Train traffic control system for better passenger service and intelligent railway operation : the widely-decentralized train traffic control system for the Tokyo metropolitan area

A decentralized train traffic control system (DTTCS) consisting of computers at each station to control train traffic has many features, including increased efficiency of station operation, the ability to carry out highly concentrated train operations, the ability for passengers to receive adequate information service, and a step-by-step modular construction which assures high maintainability and expandability. The traffic control system for the Tokyo Metropolitan Area (TCSTA) is a full-fledged widely-decentralized train traffic control system (WDTTCS) to be built on the concept of this decentralized system architecture. It aims to modernize traffic control operations on main business lines in the metropolitan area. TCSTA will cover as many as 300 stations, a coverage far exceeding that of existing traffic control systems. This system will not only modernize traffic control process and traffic control operations at each station but will also systemize the control of train shunting operations and maintenance work on the station yard. For the electronic interlocking device a general-purpose controller is used, ensuring a fail-safe operation which further simplifies equipment maintenance operations such as interlock change