Driving rail forward: How Tracsis US supports the future of heavy and light rail

From cross-country services to commuter lines, America’s passenger railroads are evolving to embrace new technology.

Rail operators are supremely aware of the need to provide the most convenient, frictionless passenger experience. The adoption of real-time tracking of train status using apps and feeds has enabled customers to have access to up-to-the-minute arrival and departure information. Planning and scheduling systems are getting increasingly sophisticated, driving strategic decision-making around a slew of predictable and exceptional factors that impact train schedules and on-time performance.

In heavy rail transit (HRT), the adoption of Communication Based Train Control is increasing service capacity within the limitations of a fixed track infrastructure. CBTC utilizes an advanced moving block signaling system which makes it possible for trains to run closer together. However, the roll-out of CBTC has been slow due to the significant capital investment required.

In light rail transit (LRT) and commuter rail, infrastructure upgrades such as the adoption of advanced positive train control (PTC) systems combined with the use of real-time data analytics and predictive maintenance are reducing delays and improving passenger experience. In addition, the adoption of electric and hydrogen-powered trains is cutting emissions and increasing sustainability.

Different modes with different goals

While each mode of passenger rail has its own unique operational challenges and goals, they are all dependent on, and can benefit from, common technology. They all need to be dispatched using a system that interfaces to a field signaling system. The common challenge is finding a technology solution that can adapt to the variations in operating requirements, without having to custom develop each system.

Advances in rail software and automation have led to more agile, configurable platforms which are capable of interfacing with a range of field systems and operating rules.

The Tracsis US solution: configurable technology, tailored support

The Tracsis US Computer Aided Dispatching (CAD) solution is a highly configurable platform, built from a single code base, so it can be applied to all rail transportation modes. Our CAD tool is a user-friendly, scalable platform that supports all common rulesets across North America and which can be seamlessly integrated with other back-office systems. In addition, our CAD solution works with servers located on premises or the cloud for maximum flexibility.

Benefits of the Tracsis US CAD platform include:

• Superior visibility over your rail network 

• Safe and consistent rule set enforcement

• Reduced risk of human error

• More efficient rail operations

• Integrates with advanced real-time planning and scheduling systems

• Ability to integrate with crew management

• Enhanced real-time performance tracking

• Seamless common software updates 

• Easier dispatch from one user-friendly platform

• Unrivalled maintenance and support services – our highly responsive support team resolve issues swiftly.

Tracsis US technology doesn’t just span the track—it supports every piece of the puzzle.

A configurable and flexible platform:

Supporting efficiency and rail safety coast to coast Our CAD platform can flex to support any mode of rail and multiple forms of Positive Train Control (PTC), specifically E-ATC and ITC systems. Tracsis’ dispatching systems are used by short lines, industrial rail, light rail and commuter operations in the US, Mexico, and South America.

For example, RTD (Regional Transportation District) Denver caters to the public transport needs of more than three million people with its light rail, bus, and shuttle services across eight counties. RTD Denver chose our Centralized Traffic Control (CTC) Dispatching system for its light rail operations as it gives dispatchers a full status view via a user-friendly interface of all signals, switches, track circuits and SCADA elements, as well as integrating with information about train schedules and on-time performance.

Read the case study about our work with RTD Denver’s light rail operation.

Looking ahead: Shaping the future of American Rail

For more than 20 years, Tracsis has been a trusted partner for rail innovation, supporting modernization and digital transformation. We are proud of our collaborative partnership model, our industry-leading product-based end-to-end solutions, and our solid track record, built on responsiveness and reliability.

Working with our existing and prospective customers to understand and address their challenges, we are excited to be part of the future of an industry that continues to be a powerhouse for economic growth, mobility and sustainability.

Tracsis US is the leading provider of software-based rail automation solutions. Let’s discuss how we can work together.

Find out more about our Computer Aided Dispatching platform.