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A graphic illustrating train movement in the so-called moving block system. The distance between the vehicles is highlighted graphically." | © DB InfraGO AG, Digitale Schiene Deutschland
Infrastructure project

Moving Block Demonstrator

As part of the European research programme ERJU (R2DATO), DB InfraGO, together with the Digitale Schiene Deutschland sector initiative and international partners, is developing a new train-centric safety logic. The "Moving Block Demonstrator" paves the way for more flexible and efficient train control and, for the first time, enables operation using moving block technology.

The "Moving Block Demonstrator" is an innovation project within the ERJU innovation programme (R2DATO). Its aim is to trial a train-centric safety logic that, among other things, enables operation using moving block principles. At the heart of the project is a novel approach that integrates the functions of the Radio Block Centre (RBC) and the interlocking system into a single, unified system.

Approach

  • The project follows an incremental development methodology:
    The cycle of specification – development – testing is repeated multiple times. A total of five releases are planned, each introducing extended functionality.
    Each release concludes with a demonstration, either in simulation or in a physical test environment.

  • A key milestone was reached in July 2025 with the successful test of the Moving Block Demonstrator at the Digital Rail Test Field in Annaberg-Buchholz. During this test, the system was evaluated under real-world conditions.

Project Objectives

  • Proof of feasibility for the underlying architecture and the concept of a generic safety logic
  • Comparison of train-centric versus block-centric safety logic in terms of operational advantages
  • Verification of compatibility with ETCS-equipped trains
  • Demonstration of the system’s flexibility in using both train-borne and trackside localisation data
  • Demonstration of moving block operation – both in simulation and at the Digital Rail Test Field in the Erzgebirge region

Project Partners

SBB (Swiss Federal Railways)
ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways)
Hitachi Rail (formerly Thales)

Project Duration

November 2022 – May 2026

Not Covered by the Project:

  • Development in accordance with CENELEC/SIL-4 standards
  • Product certification
  • Full functional scope for all operational use cases
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