Press Releases(Archive)
FY2012 - FY2003

Research on Methods of Observation Using Doppler Radar

Attachment 4

  1. History of Development

    Doppler radar is used for weather forecasting and for observation of localized, strong atmospheric winds by some airports. However, there are no established methods of using Doppler radar for strong winds near ground level that can have an effect on railway operations. We are, therefore, conducting research with the aim of practical application in operation restrictions.

  2. Implementation

    • A Doppler radar was installed at Kita-Amarume Station on the Uetsu Line, and observations commenced in March 2007.
    • We are pursuing this research jointly with specialist institutions, including the Meteorological Research Institute of the Meteorological Agency, the Railway Technical Research Institute, and Kyoto University.
    • The ultimate goal of this joint research project is to develop a proposal for a prototype system using Doppler radar to detect strong winds that can interfere with safe rail operations.
      (1)  Detailed explication of meteorological phenomena by both observation and simulation
      (2)  Evaluation of the detection capabilities of Doppler radar
      (3)  Development of a system that determines whether or not trains should operate
Doppler radar installed on the roof of Amarume Station & Main Doppler radar unit installed inside the radar casing

Doppler radar installed on the roof of Amarume Station (upper right of photo on left)
Main Doppler radar unit installed inside the radar casing (photo on right)

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