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Rolf Dollevoet
Have you ever wondered what it takes to get your train on the right platform at the scheduled time every day?
Journey with us into the world of rail - a complex system that connects people, cities and countries.
Read more
Have you ever wondered what it takes to get your train on the right platform at the scheduled time every day?
Journey with us into the world of rail - a complex system that connects people, cities and countries.
Read more
Have you ever wondered what it takes to get your train on the right platform at the scheduled time every day?
Journey with us into the world of rail - a complex system that connects people, cities and countries.
Railway systems entail much more than a train and a track. They are based on advanced technical and operational solutions, dealing with continuously changing demands for more efficient transport for both passengers and freight every day. Each system consists of many components that must be properly integrated: from trains, tracks, stations, signaling and control systems, through monitoring, maintenance and the impact on cities, landscape and people. This integration is the big challenge and the source of many train delays, inconvenient connections and other issues that impact our society.
This engineering course attempts to tackle those issues by introducing you to a holistic approach to railway systems engineering. You will learn how the system components depend on each other to create a reliable, efficient and state-of-the-art network.
We will address questions such as:
- How do railways work and how did they evolve over time?
- How do different components of the railway system interact?
- What is the effect of railways from an urban, social and economic point of view?
- What can be done to improve the monitoring and maintenance of tracks?
- How are timetables designed in a way that balances passenger demand with the capacity of the railway and is adaptable to handle unexpected disturbances?
- How to prevent and deal with disturbances caused by external factors?
- How does the design of railways influence their performance over time?
A new serious game has been designed for this course to guide you through the process of decision making while building a rail network and maintaining it. Cities have to be connected in an ever-changing setting, dealing with wear, capacity, developments and disturbances. How will your choices affect the performance of the system?
This first ever MOOC on railway systems engineering is delivered by the renowned experts of TU Delft and leading professionals working in the industry. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical examples, with the main objective to maintain a high degree of reliability under predictable and unknown circumstances.
If you want to learn about the science behind the exciting world of railway systems - whether train, metro or tram - this course will set you on the right track!
This course is offered twice a year, usually starting in April and October.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/cfd3qk/railway
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Identify the name and function of the main railway network components
- Evaluate the influence that railways exert on their environment and vice versa
- Explain the different methods of train control and their effect on timetabling and safety
- Understand the effects and the internal and external factors of disturbances on railway operations
- Identify the different methods of dealing with system degradation and the effects of interaction between the components
- Explore the state-of-the-art and future developments of railway systems
- Identify the name and function of the main railway network components
- Evaluate the influence that railways exert on their environment and vice versa
- Explain the different methods of train control and their effect on timetabling and safety
- Understand the effects and the internal and external factors of disturbances on railway operations
- Identify the different methods of dealing with system degradation and the effects of interaction between the components
- Explore the state-of-the-art and future developments of railway systems
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Fully examines railway systems engineering, a topic highly relevant across industries and professions
Covers a wide range of topics pertinent to railway systems engineering, from foundational concepts to cutting-edge technology
Features interactive materials and hands-on labs, providing learners with practical experience in railway systems engineering
Taught by renowned experts and industry professionals, ensuring learners benefit from the latest knowledge and best practices
Offers a comprehensive study of railway systems engineering, suitable for beginners looking to build a solid foundation or intermediate learners seeking to enhance their knowledge
Includes a serious game designed to simulate decision-making in railway network management, providing learners with a unique and engaging learning experience
Literally set up to put learners on the right track to understand railway systems engineering
Save this course
Save Railway Engineering: An Integral Approach to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Railway engineering: in-depth overview
According to students, Railway Engineering: An Integral Approach is interesting and practical. Learners say that this course is a good overview of railway engineering.
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Railway Engineering: An Integral Approach with these
activities:
Complete introductory tutorials on railway systems
Show steps
Get a head start on the course by watching video tutorials that provide an overview of railway systems. This will give you a solid foundation before the course begins.
Show steps
-
Watch a series of introductory videos on railway systems
-
Take notes on the key concepts covered in the videos
-
Complete any quizzes or assignments associated with the tutorials
Organize and review course materials
Show steps
Enhance retention and understanding by organizing and reviewing course materials regularly.
Show steps
-
Create a system for organizing notes, assignments, and readings.
-
Review materials on a regular basis to refresh your memory.
-
Identify areas where you need further clarification or support.
Review basic math
Show steps
This course requires a solid foundation in basic mathematics. Review the basics to ensure you can understand the more advanced concepts covered in this course.
Browse courses on
Mathematics
Show steps
-
Review basic arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
-
Practice solving equations and inequalities
-
Review basic trigonometry (sine, cosine, tangent)
-
Review basic calculus (limits, derivatives, integrals)
Seven other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all ten activities
Participate in online forums and answer questions related to railway systems
Show steps
Deepen your understanding and strengthen your communication skills by actively engaging in discussions and mentoring others.
Show steps
-
Join online forums or discussion groups focused on railway systems.
-
Monitor discussions and identify questions related to course topics.
-
Provide thoughtful and informative answers based on your knowledge.
Participate in a railway systems discussion forum
Show steps
Join the online discussion forum to connect with other learners and discuss the course material. Sharing your thoughts and insights will help you retain information and gain a deeper understanding of the concepts.
Show steps
-
Join the discussion forum for the course
-
Post questions and comments on the discussion topics
-
Respond to the posts of other learners
Read 'Modern Railway Engineering' by Robson
Show steps
Gain insights into railway engineering practices and principles by reviewing a comprehensive reference book.
Show steps
-
Go through relevant chapters related to railway systems.
-
Take notes on key concepts and principles.
-
Apply the knowledge gained to the course materials.
Design a simple railway network
Show steps
Apply the concepts you learn in the course by designing your own railway network. This will help you understand the challenges and trade-offs involved in real-world network design.
Show steps
-
Choose a location for your railway network
-
Determine the demand for railway services in the area
-
Design the layout of your railway network, including tracks, stations, and signaling systems
-
Estimate the cost of building and operating your railway network
-
Present your design to a group of peers for feedback
Attend a railway systems workshop
Show steps
Attend a railway systems workshop to learn from experts in the field. These workshops provide an excellent opportunity to ask questions and gain hands-on experience with railway systems technology.
Show steps
-
Research upcoming railway systems workshops
-
Register for a workshop that interests you
-
Attend the workshop and participate in the activities
-
Take notes on the key concepts covered in the workshop
Develop a presentation on railway signaling systems
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of railway signaling systems by creating a presentation that explains their components and operations.
Show steps
-
Research different types of railway signaling systems.
-
Identify the key components and their functions.
-
Explain the principles of operation and safety mechanisms.
-
Prepare visual aids and examples to illustrate concepts.
-
Present your findings to the class or a group.
Contribute to an open-source railway systems project
Show steps
Put your skills to the test by contributing to an open-source railway systems project. This will allow you to work on real-world problems and learn from other developers in the field.
Show steps
-
Find an open-source railway systems project that interests you
-
Fork the project and make a clone of it on your local computer
-
Make changes to the code and test your changes
-
Create a pull request and submit it to the project maintainers
Complete introductory tutorials on railway systems
Show steps
Get a head start on the course by watching video tutorials that provide an overview of railway systems. This will give you a solid foundation before the course begins.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Watch a series of introductory videos on railway systems
- Take notes on the key concepts covered in the videos
- Complete any quizzes or assignments associated with the tutorials
Organize and review course materials
Show steps
Enhance retention and understanding by organizing and reviewing course materials regularly.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a system for organizing notes, assignments, and readings.
- Review materials on a regular basis to refresh your memory.
- Identify areas where you need further clarification or support.
Review basic math
Show steps
This course requires a solid foundation in basic mathematics. Review the basics to ensure you can understand the more advanced concepts covered in this course.
Browse courses on
Mathematics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review basic arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
- Practice solving equations and inequalities
- Review basic trigonometry (sine, cosine, tangent)
- Review basic calculus (limits, derivatives, integrals)
Seven other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all ten activities
Participate in online forums and answer questions related to railway systems
Show steps
Deepen your understanding and strengthen your communication skills by actively engaging in discussions and mentoring others.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join online forums or discussion groups focused on railway systems.
- Monitor discussions and identify questions related to course topics.
- Provide thoughtful and informative answers based on your knowledge.
Participate in a railway systems discussion forum
Show steps
Join the online discussion forum to connect with other learners and discuss the course material. Sharing your thoughts and insights will help you retain information and gain a deeper understanding of the concepts.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join the discussion forum for the course
- Post questions and comments on the discussion topics
- Respond to the posts of other learners
Read 'Modern Railway Engineering' by Robson
Show steps
Gain insights into railway engineering practices and principles by reviewing a comprehensive reference book.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Go through relevant chapters related to railway systems.
- Take notes on key concepts and principles.
- Apply the knowledge gained to the course materials.
Design a simple railway network
Show steps
Apply the concepts you learn in the course by designing your own railway network. This will help you understand the challenges and trade-offs involved in real-world network design.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a location for your railway network
- Determine the demand for railway services in the area
- Design the layout of your railway network, including tracks, stations, and signaling systems
- Estimate the cost of building and operating your railway network
- Present your design to a group of peers for feedback
Attend a railway systems workshop
Show steps
Attend a railway systems workshop to learn from experts in the field. These workshops provide an excellent opportunity to ask questions and gain hands-on experience with railway systems technology.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research upcoming railway systems workshops
- Register for a workshop that interests you
- Attend the workshop and participate in the activities
- Take notes on the key concepts covered in the workshop
Develop a presentation on railway signaling systems
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of railway signaling systems by creating a presentation that explains their components and operations.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research different types of railway signaling systems.
- Identify the key components and their functions.
- Explain the principles of operation and safety mechanisms.
- Prepare visual aids and examples to illustrate concepts.
- Present your findings to the class or a group.
Contribute to an open-source railway systems project
Show steps
Put your skills to the test by contributing to an open-source railway systems project. This will allow you to work on real-world problems and learn from other developers in the field.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find an open-source railway systems project that interests you
- Fork the project and make a clone of it on your local computer
- Make changes to the code and test your changes
- Create a pull request and submit it to the project maintainers
Career center
Learners who complete Railway Engineering: An Integral Approach will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Railway Engineer
Railway Engineer
Railway Engineers design, construct, and maintain railway systems used for transporting passengers and freight. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the different components of railway systems, their functions, interactions, and impact on the environment. It also covers advanced technical solutions and operational strategies used to ensure reliability, efficiency, and safety in railway operations.
Railway Planner
Railway Planner
Railway Planners develop and manage plans for the construction, operation, and maintenance of railway systems. This course provides a solid foundation in railway systems engineering, enabling planners to make informed decisions on system design, capacity planning, and timetable optimization. It also covers the social, economic, and environmental impacts of railway systems, ensuring that plans are sustainable and align with community needs.
Railway Infrastructure Manager
Railway Infrastructure Manager
Railway Infrastructure Managers oversee the maintenance, repair, and upgrade of railway infrastructure, including tracks, bridges, tunnels, and signaling systems. This course provides in-depth knowledge of railway infrastructure components, their deterioration mechanisms, and the latest techniques for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance. It enables managers to optimize maintenance strategies, ensure safety, and minimize downtime.
Railway Operations Manager
Railway Operations Manager
Railway Operations Managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of railway systems, including train scheduling, crew management, and incident response. This course provides a comprehensive overview of railway operations, covering train control systems, timetable design, and strategies for handling disruptions and delays. It helps managers optimize operations, improve efficiency, and enhance passenger experience.
Railway Safety Manager
Railway Safety Manager
Railway Safety Managers ensure the safety of railway operations and compliance with safety regulations. This course provides a deep understanding of railway safety principles, risk assessment techniques, and accident investigation methodologies. It equips managers with the knowledge and skills to identify and mitigate safety hazards, develop safety management systems, and promote a culture of safety throughout the organization.
Railway Project Manager
Railway Project Manager
Railway Project Managers are responsible for planning, executing, and delivering railway infrastructure and operations projects. This course provides a foundation in project management principles, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. It also covers specific considerations for railway projects, such as technical complexity, environmental impact, and public consultation. Graduates will be well-equipped to lead successful railway projects and deliver on time, within budget, and to the required standards.
Transportation Planner
Transportation Planner
Transportation Planners develop and implement plans for the efficient movement of people and goods. This course provides a broad understanding of transportation systems, including railways, highways, and public transit. It covers topics such as traffic modeling, demand forecasting, and land use planning. Graduates will be able to analyze transportation needs, design solutions, and evaluate the impact of transportation policies and infrastructure projects.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners develop plans and policies for the growth and development of cities and towns. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of urban planning principles, including land use planning, zoning, and transportation planning. It also covers the social, economic, and environmental factors that shape urban development. Graduates will be able to design sustainable and livable communities that meet the needs of residents and businesses.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers design and build infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and railways. This course provides a solid foundation in civil engineering principles, including structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, and project management. Graduates will be able to design and construct safe and efficient railway infrastructure, ensuring the smooth and reliable movement of passengers and freight.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems, including air and water pollution, waste management, and climate change. This course provides a broad understanding of environmental engineering principles, including risk assessment, environmental impact assessment, and sustainable design. Graduates will be able to evaluate the environmental impact of railway systems and develop strategies to minimize their negative effects.
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers design, develop, and integrate complex systems, including railway systems. This course provides a foundation in systems engineering principles, including systems modeling, simulation, and optimization. Graduates will be able to analyze, design, and manage railway systems, ensuring their reliability, efficiency, and safety.
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to identify trends and patterns. This course provides a foundation in data analysis techniques, including statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization. Graduates will be able to analyze railway system data to improve operations, predict demand, and identify potential problems.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. This course provides a foundation in software engineering principles, including object-oriented programming, software design, and testing. Graduates will be able to develop software solutions for railway systems, such as train control systems, passenger information systems, and diagnostic tools.
Project Manager
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, execute, and deliver projects of all sizes and complexities. This course provides a foundation in project management principles, including scope definition, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. Graduates will be able to manage railway infrastructure and operations projects, ensuring their successful completion on time, within budget, and to the required standards.
Consultant
Consultant
Consultants provide expert advice and solutions to clients in various industries. This course provides a broad understanding of business principles, problem-solving techniques, and communication skills. Graduates will be able to provide consulting services to railway companies, helping them improve their operations, optimize their infrastructure, and meet their business objectives.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/cfd3qk/railway
Reading list
We've selected nine books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Railway Engineering: An Integral Approach.
Save
Provides the foundational knowledge required to understand the principles of railway engineering.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of railway engineering. It covers a wide range of topics, including railway planning, railway design, and railway construction. It would be useful for students who want to learn more about this topic.
Offers a comprehensive look at the principles, design, and modeling of railway tracks.
Focuses on the maintenance and engineering of railway infrastructure, with a particular emphasis on trackwork, bridges, and tunnels.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the management of railway operations. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the economics of railways. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the design and construction of railway infrastructure. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the maintenance of railways. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of railways. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about this topic.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/cfd3qk/railway
Share
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Effort
4 to 6 hours per week for 6 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Delft University of Technology
Instructor
Rolf Dollevoet
Sessions
October 16, 2024
- November 27, 2024
April 10, 2024
- May 22, 2024
Language
English
Transcript
English
Good to know
Fully examines railway systems engineering, a topic highly relevant across industries and professions
Covers a wide range of topics pertinent to railway systems engineering, from foundational concepts to cutting-edge technology
Features interactive materials and hands-on labs, providing learners with practical experience in railway systems engineering
Taught by renowned experts and industry professionals, ensuring learners benefit from the latest knowledge and best practices
Offers a comprehensive study of railway systems engineering, suitable for beginners looking to build a solid foundation or intermediate learners seeking to enhance their knowledge
Includes a serious game designed to simulate decision-making in railway network management, providing learners with a unique and engaging learning experience
Literally set up to put learners on the right track to understand railway systems engineering
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