Computer Aided Train Operation - Sweden

Computer Aided Train Operation (CATO) is an ICT system designed to improve railway traffic management and advise train drivers on optimal driving profiles. By using CATO, trains can be run with reduced energy consumption, increased punctuality and infrastructure capacity.

Fast facts:

CATO can reduce energy and fuel consumption by 10-25%;
Globally, CATO can reduce energy consumption by more than 250 telewatt-hours.

The problem

There is an increasing pressure on railways around the world to provide greater capacity, improved service performance and reduced operational costs.

The solution

CATO is an advanced ICT-system, which may be used to reduce energy/fuel consumption of the railways. Track data and operative schedules from various sources are merged in a CATO subsystem at the Traffic Control Centre. The data is transferred to the individual trains by use of radio or satellite communication. The on-board CATO subsystem uses the data to calculate the most eco-efficient speed profile for the train to arrive on time to its locations. This optimization includes data of the train, the propulsion system and running resistance. The optimal speed profile and associated data is displayed on a specific driver machine interface, that is easy for the driver to use and follow. The information is also collected in a back-office monitoring and statistics system.

Helping the planet

CATO reduces the environmental impact of trains in terms of reduced energy/fuel consumption, particle emissions and noise. On environmentally sensitive line sections, unnecessary traction and braking can be suppressed.

Helping people

The beneficiaries of the CATO system are railway operators, infrastructure managers and railway customers. CATO addresses common political goals like sustainability and the role of transport capacity of the railways. The system brings increased traffic capacity to the railway infrastructure, reducing investments for capacity improvements.

Scaling up

CATO can be scaled from the current installations to global implementation. The system has similar positive effects to all types of rail transport systems, ranging from metros to high speed passenger trains and heavy haul freight trains. The same software may be used for all these applications in any country.