UK operator Direct Rail Services (DRS) unveiled a suite of what the company calls “state-of-the-art” driver training simulators. The equipment, funded by Network Rail, has been installed at the Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS) rail division’s Carlisle base in the northwest corner of England.
The suite is intended to support driver training for the modern European Train Control System (ETCS). The new facility includes a ‘virtual cab’ simulator alongside several desktop simulators. It allows DRS drivers to practise operating with ETCS and respond to different operational situations without requiring access to the live railway.
Preparing drivers for digital signalling
The simulators are being used as the UK rail network moves towards greater use of digital signalling. For DRS, the facility provides an environment in which drivers can develop familiarity with ETCS before operating under real-world conditions. Training can include different scenarios and operational responses, while avoiding disruption or risk associated with training on the live railway.
“The introduction of these new ETCS training simulators marks a significant milestone for DRS,” said Tony Hewitson, Rail Director at NTS. “This simulator provides a realistic and engaging environment that helps develop competence, confidence and operational readiness while maintaining our unwavering focus on safety.”
A virtual cab and desktop simulators
The Carlisle installation comprises a full ‘virtual cab’ simulator and a number of desktop units. Together, they allow drivers to experience ETCS systems and practise responses to a range of operational circumstances in a controlled setting. The technology also provides opportunities to repeat scenarios and develop decision-making skills, something more difficult to achieve during live railway operations.
“This simulator gives our drivers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with ETCS in a safe and controlled environment,” said Dale Howcroft, DRS ETCS Operations Specialist. “It allows us to recreate a wide range of scenarios and support consistent, high-quality training that will benefit both our people and our customers.”
Network Rail financial support
The simulators were funded by Network Rail as part of the rollout of ETCS. Their installation gives DRS greater scope to train drivers for digital signalling than would be possible through live railway operations alone. The facility forms part of DRS’s wider training and development programme, with the company positioning it as a means of developing the skills required as signalling technology changes across Britain’s railway.