The EGNSS MATE project, led by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), has developed and tested new map-assisted sensor fusion algorithms, using European GNSS (Galileo) and other sensor data to safely estimate train position, velocity and time information.
Andreas Wenz of SBB, along with Michael Roth of the German Space Agency (DLR) and Paulo Mendes of Industrieanlagen-Betriebsgesellschaft (IABG), presented the results of the project at a special event hosted by the European Space Agency (ESA).
The long-term goal, Wenz explained, is to introduce new positioning technologies such as GNSS, into the control command and signaling scheme of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS). This will enable so-called ‘moving block’ operations, where the safe distance between trains is calculated in real-time based on their actual speed and braking capabilities.
Under the conventional ‘fixed block’ system, a railway line is divided into predefined, static blocks or sections. Only one train can occupy a block at any time, regardless of its speed or braking ability, thus limiting capacity and efficiency. Under the moving block approach, supported by ERTMS Level 3, a safe zone or ‘protection zone’ is continuously calculated behind each train. This zone moves with the train, hence ‘moving block’, allowing other trains to follow much more closely. For this to work, operators need accurate, real-time data about train position, speed, and braking ability.
Moving forward
ERTMS moving block operations rely on continuous communication, via GSM-R or newer systems, and onboard train integrity monitoring. Benefits include increased line capacity, shorter time between trains, more efficient traffic flow, reduced need for trackside assets, and lower costs.
EGNSS MATE algorithm development, undertaken by DLR, was accompanied by a measurement campaign using SBB vehicles on the Swiss normal gauge network. Collected sensor data was used to test the algorithms. IABG analyzed the use of new Galileo services OSNMA and HAS within the ERTMS, and tested the performance of the new algorithms against jamming and spoofing attacks, as simulated in the laboratory.
Wenz said the results of the project will help European rail operators to standardize localization solutions and will enable new product development within the signaling industry. The project plans to allow full access to the developed algorithms and will create a test catalogue to serve as a basis for future product certification.
The EGNSS MATE project was co-funded under ESA’s NAVISP program, Element 2, which aims to increase the competitiveness of the European PNT industry.
