DigitalTrains™ – Railway Design Optimisation Made Easy

DigitalTrains™ is a cloud-based software platform for modelling railway infrastructure, rolling stock and subsystems as a fully integrated system. Developed in partnership with Oleo International, it supports early-stage decision-making across light rail, metro, mainline, high-speed and freight projects.

Engineers can create and evaluate virtual rail networks and trains quickly using interactive mapping, built-in libraries and collaborative tools – without the heavy setup typical of traditional simulation software.

Advanced, Trusted Simulation Engines

DigitalTrains™ combines:

  • VAMPIRE Pro for detailed multi-body vehicle dynamics, wheel-rail contact and suspension behaviour
  • Oleo longitudinal dynamics for modelling impacts, coupler forces and train interactions

These validated engines deliver OEM-grade accuracy in a more accessible, shareable format.

Integrated Mapping & Route Creation

Define routes quickly using GPS and online maps—ideal for early project evaluation:

  • Interactive route creation with automatic geometry generation
  • GPS data upload when survey data is unavailable
  • Trace existing rail alignments to build digital twins
  • Add event markers for braking, traction and impact simulations

This removes the need for time-consuming manual geometry entry.

Collaborative, Cloud-Based Platform

  • Access models anywhere via the web or Altair Marketplace
  • Share simulations instantly via email invites
  • Controlled revision and approval workflows
  • Centralised libraries shared across teams and projects

Perfect for multi-stakeholder and cross-company collaboration.

Libraries, Modelling & CAD Integration

  • Extensive pre-built libraries (vehicles, bogies, couplers, wheel/rail profiles, gauges)
  • Import CAD models for 3D visualisation
  • Download assets (e.g. STEP files) for use in external CAD/FEA tools

Build realistic models quickly without starting from scratch.

Powerful Simulation & Analysis Tools

  • Train running and longitudinal dynamics
  • Impact and collision simulations
  • Track forces, buffer and coupler loads
  • Derailment and flange climb risk analysis

Gauging & Clearance Analysis

Comprehensive static, kinematic and absolute gauging tools help identify clearance issues and infrastructure clashes beyond basic visualization.

Comparison & Reporting

  • Compare train designs and scenarios side-by-side
  • Benchmark against reference or “digital twin” trains
  • Export results as graphs, CSVs, animations and technical reports

Supporting confident design decisions, compliance and stakeholder communication.