Magnetic sensor array system: an innovative approach to train localization

Train localization in necessary to have a railway network both safe and efficient. This work presents an on board train localization system based on magnetic sensors. Previous works on magnetic train localization have achieved performances similar to GNSS localization. Besides, magnetic localization availability in not influenced by the local environment (as it happens for GNSS, e.g. in tunnels). During this work, a system based on multiple low-cost magnetic sensors has been designed, built and tested. The final result is the magnetic sensor array system: it does not require dedicated infrastructure features and can be used on trains up to 200 km/h. The performed experiments focused on two different aspects. First, to determine if multiple independent magnetic signals can be measured on the direction perpendicular to the moving train. Second, to determine if it is possible to exclude the magnetic field distortion cause by a train passing close to the system on a parallel track. Magnetic field analysis is an innovative approach to train localization. Together with the available literature, the results of this work suggest that magnetic localization is to become a standard in railway environment.