Yapı Merkezi İDİS: Türkiye’s Rail Safety Tech, Award Winner

Yapı Merkezi İDİS Engineering Recognized for Railway Technology Excellence

In a significant recognition of innovation and safety, Yapı Merkezi İDİS Engineering, a subsidiary of Yapı Merkezi, has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Railway Technology Excellence Awards in two key categories: Research & Development and Safety. The awards, powered by GlobalData’s business intelligence, highlight the company’s contributions to advancing railway technology, specifically its pioneering work in automatic train protection (ATP) systems and safety-focused automation. This article delves into the specifics of the company’s winning solutions, the impact of these advancements on urban rail networks in Türkiye, and the broader implications for the railway industry. The awards were presented to Yapi Merkezi İDİS for their commitment to improving the safety and efficiency of railway systems.

Innovations in Urban Rail Safety: The ATP System

Yapı Merkezi İDİS Engineering’s recognition in the Research & Development category stems from its innovative ATP system, engineered specifically for light urban rail networks in Türkiye. As urban rail infrastructure expands rapidly, there is a growing need for adaptable, robust safety systems. The ATP system developed by Yapı Merkezi İDİS addresses this need by drawing on proven concepts from European systems, such as PZB (Punktförmige Zugbeeinflussung), LZB (Linienförmige Zugbeeinflussung), and ZUB (Zugbeeinflussung), while incorporating unique adaptations for local operational demands. For example, the system integrates the intermittent data transmission approach of ZUB, which utilizes trackside balises to communicate critical information such as speed limits and signal aspects. Unlike continuous systems, which require complex infrastructure and constant data flow, the intermittent approach simplifies installation and reduces costs, making it suitable for urban and regional lines. A significant innovation is the use of a novel frequency transmission method, with three distinct frequencies for communication between trackside and onboard units. This enhances reliability, ensuring robust data transfer even in environments with high electromagnetic interference, which is common in urban settings. This adaptable ATP system can be implemented on existing infrastructure with minimal modifications, allowing for upgrades without extensive disruptions.

Enhancing Operational Safety through Automation

The Safety award recognizes Yapı Merkezi İDİS Engineering’s contributions to the critical need for operational safety in dense urban rail environments. The ATP system enforces essential safety parameters, such as speed limits and braking curves, and is designed to prevent accidents and ensure smooth train operations. A central feature of the ATP system is its use of intermittent data transmission via balises, which delivers critical safety information at specific track locations. This targeted approach reduces the risk of signal violations and excessive speeds. The system’s design emphasizes cost-effectiveness and accessibility, making advanced safety features available to a broader range of operators. The ATP system is designed to interface seamlessly with existing interlocking systems via dedicated interface cards, further enhancing operational safety. By focusing on practical, reliable, and scalable safety solutions, Yapı Merkezi İDİS Engineering addresses the operational challenges faced by urban rail operators, promoting the safe and efficient movement of passengers.

Technical Details: Communication and Compliance

The ATP system’s communication architecture is a key differentiator. Employing three distinct frequencies ensures efficient data transmission even in electromagnetically challenging urban environments. The system uses a 100kHz signal from the onboard unit to power the balise, a 50kHz confirmation signal from the balise, and an 850kHz telegram transmission carrying operational data. This frequency configuration, inspired by ZUB, is tailored for local conditions, which results in improved reliability. The ATP system is also designed with modularity and scalability in mind. This flexibility allows operators to upgrade safety capabilities incrementally, with the architecture supporting seamless integration of new lines as networks expand. Yapı Merkezi İDİS Engineering demonstrates a commitment to high standards, ensuring compliance with international standards such as IEC 62290 for Urban Guided Transport Management and Command/Control Systems. The company is also pursuing Safety Integrity Level (SIL) 4 certification. By adhering to these standards, the company ensures its ATP system meets the rigorous safety, reliability, and maintainability requirements expected in modern rail operations. Compliance with railway safety standards, including EN 50126-1, EN 50126-2, and EN 50129, further reinforces the commitment to operational excellence.

Conclusion

Yapı Merkezi İDİS Engineering’s dual awards in the 2025 Railway Technology Excellence Awards underscore the company’s leadership in railway technology. The ATP system represents a significant advancement in urban rail safety, combining innovative engineering with practical, cost-effective solutions. By leveraging intermittent data transmission, a unique frequency communication method, and modular design, the company has created a system that is both robust and adaptable. The awards highlight the importance of investing in advanced safety technologies. The company’s commitment to international standards and its focus on scalability ensure that the ATP system remains relevant as urban rail networks evolve. The success of Yapı Merkezi İDİS Engineering sets a precedent for other companies in the industry, encouraging the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to enhance safety and operational efficiency. This recognition further positions Yapi Merkezi IDIS Engineering as a key player in shaping the future of rail transportation, promoting safer, more reliable, and more sustainable urban rail systems.

Company Summary

Yapı Merkezi İDİS Engineering (IDIS), established in 2012, leverages the experience and expertise of its parent company, Yapı Merkezi, to deliver award-winning solutions to the rail and road transport industries. Focused on innovative, cost-effective projects, YM IDIS combines system engineering knowledge to meet the challenges of both basic railway and road projects. The company provides cutting-edge technological systems and solutions, with deployments in numerous rail signaling and telecommunications projects globally. Headquartered in Istanbul, YM IDIS is committed to revolutionizing rail and road projects with efficient, reliable, and safe solutions, utilizing Turkish engineering and resources.