Intelligent railway parking iron shoe and control method and control system thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of intelligent railway parking iron shoe scheme design, in particular to an intelligent railway parking iron shoe and a control method and system thereof. The method comprises the following steps: firstly, acquiring positioning information, three-dimensional attitude angle information and metal approaching state information of an iron shoe in real time through a multi-sensor fusion technology; secondly, constructing a master-slave automatic networking system by adopting a LoRa wireless communication technology, and realizing cooperative work and data exchange of a plurality of iron shoe devices; and finally, packaging the collected multi-dimensional data into a structured data packet according to a configurable time period, and uploading the structured data packet to a monitoring center. Comprehensive monitoring of the state of the iron shoes is achieved through intelligent integrated design, the endurance time of equipment is remarkably prolonged through an innovative low-power-consumption framework, the deployment flexibility of the system in a large station yard is improved through a self-adaptive networking mechanism, the reliability of data transmission is guaranteed through multi-layer verification, and all-around technical guarantee is provided for railway operation safety.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of intelligent railway parking brake design technology, specifically to an intelligent railway parking brake and its control method and control system. Background Technology

[0002] In the railway transportation sector, parking shoes are crucial safety devices preventing vehicle runaway, and their management effectiveness directly impacts shunting operation safety. Traditional parking shoes rely primarily on manual deployment and inspection, resulting in poor real-time performance and low management efficiency. With increasing railway operational density, this extensive management approach is no longer sufficient to meet the demands of modern railway safety management. In recent years, while some technologies have attempted to integrate sensor units into parking shoes, these have largely been limited to single-function implementations, failing to form a systematic solution. Existing technological solutions generally suffer from several prominent drawbacks: First, the lack of an effective networking communication mechanism prevents collaborative monitoring of multiple parking shoes, making it difficult for managers to quickly grasp the overall status when multiple vehicles are parked simultaneously. Second, existing devices have insufficient power consumption control capabilities, and frequent battery replacements severely impact operational continuity. Third, sensor data acquisition is often limited to a single dimension, focusing only on position or orientation, failing to comprehensively reflect the parking shoe's operational status. Furthermore, data transmission reliability is compromised, prone to packet loss or errors in complex railway electromagnetic environments. Finally, traditional solutions lack intelligent early warning mechanisms, failing to issue timely alerts when parking shoes shift or exhibit abnormal conditions. These technical deficiencies result in significant shortcomings in the existing iron shoe management system in terms of real-time performance, reliability, and intelligence. There is an urgent need for an innovative solution that can integrate multiple functions, achieve intelligent networking, and ensure long-term stable operation.

[0003] Therefore, existing technologies still need further development. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the above-mentioned technical deficiencies and provide an intelligent railway parking brake and its control method and control system to solve the problems existing in the prior art.

[0005] To achieve the above-mentioned technical objectives, according to a first aspect of the present invention, the present invention provides a control method for intelligent railway parking brakes, comprising: S100: Collects the positioning information, pose information, and metal detection information of the metal shoe; S200: Automatically network multiple shoe-making devices through a wireless communication network to form a distributed communication system; The S300 encapsulates the collected positioning information, pose information, and metal detection information into data packets and uploads them to the monitoring center at configurable time intervals.

[0006] Specifically, the time interval is dynamically configured using preset parameters to adapt to different operating environments.

[0007] Specifically, it also includes setting an alarm threshold for pose information. When the pose information exceeds the alarm threshold, an alarm signal is automatically triggered and the data packet status is updated.

[0008] Specifically, the automatic networking adopts a master-slave working mode, in which one iron shoe device is designated as the master and the other devices are slaves. The master is responsible for coordinating data collection and uploading.

[0009] Specifically, the host selectively wakes up the slave device through a wake-up mechanism. After being woken up, the slave device actively uploads cached data and then returns to sleep mode to reduce power consumption.

[0010] Specifically, the data packet is encapsulated in a structured format, including device identifier, timestamp, sensor status, and power status fields.

[0011] Specifically, this also includes calculating checksums for data packets and verifying data integrity before uploading; if the verification fails, the data is retransmitted.

[0012] Specifically, the control method also includes a low-power management step, which controls the iron shoe device to enter a sleep mode during periods of no data interaction and achieves rapid wake-up through periodic listening.

[0013] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a control system for an intelligent railway parking shoe is provided, comprising: The positioning module is used to collect the geographical location information of the iron shoes; The pose acquisition module is used to acquire the spatial pose angle information of the iron shoe. Metal detection module, used to collect information on the proximity of metal to the metal shoes; The wireless networking module is used to realize automatic multi-point networking communication and supports master-slave mode configuration; The data upload module is used to transmit the collected information to the base station or host computer at configurable intervals; The modules work together to achieve functions such as positioning, metal detection, pose acquisition, networking, and data uploading.

[0014] According to a third aspect of the present invention, an intelligent railway parking brake is provided, comprising: a memory; and a processor, wherein the memory stores computer-readable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, implement the above-described control method for the intelligent railway parking brake.

[0015] Beneficial effects: This invention brings several significant benefits through integrated design. In terms of functional completeness, by integrating multiple sensing functions such as positioning, metal detection, and pose acquisition, it achieves comprehensive monitoring of the status of the train tracks, effectively overcoming the limitations of single-function devices. The wireless networking function allows the dispersed train tracks to form an organic whole, greatly improving monitoring efficiency, especially suitable for multi-point monitoring scenarios such as large marshalling yards. Regarding reliability improvement, the master-slave network architecture combined with a fixed-point wake-up mechanism ensures communication reliability while optimizing power consumption, enabling the equipment to operate stably for extended periods even in harsh environments. Data encapsulation and verification mechanisms ensure the integrity of the transmission process and effectively resist interference from the complex electromagnetic environment of railways. In terms of intelligence, configurable parameter settings give the system good adaptability, allowing it to adjust its operating strategies according to different operational needs. The intelligent alarm threshold judgment function enables early warning of safety risks, buying valuable time for emergency response. The low-power management strategy significantly extends the equipment's battery life, reduces maintenance frequency, and lowers the total lifecycle cost. Overall, this invention not only improves the automation level of railway shoe management, but also establishes a complete intelligent monitoring system through technological integration and innovation, providing strong protection for railway transportation safety. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method for intelligent railway parking brakes provided in a specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the system composition of the intelligent railway parking shoe control system provided in a specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of automatic networking provided in a specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the intelligent iron shoe provided in a specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the smart iron shoe provided in a specific embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0017] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions of the present invention, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Based on the embodiments in this application, other similar embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should all fall within the scope of protection of this application. Furthermore, directional terms mentioned in the following embodiments, such as "up," "down," "left," and "right," are only for reference to the directions in the accompanying drawings; therefore, the directional terms used are for illustrative purposes and not for limiting the invention.

[0018] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments.

[0019] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 3-5 This invention provides a control method for intelligent railway parking brakes, comprising: S100 collects the positioning information, pose information, and metal detection information of the metal shoe.

[0020] Further explanation is needed. First, positioning information is collected via a GPS or BeiDou dual-mode module, preferably with a low-power design. This allows for differentiation of tracks both inside and outside the depot. Positioning data includes longitude and latitude coordinates, such as longitude 120.1477100 and latitude 35.9318430 as test values, but can be dynamically acquired in actual applications. Pose information is collected via a gyroscope module, measuring the XYZ axis attitude angles of the track shoe with an accuracy controlled within 1 degree. A threshold range is preferred for alarm purposes. Metal detection information is obtained via a proximity switch or RFID reader, detecting whether the track shoe is in contact with the rail or a metal object. The default state value is 1 (normal), and it changes to 0 (alarm) when an obstruction is encountered.

[0021] S200 automatically networks multiple shoe-making devices through a wireless communication network to form a distributed communication system.

[0022] It should be further explained that the wireless networking uses LoRa technology, operates in the 410-525MHz frequency band, has a transmission power of 21dBm, and a communication distance of up to 5km. Automatic networking is achieved through simple settings, such as forming a network within a radius of 500 meters in a locomotive depot environment.

[0023] The S300 encapsulates the collected positioning information, pose information, and metal detection information into data packets and uploads them to the monitoring center at configurable time intervals.

[0024] It should be further noted that the data upload interval is configurable, with a preferred value of 10 minutes, but can be adjusted to a shorter or longer interval as needed. The data packets are encapsulated in JSON format and include fields such as ID, time, and sensor status. Low power management reduces the current to 200μA during sleep mode via the control module, allowing for standby time of over 6 months when using a 5000mAh lithium battery.

[0025] Understandably, this method enables intelligent management of railway parking vehicles, improving safety and efficiency through multi-sensor integration and wireless networking. Configurable intervals and a low-power design extend battery life, making it suitable for harsh environments.

[0026] For easier understanding, please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 , Figure 4 The overall mechanical structure and key external functional components of the equipment are clearly displayed. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the main body of the shoe is streamlined, with a pointed toe for guidance and positioning on the rails. The tread, located on the upper part of the shoe, directly contacts the railway wheel tread and is the core load-bearing surface for effective parking braking. The sole forms the main support structure at the bottom of the device, ensuring the shoe can be placed stably on the rails. Skirts on the sides of the shoe provide additional lateral protection and stability. A vertical plate is located at the rear of the shoe, along with a retractable folding handle for easy manual placement and removal. An external antenna is mounted on the outside of the plate to enhance wireless signal transmission and reception, ensuring reliable communication with the wireless networking module in the control system for data transmission. The shoe also has a charging port for connecting to an external power source to charge the internal lithium battery, maintaining long-term operation. All components work together, with those not included in the design... Figure 4 The photoelectric sensor, which is directly labeled but located near the tread surface, plays a crucial role in detecting whether the smart wheel shoe has successfully blocked the wheel, providing a key "blocking status" signal for the control system. It is one of the key sensing components for achieving intelligent status monitoring in this patent. Figure 5 The layout and integration of the various electronic functional modules inside the smart iron shoe are revealed in detail. For example... Figure 5 As shown, inside the transparent shell, the core control and sensing components are arranged in an orderly manner: the GPS positioning module receives satellite signals to obtain the real-time latitude and longitude coordinates of the wheeled shoe, achieving precise positioning and tracking; the gyroscope module, adjacent to the GPS positioning module, is used to sense and measure the wheeled shoe's attitude angle in space (such as tilting or flipping) in real time, and is a key sensor for determining whether the wheeled shoe has been subjected to abnormal collisions or displacement. Located in... Figure 5 The circuit board located slightly above the center is the control hub of the entire device, integrating a microprocessor, memory, and peripheral circuits. It is responsible for executing the control method described in this patent, processing all sensor data, and coordinating the operation of each module. The RFID reader and antenna on its left together constitute a metal detection module. The RFID reader transmits radio frequency signals through the antenna and reads the response, used to detect objects within a specific distance (such as approaching vehicles or other metal objects). The photoelectric sensor on the right directly detects whether the smart wheel is obstructing the wheel. Its working principle is to determine the wheel's obstruction of the light path through optical principles, thereby generating a status signal indicating the presence of the wheel. A lithium battery is placed at the bottom of the device to provide power to all electronic modules. In addition, an electrical storage box (should be an appliance storage box) is used to organize and protect the main internal electrical components and wiring, improving the overall protection level and reliability of the device. All modules are electrically connected and interact with each other through the circuit board, collectively forming the hardware entity of the intelligent control system described in this patent.

[0027] Specifically, the time interval is dynamically configured using preset parameters to adapt to different operating environments.

[0028] It should be further noted that the time interval is set via host computer software or serial port commands, for example, using WitMotion software (version V2024.8.12.4) for configuration. The initial value can be set to 40 seconds (based on 5). The calculation is performed every 8 minutes, but it is preferred to adjust it to 10 minutes (corresponding to parameter value 75) to adapt to different scenarios such as high-frequency monitoring or energy-saving mode. The configuration parameters are stored in non-volatile memory, allowing for remote updates. The reason for choosing 10 minutes as the preferred value is to balance data real-time performance and power consumption. The railway environment changes slowly, and a 10-minute interval is sufficient to capture critical events while reducing energy consumption.

[0029] Understandably, dynamic configuration improves system flexibility, adapts to different operational needs, and avoids resource waste or data loss caused by fixed intervals.

[0030] Specifically, it also includes setting an alarm threshold for pose information. When the pose information exceeds the alarm threshold, an alarm signal is automatically triggered and the data packet status is updated.

[0031] It should be further explained that the alarm threshold is set for the XYZ axis angles, with a preferred threshold of ±10 degrees. Based on railway safety standards, when the angle exceeds the range (e.g., ±10 degrees on the X or Y axis), an alarm is triggered by outputting a high level at the DO angle. Threshold configuration is done through sensor software. For example, when using a tilt alarm function, the parameters are set to ±10 degrees for both the X and Y axes. The reason for choosing ±10 degrees is that this range covers common risks of wheel chock tilt, avoiding false alarms while ensuring timely warnings. The data packet status is updated to the zitaiStatus field, where 0 indicates normal and 1 indicates an alarm.

[0032] Understandably, the alarm mechanism enhances safety and prevents accidents caused by metal shoe displacement, while threshold optimization reduces the false alarm rate.

[0033] Specifically, the automatic networking adopts a master-slave working mode, in which one iron shoe device is designated as the master and the other devices are slaves. The master is responsible for coordinating data collection and uploading.

[0034] It should be further explained that the master-slave mode is configured via LoRa modules. For example, the A700 device can be set as the master, the A39 as the slave, the channel can be set to 17, the airspeed can be the same, the group number can be set to 6, and the address can be set to 0. The master is responsible for polling the slave, and the slave only responds when it is woken up. Configuration is implemented using serial port tools or a host computer, ensuring that the master and slave parameters match. The master-slave mode is preferred because it simplifies network management and is suitable for multi-point deployment in railway sites.

[0035] Understandably, the master-slave model improves network reliability, reduces conflicts, and facilitates expansion and maintenance.

[0036] Specifically, the host selectively wakes up the slave device through a wake-up mechanism. After being woken up, the slave device actively uploads cached data and then returns to sleep mode to reduce power consumption.

[0037] It should be further explained that the master selectively wakes up the slave device by sending a wake-up code (preferably a specific hexadecimal sequence in this embodiment of the invention). The slave device detects the wake-up code in a "sleep-listen" cycle, uploads cached data after waking up, and then returns to sleep. The listening cycle is preferably once per second, and the sleep current is maintained at 200μA. The reason for choosing a fixed-point wake-up is to reduce overall power consumption, as only the slave device that needs to communicate is activated, thus extending battery life.

[0038] Understandably, it offers significant energy savings, is suitable for long-term deployment, and ensures data timeliness.

[0039] Specifically, the data packet is encapsulated in a structured format, including device identifier, timestamp, sensor status, and power status fields.

[0040] It should be further noted that the data packet adopts JSON format, for example: {"Name":"TieXie","Id":1,"Zitai":"-4.768-7.800-49.933","Time":"11:8:42","B_GPS":"120.1477100,35.9318430","gpsStatus":1,"rfidStatus":0,"WakeUp":5,"trackStatus":0,"wheelStatus":1,"zitaiStatus":0,"batteryLevel":80,"crc32":"7d570d24"}. Fields include device identifier (Id), timestamp (Time), sensor status (preferably trackStatus and wheelStatus in this specific embodiment), and power status (batteryLevel). JSON is preferred due to its ease of parsing and compatibility.

[0041] Understandably, structured data improves interoperability and facilitates processing and analysis by monitoring centers.

[0042] Specifically, this also includes calculating checksums for data packets and verifying data integrity before uploading; if the verification fails, the data is retransmitted.

[0043] It should be further noted that the checksum is calculated using the CRC32 algorithm, and the formula is: The data stream is the entire JSON string, with the preferred polynomial being 0xEDB88320 (standard IEEE 802.3 polynomial). The calculation steps are as follows: Initialize the CRC to 0xFFFFFFFF, perform XOR and shift operations on each byte, and finally invert the result. During verification, compare the calculated value with the CRC32 field within the packet; if the comparison fails, retransmit. CRC32 is chosen due to its efficiency, reliability, and high error detection rate.

[0044] Understandably, ensuring accurate data transmission is crucial to reducing decision-making errors caused by mistakes.

[0045] Specifically, the control method also includes a low-power management step, which controls the iron shoe device to enter a sleep mode during periods of no data interaction and achieves rapid wake-up through periodic listening.

[0046] It should be further explained that the sleep mode is controlled by the MCU. It enters sleep mode when there is no data, reducing the current to 200μA, with a 1-second listening interval and a millisecond-level wake-up time. The optimal parameters are calculated based on the battery capacity (5000mAh), allowing for 6 months of standby time. The rationale is to minimize power consumption while maintaining responsiveness.

[0047] Understandably, this significantly extends the service life and reduces maintenance costs.

[0048] Please see Figure 2 The present invention provides another embodiment, which provides a control system for an intelligent railway parking brake, the control system of which includes: The positioning module 100 is used to collect the geographical location information of the iron shoe; The pose acquisition module 200 is used to acquire the spatial pose angle information of the iron shoe. Metal detection module 300 is used to collect information on the metal proximity status of the metal shoe; The wireless networking module 400 is used to realize multi-point automatic networking communication and supports master-slave mode configuration. The data upload module 500 is used to transmit the collected information to the base station or host computer at configurable intervals. The modules work together to achieve functions such as positioning, metal detection, pose acquisition, networking, and data uploading.

[0049] Further explanation is needed regarding the hardware selection for each module: The positioning module uses a GPS / BeiDou dual-mode module and supports low-power wake-up; the pose acquisition module uses a gyroscope (preferably a WitMotion sensor in this specific embodiment) with an accuracy of 1 degree; the metal detection module uses an UHF RFID reader (preferably a CPH-K101 tag in this specific embodiment) with a detection distance of 2 meters; the wireless networking module uses a LoRa module and supports master-slave mode; the data upload module integrates a serial port server and supports MQTT pass-through. All modules are connected via a PCB board, and the power supply is a lithium battery. These modules are preferably based on industrial-grade standards and environmental adaptability (-40~80℃).

[0050] Understandably, the system has a high degree of integration, comprehensive functions, and is suitable for complex railway environments.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, this application also provides an electronic device, the electronic device comprising: The computer device includes a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, implement the control method for the intelligent railway parking brake. The computer device can be broadly categorized as a server, terminal, or any other electronic device with the necessary computing and / or processing capabilities. In one embodiment, the computer device may include a processor, memory, network interface, communication interface, etc., connected via a system bus. The processor of the computer device can be used to provide the necessary computing, processing, and / or control capabilities. The memory of the computer device may include a non-volatile storage medium and internal memory. The non-volatile storage medium may store an operating system, computer programs, etc. The internal memory can provide an environment for the operation of the operating system and computer programs in the non-volatile storage medium. The network interface and communication interface of the computer device can be used to connect and communicate with external devices via a network. When the computer program is executed by the processor, it performs the steps of the method of the present invention.

[0052] This invention can be implemented as a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, causes the steps of the methods of embodiments of the invention to be performed. In one embodiment, the computer program is distributed across multiple network-coupled computer devices or processors, such that the computer program is stored, accessed, and executed in a distributed manner by one or more computer devices or processors. A single method step / operation, or two or more method steps / operations, may be executed by a single computer device or processor or by two or more computer devices or processors. One or more method steps / operations may be executed by one or more computer devices or processors, and one or more other method steps / operations may be executed by one or more other computer devices or processors. One or more computer devices or processors may execute a single method step / operation, or execute two or more method steps / operations.

[0053] Those skilled in the art will understand that the method steps of this invention can be performed by a computer program instructing related hardware, such as a computer device or processor, to perform the steps of this invention when executed. Depending on the context, any references herein to memory, storage, databases, or other media may include non-volatile and / or volatile memory. Examples of non-volatile memory include read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, magnetic tape, floppy disk, magneto-optical data storage device, optical data storage device, hard disk, solid-state drive, etc. Examples of volatile memory include random access memory (RAM), external cache memory, etc.

[0054] The technical features described above can be combined arbitrarily. Although not all possible combinations of these technical features are described, any combination of these technical features should be considered to be covered by this specification, provided that such combination does not contain contradictions.

[0055] The specific embodiments of the present invention described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of the present invention. Any other corresponding changes and modifications made in accordance with the technical concept of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for intelligent railway parking brakes, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S100: Collects the positioning information, pose information, and metal detection information of the metal shoe; S200: Automatically network multiple shoe-making devices through a wireless communication network to form a distributed communication system; The S300 encapsulates the collected positioning information, pose information, and metal detection information into data packets and uploads them to the monitoring center at configurable time intervals.

2. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The time interval is dynamically configured using preset parameters to adapt to different operating environments.

3. The control method according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes setting an alarm threshold for pose information. When the pose information exceeds the alarm threshold, an alarm signal is automatically triggered and the data packet status is updated.

4. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automatic networking adopts a master-slave working mode, in which one iron shoe device is designated as the master and the other devices are slaves. The master is responsible for coordinating data collection and uploading.

5. The control method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The host selectively wakes up the slave device through a wake-up mechanism. After being woken up, the slave device actively uploads cached data and then returns to sleep mode to reduce power consumption.

6. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The data packet is encapsulated in a structured format, including device identifier, timestamp, sensor status, and power status fields.

7. The control method according to claim 6, characterized in that, It also includes calculating checksums for data packets and verifying data integrity before uploading; if the verification fails, the data is retransmitted.

8. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control method also includes a low-power management step, which controls the iron shoe device to enter a sleep mode during periods of no data interaction and achieves rapid wake-up through periodic monitoring.

9. A control system for an intelligent railway parking brake, characterized in that, include: The positioning module is used to collect the geographical location information of the iron shoes; The pose acquisition module is used to acquire the spatial pose angle information of the iron shoe. Metal detection module, used to collect information on the proximity of metal to the metal shoes; The wireless networking module is used to realize automatic multi-point networking communication and supports master-slave mode configuration; The data upload module is used to transmit the collected information to the base station or host computer at configurable intervals; The modules work together to achieve functions such as positioning, metal detection, pose acquisition, networking, and data uploading.

10. A smart railway parking shoe, characterized in that, include: Memory; The system includes a processor, wherein the memory stores computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, implement the control method for intelligent railway parking brakes according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

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