Abstract
Virtual Coupling adds to Automatic Train Control (ATC) systems the further functionality of being able to virtually connect two or more trains, so drastically reducing their headways and increasing line capacity. For this reason it is considered among the most relevant innovations to be researched within the European Horizon 2020 Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking. Indeed, Virtual Coupling also introduces some critical issues related to potential hazards as well as strict requirements on tolerated latency associated to the channels used for train-to-trackside and train-to-train communications. In this paper, we introduce Virtual Coupling in the context of a standard ATC, that is ERTMS/ETCS. Considering a reference ATC simplifies the discussion about implementation and performance issues. We will provide some preliminary hints, models and results and draw conclusions about required safety analyses and future developments.
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