Modeling train control systems with Petri nets-a functional reference-architecture

Control systems for guided traffic primarily have the task to ensure safe but efficient operation. This paper shows an approach to model such systems in two general steps: the analysis of existing systems to define the functional units and the construction of the train control system. To reach the goal of the train control system specific functions are used which can be classified in functions for protection, supervision of operation and optimization. These functions are modeled as abstract functional blocks, independent from the implementation of a specific train control system. By means of these building blocks existing or new train control systems can be modeled, simulated and analyzed. The method presented is a part of the framework BASYSNET which is founded on Petri nets as means of description.