Method and apparatus for detecting guideway breaks and occupation

Abstract

The present invention provides a method and system for detecting guideway anomalies. In particular, the present invention generates and couples a wave pulse into a guideway. The wave pulse travels down the guideway until it reaches an anomaly. The anomaly causes a return wave pulse. The time difference between the generated wave and the return wave allows calculation of the deference to the anomaly.

Description

[0001] The patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 500,385, filed Sep. 5, 2003, titled METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETECTING RAIL BREAKS AND OCCUPATION, incorporated herein as if set out in full.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to track detection systems and, more particularly, to a detection system that detects local and distant rail breaks and track occupation. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Trains and other rail or guideway moving vehicles and / or objects travel along common tracks at various speeds. The stopping distance of some trains can be many miles, but driver visibility is often less than this distance because of fixed conditions such as curves, embankments, trees, tunnels through hilly or mountainous terrain, and the like, or variable conditions such as poor weather. To maintain the desired operating speeds, train drivers need to know that the track ahead is free of breaks and not occupied by other v...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The patent describes a new invention and its benefits. The technical effects of the invention will be explained in detail in the following description and drawings."

Problems solved by technology

A mechanical failure of a rail often leads to a small separation gap at the break because the rail is typically in tension at low to average temperatures.

As can be imagined, the existing external detection system requires significant wayside infrastructure for every relatively short block of track.

The signal generation circuitry, detection circuitry and the indicator lights require electrical power and are often located in remote and sometimes difficult to reach locations.

The cost per mile of new track installation is burdened by the capital outlay for signaling equipment and interconnecting cabling, additional construction and installation expense, and costs associated with providing electrical power at regular intervals along the track.

In operation, the wayside infrastructure has high maintenance and upkeep costs per mile of track.

Signaling equipment is subjected to extreme temperatures and poor weather conditions, and is susceptible to equipment failures that sometimes lead to expensive traffic delays.

For example, CBTC would not protect against collisions involving non-CBTC track occupation such as an unexpected detached railcar.

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