Montreal Transit Authority (STM)

The purpose of this program is to replace and modernize the STM's initial network's equipment and systems; including: motorized installations (escalators, pumps, vents, etc.); railroad related equipment, operational power, control centre, train operating control system, telecommunications and ticket control systems. The project office is comprised of resources from both the STM and Dessau; its objective was to develop an overall vision so as to strategically plan the various tasks to be performed and then to proceed with the execution phase.  The project team needs to always anticipate future needs, study, develop and realize the various modernization activities, while integrating optimized systems allowing efficiency, reliability of the various systems and equipment, while ensuring a safe environment and efficient communications to STM clients.

Dessau's Automation professionals implemented a new control centre to oversee four subway lines.  The system includes operations management computer system and RTU programmable controllers for equipment supervision and monitoring. 

Users have access to more than 250 multi-purpose work stations located in various areas of the subway, including the main control centre and a back-up control centre.  All systems are connected through a fibre optics network – Ethernet – TCP/IP. The control centre enables, 24/7 comprehensive management of multiple functions, supported by 150000 enquiry points, collected and monitored through telemetry and communications systems : traffic management, communications (radio and telephony); power and ventilation, protection of persons and property (video-monitoring, alarm-intrusion, fire alarm systems); passenger information (public address system and electronic display); equipment supervision and control, including automatic supervision; data exchange with external data processing systems. 

Services provided

• Pre-feasibility study
• Needs assessment
• Project definition
• Design engineering
• Preparation of plans and specifications for tender
• Contract award process

The project will be monitored until 2006 and will include:

• A complete review
• Quality control and approval of successful bidder’s deliverables
• Work supervision
• Commissioning

Unique aspects of this project:

This project was carried out in a multi-project context where specifications for over 40 interfaces were produced with as many existing and future external systems.  The team developed a cutover procedure towards the new centralized control prohibiting breakdown for customer-related services as well as for routine equipment maintenance.