RFID Technology in Railway Traffic Management and Signaling − Simulation Tests on an Experimental Track

RFID technology is increasingly used in various industries. This is because it makes it possible to identify and locate moving objects and facilitates the automation of processes and their control. Digitisation of information allows its rapid processing and transfer between different levels of decision-making. Experiments carried out by the author on the test stand’s experimental track have confirmed the advisability of using RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) technology in rail transport, both in the area of freight management and in train traffic control. Simulations have shown that an RFID system makes it possible to detect moving rolling stock, check the continuity of a train and determine where the train ends. It locates and identifies trains, railcars and cargo, and allows automatic train traffic control by displaying appropriate signals on automatic block signalling systems. Together with a vision system, it detects dangerous shift of transported loads. The research results can be used as a basis for experimental implementation and verification of the applied solutions in real operating conditions.