On October 2, CASCO, in joint effort with Shentong Metro, succeeded in Mainline 3 trains coupling and uncoupling experiment on Shanghai Metro Line 16. Under these circumstances, trains can operate automatically in the ATO mode, which was the first of its kind in domestic urban rail transit.

Compared with the traditional train coupling modes, the "3+3+3" trains coupling and uncoupling experiment achieved many improvements. The automation of trains coupling and uncoupling on the mainline railway has been greatly improved, with the vehicle coupling and system reconfiguration all achieved automatically in absence of manual operation. The trains can be composed more flexibly at different hours throughout a day as per the passenger flow. The smart adjustment of train composition can significantly improve the transport capacity and control the trains' load factor during peak hours and normal hours, which is of greater values in energy conservation and emission reduction; the reduction of vehicle mileage is expected to extend the the overhaul cycle of trains to help operation companies to further reduce its operation costs.

Schematic Diagram of Mainline 3 trains’ coupling and uncoupling

The experiment marks the innovative "3+3+3" coupling mode developed by CASCO, which is of great significance for the further development of the cutting-edge technologies in the industry. CASCO, which has been leading the signaling industry of rail transit, will continue to advance its technological innovation and practice to make contributions to the transformation and upgrading of the industry.