Bombardier has completed trials of LTE networks for railway solutions at simulated speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour.
Ericsson conducted 11 tests in a laboratory to determine the ability of the LTE networks to support communications-based train control (CBTC) and multiservice solutions. Closed-circuit television (CCTV), voice, platform information, advertising and Wi-Fi for passengers are some of the examples of multiservice solutions.
CBTC uses location determination and data communications — enabled by LTE networks — to support automatic train protection, operation and supervision functions.
Telecom operators can manage traffic in a more efficient and safe manner thanks to the availability of accurate information about the exact positions of trains.
Ericsson said that CBTC systems are reliable than older train control systems, require less wayside equipment, have built-in redundancy features, and enable operators to make optimal use of tracks and trains by responding to demand more swiftly and efficiently.
In the CBTC tests, the LTE networks achieved uplink and downlink latencies far below the threshold of 100 milliseconds and packet losses approaching zero (anything less than 0.5% was considered a pass mark). Quality of Service capabilities built into Ericsson’s equipment allowed for the preemption and prioritization of mission-critical railway services.
“We aim to develop solutions that ensure enhanced rail safety through communications-based train control and CCTV, as well as enhanced entertainment for passengers through services such as voice, platform information, advertising and Wi-Fi,” said Charlotta Sund, head of Customer Group Industry & Society at Ericsson.