Transformation of Vehicle 2 Everything (V2X) communication to the railway sector (Rail2X)

Abstract

Vehicle automation technology has made significant progress in recent years, but communication between rail and road vehicles remains limited. To improve road safety and efficiency, the development of communication systems that allow vehicles to exchange information is necessary. The concept of Vehicle-toEverything (V2X) communication has been introduced to allow vehicles to communicate not only with other vehicles, but also with infrastructure and other road users. However, the use of V2X communication in the railway sector has not yet been fully explored. This paper presents Rail2X, a method that tests a modified V2X communication for the communication connection of road users and level crossings. The development of Rail2X is an important step towards increasing road safety and efficiency. The application of V2X communication in the railway sector has the potential to significantly improve traffic flow in areas with level crossings. Accidents at level crossings are often caused by human error and the number of accidents has remained constant in recent years. The digital St. Andrew's cross is a modified version of the traditional St. Andrew's cross used to mark a level crossing. By equipping level crossings with V2X technology, real-time information about the position of a train and the opening status of the level crossing can be communicated to road users. This information can be used to inform road users of the remaining time that the level crossing is closed, which can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Applications in previous research projects have shown that the use of V2X communication can make level crossings and on-demand stops more efficient and convenient for all stakeholders. In addition to improving road safety, increased efficiency can also help to reduce traffic congestion, better plan or even shorten travel times and reduce fuel consumption. In summary, Rail2X is an innovative method that uses modified V2X communication to connect road users and level crossings in the railway sector. By equipping level crossings with digital St. Andrew's crosses, realtime information about the position of a train and the opening state of the level crossing can be transmitted to road users, which can significantly reduce the risk of accidents caused by human error. The use of Rail2X has the potential to increase road safety, optimize traffic flow and improve transport efficiency.