Innovative train control systems based on ERTMS and satellite-public TLC networks

The European Rail Train Management System (ERTMS) developed by the European industry represents a de-facto standard widely accepted in the world for signaling and speed-control applications. Whilst ERTMS has demonstrated its advantages as a cost-efficient train control system for high-speed lines and main corridors, the next challenge is to fulfill the emerging demand of low traffic lines for which the economical sustainability becomes a priority. Since an important share of the ERTMS operational costs are due to the telecommunication infrastructure and the wayside equipments, wireless IP-based telecom and satellite localization technologies are candidate to replace the costly fixed infrastructures. This paper discusses the scenario of local and regional lines in Europe and underlines the expected benefits brought by the adoption of the public cellular/satellite telecom network and the EGNOS-GALILEO satellite positioning system in the ERTMS ecosystem. A roadmap to validate the new technologies in the Italian Test Site is also presented.