Fully digitalized ATC (Automatic Train Control) system of integrated functions of train-protection and interlocking

This paper describes how an integrated type Automatic Train Control (ATC) system has been developed. An automatic train-protection function and interlocking function are executed on unified hardware of the ATC logic unit on the ground. Integration of hardware makes the interface between conventional ground side ATC logic unit and interlocking device unnecessary and it simplifies the input/output connection among the safety related facilities; and it gives a space margin of a signaling cabin. Fully digitalized two-channel hardware architecture realizes a decrease in the number of electro-magnetic relays and of analog circuits being the bottleneck of reliability and availability of conventional train protection and interlocking facilities. The transmitter/receiver unit is mounted Digital Signal Processor (DSP) chips for the filter function to transfer the train-control signal and the train-detection signal vial the track circuit. The wayside controller controls the field facilities, such as switch-motors and signals without using the electromagnetic relays of the conventional way. Integration and digitalization of hardware also give improvements not only in the reliability and availability but also in the quick response of the train control and route control. The developed system named SAINT (Shinkansen ATC and Interlocking system) is going to be put into service for the Shinkansen networks of the East Japan Railway Company.