For over 20 years now, the impeccable safety record of Thales’ Train Protection and Warning System (TPWS) has made it the most reliable and widely used protection system on the UK rail network. The recent release of the new TPWS Mk4 Single Cab version delivers major enhancements, all through a simple, time saving and cost-efficient upgrade.
Today, TPWS must interface with the more advanced European Train Control System (ETCS). It must be able to recognise those lines where ETCS is fitted and take over as the priority safety system where ETCS is not fitted. TPWS Mk4 delivers just this; a protection and warning system with built-in suppression and un-suppression – so it can automatically recognise and adapt depending on the signalling system on the line.
Thales has made other major enhancements too. TPWS Mk4 is easy to fit and run with existing systems in both single and dual cabs. A whole host of additional features ensure that Thales TPWS Mk4 remains the superior go-to solution for train operators, train builders and ROSCOs alike.
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A simple, cost-effective upgradeStraight-forward upgrade of existing Thales TPWS Mk1/Mk3 equipment. No need to change anything underneath the vehicle, or run a first-in-class test, and minimal training of staff on TPWS Mk4. |
More compact system for Single Cab InstallationMk4 Control Unit has been reduced to fit the same footprint as existing Mk1/Mk3 Control Units – the Single Cab Control Unit omits the connector for the second cab to save space. |
No configuration requiredWhen installing or replacing Thales TPWS Mk4 equipment, no reconfiguration is needed, just run the routine proof test and the vehicle is ready to enter service. |
A future-proof solutionUpgrading to Thales TPWS Mk4 paves the way to both ETCS and RBLS. Offering single and dual cab options, Thales TPWS Mk4 delivers a high degree of safety for the digital railway and provides In-Service Testing advocated by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR). |
Advanced on-board spoken self-diagnostics
(Fault diagnostic, fault number etc.) available to the maintainer in the depot.
PC-based diagnostic software
Via a graphical user interface (GUI) assists with fault diagnostics and investigation (at no extra cost).
Choice of interfaces to ETCS
PROFIBUS (to UNISIG standards and the CCS Technical Standards for Interoperability) or via an approved RS-485 serial interface or via discrete I/O.
Integrated solid state cab switching circuitry
For improved reliability when switching between dual cabs.
Support
From a highly experienced technical support team. Comprehensive documentation to support installation designers, maintainers and other users.
Safety and regulation compliant
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Fully certified by Ricardo Certification as ISA and DeBo in accordance with CENELEC process, standards and procedures
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IP54 Ingress protection certified for the control unit
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Designed and tested to EN 50155, EMC tested to EN 50121-3-2 and Radio Equipment Regulations
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Meets Railway Group Standard GERT8075 and Rail Industry Standard RIS-0775-CCS for TPWS
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Fire Safety to EN 45545-2 (Hazard Levels HL2 and HL3)
Spoken announcements
And control panel alerts advise driver of brake demand and advisory actions.
Adjustable overspeed timings
To optimise performance as operators can maintain speed to reap the benefits of the superior braking profiles of modern trains.
ISLA/RBLS-Ready
Combining the Robust Train Positioning System (RTPS) with the Thales TPWS Mk4 Control Unit (single or dual cab), provides a solution ready for both Isolated Speed Limited Authority (ISLA) and Radio Based Limited Supervision (RBLS).
Isolated Speed Limited Authority (ISLA) is a future TPWS development which will provide:
- Line speed supervision
- Temporary Speed Restriction (TSR) and Emergency Speed Restriction (ESR) remote deployment and supervision
- Possession boundary control/supervision
- Controlled/supervised moves through possessions
- User Worked Crossing safety enhancements
Radio Based Limited Supervision (RBLS)
A future development based on core principles of ETCS and TPWS to provide:
- Signal aspect supervision
- Continuous supervision benefits at a fraction of the cost of ETCS
- Relatively quick and low-cost vehicle installation compared to ETCS
- Minimal driver training required, as based on familiar TPWS Control Panel
- Numerous side benefits via RBLS Flex and Flex+