Train active control simulation system and emergency and horn application and method thereof

Abstract

A system and method for simulating a train active control (PTC) system in a locally controlled environment using software and hardware. The system can use software and hardware components to simulate various functions of the PTC system in the environment. The system may instruct software of a train management computer (TMC) to control electromechanical valves to simulate air compression performed at the brake pipe due to penalty of the PTC system to the locomotive. The system can display the state of each system on the locomotive to a user through a carriage display unit (CDU). The system can control software and hardware components to simulate warning and operation of the PTC system, so that locomotive engineers and trainmen can experience the PTC system, and the optimal training effect is achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to simulation of locomotive emergency and horn actuated events, and more particularly to systems and methods for simulating physical and electrical characteristics corresponding to active train control emergency and horn actuated events. Background Art

[0002] Positive Train Control (PTC) systems use communication-based and processor-based train control technologies to reliably and effectively prevent train collisions, derailments due to speeding, intrusions into established work zones, and trains passing switches in the wrong position. The PTC system coordinates the interoperability between electrical and mechanical systems to take action when the locomotive does not follow the safety plan. For example, when it is identified that the locomotive speed is higher than the route speed, the PTC system will respond by penalizing the locomotive by applying the brakes. The Federal Railroad Administration requires that every mile of track must have a PTC system in operation, which means that every locomotive on the railway must be equipped with a PTC system.

[0003] Currently, teaching how the PTC system operates on a locomotive does not simulate the system components. While it would be ideal to conduct training on a locomotive equipped with a PTC system, this is unlikely to be possible because trainers cannot schedule locomotives to accommodate the time required to properly train new engineers and conductors. Training engineers and conductors can take weeks, months, or even years, so taking a locomotive out of service can result in inefficiencies. In addition, since trainees targeting engineers or conductors cannot practice in a practical environment, they receive inadequate training. Engineers and conductors who have not received proper training on the PTC system may frequently trigger the PTC system on the locomotive due to unsafe locomotive operations. Although the PTC system ensures improved safety, the risk of train derailment and collision still exists. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides technical advantages by using software and hardware to simulate the system and method of the PTC system in a local environment, so that the training program does not need to use a real locomotive. The system can use software and hardware components to simulate various functions of the PTC system in a classroom environment. For example, the system can couple the software of the train management computer (TMC) with an electromechanical valve to simulate the air compression performed on the brake pipe due to the penalty performed by the PTC system on the locomotive. The system can display the status of various systems on the locomotive to the user through the car display unit (CDU). For example, the TMC enables the system's software and hardware to convey information related to analyzing PTC system warnings. The system can control software and hardware components to simulate the warnings and operations of the PTC system, allowing trainees to experience the PTC system and achieve optimal training results.

[0005] The present disclosure uses independent system components to simulate the warnings and operations of the PTC system, solving the technical problems of insufficient training for interaction with the PTC system and limited trainees' experience with the PTC system in operation, without the need to use a locomotive in at least part of the training program. Since a locomotive is not required in at least part of the training program, flexibility is provided to instructors while optimizing training for trainees. In addition, not requiring the use of a locomotive in part of the training saves time for the training program while providing immediate feedback on locomotive operations in response to PTC system warnings. Since novice engineers and train crews do not need to operate the locomotive, at least in the initial PTC training, liability and risks, such as damage to locomotive components and the potential for a hazardous safety environment, are also minimized.

[0006] The present disclosure provides software and hardware components for teaching and provides technical solutions to technical problems. Specifically, the present disclosure focuses on optimizing training conditions for interacting with the PTC system. In a real environment, the PTC system can transmit warnings and instructions to the locomotive to instruct it on how to respond to specific situations. The present disclosure introduces control mechanisms for interactions between software and hardware components to simulate a locomotive environment. Through the simulated locomotive environment, users can practice interacting with the PTC system without causing actual effects, such as the PTC system applying brakes to the locomotive. The present disclosure enables users to interact with locomotive components in the system coupling components corresponding to the PTC system in a classroom environment.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide a method for simulating an emergency application of a PTC. Another object of the present invention is to provide a system for simulating an emergency application of a PTC. Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for simulating an application of a PTC horn activation. Another object of the present invention is to provide a system for simulating an application of a PTC horn. These and other objects are provided by at least one of the following embodiments.

[0008] In one embodiment, a method for simulating an emergency condition of a PTC system is provided, comprising: receiving an instruction corresponding to an emergency condition of a train; supplying compressed air to one or more pressure sensors at a first pressure during a penalty period; converting the first pressure to a second pressure at a penalty rate to simulate an emergency condition of a train; energizing an emergency solenoid valve when a second circuit breaker is closed; and exhausting compressed air to reduce the second pressure. Wherein, the first pressure may be 90 psi and the second pressure may be 58 psi. Wherein, the penalty rate is based on the service rate. Wherein, the method further comprises energizing the emergency solenoid valve. Wherein, the method further comprises energizing a pulse conversion relay, a penalty solenoid valve, an interval delay relay, and a ventilation solenoid valve. Wherein, the pressure sensor comprises an equalizer reservoir pressure sensor and a brake pipe pressure sensor. Wherein, the method further comprises activating the equalizer reservoir pressure sensor and the brake pipe pressure sensor. Wherein, the method further comprises de-energizing the pulse conversion relay to provide a first voltage to the interval delay relay. Wherein, the method further comprises providing a second voltage from the interval delay relay to the ventilation solenoid valve for a duration. Wherein, the first voltage and the second voltage may be 74 volts. Wherein, the method further comprises breaking the penalty solenoid valve to initialize the second pressure.

[0009] In another embodiment, a system for simulating an emergency condition of a PTC system is provided, comprising: an internal delay relay operably coupled to a PTC terminal board; a pulse switching relay operably coupled to the internal delay relay and the PTC terminal board; an air compressor operably coupled to the pulse switching relay; a penalty solenoid valve operably coupled to the air compressor; at least one brake pipe pressure sensor operably coupled to the penalty solenoid valve; a brake cylinder pressure sensor operably coupled to the penalty solenoid valve; a ventilation solenoid valve operably coupled to the penalty solenoid valve and the internal delay relay; an emergency solenoid valve operably coupled to the PTC terminal board; and wherein the system controls the compressed air applied to at least one brake pipe pressure sensor and a brake cylinder pressure sensor. Wherein, the system also includes: an equalizing reservoir pressure sensor operably coupled to the penalty solenoid valve; and a reservoir operably coupled to the penalty solenoid valve and the emergency solenoid valve. Wherein, the air compressor provides compressed air to the brake cylinder. Wherein, the compressed air can be 72psi. Wherein, the penalty solenoid valve provides compressed air to the equalizer reservoir and at least one brake pipe. Wherein, when the penalty solenoid valve is in an active state, the compressed air may be 90 psi, and when the penalty solenoid valve is in an inactive state, the compressed air may be 58 psi. Wherein, the ventilation solenoid valve includes a choke. Wherein, the emergency solenoid valve includes an exhaust device.

[0010] In another embodiment, a method for simulating a PTC horn activation condition is provided, comprising: receiving an instruction corresponding to a horn activation application; providing a voltage to a horn circuit; and causing the horn to produce an audible sound by compressed air released by a horn solenoid valve. Wherein, the instruction is input by a user. Wherein, the instruction is input by a train management computer (TMC). Wherein, the method further comprises energizing the horn solenoid valve.

[0011] In another embodiment, a system for simulating a PTC system horn activation condition is provided, comprising: a horn circuit; a horn solenoid valve operably coupled to the horn circuit; a horn circuit operably coupled to the horn display circuit from a horn display circuit, wherein the system controls compressed air applied to at least one brake pipe pressure sensor and a brake cylinder pressure sensor. The system further comprises: a train management computer (TMC) operably coupled to the horn circuit; a switch box operably coupled to the TMC and the horn circuit; at least one terminal board operably coupled to the switch box and the horn circuit, wherein the system controls compressed air applied to at least one brake pipe pressure sensor and a brake cylinder pressure sensor. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The present disclosure will be easily understood by the following detailed description in combination with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate the principles of the present disclosure by way of example. The accompanying drawings show the design and practicality of one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the same elements are represented by the same reference numerals or symbols. The objects and elements in the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn in proportion, ratio or precise positional relationship. Instead, the focus is on illustrating the principles of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 1 An example block diagram of an emergency application component according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 2 An example flow chart illustrating emergency application control logic according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 3A An example flow chart illustrating emergency application control logic according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 3B An example flow chart illustrating emergency application control logic according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 3C An example flow chart illustrating emergency application control logic according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 4 An example block diagram of a speaker application component according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 5 An example flow chart showing speaker application control logic according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0014] Fig. 6AAn example flow chart showing speaker application control logic according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0015] Figure 6B An example flow chart of speaker application control logic according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The disclosure presented in the following description and the various features and advantages details therein will be more fully explained by reference to the non-limiting examples contained in the accompanying drawings and the subsequent detailed description. Descriptions of well-known components are omitted herein so as not to unnecessarily obscure the main features described herein. The following examples are intended to facilitate understanding of the implementation and practice of the present disclosure. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the present disclosure means that any suitable combination of the following functions or exemplary embodiments can be combined to achieve the claimed subject matter. The present disclosure includes the number of representative species within the genus, or structural features common to members of the genus, so that those of ordinary skill in the art can see or identify members of the genus. Therefore, these examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0017] Figure 1 An example block diagram of an emergency application assembly 900 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The emergency application assembly 900 may include a terminal board 314 and a PTC terminal board 502. The PTC terminal board 502 may include terminals 602-612. The emergency application assembly 900 may also include a pneumatic air assembly 316, including an air penalty assembly 318, an interval delay relay 508, a pulse switching relay 510, an air compressor 512, a penalty solenoid valve 516, and a ventilation solenoid valve 518. The penalty assembly 318 may include a brake pipe 522, a brake cylinder 524, an equalizing reservoir 526, and a reservoir 528.

[0018] The above-mentioned system components can be coupled electrically or mechanically. For example, the terminals 602-612 can be operably coupled to the interval delay relay 508, the pulse switching relay 510, the penalty solenoid valve 516, and the ventilation solenoid valve 518 using electrical components. In one example, the electrical components can include wires that transmit electrical signals (e.g., electrical signals representing information and / or power transmission). In another example, the air compressor 512, the penalty solenoid valve 516, the ventilation solenoid valve 518, and the penalty assembly 318 can be interconnected with mechanical components to deliver compressed air (e.g., in Figure 1 In one example, the mechanical component may include a rigid or flexible hose made of various materials.

[0019] Terminal 602 may include a circuit to provide an electrical signal output. For example, the electrical signal may include an instruction to enable pulse switching relay 508. In another example, terminal 602 may be operably coupled to pulse switching relay 508.

[0020] Terminal 604 may include to provide an electrical signal output. For example, the electrical signal may include instructions to enable pulse switching relay 510 and penalty solenoid valve 516. In another example, terminal 604 may be operably coupled to pulse switching relay 508 and penalty solenoid valve 516.

[0021] Terminal 606 may include to provide an electrical signal output. For example, the electrical signal may include instructions to enable the pulse switching relay 510 and the penalty solenoid valve 516. In another example, terminal 606 may be operably coupled to the pulse switching relay 508 and the penalty solenoid valve 516.

[0022] Terminal 608 may be included to provide an electrical signal output. For example, the electrical signal may include an instruction to activate the ventilation solenoid valve 518. In another example, terminal 608 may be operably coupled to the ventilation solenoid valve 518.

[0023] Terminal 610 may be included to provide an electrical signal output. For example, the electrical signal may include an instruction to activate the emergency solenoid valve 520. In another example, terminal 608 may be operably coupled to the emergency solenoid valve 520.

[0024] Terminal 612 may be included to provide an electrical signal output. For example, the electrical signal may include an instruction to activate the emergency solenoid valve 520. In another example, terminal 608 may be operably coupled to the emergency solenoid valve 520.

[0025] Figure 2 An example flow chart of an emergency application control logic 1000 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The emergency application control logic 1000 can be implemented as an algorithm on a TMC, a machine learning module, a client, a database, or other suitable system. In addition, the emergency application control logic 1000 can implement or include one or more functions of the PTC simulation system 200, including the display management system 202, the communication system 204, the locomotive console system 206, and the simulation system 208. The emergency application control logic 1000 can be implemented by software, hardware, firmware, component language, machine instructions, API, network connection, network transmission protocol, HTML, DHTML, JavaScript, Dojo, Ruby, Rails, other suitable applications, or a suitable combination thereof.

[0026] The emergency application control logic 1000 can take advantage of the capabilities of the computer platform to generate multiple processes and threads by processing data simultaneously. The speed and efficiency of the emergency application control logic 1000 can be greatly improved by instantiating multiple processes. However, those skilled in the art of programming will recognize that a single processing thread may also be used and this is within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0027] In one embodiment, the command or data may be received via user input generated on a display or client, such as a screen click, a slide, a mouse click, a key, a voice command, or other suitable mechanism. In another embodiment, the inspection command or data may include inspection data having one or more fields, parameters, characteristics, or metadata related to the inspection. Then, the emergency application control logic 1000 proceeds to step 1002.

[0028] In one embodiment of step 1002 , control logic 1000 may receive an instruction. For example, the instruction may correspond to a training penalty condition. In another example, the train penalty condition may correspond to a PTC application for simulation. Control logic 1000 proceeds to step 1004 .

[0029] In one embodiment of step 1004, the control logic 1000 may energize the air pneumatic assembly. For example, the pneumatic assembly may include a pulse switching relay, a penalty solenoid valve, an interval delay relay, and an exhaust solenoid valve. In another example, the control logic 1000 generates an electrical signal to energize the pneumatic assembly. The control logic 1000 then proceeds to step 1006.

[0030] In one embodiment of step 1006, the control logic 1000 may supply compressed air to the pneumatic assembly at a first pressure. For example, the control logic 1000 may supply compressed air to the pneumatic assembly at a first pressure during a penalty period. In one example, the pneumatic assembly may include one or more pressure sensors. In one example, the one or more pressure sensors may include an equalizer reservoir pressure sensor and a brake pipe sensor. In another example, the first pressure may be 90 psi. In another example, the penalty period may correspond to a service rate to safely change the compressed air pressure. The control logic 1000 then proceeds to step 1008.

[0031] In one embodiment of step 1008, control logic 1000 may de-energize the penalty solenoid valve to initialize the second pressure. For example, the second pressure may be 58 psi. In another example, control logic 1000 may terminate the electrical signal to de-energize the penalty solenoid valve. Control logic 1000 then proceeds to step 1010.

[0032] In one embodiment of step 1010, the control logic 1000 may activate the equalizer reservoir pressure sensor and the brake pipe sensor. For example, the control logic 1000 may generate an electrical signal to activate the equalizer reservoir pressure sensor and the brake pipe sensor. The control logic 1000 then proceeds to step 1012.

[0033] In one embodiment of step 1012, the control logic 1000 may de-energize the pulse switching relay to supply the first voltage to the interval delay relay. For example, the control logic 1000 may terminate the electrical signal to de-energize the pulse switching relay. In another example, the first voltage may be 74 volts. The control logic 1000 then proceeds to step 1014.

[0034] In one embodiment of step 1014, the control logic 1000 may provide a second voltage from the interval delay relay to the ventilation solenoid valve for a duration. For example, the control logic 1000 may control the signal from the interval delay relay to the ventilation solenoid valve for the duration. In one example, the duration may be 7 seconds. In another example, the second voltage may be 74 volts. The control logic 1000 then proceeds to step 1016.

[0035] In one embodiment of step 1016, the control logic 1000 may convert the first pressure to the second pressure. For example, the first pressure may be converted to the second pressure to simulate a train penalty condition. In one example, the control logic 1000 may control the pneumatic assembly to reduce the first pressure to the second pressure at a service rate. For example, the service rate may correspond to a rate of change of pressure from the first pressure to the second pressure based on various mechanical factors. The control logic 1000 proceeds to step 1018.

[0036] In one embodiment of step 1018 , the control logic 1000 may energize the emergency solenoid valve. For example, the control logic 1000 generates an electrical signal to energize the pneumatic component. The control logic 1000 proceeds to step 1020 .

[0037] In one embodiment of step 1020, the control logic 1000 may exhaust the compressed air. For example, the control logic may generate an electrical signal to instruct the emergency solenoid valve to open to release any stored compressed air. In another example, when the control logic 1000 exhausts the compressed air, the brake system of the locomotive or simulated locomotive begins to apply an emergency application.

[0038] Figure 3A-C shows an example flow chart of the emergency application control logic 1100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The emergency application control logic 1100 can be implemented as an algorithm on a TMC, a machine learning module, a client, a database, or other suitable system. In addition, the emergency application control logic 1100 can implement or include one or more functions of the PTC simulation system 200, including the display management system 202, the communication system 204, the locomotive console system 206, and the simulation system 208. The emergency application control logic 1100 can be implemented by software, hardware, firmware, component language, machine instructions, API, network connection, network transmission protocol, HTML, DHTML, JavaScript, Dojo, Ruby, Rails, other suitable applications, or a suitable combination thereof.

[0039] The emergency application control logic 1100 can take advantage of the capabilities of the computer platform to generate multiple processes and threads by processing data simultaneously. The speed and efficiency of the emergency application control logic 1100 can be greatly improved by instantiating multiple processes. However, those skilled in the art of programming will recognize that a single processing thread may also be used and this is within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0040] In one embodiment, the command or data may be received via user input generated on a display or client, such as a screen click, a slide, a mouse click, a key, a voice command, or other suitable mechanism. In another embodiment, the inspection command or data may include inspection data having one or more fields, parameters, characteristics, or metadata related to the inspection. Then, the emergency application control logic 1100 proceeds to step 1102.

[0041] In one embodiment of step 1102, control logic 1100 may receive at least one input. For example, at least one input may correspond to a train penalty condition. In another example, the train penalty condition may correspond to a PTC application for simulation. Control logic 1100 proceeds to step 1104.

[0042] In one embodiment of step 1104, the control logic 1100 may identify whether the at least one input corresponds to a PTC simulation application. For example, the at least one input may include penalty information, emergency information, and horn information. In one example, the control logic 1100 may receive at least one input from a computer (e.g., TMC 104). The control logic 1100 proceeds to step 1106.

[0043] In one embodiment of step 1106, control logic 1100 may determine whether at least one input is a penalty warning. For example, a penalty warning corresponds to a PTC simulation application. If at least one input is a penalty warning, control logic 1100 proceeds to step 1108. If at least one input is not a penalty warning, control logic 1100 proceeds to exit the process.

[0044] In one embodiment of step 1108, the control logic 1100 may receive an instruction corresponding to the penalty warning. For example, the instruction may include information about the action taken by the control logic 1100 due to the PTC simulation application. In one example, the instruction may include an action corresponding to the penalty warning. For example, the instruction may instruct the pneumatic system to start. The control logic 1100 proceeds to step 1110.

[0045] In one embodiment of step 1110, control logic 1100 may determine whether the first disconnect switch is closed. For example, the first disconnect switch may indicate whether the circuit driving the penalty application is active. In one example, the first disconnect switch may be closed when there is no error corresponding to the PTC simulation. If the first disconnect switch is closed, control logic 1100 proceeds to step 1112. If the first disconnect switch is open, control logic 1100 proceeds to terminate the process.

[0046] In one embodiment of step 1112, the control logic 1100 may energize the pneumatic assembly. For example, the pneumatic assembly may include a pulse switching relay, a penalty solenoid valve, an interval delay relay, and an exhaust solenoid valve. In another example, the control logic 1100 generates an electrical signal to energize the pneumatic assembly. The control logic 1100 then proceeds to step 1114.

[0047] In one embodiment of step 1114, the control logic 1100 may supply compressed air to the pneumatic assembly at a first pressure. For example, the control logic 1100 may supply compressed air to the pneumatic assembly at a first pressure during a penalty period. In one example, the pneumatic assembly may include one or more pressure sensors. In one example, the one or more pressure sensors may include an equalizer reservoir pressure sensor and a brake pipe sensor. In another example, the first pressure may be 90 psi. In another example, the penalty period may correspond to a service rate to safely change the compressed air pressure. The control logic 1100 then proceeds to step 1116.

[0048] In one embodiment of step 1116, control logic 1100 may de-energize the penalty solenoid valve to initialize the second pressure. For example, the second pressure may be 58 psi. In another example, control logic 1100 may terminate the electrical signal to de-energize the penalty solenoid valve. Control logic 1100 then proceeds to step 1118.

[0049] In one embodiment of step 1118, the control logic 1100 may activate the equalizer reservoir pressure sensor and the brake pipe sensor. For example, the control logic 1100 may generate an electrical signal to activate the equalizer reservoir pressure sensor and the brake pipe sensor. The control logic 1100 then proceeds to step 1120.

[0050] In one embodiment of step 1120, control logic 1100 may de-energize the pulse switching relay to supply the first voltage to the interval delay relay. For example, control logic 1100 may terminate the electrical signal to de-energize the pulse switching relay. In another example, the first voltage may be 74 volts. Control logic 1100 then proceeds to step 1122.

[0051] In one embodiment of step 1122, control logic 1100 may provide a second voltage from the interval delay relay to the ventilation solenoid valve for a duration. For example, control logic 1100 may control the signal from the interval delay relay to the ventilation solenoid valve for the duration. In one example, the duration may be 7 seconds. In another example, the second voltage may be 74 volts. Control logic 1100 then proceeds to step 1124.

[0052] In one embodiment of step 1124, the control logic 1100 may convert the first pressure to the second pressure. For example, the first pressure may be converted to the second pressure to simulate a train penalty condition. In one example, the control logic 1100 may control the pneumatic assembly to reduce the first pressure to the second pressure at a service rate. For example, the service rate may correspond to a rate of change of pressure from the first pressure to the second pressure based on various mechanical factors. The control logic 1100 proceeds to step 1126.

[0053] In one embodiment of step 1126, the control logic 1100 may determine whether the second disconnect switch is closed. For example, the second disconnect switch may indicate whether the circuit driving the penalty application is active. In one example, the second disconnect switch may be closed when there is no error corresponding to the PTC simulation. If the second disconnect switch is closed, the control logic 1100 proceeds to step 1128. If the second disconnect switch is open, the control logic 1100 proceeds to terminate the process.

[0054] In one embodiment of step 1128 , the control logic 1100 may energize the emergency solenoid valve. For example, the control logic 1100 generates an electrical signal to energize the pneumatic component. The control logic 1100 proceeds to step 1130 .

[0055] In one embodiment of step 1130 , the control logic 1100 may exhaust the compressed air. For example, the control logic may generate an electrical signal to instruct the emergency solenoid valve to open to release any stored compressed air. The control logic 1100 proceeds to step 1132 .

[0056] In one embodiment of step 1132, the control logic 1100 may reduce the second pressure. For example, the control logic 1100 may reduce the second pressure to 0 psi. In another example, when the control logic 1100 exhausts the compressed air, the braking system of the locomotive or simulated locomotive begins to apply an emergency application.

[0057] Figure 4 An example block diagram of a horn application assembly 1200 is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The horn application assembly 1200 may include the TMC 104, the switch box 312, the terminal board 314, and the pneumatic air assembly 316, all operably coupled. The pneumatic air assembly 316 may include a horn assembly 322, including a horn circuit 514 and a horn solenoid valve 1214. The switch box 312 may include a first disconnect switch board 1202, a plurality of disconnect switches 1204 including switches 1206, 1208, and 1210, and a second disconnect switch board 1212. The terminal board 314 may include a PTC terminal board 502, a horn display circuit 504, and a power terminal board 506. The PTC terminal board 502 may include terminals 602-612.

[0058] The above-mentioned system components can be coupled electrically or mechanically. For example, TMC 104, second circuit breaker switchboard 1212, terminal 608 and speaker display circuit 504 can be operably coupled to speaker circuit 514 using electrical components. In one example, the electrical components can include wires that transmit electrical signals (e.g., electrical signals representing information and / or power transmission). In another example, air compressor 512, penalty solenoid valve 516, ventilation solenoid valve 518 and penalty assembly 318 can be interconnected with mechanical components to deliver compressed air (e.g., in Figure 4 In one example, the mechanical component may include a rigid or flexible hose made of various materials.

[0059] The first disconnect switch plate 1202 may include an insulating plate, and the electronic terminals are mounted on the insulating plate. For example, the first disconnect switch plate 402 may include one of various materials commonly used as an insulating plate. In one example, the insulating plate may include materials such as polyester, polytetrafluoroethylene, silicon wafers, and other insulating materials. In another example, the electronic terminals may include inputs or outputs from various electronic components used in the simulation system 300. In one example, the inputs and outputs may include copper terminals from switches, relays, or some other electronic components. In another example, the first disconnect switch plate 402 may provide an interface between the TMC 104 and the disconnect switch 1204. For example, the first disconnect switch plate 402 is physically coupled to each disconnect switch 1204 using a conductive material. In another example, the first disconnect switch plate 402 may send multiple inputs from the TMC 104 as outputs to the disconnect switch 1204 according to the circuit schematic diagram of the simulation component 300.

[0060] The disconnect switch 1204 may include at least one electrical switch that isolates a circuit or device after a current is interrupted. For example, the disconnect switch 1204 may include switches 1206, 1208, and 1210.

[0061] Switches 1206, 1208, and 1210 can indicate that the PTC system simulates the application of a penalty, an emergency, or a horn application according to the state of switches 1206, 1208, and 1210. For example, switches 1206, 1208, and 1210 can correspond to an application from a PTC simulation system. In one example, when the application is enabled, the application of the PTC simulation system can correspond to an "on" state, and when the application is disabled, it corresponds to an "off" state. In another example, switches 1206, 1208, and 1210 may include electrical switches, electromechanical switches, relays, and other types of switches. In one example, an electrical switch includes an electrical element that can disconnect or connect a conductive path in a circuit, interrupt a current, or transfer it from one conductor to another. In another example, a switch can be operated by process variables such as pressure, temperature, flow, current, voltage, and force, acting as a sensor in a process and used in an automatic control system. In another example, a switch may include a relay, which may include a switch operated by another circuit.

[0062] The second disconnect switch plate 1212 may include another insulating plate, and the electronic terminals are mounted on the insulating plate. For example, the second disconnect switch plate 1212 may include one of various materials commonly used as insulating plates. In one example, the insulating plate may include materials such as polyester, polytetrafluoroethylene, silicon wafers, and other insulating materials. In another example, the electronic terminals may include inputs or outputs from various electronic components used in the simulation system 300. In one example, the inputs and outputs may include copper terminals from switches, relays, or some other electronic components. In another example, the second disconnect switch plate 1212 may provide an interface between the disconnect switch 1204 and the terminal plate 314. For example, the second disconnect switch plate 1212 is physically coupled to each disconnect switch 1204 using a conductive material. In another example, the second disconnect switch plate 1212 may send multiple inputs from the disconnect switch 1204 as outputs to the terminal plate 314 according to the circuit schematic diagram of the simulation component 300.

[0063] The horn solenoid valve 1214 may include an electromechanical solenoid valve to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy for accumulating and releasing air pressure. For example, the horn solenoid valve 1214 may use magnetic drive to enhance response time and improve stable positioning. In one example, the horn solenoid valve 1214 may receive at least one input. For example, at least one input may include an input from the horn circuit 514. In another example, the horn solenoid valve 1214 may include at least one output (not shown). For example, at least one output may include an output to the horn (not shown). In one example, at least one output may include a simulated horn (not shown). In another example, the input may indicate that the horn solenoid valve 1214 is powered off. For example, when the horn solenoid valve 1214 receives a power-off instruction, the horn solenoid valve 1214 may provide compressed air to the horn to produce an audible sound. In one example, when the horn solenoid valve 1214 receives a power-off instruction, the horn solenoid valve 1214 may provide compressed air to the horn system to indicate that the horn application is completed.

[0064] Figure 5An example flow chart of the horn application control logic 1300 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The horn application control logic 1300 can be implemented as an algorithm on the TMC 104, a machine learning module, a client, a database, or other suitable system. In addition, the horn application control logic 1300 can implement or include one or more functions of the PTC simulation system 200, including the display management system 202, the communication system 204, the locomotive console system 206, and the simulation system 208. The horn application control logic 1300 can be implemented by software, hardware, firmware, component language, machine instructions, API, network connection, network transmission protocol, HTML, DHTML, JavaScript, Dojo, Ruby, Rails, other suitable applications, or a suitable combination thereof.

[0065] The speaker application control logic 1300 can take advantage of the capabilities of the computer platform to generate multiple processes and threads by processing data simultaneously. The speed and efficiency of the speaker application control logic 1300 can be greatly improved by instantiating multiple processes. However, those skilled in the art of programming will recognize that a single processing thread may also be used and this is within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0066] In one embodiment, the command or data may be received via user input generated on a display or client, such as a screen click, a swipe, a mouse click, a key, a voice command, or other suitable mechanism. In another embodiment, the inspection command or data may include inspection data having one or more fields, parameters, characteristics, or metadata related to the inspection. Then, the speaker application control logic 1300 proceeds to step 1302.

[0067] In one embodiment of step 1302, the control logic 1300 may receive an instruction. For example, the instruction may correspond to a horn activation instruction. In another example, the horn activation instruction may correspond to a PTC application for simulation. In another example, the instruction may include user input. For example, the user input may indicate that the trainee instructs the simulation environment 100 to activate the horn. The control logic 700 proceeds to step 1304.

[0068] In one embodiment of step 1304, control logic 1300 may provide a voltage to a speaker circuit. For example, the speaker circuit may include speaker circuit 514. In another example, control logic 1300 may control a signal from TMC 104 to speaker circuit 514. In another example, control logic 1300 may control a signal from speaker display circuit 504 to speaker circuit 514. For example, speaker display circuit 504 may receive input from a trainee to indicate an instruction to enable the speaker. Control logic 1300 then proceeds to step 1306.

[0069] In one embodiment of step 1306 , the control logic 1300 may energize the horn solenoid valve. For example, the horn solenoid valve may include the horn solenoid valve 1214 . In another example, the control logic 1300 may generate an electrical signal to energize the horn solenoid valve. The control logic 1300 then proceeds to step 1308 .

[0070] In one embodiment of step 1308, the control logic 1300 may generate an audible sound. For example, the control logic 1300 may activate a speaker to generate an audible sound.

[0071] Fig. 6A -B shows an example flow chart of the horn application control logic 1400 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The horn application control logic 1400 can be implemented as an algorithm on the TMC 104, machine learning module, client, database, or other suitable system. In addition, the horn application control logic 1400 can implement or include one or more functions of the PTC simulation system 200, including the display management system 202, the communication system 204, the locomotive console system 206, and the simulation system 208. The horn application control logic 1300 can be implemented by software, hardware, firmware, component language, machine instructions, API, network connection, network transmission protocol, HTML, DHTML, JavaScript, Dojo, Ruby, Rails, other suitable applications, or a suitable combination thereof.

[0072] The speaker application control logic 1400 can take advantage of the capabilities of the computer platform to generate multiple processes and threads by processing data simultaneously. The speed and efficiency of the speaker application control logic 1400 can be greatly improved by instantiating multiple processes. However, those skilled in the art of programming will recognize that a single processing thread may also be used and this is within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0073] In one embodiment, the command or data may be received via user input generated on a display or client, such as a screen click, a slide, a mouse click, a key, a voice command, or other suitable mechanism. In another embodiment, the inspection command or data may include inspection data having one or more fields, parameters, characteristics, or metadata related to the inspection. Then, the speaker application control logic 1400 proceeds to step 1402.

[0074] In one embodiment of step 1402 , the control logic 1400 may receive at least one input. For example, the at least one input may include a different electrical signal corresponding to a PTC simulation application. The control logic 1400 proceeds to step 1404 .

[0075] In one embodiment of step 1404, the control logic 1400 may identify whether the at least one input corresponds to a PTC simulation application. For example, the at least one input may include penalty information, emergency information, and horn activation information. In one example, the control logic 1400 may receive at least one input from a computer (e.g., TMC 104). The control logic 1400 proceeds to step 1406.

[0076] In one embodiment of step 1406, control logic 1400 may determine whether at least one input is a horn enable command. For example, the horn enable command corresponds to a PTC simulation application. If at least one input is a horn enable command, control logic 1400 proceeds to step 1408. If at least one input is not a horn enable command, control logic 1400 proceeds to exit the process.

[0077] In one embodiment of step 1408, the control logic 1400 may receive an instruction corresponding to a horn activation application. For example, the horn activation application may correspond to a PTC simulation application. For example, the instruction may include information about an action taken by the control logic 1400 due to the PTC simulation application. In one example, the instruction may include an operation corresponding to the horn activation application. For example, the instruction may instruct a horn on a locomotive or a simulation device to activate. The control logic 1400 proceeds to step 1410.

[0078] In one embodiment of step 1410, the control logic 1400 may provide a voltage to the speaker circuit. For example, the speaker circuit may include the speaker circuit 514. In another example, the voltage may correspond to the control logic 1400 controlling a signal from the TMC 104 to the speaker circuit 514. In another example, the voltage may correspond to the control logic 1400 controlling a signal from the speaker display circuit 504 to the speaker circuit 514. For example, the speaker display circuit 504 may receive input from the trainee to indicate an instruction to enable the speaker. The control logic 1400 proceeds to step 1412.

[0079] In one embodiment of step 1412, the control logic 1400 may determine whether the disconnect switch is closed. For example, the disconnect switch may indicate whether the circuit driving the horn enabling application is active. In one example, the disconnect switch may be closed when there is no error corresponding to the PTC simulation. If the disconnect switch is closed, the control logic 1400 proceeds to step 1414. If the first disconnect switch is open, the control logic 1400 proceeds to terminate the process.

[0080] In one embodiment of step 1414, the control logic 1400 may energize the horn solenoid valve. For example, the horn solenoid valve may include the horn solenoid valve 1214. In another example, the control logic 1400 may generate an electrical signal to energize the horn solenoid valve. The control logic 1400 then proceeds to step 1416.

[0081] In one embodiment of step 1416, the control logic 1400 may generate an audible sound. For example, the control logic 1400 may activate a speaker to generate an audible sound.

[0082] The present disclosure achieves at least the following advantages:

[0083] 1. Simulate PTC system events without locomotives;

[0084] 2. Control electrical and mechanical components corresponding to similar components on the locomotive to improve the efficiency of training locomotive engineers and train crews;

[0085] 3. Accurately simulate events associated with the PTC system, including penalty applications, emergency applications, and horn applications; and

[0086] 4. Optimize the training of locomotive engineers and train crews in a simulated environment to ensure that it focuses on practical safety applications.

[0087] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that these advantages (as well as the advantages noted in the present disclosure) and objectives of the system would not be possible without the specific combination of computer hardware and other structural components and mechanisms assembled in the system of the present invention and described herein. The algorithms, methods, and processes disclosed herein improve and convert any general-purpose computer or processor disclosed in this specification into a special-purpose computer programmed to perform the disclosed algorithms, methods, and processes. It should also be understood that various programming tools known to those skilled in the art can be used to implement the features and control of the operations described in the foregoing materials. In addition, the selection of a specific programming tool may be determined by the specific goals and constraints of implementing these concepts, which are selected to implement the concepts set forth herein and in the appended claims.

[0088] The description in this patent document should not be construed as implying that any particular element, step, or function is an essential or critical element that must be included within the scope of the claims. In addition, unless the exact words "means for" or "step for" are expressly used in a particular claim and followed by a participatory phrase identifying the function, no claim is intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. §112(f) for any additional claim or claim element. Terms used in the claims (such as (but not limited to) "mechanism", "module", "device", "unit", "component", "element", "member", "device", "machine", "system", "processor", "processing device", or "controller") should be understood and intended to refer to structures known to those skilled in the relevant art and are further modified or enhanced by the features of the claims themselves, and are not intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. §112(f). Even under the broadest reasonable interpretation, in accordance with this paragraph of the specification, the claims are not intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. §112(f) in the absence of the above specific language.

[0089] The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential features. For example, each new structure described herein may be modified to accommodate specific local changes or requirements while retaining their basic configuration or structural relationship to each other, or while performing the same or similar functions described herein. Therefore, the present embodiments should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. Therefore, all changes within the meaning and equivalent scope of the claims should be included in the claims. In addition, the various elements in the claims are not well-known, conventional or traditional. Instead, the claims point to the non-traditional innovative concepts described in the specification.

Claims

1. A method for simulating an emergency situation in a positive train control (PTC) system, comprising: Receive instructions corresponding to train emergencies; supplying compressed air at a first pressure to one or more pressure sensors during a penalty period; Converting the first pressure to the second pressure at a penalty rate to simulate a train emergency; Energize the emergency solenoid valve; The compressed air is exhausted to reduce the second pressure.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first pressure is 90 pounds per square inch (psi) and the second pressure is 58 psi.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the penalty rate is based on the service rate.

4. The method of claim 1 further comprising energizing an emergency solenoid valve.

5. The method of claim 1 further comprising energizing a pulse switching relay, a penalty solenoid valve, an interval delay relay, and a vent solenoid valve.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the pressure sensor comprises an equalizer reservoir pressure sensor and a brake pipe pressure sensor.

7. The method of claim 6 further comprising activating an equalizer reservoir pressure sensor and a brake pipe pressure sensor.

8. The method of claim 1, further comprising de-energizing the pulse switching relay to provide the first voltage to the interval delay relay.

9. The method of claim 8 further comprising providing a second voltage from the interval delay relay to the vent solenoid valve for a duration.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the first voltage and the second voltage are both 74 volts.

11. The method of claim 1 further comprising de-energizing the penalty solenoid valve to initialize the second pressure.

12. A system for simulating an emergency situation in a Positive Train Control (PTC) system, comprising: an internal delay relay operably coupled to the PTC terminal board; a pulse changeover relay operably coupled to an internal delay relay and a PTC terminal board; an air compressor operably coupled to the pulse switching relay; a penalty solenoid valve operably coupled to the air compressor; at least one brake pipe pressure sensor operably coupled to the penalty solenoid valve; a brake cylinder pressure sensor operably coupled to the penalty solenoid valve; a vent solenoid valve operably coupled to the penalty solenoid valve and an internal delay relay; an emergency solenoid valve operably coupled to the PTC terminal board; and Among other things, the system controls compressed air applied to at least one brake pipe pressure sensor and a brake cylinder pressure sensor.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the system further comprises: an equalization reservoir pressure sensor operably coupled to the penalty solenoid valve; and A fluid reservoir is operably coupled to the penalty solenoid valve and the emergency solenoid valve.

14. The system of claim 12, wherein the air compressor provides compressed air to the brake cylinder.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the compressed air is 72 pounds per square inch (psi).

16. The system of claim 12, wherein the penalty solenoid valve provides compressed air to the equalizer reservoir and the at least one brake pipe.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the compressed air is 90 psi when the penalty solenoid valve is active and 58 psi when the penalty solenoid valve is inactive.

18. The system of claim 12, wherein the ventilation solenoid valve comprises a choke.

19. The system of claim 12, wherein the emergency solenoid valve includes a vent.

20. A method for simulating a horn activation condition in a positive train control (PTC) system, comprising: receiving a command corresponding to a speaker activation application; Provide voltage to the speaker circuit; and The horn produces an audible sound using compressed air released from the horn solenoid valve.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the instruction is input by a user.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein the instructions are input by a train management computer (TMC).

23. The method of claim 22, further comprising energizing a horn solenoid valve.

24. A system for simulating horn activation conditions in a positive train control (PTC) system, comprising: Speaker circuit; a horn solenoid operably coupled to the horn circuit; from a speaker display circuit to a speaker circuit operatively coupled to the speaker display circuit, Among other things, the system controls compressed air applied to at least one brake pipe pressure sensor and a brake cylinder pressure sensor.

25. The system of claim 24, wherein the system further comprises: a train management computer (TMC) operably coupled to the horn circuit; a switch box operably coupled to the TMC and the speaker circuit; at least one terminal block operably coupled to the switch box and the speaker circuit, Among other things, the system controls compressed air applied to at least one brake pipe pressure sensor and a brake cylinder pressure sensor.

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