Test and Reference Environment for End-to-End System Testing of Digital Signalling and Control Technology
Digital Signalling and Control Technology (dLST) is now being developed by manufacturers in the form of modular digital subsystems equipped with standardised interfaces. Before being deployed in railway operations, these various subsystems must first be integrated into a complete system. Prior to undertaking complex and costly implementation projects in the field, system tests for end-to-end integration can now be carried out through a network of interconnected laboratories.
dLST is based on modular, standardised components with clearly defined interfaces. Despite this standardisation, the integration of the various subsystems presents significant technical and organisational challenges. Experience gained from the Stuttgart Digital Node project has shown that many faults only become apparent when all components interact, potentially leading to considerable project delays. As digital systems also require regular updates, extensive testing outside live railway operations is essential.
To address this need, a connected Test and Reference Environment (TRU) has been established. It links various laboratories and test facilities via the secure railway operational IP network, sbbIP, enabling end-to-end system testing across multiple locations. In addition to DB facilities, manufacturer laboratories and research institutions are also integrated into the environment. This allows different system configurations to be assembled and tested with a high degree of flexibility.
The centrepiece of the environment is the dLST Test Centre in Eschborn. Several technically separate test tracks are available there, allowing components from different manufacturers to be integrated and assessed. The fully configured test track serves as the basis for integration and end-to-end system testing. One of the key advantages of the TRU is its test automation capability. A range of simulators enables the realistic replication of railway operations, allowing functional, interoperability, reliability and performance tests to be carried out efficiently. Automated testing procedures improve the repeatability and traceability of results while reducing errors associated with manual processes.
For field testing, a dedicated facility known as the Digital Railway Test Field in Scheibenberg has been established. Located on a lightly used railway line, it provides several test tracks, GSM-R and FRMCS telecommunications networks, ETCS components and specialised laboratory vehicles. This enables dLST solutions to be tested under real operating conditions. The infrastructure also supports complex research and innovation projects.
Automated laboratory testing is becoming increasingly important for the digitalisation of railway operations. Requirements relating to integration, verification and test quality continue to grow. DB InfraGO will therefore continue to expand the TRU and its qualification processes in order to bring future digital railway applications into service more quickly and efficiently.
