Integration testing of the Object Controller (OC) and the centralised Control Command and Signalling System (CSS) for the Tampere–Pori/Rauma track section began in April at the Rail Training Centre (RTC) in Kouvola. The tests are part of the Digirail project’s progress towards the deployment of the systems.
In the autumn, the Rail Training Centre conducted interface tests to ensure that the different systems exchange data correctly and comply with the defined rules. In the current integration phase, the systems are being integrated to work together via the EULYNX interface.
The purpose of the testing is to ensure that the systems to be procured have been implemented in accordance with the open EULYNX specification and that they communicate bidirectionally using the commands required by the specification.
EULYNX is a European open safety specification aimed at increasing flexibility in the lifecycle management of railway systems. An open interface enables systems to be updated, expanded, and put out to tender without being dependent on a single supplier. This supports cost management and lays the groundwork for more efficient procurement in the future.
Testing is a key part of the implementation project. Tests ensure that the acquired systems meet the requirements and work together as intended.
Extensive collaboration among multiple stakeholders
Several organisations are involved in integration testing. Relesoft is responsible for verifying the functionality of the EULYNX interfaces and for simulating the devices, which enables the testing of larger systems. Mipro is the supplier of the Object Controllers and Siemens is the supplier of the centralised Control Command and Signalling System. WSP serves as the commissioning inspector.
“RTC is an excellent environment for testing. Everything you need is close at hand, and the log data from both systems can be used to verify the flow of messages. “Testing here is significantly more efficient than under field conditions,” says Kimmo Kolehmainen, Head of Commissioning and Measurement Services at WSP.
“The importance of cooperation cannot be overstated.” “Integration requires coordination among several parties, so open and ongoing communication is essential,” Kolehmainen continues.
“The role of the suppliers in testing is to assist with setting up the equipment and to support the testing process.” “If necessary, we will analyse device log data and provide technical expertise,” says Juho Ripatti, Senior Design Engineer at Mipro Oy.
Concrete progress and insights for further development
Testing has proceeded as planned, and the system implementations have been brought into compliance with the EULYNX specifications. At the same time, areas for improvement have been identified, such as the management of configurations and settings files, as well as the design of digital parameters as part of safety device design.
“During testing, valuable insights are gained into how system configurations should be managed.” These findings may have broader implications for safety device projects. “Testing in accordance with the EULYNX specification also supports market development and enables new players to participate in the development of safety solutions,” says Markus Melander, Managing Director of Relesoft.
Digirail is attracting interest around Europe
The progress of the Digirail project is also being monitored internationally.
“Integration testing between different suppliers based on EULYNX has not previously been conducted on this scale.” “We are now gaining valuable experience on how systems based on EULYNX interfaces work in practice,” says Aapo Tiilikainen, Project Manager for the Tampere–Pori/Rauma track section.
The Digirail project is making rail transport in Finland safer, smoother and more efficient. The project is reinventing the outdated train control system and introducing a shared European radio-based train control system across the entire rail network. Digirail will enable safe transport, an improved service level and growth of capacity, and it will create a long-term technical foundation for Finnish railway traffic. The Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency, Fintraffic and the Ministry of Transport and Communications are collaborating in the project with other actors.