely if there
is any risk to safety.
ATMS will replace track-based signalling to
let drivers know whether it is safe for them
to proceed or whether they need to stop
or move to a passing loop for example. It
removes the prospect of human error making
it far safer for track workers, train operators,
passengers and the general public.
It simplifies the current array of conventional
signalling and safe working systems across
ARTC’s nearly 8,500km Interstate and Hunter
Valley networks.
It will not only vastly improve the safety of the
network, but it will transform the rail industry
in Australia by substantially increasing
capacity and avoiding the need to build
additional tracks and sidings. The productivity
benefits of this investment are huge.
The system will also potentially lower costs for
rail operators through reduced fuel consump‑
tion, less wear on wheels and brakes and fewer
train crew hours. For ARTC it means less track‑
side infrastructure maintenance requirements.
ARTC started working on ATMS in 2008 with
partner Lockheed Martin and sub-partner
Ansaldo STS.
A GAME CHANGER FOR FREIGHT
It’s how you imagine a network of freight trains would be managed in the 21st
Century, but the truth is, when the Australian Rail Track Corporation starts rolling out
its Advanced Train Management System (ATMS) between Port Augusta and Tarcoola in
South Australia it will be a first for Australia and up there with the most cutting-edge
systems used anywhere in the world.
