In the crucial context of rail safety, the advanced platform system for controlling the dock doors is designed by Eletech, Head of the International Design Centers of Elemaster, R&D division of the Group. This technology meets the stringent SIL3 standards to accurately monitor door openings and ensure passenger safety. This article explores the features, operation and benefits of this innovative solution, highlighting its contribution to improving safety and sustainability in rail transport.
Operation of the Dock Door Control System
The platform door control system, also known as Door Platform – Gap Hazard Detection System, has been developed to ensure the highest level of safety in railway stations. Uses a series of advanced sensors and a dual-channel safety architecture to detect incorrect door openings and ensure that no people are trapped in the space between the platform doors and the train doors.
Main Features
The platform door control system, of which Eletech has developed hardware, software and the mechanical part of the control unit, is characterised by a number of advanced features that make it an ideal solution for railway applications. The main features of the system include:
- Safety level SIL3, compliant with EN 50155, EN 50129 and EN 50128.
- Dual channel security architecture based on STM32 operating in lock-step mode.
- Communication interfaces and dual-channel sensor acquisition logic based on STM32 and CAN bus.
- PC104 processor board for communication via Ethernet interface with the platform management system.
- Power supply 110Vdc
Innovation and Environmental Sustainability
Eletech has developed this system with a strong commitment to innovation and environmental sustainability. The dual-channel architecture and the use of advanced technologies such as STM32 and CAN bus ensure a high level of safety and optimized operational efficiency.
The design of the system has followed the Ecodesign guidelines, allowing easy maintenance and updating, extending the life cycle of the product and minimizing electronic waste.
This approach is part of the Elemaster philosophy to create durable and upgradable devices that contribute to environmental sustainability.
System Design and Security
The design process of the dock door control system has followed strict safety standards. The hardware design was carried out in accordance with EN 50129 SIL3, while the software design followed EN 50128 SIL3 guidelines. FMEA and FTA analyses have been carried out to identify and mitigate potential risks. In addition, the software has been subjected to rigorous testing including static analysis, unit test, code coverage and HIL development to perform all the software testing tasks in simulated environment.
Test and Verification
The developed dock door control system has been rigorously tested to ensure its reliability and compliance with safety standards. The test and verification phase is crucial to ensure that each component of the system functions properly and responds adequately to the intended operating conditions. Among the many tests carried out, we can list:
- Static analysis of the software: this test is performed to detect any defects in the code, ensuring that it is error-free and conforms to design specifications.
- Unit Test: These tests verify the functionality of individual software modules, ensuring that each unit operates correctly independently.
- Code Coverage: This process ensures that all parts of the code have been tested, preventing sections of the software from remaining unverified.
- HIL (Hardware in the Loop) development: This test system supports the overall verification activities of the software, simulating real-world operating conditions to ensure that the device responds adequately under all usage conditions.
Advanced Rail Safety Solution
The platform door control system represents a significant step forward in rail safety and innovation. Thanks to its advanced architecture and SIL3 safety standards, it offers a reliable and sustainable solution for modern railway stations. Eletech continues to demonstrate its commitment to eco-sustainability and innovation, developing technological solutions that not only improve safety but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.