Satellite positioning technology on the basis of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), which are represented by Global Positioning System (GPS), has been progressively utilized. In the railway industry, although GNSS are reported to have been implemented in many railway projects for the purpose of providing maintenance or service information etc., they are not yet in full-scale use because there is a concern that the reliability of information may not be ensured when GNSS are used for train protection as part of train control. This paper proposes a theory of rigorous verification activities that are performed based on various types of field data taking advantage of the characteristics of railways. It concludes that GNSS, if combined with other types of sensor technology, will be applicable to train protection. The results of the authors’ study have been reflected in the Guideline on the Use of GNSS and are expected to contribute in the future to the achievement of increased functionality in train protection as well as the economic improvement.
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