DB Regio AG
Munich S-Bahn in real time with our real-time information system
With the Livemap for Munich's S-Bahn, we show how modern GPS data can be combined with real-time, accurate departure information and an intuitive map view. The solution provides updates in a fraction of a second and makes information available on the go, either in the Navigator app, directly on the map, or via a route network plan.
Heaviest traffic on two tracks
Nowhere else in Europe is there more traffic on two tracks: with around 1,000 trains per day, the Munich S-Bahn trunk line has the highest traffic volume. At the same time, it is operating at full capacity. With the second trunk line currently under construction, Munich will finally get the long-awaited bypass for the existing west-east crossing. At the same time, operators are continuously optimizing the information provided to customers. To provide better information about the current operating situation, DB Regio has commissioned geOps to set up a real-time information system. GPS data from the S-Bahn trains will be used to display train positions on a map and to generate departure forecasts.
This is how we make real time visible at geOps
During peak times, around 100 suburban trains operate simultaneously on the Munich network. Each of them sends a GPS signal approximately every ten seconds, which contains information about the train's current formation and status in addition to its position. The system developed by geOps reads the trains' GPS data on the one hand and the timetable and real-time data on cancellations and delays on the other. All sources are combined to validate the timetable data and make more accurate forecasts. As is appropriate for the S-Bahn's tight schedule of less than 1 minute in some cases, the forecasts aim to show passengers the next available connections precisely and clearly.
The Live Maps system is operated via a separate website that is integrated into both the Munich S-Bahn website and the official information app, the Munich Navigator.
Precision every second
Up to 900 signals from trains are processed per minute and analyzed using sophisticated heuristics. Just two seconds after each signal is sent from the train, the data is processed in the geOps system and forwarded to the client devices. On the client side, passengers can view the information on a map or route network plan, as well as in the string of pearls and on a departure display. Stations can be selected on the map, whereupon all departures are displayed.
The technical basis: TRALIS as a data hub, MOCO for fault reports
Die Basis der Pünktlichkeitskarte ist die gleiche wie auch für unseren weltweiten Zugtracker. Für die Verarbeitung und Analyse von Soll- und Echtzeitdaten kommt TRALIS, unsere Datendrehscheibe, zum Einsatz. TRALIS ist optimiert dafür, auch grosse Datenmengen zu integrieren, zu analysieren und mit minimalen Latenzen wieder an die Abnehmersysteme auszugeben. Für die Live Map der S-Bahn München wurden die Standardfunktionen zur Verarbeitung von Soll- und Echtzeitdaten erweitert, um zusätzlich GPS-Daten zu analysieren. Die tatsächliche Position des Zuges, die der GPS-Sender liefert, wird zur Überprüfung und Anpassung der Echtzeitprognosen aus den Leitstellen der Bahn verwendet. Für die Darstellung von Meldungen zu Bauarbeiten, Haltausfällen, Unterbrüchen oder Ersatzverkehren kommt MOCO zum Einsatz, das Redaktionstool für Störungsmeldungen. MOCO nutzt über eine Schnittstelle die Meldungen aus den Leitsystemen der Bahn. Vollautomatisch werden mit MOCO die Meldungen auf Linien oder Haltestellen zur Darstellung im Netzplan abgebildet. Nach Bedarf können einzelne Meldungen in MOCO mit weiteren Informationen einschliesslich Links, Fotos und Grafiken ergänzt werden.
Looking ahead: Live maps for more information and safety
The live map has become very popular with Munich S-Bahn customers. Especially when there are service disruptions, up to 300,000 people access the service at the same time. Numerous comments describe the live map as the most reliable source of information for the Munich S-Bahn. Due to the positive response, the system has been extended to other S-Bahn systems in Germany and to replacement transport services. With the ongoing integration of further information, Live Maps is developing into a comprehensive source of information for travelers. In addition to the actual real-time data, particularly important additions include disruption information, which is displayed both in text form and as route markings on the map, and details of alternative routes.
«Our collaboration with geOps has been outstanding for five years now. Further developments are discussed, approached, and implemented in a professional, creative, and implementation-oriented manner. When it comes to quality assurance issues, the collaboration is always extremely reliable and focused. At this level, achieving goals together is enjoyable.»
Carola Bertsch, Passenger information QS and projects, DB Regio AG (2025)
