CONNECTA aims at contributing to the S2R’s next generation of TCMS architectures and components with wireless capabilities as well as to the next generation of electronic braking systems. CONNECTA will conduct research into new technological concepts, standard specifications and architectures for train control and monitoring, with specific applications in train-to-ground communications and high safety electronic control of brakes. The specific actions to be undertaken within the scope of CONNECTA contributing to the S2R Multi-Annual Action Plan on TD1.2 and TD1.5 are: · To develop the general specifications of next generation TCMS and to generate the corresponding high level system architecture; · To incorporate wireless technologies to train communication network solutions; · To provide a train-wide communication network for full TCMS support including the replacement of train lines, connecting safety functions up to SIL4 and support of “fail-safe” and “fail-tolerant” principles, to provide an optimal train network for TCMS & OMTS (Onboard Multimedia and Telematic Services) as well as communication mean for non-TCMS functions; · To standardise functional interfaces of functions and sub systems as well as to define a generic functional architecture for the next TCMS generation; · To facilitate the coupling of two or more consists supplied by different manufacturers and which could have different train functions; · To develop a simulation framework in which all subsystems of the train can be simulated, allowing remote and distributed testing including hardware in-the-loop through heterogeneous communication networks; · To achieve a performance improvement in safety relevant braking functions resulting in optimisation of the braking distances in safety braking; · To optimise onboard systems by reducing the number of sophisticated pneumatic components and improving the overall LCC; · To validate non-railway EN standards for use in safety-related railway applications.

The foreseen research activities are expected to contribute to the creation of a framework for an effective railway for freight as a part of the logistical value chain in a more automated way via intelligent equipment and railway terminals enabling the provision of accurate information to end customers and operators. The objective of the FR8RAIL IV project is to further develop technologies relevant for the rail freight sector to reach the goal highlighted in the Shift2Rrail Master Plan. The work is partly based on results achieved in the previous projects of the AWP 2015-2019 (FFL4E, ARCC, FR8RAIL I-III, and FR8HUB). FR8RAIL IV seeks to increase technical readiness of the specific technologies developed through innovation actions up to TRL 7. In the framework of the general challenges highlighted in the S2R Strategic Master Plan, specific challenges consistent with the Annual Work Plan 2020 will be addressed by the FR8RAIL IV project.

The main objective of the FCH2RAIL project is to develop, build, test, demonstrate and homologate a scalable, modular and multi-purpose Fuel Cell Hybrid PowerPack (FCHPP) applicable for different rail applications (multiple unit, mainline and shunting locomotives) also suitable to for retrofit existing electric and diesel trains, to reach TRL7. The project will start with a multi-country, multi railway-use-case analysis in order to derive requirements for the design, implementation and test of the FCHPP. Based on that the FCHPP will be designed and demonstrated in a retrofitted Bi-mode multiple unit that draws electricity from the catenary while operating on electrified sections and uses the FCH system as power source on non-electrified sections supported by an innovative train wide energy management system to minimise the energy and power consumption. In order to improve the energy efficiency of FCH traction systems, innovative on-board solutions are identified and benchmarked. The train demonstrator tests will be carried out cross-border in Portugal and Spain and homologation will be seeked for three EU countries. A systematic screening of H2 and rail related EU-wide normative and standard frameworks concerning gaps related to an EU-wide implementation of FCH Bi-mode trains will be carried out. These activities, closely interconnected to the design, testing and homologation of the FCHPP demonstrator train activities, will result in the proposition of changes to and active involvement in standardization and norming workgroups. An important aim of the FCH2RAIL project is to demonstrate the competitiveness of FCH against diesel trains. Therefore, project related KPI are collected and implemented to a LCC model which is applied to different rail sectors deriving cost reduction potentials. Dissemination will comprise the demonstration of the FCHPP and the train demonstrator complemented by intensive communication and publication activities.