Rail Transport Operations and Management
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Kenedy A. Greyson, Georgia Rugumira, Afidhu Yusufu
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30 May 2024
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Nominal GSM-R Radio Network Design for Signalling and Train Control Systems: Case Study Dar-Moro Electrified SGR Line in Tanzania
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Keywords:
BTS, Doppler shift, GSM-R, Power Loss, Signal Level, Speed Profile.
Abstract
The recent development of High-Speed Trains (HST) operations requires real-time
information transfer, high network capacity, and reliable communication for train
signalling and control purposes. Rail operators face challenges as the high-speed
railroad traffic grows. In a high-speed driving profile, the communication must be able to
overcome fast handover, large Doppler shift, high penetration losses, limited visibility in
tunnels, and the harsh electromagnetic environment. Global System for Mobile
Communications for Railway (GSM-R) is still a standard-bearer for railway signalling
communications. The link capacity and coverage prediction of the predefined Base
Transceiver Station (BTS) locations are simulated using the Radio Planner RF planning
tool and Matlab®. The terrain map and the signal levels along the railway corridor are
observed. The analysis of the GSM-R for a fast-moving train is performed. Signal level
coverage prediction, Doppler-shift effect and the received carrier frequencies due to
Doppler shift along Dar–Pugu stations have been presented. The critical sites (locations)
with weak signals of the first three BTSs have been identified. It is also observed that the
Doppler effect may limit the proposed speed.
