Our research unit conducts interdisciplinary research and development as well as teaching in the field of track-bound transport systems with a strong focus on the holistic consideration of the railway system.

Particular emphasis is currently placed on the following topics:

• Railway operation
• Railway noise
• Human/railway system interaction

In the main subject area of railway operations, we mainly develop operational programmes for local transport companies and railway operators in Austria, taking into account all phases from construction to operation. Among other things, railway operation simulations are carried out with the software products OpenTrack and FBS.

In the field of railway noise research, we deal with the various aspects of the sound caused by rail traffic, starting from pure rolling noise to special forms such as curve squeal or flat spot noise to psychoacoustic effects of sound immissions. For a targeted and efficient application of noise protection measures, a sufficiently accurate prediction of average immissions is essential, which is why we are also working intensively on the modelling and (further) development of noise prediction.

In the area of human/railway system interaction, we are researching a wide range of issues relating to passenger behaviour and needs, as well as the resulting influences on the efficiency of the railway system, with the aim of developing measures for optimised and customer-oriented railway operations. These range from the influence of the interior design of vehicles on passenger changeover times to factors for making regional stations more attractive. Among other things, the simulation software TrainOptimizer, which was co-developed, is used.

From our point of view, strengthening the railway system in all its facets is essential for sustainable mobility.