Design and Validation of a Wireless Network for Intra-Train Communications

In this work the RF propagation at 2.45 GHz has been characterized in the Advanced Train Lab of Deutsche Bahn, both in simulation and measurement, and path loss models have been obtained. The results indicate two different behaviours: a path loss exponent lower than free-space (n≈1) inside the train car, due to the waveguide effect of the reflective train structure, and a path loss higher than free-space (n≈5) in the adjacent car, due to the blockage of the Line-Of-Sight in the transition between train cars.