GSS EU Science Funding Gateway

The following R&I areas have been identified as key enablers of the expected outcome. The Project stemming from this topic shall address all the following work streams and is expected to provide all the following:

Workstream 1: Increased adaptability of metros to fluctuations in demand. The project shall deliver a feasibility study, potentially using simulation tools as Proof of Concept to demonstrate to what extent it is possible to increase the adaptability of metros to fluctuations in demand; and how to benefit from new opportunities provided by the trend towards full automation of metro operation (Grade of Operation 4 with no staff on board train), by a better knowledge of customers profiles and travel conditions (expected and actual) thanks to digitalization, by new technologies and by improved coordination with other modes and new mobility services.

Workstream 2: Future of train control. The project shall deliver a feasibility study, including an analysis of the different trends in train control and existing / future technological solutions as well as adefinition of future needs and functional requirements for the different categories of metro systems. The objective is not to focus on one solution with respect to another, but to explore equidistantly the topic from the different point of view like economic, operational, technologic and considering the potential impact on existing systems.

Workstream 3: Advantages and trends brought by AI and data science in metro operation for different types of metros (old/new, large/small, etc.). While their area of relevance is rather associated with large networks, the project shall deliver concepts on the most promising AI and data science implementation applications in metro operation, with a cost-effective approach, in different categories of metro systems (greenfield/brownfield, city or regional, connection with long distance modes…). Relevant aspects like application to operational processes and cybersecurity threat identification and management should also be considered. Preliminary results of this workstream may be considered for Workstream 1 and 2 implementations.

Interactions with other EU-RAIL projects and EU-Missions

The action to be funded under this topic shall:

• Take into account the outputs of linked projects from EU-RAIL Flagship Areas 1, 2 and 3 and work together with them for any potential interfaces.
• Interact with EU-Rail System Pillar for the aspects related to the interface between mainline rail (SERA) and urban mobility systems of which metro is part.
• Explore possible collaboration with cities participating in the EU Mission for Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities.