Carborne ATP Systems Testing

Highlights

For many years, PSA has been involved in the testing of rail signaling solutions critical for railroad safety. These are support activities, since every time the system is updated it is necessary to verify that the operability and functionality of its components were not affected. Thus, we support carborne ATP systems by checking their components for conventional, CBTC, and ETCS systems in rapid transit across the world.

Challenge

Client Challenge

Provide updates, changes, and addition of new elements for carborne ATP systems without compromising safety.

Project Objective

Support the operation of carborne ATP systems after changes to characteristics or components within the system.

Solution

In strict adherence with Cenelec and FRA standards, we have completed over 50 projects on software testing of carborne ATP systems for rapid transit worldwide. After system updates, our team checks whether ATP/ATO still can perform its critical functions, such as:

Overspeed protection
Brake assurance
Signals displaying
Station stopping
Door control
Berthing

To check the required system modules, we mainly utilize unit & regression testing with a white box methodology using VectorCAST tool. This allows us to verify the execution of business logic to ensure the safe movement of the train within the Movement Authority Limits.

PSA carries out all the required procedures to provide a complete view of the system’s functionality – from test cases creation to report delivery and bug fixing. We also create software architecture and test specifications to provide 100% code coverage when necessary.

Our testing activities allow for: