EGNSS MATE (European Global Navigation Satellite System based Map Assisted Train localisation for ERTMS) is a project that contributes towards climate-friendly, cost-efficient, digital, interoperable, and safe European railways by researching and developing advanced GNSS onboard train localisation. The EGNSS MATE project participants comprise the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) as railway and infrastructure operator, Industrieanlagen-Betriebsgesellschaft mbH (IABG) as GNSS and testing expert company, and the German Aerospace Center (DLR) as research institute with a transportation focus.
The focus of EGNSS MATE is onboard train localisation within the European Train Control System (ETCS) of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS). GNSS technology and map-supported sensor fusion algorithms on all vehicles will facilitate moving block operation and thereby increase line capacities. Track-side infrastructure for localisation can be reduced, which translates to both lower costs and more flexibility for the operators. However, onboard localisation must be both accurate and safe. Improved accuracy can be achieved by exploiting the track-constrained vehicle motion. Accurate and reliable map data and its tightly integrated use in algorithms are key elements. GNSS signals are transmitted over the air and received by onboard antennas. Although this is an important feature for flexibility and ETCS interoperability, there are potential risks of signal interference that must not be ignored. A thorough understanding of railway-targeted GNSS jamming and spoofing will aid in finding the solutions. Furthermore, advanced GNSS services (Galileo HAS, Galileo OSNMA) have good potential in aiding onboard localisation. The above aspects are researched on actual measurement data from an SBB vehicle that traverses the entire SBB rail network.
The activities in EGNSS MATE will foster the use of GNSS- and map-supported onboard localisation within ERTMS/ETCS. The insights will aid in the implementation, GNSS testing, and certification ambitions in the railway stakeholder landscape.
Financial support is provided by the ESA NAVISP Element 2 programme (Activity Code: NAVISP-EL2-131), which is devoted to support the competitiveness of the PNT (Positioning, Navigation and Timing) industry.
Project title:
EGNSS MATE - European Global Navigation Satellite System based Map Assisted Train localisation for ERTMS
Duration:
01/2023 to 01/2025
Funding agency:
ESA, NAVISP Element 2
Prime contractor:
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB)
Subcontractors:
Industrieanlagen-Betriebsgesellschaft mbH (IABG)
German Aerospace Center (DLR), Institute of Transportation Systems