ARCADIS today announced that the companies have signed a cooperation agreement aimed at developing joint projects in the field of rail traffic management (traffic management and train control systems).
The first joint assignment won by the companies involves an architecture study into the new generation of rail traffic systems on behalf of Rail Infrastructure, based in Utrecht, the Netherlands.
In this study, ARCADIS and Logica will compare the platforms and products that are currently used in industries such as the process industry, the utility sector, and the financial sector in order to review their suitability as a basis for rail-related applications. For this purpose, Logica will provide its know-how information and communication technology (ICT), while ARCADIS will apply its extensive knowledge in the field of rail infrastructure. The companies will present the results of their study to Rail Infrastructure in mid-2002.
As a possible follow-up to this study, ARCADIS and Logica can provide Rail Infrastructure with a new interface which links the process control system to the safety system, a linkage which is crucial for a good flow of rail traffic. Currently, some 40 local computer systems perform this operation. These systems, although still effective in guaranteeing continuous and safe traffic flow, are becoming outdated as maintenance becomes more complex and costs are increasing. The new generation of traffic control systems will require less maintenance and will contribute to an improvement of the overall punctuality of train traffic in the Netherlands.
Rolf Müller, manager of Dutch rail activities for ARCADIS, commented about the cooperation: 'This cooperation fits in our strategy to achieve accelerated growth in the infrastructure market. LogicaÂ's ICT know-how is the missing link in offering integrated solutions, and will strengthen our market position in railways.,'
Henk Stout, divisional director Transport & Distribution of Logica, added:
'ARCADIS offers a considerable knowledge base in rail-related projects, including consulting, specification, configuration and testing of train security and traffic control systems. Our international ICT-know-how in mission critical traffic management systems complements this knowledge. From now on we can offer our existing clients services ranging from implementation to maintenance. In addition, we will be able to reach new clients in the rail market that are looking for integrated solutions.'
(source: Arcadis)
