LOCOPROL (Low Cost satellite based train location system for signalling and train Protection for Low density traffic railway lines) has been a project to research the integration of satellite navigation into railway networks targeting low-density track lines.
Framework Programme of the EU[3] just like the GADEROS project (GAlileo DEmonstrator Railway Operation System)[4] starting at the same to research the integration of satellite navigation into the ERTMS standard (project partners were INECO, TIFSA, Railways Safety, ERRI, Aena, GMV Sistemas, Sener, NSL).
[7] Still the results have not been able to meet SIL4 safety of life boundaries (with 98% of measures successful outside tunnels)[7] however the test model had not been conclusive regarding dependability on all system conditions.
[8] The results indicate so far that passive (fixed data) balises are necessary in the vicinity of railway stations to counter the lack of accuracy of the satellite train positioning.
[8] As EGNOS certification for safety of life applications will be achieved in 2010 the LOCOPROL results may be re-evaluated with the system running in a non-prototype environment.