Evaluating TCMS Train-to-Ground communication performances based on the LTE technology and discreet event simulations

This paper focuses on performance evaluation of the Train to Ground traffic exchanges used to ensure safety and monitoring train functionalities carried by the Train Control Management System (TCMS). In the framework of the European project Safe4Rail from the Shift2Rail program, we try to use LTE (Long Term Evolution) network as an alternative communication technology, instead of GSM-R (Global System for Mobile communications-Railway) because of some capacity and capability limits.

First step, a pure simulation is used to evaluate the network load for a high-speed scenario, when the LTE network is shared between the train and different passengers. The simulation is based on the discrete-events network simulator Riverbed Modeler. Next, second step focusses on a co-simulation testbed, to evaluate performances with real traffic based on Hardware-In-The-Loop and OpenAirInterface modules.

Preliminary simulation and co-simulation results show that LTE provides good performance for the TCMS traffic exchange in terms of packet delay and data integrity