Revolutionizing Railways: Repoint, the Next-Gen Switch Technology inspired by Aviation Systems

Birmingham, United Kingdom (Urban Transport News): In a groundbreaking development, researchers from the University of Birmingham, U.K., have unveiled Repoint, a cutting-edge railway switch technology set to redefine the traditional design that has been in use for over two centuries.

The Innovation Unveiled

Repoint introduces a paradigm shift in railway switch technology. Unlike the conventional design that guides trains through horizontal sliding rails, Repoint utilizes a lift and move mechanism, incorporating a passive lock for secure positioning. What sets it apart is its fault-tolerant nature, ensuring continuous operation even if two of the three control actuators experience failure.

Digital Twin and Simulation

The research team, now spanning the University of Birmingham, Leeds, Loughborough, and Network Rail, has developed a digital twin—a dynamic simulation model. This cutting-edge approach ensures that Repoint not only meets but exceeds speed and performance requirements. The simulation scenarios, including power failure to multiple actuators, demonstrated the robustness of the design, with a single actuator effectively positioning the points.

The Brain Behind Repoint

Professor Roger Dixon, leading the development of Repoint, started the journey at Loughborough University and is now the Professor of Control Systems Engineering at the Birmingham Centre for Railway Research and Education (BRCCE). The project originated in response to a call from the Engineering and Physics Research Council (EPSRC) and the UK Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) to enhance capacity on existing railway lines.

Addressing Limitations

Traditionally, switches contribute significantly to delays, accounting for 18% of delay minutes and 17.5% of delay costs in the UK. Professor Dixon emphasized the need for improvement, stating, "Although switches account for less than 5% of railway track miles, they contribute to 18% of delay minutes, and 17.5% of delay costs in the UK."

Fault-Tolerant Design Inspired by Aviation

The Repoint team collaborated with industry stakeholders to understand the limitations of existing switch technology. A key revelation was the 'single point of failure' embedded in traditional switches. Drawing inspiration from aircraft control systems, the team designed Repoint to remain operational even with the failure of two out of three components.

Future Prospects

Repoint has reached Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4-5, successfully passing tests on a dedicated track. The researchers are now actively seeking partners and funding to progress to the next stage—designing and fully testing the entire Repoint system, including actuators, track infrastructure, and interfaces to signaling.

Paving the Way for Railway Evolution

In conclusion, Repoint stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of innovation in railway technology. With its fault-tolerant design and successful simulations, it not only promises improved efficiency but also addresses the inherent limitations of traditional switches. As the team seeks collaboration and funding for the next phase, Repoint emerges as a beacon guiding the way toward a more resilient and advanced railway system.