Masats RPS for FGC: Improving Train Stopping Accuracy in Spain’s Rail Systems

Introduction

Masats has completed dynamic testing of its new Radar Positioning System (RPS) at Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya’s (FGC) COR facilities in Rubí. The RPS, developed by Auto Drive Solutions and adapted for railway use under Masats’ R&D program, aims to improve stopping accuracy for regional, metro, and tramway services.

Testing and Collaboration

The testing phase was conducted at FGC’s COR facilities, with FGC providing both trains and track access. This collaboration highlights FGC’s commitment to innovation and its ongoing work on next-generation solutions for the railway sector.

RPS Technology

The RPS consists of a radar sensor installed beneath the train and a passive balise mounted on the track bed. The balise acts as a continuous “ruler,” encoding unique positional data. This enables the system to calculate the train’s exact location, speed, and acceleration in real time. Testing demonstrated that a 16-meter balise section within the platform track is sufficient for precise station stopping.

Operational Advantages

In the configuration tested at FGC, the RPS served as a standalone driver-assistance tool. A visual interface in the driver’s cab indicated the required braking intensity, allowing the train to achieve stopping accuracy better than 5 cm. This represents a significant improvement over conventional stopping accuracy, which typically ranges between ±1–2 metres. The system verifies the stopping position and can then authorize door opening, triggering associated infrastructure such as platform screen doors or gap fillers. The RPS can be integrated into ATO solutions or function independently from existing signaling systems.

Applications in Tramway Networks and Platform Safety

For tramway networks, the passive balise is replaced with painted raised spot patterns applied to the roadway. These patterns provide the same function as the ruler-type track balise. The RPS is highlighted as a key enabler of Masats’ Platform Adjustable Safety Door (PASD) concept, which is designed to accommodate mixed fleets with varying door configurations. By providing accurate stopping positions, the RPS enhances the operational reliability of platform door systems.

Conclusion

The RPS technology is considered a milestone for regional and non-automated metro lines (GoA1 and GoA2), especially for operators seeking to implement platform screen doors or gap fillers without major signaling upgrades. The RPS combines radar-based precision with flexible installation options.

Company Summary

Masats: A Spanish company that developed the Radar Positioning System (RPS).

Auto Drive Solutions: The developer of the Radar Positioning System (RPS).

Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC): The operator that provided testing facilities and support for the RPS.

Technology

Radar Positioning System (RPS): A system developed by Auto Drive Solutions and adapted by Masats to improve train stopping accuracy using a radar sensor and a passive balise.

Platform Adjustable Safety Door (PASD): A platform-door system developed by Masats designed to accommodate mixed fleets with varying door configurations.

ATO: Automated Train Operation.