Sub Surface Line Control Centre
Metronet
Background
The London metro system is over 100 years old and a network-wide upgrading programme is underway. This programme includes signalling systems of which this ‘SSL' control room project is a vital component.
Project
Metronet seconded a CCD team into the project to develop the concept design for the Service Control Centre for the sub-surface lines.
Implementation
The CCD programme included a detailed investigation of the numbers of staff required to effectively manage the SSL during peak loading, the most appropriate organisational structures during normal and peak loading, the processes that would be involved and the format and scale of the overview displays The programme also identified the overall space that would be required for this new centre.
Proposed operating concepts for the signal control centre were expressed in the form of flowcharts. These processes were then simulated in a purpose-built mock-up in which differing operating procedures, and levels of workload, were tested in real-time.
CCD were responsible for the planning, organisation and running of these simulation trials at the Excel centre in London.
Outcomes
The results of the simulation trials have been used to finalise operating protocols and systems design. The room layouts have been used as inputs to the architectural programme and the planning of the purpose-designed control room building.