The HTM control center

The Hague, NL - 2023
 
The Hague, Netherlands, 2023 – HTM is the public transport company of and for the Hague region. At HTM Traffic Control one monitors the operation of tram, bus and RandstadRail.  They can see exactly where each vehicle is driving and make adjustments where necessary. For example, consider operating the switches, turning a signal to red or assisting during a calamity. 
 
Highlights:
  • Flexible workplaces
  • System going live in a 24/7 environment 
  • Optimal usage

Works on renewal of the control center

In 2018, HTM made a public call for renewal works of the Traffic Control control center. An important requirement in the tender was that they wanted to have a permanent view of specific sources in a fixed layout. Flexibility in the workplaces was also an important part of HTM’s request, with the aim of easily switching workplaces during the shift. Also called free seating. INTER’s solution came out best.

Flexible workplaces

Five workplaces are equipped at the Traffic Control that run Barco OpSpace. This solution ensures that it is possible to display multiple sources on one screen at a workplace. One fixed layout was developed for this that can be controlled with one mouse and one keyboard, resulting in a clean desk and a better overview. Traffic Control also works on the basis of free seating. This means that the traffic controller at any workplace can pre-program any desired working environment with associated sources.

System going live in a 24/7 environment

The challenge of this project was to install the new system while keeping the current system is running in a live environment. To avoid taking over during peak hours, the project was largely carried out during night hours. After the two systems ran in parallel for a while, the old system was decommissioned.

Optimal usage of workplaces

After completion, a number of HTM employees followed a training course at INTER. In this training, all functionalities of Barco OpSpace are discussed and malfunctions are simulated to see what their best resolution would be. As a result, HTM employees are aware of all the ins and outs of the system, enabling them to make optimal usage of the functionalities.

“The tendering process was intensive and educational. As an account manager, I naturally visit the control center regularly. I am pleased to see that the solution that we devised beforehand is also working well in practice.”
_Bart Groot_
Account Manager, INTER
“I really enjoy seeing a customer come back to us. We supplied the previous system and now we were allowed to come up with and realize a new solution. The new system is more in line with the wishes they currently have.”
_Harry Witlox_
Project Manager, INTER