ROLE OF DIGITAL SIMULATION IN CONFIGURING NETWORK PARAMETERS
Rail Marketing doc PTC-Final
1. POSITIVE TRAIN CONTROL (PTC)
JCMB Technology Inc.
195 St-Francois-Xavier, Delson, QC
Phone 450.632.5844 • Fax 450.632.3207
Positive Train Control (PTC) requires accurate GIS data (tracks, features, and clearance points) modeled
according to PTC specifications. JCMB Technology was involved in the rail network data enrichment
process for Canadian National Railway a Class I railroad and was requested to assist their GIS
department to increase the location precision of their tracks and track features, as well as, the
accuracy of the related attribute data. Multiple sources of data were provided with a source priority
list to assure the most precise and up to date information.
Rail network track adjustment or capture requires tracks to be perfectly positioned. Equipment is then
aligned perpendicular to the track using an orthophoto base map. Every subdivision is enriched to the
level of accuracy required by the Federal Railway Administration’s (FRA) PTC implementation standards.
There are many steps required to assure track and feature accuracy. Below are some of the tasks JCMB
Technology performed in assuring the required level of accuracy of track and feature location for PTC
implementation.
GIS activities performed for Positive Train Control Implementation:
Validated feature existence and location using the field survey for each PTC subdivision
Track and wayside features accuracy requirements met using:
1. High accuracy ortho-imagery
2. High resolution oblique imagery
3. LIDAR data
The maximum permissible speed & permanent speed limits initial capture
Method of operations initial capture
Method of operations adjustment
Validated and integrated multiple source data
Rail network track adjustment and capture to track center
The central assets repository relationship and calibration nodes for each milepost
Intermediate milepost values (references) for track side features (panels, bungalows, etc.)
Insulated joints and their central assets repository relationship
Train control signs in PTC territory mark limits and method of operation
2. POSITIVE TRAIN CONTROL (PTC)
JCMB Technology Inc.
195 St-Francois-Xavier, Delson, QC
Phone 450.632.5844 • Fax 450.632.3207
The FRA requires all rail traffic running through high volume/ risk subdivisions in the US to be
compliant with the PTC implementation standards. JCMB Technology has worked very closely with our
clients both onsite and via remote desktop to assure constant contact and seamless integration of their
GIS data in the effort to eliminate any possibility of error for this high level project.
JCMB Technology are hands’ on data specialists with experienced GIS technicians and developers. We
cater to the needs of our clients in providing solutions tailored to their needs. There are no problems
too big or small for our team.
If you require full enrichment or are in need of data specialists to pinpoint anomalies within your
database, JCMB Technology has over 20 years experience in providing quality data, and would take
great pleasure in assisting you.
For more Information please call 450-632-5844 ext. 237 or email john.gauthier@jcmb.com
Central assets relationship class for speed limit signage
Relationship tables link different track segments to form one route between subdivisions
Correction of turnout identification and missed or inaccurately captured switches
Derails need to be enriched for PTC Implementation
Densification and elevation attributes are linked to data prior to QC process and delivery
Linear Reference System (LRS) datum refresh
A QA/QC acceptance criterion requires visually verifying all track and feature locations as
well as the maximum permissible speed & permanent speed limits and track rules associated
with them
Automated scripts and manual attribution of the Train Management Dispatching system
(TMDS) track names
Normal and reverse clearance points reporting
Device identification and attribute matching for PTC integration