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Positive Train Control
Author: J
Date: 06-23-2009 - 06:04
Might as well point out that WAMATA has a transponder-based train control system that is designed to prevent such accidents. As this is the early stage of a complex investigation, the public does not yet know whether the system was operable (press reports are that 4 and 6-car trains routinely run in automatic mode while 8-car trains run in manual mode because accurate stopping at platforms (8 cars long) is problematic with computer control.
After Chatsworth Congress mandated positive train control systems be implemented on all passenger trains and trains carrying certain hazardous commodities. NTSB has been calling for widespread implementation of PTC for years. It will be interesting to see their findings in this incident.
Main points:
1) The collision occurred on a system equipped with the safety system;
2) The system is not used for the 8-car trains because it is not precise enough.
I realize that the technology on WAMATA is older but the fact remains that it did not do what it was intended to do. What will we find when Congress' mandate is in place in a few years?
After Chatsworth Congress mandated positive train control systems be implemented on all passenger trains and trains carrying certain hazardous commodities. NTSB has been calling for widespread implementation of PTC for years. It will be interesting to see their findings in this incident.
Main points:
1) The collision occurred on a system equipped with the safety system;
2) The system is not used for the 8-car trains because it is not precise enough.
I realize that the technology on WAMATA is older but the fact remains that it did not do what it was intended to do. What will we find when Congress' mandate is in place in a few years?
