System Suitability Study for Train Positioning using GNSS In ERTMS

The objective of this project is to study the suitability of the current generation of SBAS for use in the evolution of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) with virtual balise detection using GNSS, confirming the feasibility of current system allocations. It is seen as a necessary enabler on the system side for GNSS to be used in Safety of Life applications in the railway environment.

Activities include:

  • Reviewing inputs from other activities including ERTMS virtual balise concept of operations, apportionments and translation of feared events in the railway environment
  • Detailed analysis of the suitability of the current generation of SBAS for use in the ERTMS virtual balise detection application, including applicability of safety barriers to the railway context to mitigate feared events, identifying gaps and issues
  • Assessing achievable safety performances with SBAS for ERTMS virtual balise detection applications
  • Reviewing assumptions on the receiver, receiver processing and applicability
  • Determining the suitability of the existing safety case for cross-acceptance by railway safety authorities, methodology for building safety case for rail and provide recommendations.

Telespazio UK’s role within this consortium involves:

  • Consolidating performance assumptions and definitions for the ERTMS Virtual Balise concept
  • Supporting the assessment of SBAS suitability for use in ERTMS

This study aims to support the railway industry in refining safety assumptions and allocations towards GNSS in the ERTMS virtual balise reader subsystem.