CBTC (Communication Based Train Control): system and development

CBTC (Communication Based Train Control) systems are known as comprehensive, integrated and intelligent control systems for rail systems including mainline railways, light rails and underground lines in cities. With the development of modern data communication, computer and control techniques, CBTC represents the future direction of rail control systems. At present, CBTC has been used in light rail and underground lines in cities. It has not been implemented in mainline railways for many reasons. In future decades, rail systems will be in rapid development periods throughout the world. CBTC is known as the brain and nerve centre of rail systems, and ensures the safety and efficiency of rail systems. It is necessary for CBTC to be researched and developed further. In Europe, there is the ETCS (European Train Control System). In China, there is the CTCS (Chinese Train Control System). In Northern American and Japan, there are advanced train control systems or moving block systems. However, there is no standard for development and design of CBTC in the world at present. In this paper, efforts are made towards the establishment of a CBTC standard which directs the development and design of CBTC systems. The configuration of CBTC systems is first described. The key technical issues are addressed. The fundamental modular of CBTC and its interface requirements are defined. The transit methods from the present train control systems based on track circuits, transponders and other traditional means to CBTC systems are also put forward.