CN signs on to Wabtec's new precision dispatch system

Rail News Home Canadian National Railway - CN 6/6/2022 Rail News: Canadian National Railway - CN
After a phased rollout, a total of 37 desks in CN's control center will be utilizing the precision dispatch software. Photo – Wabtec Corp.

Wabtec Corp. today launched its new precision dispatch system with an order from CN.

The precision dispatch deal marks a major step toward network automation for CN and the entire rail industry, Wabtec officials said in a press release.

The software acts as a "command-and-control" system at the heart of railroad operations, said Nalin Jain, president of Wabtec's digital electronics business.

"CN will be able to increase capacity and improve efficiency and safety across its more than 20,000-mile network," Jain said.

The new system is designed to move trains safely and efficiently across the rail network in both signaled and dark territory, as well as provide full visibility of network conditions and monitor all devices in the network.

Precision dispatch analyzes data coming from all rolling stock and wayside device assets and positive train control. With this information, the system provides advanced automation through end-to-end electronic delivery of mandatory directives and automatic implementation of authorities in dark territory.

Wabtec officials expect the system to be operational at CN in late 2023. After a phased rollout, a total of 37 desks in the Class I's control center will be utilizing the software.