GPS and Rail Systems

Railroads in many parts of the world now use GPS as an integral part of directing traffic and keeping track of Trains and keeping them on schedule. GPS use enhances safety and allows more traffic to use the same lines safely as well as keeping trains on time. It is ironic that railroads in the last part of the nineteenth century were instrumental in helping get world time zones in place today use the time supplied by GPS satellites to keep their systems time accurate. GPS keeps track of trains and their locations and cargo.

By using GPS, railroad safety and efficiency is greatly enhanced. GPS allows more traffic per rail line without worry of collisions. Tracks can be programmed for more traffic and cargo using GPS technology. Trains can also be more efficiently scheduled for cargo pickups and transfers including airport transfers.

The use of differential GPS allows trains to be sped up or slowed down to meet schedule requirements and to allow track work or maintenance schedules. GPS enhances safety tremendously in this regard.

Using differential GPS allows surveying track lines for repairs as well as pointing out areas needing more capacity. Service is enhanced by using differential GPS.

GPS will continue to allow for signals at road crossings to be more accurate for car traffic safety and save human life. GPS will continue to be at the forefront for railroad safety and efficiency.