Railway signal identification device

Abstract

The utility model provides a railway signal recognition device, and relates to the technical field of signal recognition, the railway signal recognition device comprises a signal flag, the signal flag comprises a flagpole and a flag surface, the flagpole is provided with an NFC card reader, the flag surface is provided with a first NFC card, and the flag surface has a folded state and an unfolded state. When the flag surface is in a folded state, the first NFC card is close to the NFC card reader, so that the NFC card reader can read information of the first NFC card and output a first signal; when the flag is in the unfolded state, the first NFC card is far away from the NFC card reader, the NFC card reader cannot read the information of the first NFC card, and a second signal is output. Therefore, the railway signal recognition device can automatically recognize the folding and unfolding states of the signal flag and output different signals through the NFC card reader, so that accurate recognition and transmission of the signal states are achieved, the automation degree and accuracy of signal recognition are improved, and errors and complexity of manual operation are reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of signal recognition technology, and more specifically, to a railway signal recognition device. Background Technology

[0002] In railway train arrival and departure operations training or assessments, field assistants are required to execute specific hand signals, such as the colors of left and right hand signal flags, the folded or unfolded state of the signal flags, and the actions performed by the field assistants. These signals are crucial for command and communication. Assessors score field assistants by recognizing their hand signals. Currently, the scoring of field operations is still primarily done manually.

[0003] Assessors primarily use image recognition technology to identify signal flags. While this technology improves automation to some extent, it is highly dependent on factors such as ambient lighting and background color, and is easily affected by interference. For example, if objects in the environment are similar in color to the signal flags (such as red, green, or yellow), the image recognition system is prone to misjudgment, leading to incorrect identification and low training or assessment efficiency. Furthermore, manual scoring is susceptible to human influence, resulting in subjective assessment results. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a railway signal identification device in order to address the shortcomings of the prior art.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solutions adopted in the embodiments of this application are as follows:

[0006] This application provides a railway signal identification device, including a signal flag. The signal flag includes a flagpole and a flag surface. An NFC card reader is provided on the flagpole, and a first NFC card is provided on the flag surface. The flag surface has a folded state and an unfolded state. When the flag surface is in the folded state, the first NFC card is brought close to the NFC card reader to make the NFC card reader output a first signal. When the flag surface is in the unfolded state, the first NFC card is moved away from the NFC card reader to make the NFC card reader output a second signal.

[0007] Optionally, the railway signal identification device includes multiple signal flags with different flag colors, and an NFC reader installed on the flagpole of each signal flag is used to identify the flag color information of that signal flag.

[0008] Optionally, the railway signal identification device also includes a wristband with a second NFC card. When the second NFC card is brought close to the NFC reader, the NFC reader outputs a third signal. When the second NFC card is moved away from the NFC reader, the NFC reader outputs a fourth signal.

[0009] Optionally, the wristband includes a left wristband and a right wristband, wherein a second NFC card is set on the left wristband to represent the information of the left wristband, and a second NFC card is set on the right wristband to represent the information of the right wristband.

[0010] Optionally, the wristband may have multiple second NFC cards arranged at intervals.

[0011] Optionally, the railway signal identification device also includes a controller, and the NFC card reader is signal-connected to the controller.

[0012] Optionally, the railway signal identification device also includes a display, and the NFC card reader is signal-connected to the display.

[0013] Optionally, the railway signal identification device also includes a wireless transmitter, through which the NFC card reader connects to the controller and display.

[0014] Optionally, the railway signal identification device also includes a battery for powering the NFC reader.

[0015] Optionally, the first NFC card is placed on the side of the flag away from the flagpole.

[0016] The beneficial effects of this application include:

[0017] This application provides a railway signal identification device, including a signal flag. The signal flag includes a flagpole and a flag surface. An NFC reader is installed on the flagpole, and a first NFC card is installed on the flag surface. The flag surface has a folded state and an unfolded state. In these two states, the positional relationship between the first NFC card on the flag surface and the NFC reader is different, thereby achieving different signal outputs. When the flag surface is in the folded state, the first NFC card is close to the NFC reader, enabling the NFC reader to read the information of the first NFC card and output a corresponding first signal. The first signal indicates that the flag surface is in the folded state, thus allowing it to be identified and processed by an external system. When the flag surface is in the unfolded state, the first NFC card is away from the NFC reader, and the NFC reader cannot read the information of the first NFC card, thus outputting a second signal. The second signal indicates that the flag surface is in the unfolded state, and is also identified and processed by an external system. Through this design, the railway signal identification device can automatically identify the folded and unfolded states of the signal flag surface and output different signals through the NFC reader, thereby achieving accurate identification and transmission of signal states, improving the automation and accuracy of signal identification, and reducing errors and complexity from human operation. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a railway signal identification device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0020] Icons: 1-Flagpole; 2-Flag; 3-NFC card reader; 4-First NFC card; 5-Wristband; 6-Second NFC card; 7-Battery. Detailed Implementation

[0021] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0022] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of this application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed application, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the application. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the various features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other, and the combined embodiments are still within the protection scope of this application.

[0023] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0024] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product is in use. These terms are used only for the convenience of describing this application and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0025] Furthermore, terms such as "horizontal" and "vertical" do not imply that components must be absolutely horizontal or suspended, but rather that they can be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" simply means that its direction is more horizontal than "vertical," and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but can be slightly tilted.

[0026] In the description of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "set up," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0027] This application provides a railway signal identification device, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the system includes a signal flag, which comprises a flagpole 1 and a flag 2. An NFC reader 3 is installed on the flagpole 1, and a first NFC card 4 is installed on the flag 2. The flag 2 has a folded state and an unfolded state. When the flag 2 is in the folded state, the first NFC card 4 is brought close to the NFC reader 3 so that the NFC reader 3 outputs a first signal. When the flag 2 is in the unfolded state, the first NFC card 4 is moved away from the NFC reader 3 so that the NFC reader 3 outputs a second signal.

[0028] Specifically, the flag 2 has a folded state and an unfolded state. In these two states, the positional relationship between the first NFC card 4 on the flag 2 and the NFC reader 3 differs, resulting in different signal outputs. When the flag 2 is folded, the first NFC card 4 is close to the NFC reader 3, allowing the NFC reader 3 to read the information from the first NFC card 4 and output a corresponding first signal. This first signal indicates that the flag 2 is in the folded state, thus enabling it to be recognized and processed by external systems. When the flag 2 is unfolded, the first NFC card 4 is away from the NFC reader 3, and is no longer within the NFC reader 3's reading range. The NFC reader 3 cannot read the information from the first NFC card 4, thus outputting a second signal. This second signal indicates that the flag 2 is in the unfolded state, and is also recognized and processed by external systems. It should be noted that the flag 2 of the signal flag should be made of durable and waterproof materials to withstand outdoor operating environments.

[0029] Through this design, the railway signal identification device can automatically identify the folded and unfolded states of the signal flag 2 and output different signals via the NFC reader 3, thereby achieving accurate identification and transmission of signal status. This improves the automation and accuracy of signal identification and reduces errors and complexity caused by human operation. Furthermore, the combination of the NFC reader 3 and the first NFC card 4 gives the railway signal identification device efficient and reliable signal transmission capabilities. The use of NFC technology not only ensures accurate signal transmission but also maintains stable performance under various environmental conditions.

[0030] Optionally, the railway signal identification device includes multiple signal flags, each with a different color on its flag face 2. An NFC reader 3 is installed on the flagpole 1 of each signal flag to represent the color information of the flag face 2.

[0031] Specifically, the railway signal identification device includes multiple signal flags, each with a different color (e.g., red, green, and yellow). These colors represent different signal commands, allowing the field assistant to issue different commands by holding different colored flags. Each signal flag's flagpole 1 is equipped with an NFC reader 3. This NFC reader 3 is used not only to identify the folded and unfolded state of the flag 2 but also to represent the flag's color information. Specifically, a uniquely identified NFC reader 3 is embedded in the flagpole 1 of each signal flag, and these NFC readers 3 correspond to different color information. For example, the NFC reader 3 for the red flag 2 contains red identification information, the NFC reader 3 for the green flag 2 contains green identification information, and the NFC reader 3 for the yellow flag 2 contains yellow identification information. Finally, the NFC reader 3 transmits this color information along with the flag 2's state to an external system.

[0032] Optionally, a unique first NFC card 4 is embedded on each flag face 2, with each card corresponding to different color information. For example, the first NFC card 4 for the red flag face 2 contains red identification information, the first NFC card 4 for the green flag face 2 contains green identification information, and the first NFC card 4 for the yellow flag face 2 contains yellow identification information. The NFC reader 3 on the flagpole 1 can automatically identify the color of the signal flag by reading the information from these cards and transmit this information along with the flag face 2 status to an external system.

[0033] Overall, by using NFC technology, the automatic identification and transmission of signal flag colors and status are achieved, greatly improving the automation and accuracy of the operation. Furthermore, because the NFC reader 3 can accurately identify the color information of the flag 2, the system can effectively distinguish different signal commands, avoiding misjudgments caused by similar colors or environmental interference.

[0034] Optionally, the first NFC card 4 is positioned on the side of the flag 2 away from the flagpole 1.

[0035] Specifically, if Figure 1 As shown, by embedding the first NFC card 4 on the side of the flag 2 furthest from the flagpole 1, the distance between the first NFC card 4 and the NFC reader 3 changes significantly depending on the flag's state, thus achieving accurate state identification. This precise state identification reduces misjudgments caused by the ambiguous position of the flag 2, improving system reliability. Secondly, this design also improves signal transmission efficiency. Through the application of NFC technology, changes in the flag's state can be transmitted to external systems in real time, allowing the operational status of the field assistant to be monitored and recorded in real time. This provides important technical assurance for the safety and efficiency of train reception and dispatch operations. Furthermore, this design makes the railway signal identification device more adaptable and flexible. The rational design of the first NFC card 4 ensures stable operation under various environmental conditions, unaffected by external factors. This design not only improves the performance of the railway signal identification device but also demonstrates high practical value in real-world applications.

[0036] Optionally, the railway signal identification device also includes a wristband 5, on which a second NFC card 6 is disposed. When the second NFC card 6 is brought close to the NFC reader 3, the NFC reader 3 outputs a third signal. When the second NFC card 6 is moved away from the NFC reader 3, the NFC reader 3 outputs a fourth signal.

[0037] Specifically, if Figure 1 As shown, the railway signal identification device includes not only signal flags but also wristbands 5, each with a embedded second NFC card 6. When the field assistant wears the wristband 5 and holds the signal flag, the second NFC card 6 is brought close to the NFC reader 3 on the flagpole 1. In this state, the NFC reader 3 can read the information of the second NFC card 6 and output a third signal. This third signal is transmitted to the external system, indicating that the operator's wristband 5 is close to the signal flag, confirming that a signal operation is being performed. When the second NFC card 6 on the wristband 5 moves away from the NFC reader 3, the NFC reader 3 cannot read the information of the second NFC card 6, thus outputting a fourth signal. This signal is also transmitted to the external system, indicating that the operator's wristband 5 has moved away from the signal flag, and the signal operation has ended or has not yet begun.

[0038] Therefore, by attaching a second NFC card 6 to the wristband 5, the specific operational status of the field assistant can be further confirmed. For example, it can not only determine the status of the signal flag but also identify which hand is operating the signal flag. This provides more comprehensive information support for accurately monitoring and recording the operator's operational steps.

[0039] Secondly, the combination of this wristband 5 and signal flags enhances the intelligence level of railway signal recognition devices. The system can automatically identify and differentiate the operations of different duty officers, ensuring that every step is accurately recorded and fed back, reducing the need for human intervention. Through the efficient data transmission of NFC technology, external systems can obtain operational information in real time, improving the overall operational efficiency and security.

[0040] Furthermore, the design of the wristband 5 makes the railway signal recognition device more user-friendly and convenient. Operators only need to wear the wristband 5 and operate according to normal procedures; the system can automatically complete the recognition and recording, reducing additional operational steps and equipment carrying requirements. This simplified operating mode helps improve the efficiency and comfort of operators.

[0041] Optionally, the wristband 5 includes a left wristband and a right wristband, with a second NFC card 6 set on the left wristband to represent the information of the left wristband, and a second NFC card 6 set on the right wristband to represent the information of the right wristband.

[0042] Specifically, the second NFC card 6 embedded in both the left and right wristbands each has a unique identification code. The second NFC card 6 of the left wristband contains information for identifying the left hand, while the second NFC card 6 of the right wristband contains information for identifying the right hand. When the field assistant duty officer wears the wristband 5 and holds the signal flag, the second NFC card 6 on either the left or right wristband is brought close to the NFC reader 3 on the flagpole 1. After reading the information from the second NFC card 6, the NFC reader 3 outputs a third signal representing the specific wristband 5. This signal is transmitted to the external system, indicating not only that the duty officer is operating the signal flag, but also whether the operation is performed by the left or right hand.

[0043] Therefore, by setting different second NFC cards 6 on the left and right wristbands respectively, the system can accurately identify and record the operator's gestures. This provides important technical support for ensuring the accuracy and comprehensiveness of operations. The external system can record the details of each operation in detail, including which hand was used, thereby improving the accuracy of monitoring and recording.

[0044] Furthermore, this design enhances the system's intelligence. The external system can automatically identify and distinguish the operation states of the left and right hands, and combine this information with the status of the signal flags to form a comprehensive operation log. This intelligent identification and recording capability greatly reduces the possibility of human intervention and misjudgment, improving the system's reliability and security.

[0045] Optionally, the wristband 5 may have multiple second NFC cards 6 arranged at intervals.

[0046] Specifically, multiple second NFC cards 6 embedded in each wristband 5 are arranged at certain intervals. In this way, when the operator wears the wristband 5 and holds the signal flag, regardless of wrist rotation or movement, the NFC reader 3 can still read the information of at least one second NFC card 6. After reading this information, the NFC reader 3 outputs the corresponding signal data and transmits it to an external system. The external system can then determine the operational status of the signal flag and its specific gesture. This design greatly improves the stability of signal reading, ensures the continuity and accuracy of data transmission, and enhances the system's fault tolerance and reading stability. Furthermore, this design also improves operational flexibility and convenience. The operator does not need to deliberately maintain a specific position or posture of the wristband 5; they only need to wear the wristband 5 and use the signal flag according to the normal operating procedure, and the system can automatically complete the identification and recording. This simple operating mode not only improves work efficiency but also reduces errors caused by improper operation.

[0047] Optionally, the railway signal identification device also includes a controller, and the NFC card reader 3 is signal-connected to the controller.

[0048] Specifically, the controller is part of an external system. The NFC reader 3 connects to the controller via a signal connection to enable data transmission and processing. When the field assistant operator uses a signal flag or wristband 5 to perform operations, the NFC reader 3 reads the NFC card information from the signal flag or wristband 5 in real time. After receiving this data, the controller performs preliminary processing and storage. This process ensures that operational data can be recorded in real time, providing timely operational status feedback.

[0049] The controller not only receives data but also possesses powerful data analysis capabilities. It can comprehensively analyze the received operational data to determine whether the operator's actions meet standards. Through real-time data processing, the controller can promptly detect and correct operational errors, ensuring the safety and accuracy of railway train arrival and departure operations. It should be noted that the controller can simultaneously process NFC data from multiple signal flags and wristbands, enabling real-time monitoring and management of multiple users and signals.

[0050] Optionally, the external system also includes historical data storage functionality to record and trace the operational history of field assistants. Data for each operation is recorded in detail and stored in the system chronologically. This functionality not only provides a complete operational record but also allows for the tracking and analysis of past operations.

[0051] First, the historical data storage function provides detailed records of the operator's actions, ensuring that every operation is traceable. This is crucial for post-event review and analysis, especially in the event of operational anomalies or accidents, enabling rapid problem identification and corrective action.

[0052] Secondly, by analyzing historical data, the system can identify the operational patterns and potential problems of duty officers. Through the accumulation and analysis of this data, the system can provide targeted training and improvement suggestions to enhance the operational skills and work efficiency of duty officers.

[0053] Furthermore, the historical data storage function supports the tracking and analysis of operation records, providing robust data support. This data can not only be used for internal auditing and improvement but also serve as a basis for training and assessment, providing scientific data support for the professional development of duty officers.

[0054] Optionally, the railway signal identification device also includes a display, and the NFC card reader 3 is connected to the display via a signal connection.

[0055] Specifically, the display is also part of the external system. The NFC reader 3 is connected to the display via a signal connection to enable real-time data display and monitoring. When the NFC reader 3 reads the NFC card information on the signal flag or wristband 5, this data is transmitted to the display via the signal connection. The display can show this operational data in real time, including the status of the signal flag and specific information about the operation of the wristband 5. This real-time display function ensures that the assessor can immediately see the operational status and promptly identify and address potential problems.

[0056] The monitor's design significantly improves the system's ease of use and intuitiveness. First, the real-time display provides an intuitive interface, allowing operators to immediately see the status of each operational step. This visual approach reduces the possibility of misoperation and improves overall operational safety and reliability. Second, the monitor can also display historical data and analysis results, providing crucial reference information for operators and evaluators. For example, by displaying historical operation records, operators can review and analyze their operations to identify areas for improvement. Evaluators, on the other hand, can use data analysis results to develop more effective training and management strategies, thereby improving overall operational efficiency and safety.

[0057] Optionally, the railway signal identification device also includes a wireless transmitter, through which the NFC reader 3 is connected to the controller and display.

[0058] Specifically, the railway signal identification device also includes a wireless transmitter built into the flagpole 1, and the NFC reader 3 connects to the controller and display via the wireless transmitter. This design offers significant advantages in enhancing system flexibility and reducing wiring complexity. After the NFC reader 3 collects NFC card information from the signal flag or wristband 5, it transmits the data to the controller and display via the wireless transmitter. The wireless transmitter enables high-speed, stable data transmission, ensuring data real-time performance and accuracy. This wireless connection method not only simplifies the system's wiring requirements but also enhances the overall system's flexibility and scalability.

[0059] In practical applications, wireless transmitters effectively reduce wiring complexity, especially in complex environments such as railway sites where wiring is not only difficult but also susceptible to external interference. Wireless transmission enables data to be transmitted quickly and accurately to the controller and display, significantly improving system reliability and ease of installation. Furthermore, wireless transmitters enhance system scalability. As needs change and technology advances, the system can easily add or adjust NFC readers and other devices without rewiring. In this way, the system can better adapt to future expansion and upgrade needs, providing longer-term technical assurance.

[0060] Optionally, the railway signal identification device also includes a battery 7, which powers the NFC reader 3.

[0061] Specifically, if Figure 1 As shown, battery 7 is integrated into the signal flag, providing a continuous and stable power supply to the NFC reader 3 and the wireless transmitter. This ensures the device can operate normally even without an external power source. The capacity of battery 7 is carefully designed to ensure it can maintain normal operation of the device during extended periods of use, reducing the need for frequent charging or battery replacement.

[0062] First, the battery-powered system significantly enhances its independence and mobility. The railway signal identification device requires no external power source and can operate independently in various situations and environments. Whether in railway stations, dispatch centers, or other locations requiring signal operations, the system can be flexibly deployed to ensure the equipment is always available.

[0063] Secondly, battery-powered operation enhances system reliability and continuous operation. In the complex environment of railway sites, external power supplies can be affected by various factors, while battery-powered operation ensures stable equipment operation. Through efficient power management, the system can maintain stable performance over extended periods, reducing equipment downtime or malfunctions caused by power issues.

[0064] Furthermore, the optimized design of Battery 7 provides a long battery life to meet the needs of extended operation. Battery 7's capacity and energy management are scientifically calculated to ensure long-term operation after a single charge. This is particularly important for railway train handling scenarios requiring continuous operation, reducing the frequency of interruptions and maintenance, and improving overall work efficiency.

[0065] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A railway signal identification device, characterized in that, The system includes a signal flag, which comprises a flagpole (1) and a flag (2). An NFC reader (3) is provided on the flagpole (1), and a first NFC card (4) is provided on the flag (2). The flag (2) has a folded state and an unfolded state. When the flag (2) is in the folded state, the first NFC card (4) is close to the NFC reader (3) so that the NFC reader (3) outputs a first signal. When the flag (2) is in the unfolded state, the first NFC card (4) is away from the NFC reader (3) so that the NFC reader (3) outputs a second signal.

2. The railway signal identification device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The railway signal identification device includes multiple signal flags, each with a different color on its flag face (2). The NFC reader (3) installed on the flagpole (1) of each signal flag is used to characterize the color information of the flag face (2).

3. The railway signal identification device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The railway signal identification device also includes a wristband (5), on which a second NFC card (6) is provided. The second NFC card (6) is close to the NFC reader (3) so that the NFC reader (3) outputs a third signal. The second NFC card (6) is far away from the NFC reader (3) so that the NFC reader (3) outputs a fourth signal.

4. The railway signal identification device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The wristband (5) includes a left wristband and a right wristband. The second NFC card (6) set on the left wristband is used to represent the information of the left wristband, and the second NFC card (6) set on the right wristband is used to represent the information of the right wristband.

5. The railway signal identification device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The wristband (5) is provided with a plurality of second NFC cards (6), which are arranged at intervals.

6. The railway signal identification device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The railway signal identification device also includes a controller, and the NFC card reader (3) is signal-connected to the controller.

7. The railway signal identification device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The railway signal identification device also includes a display, and the NFC card reader (3) is signal-connected to the display.

8. The railway signal identification device as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The railway signal identification device also includes a wireless transmitter, and the NFC card reader (3) is connected to the controller and the display via the wireless transmitter.

9. The railway signal identification device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The railway signal identification device also includes a battery (7) for powering the NFC reader (3).

10. The railway signal identification device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first NFC card (4) is disposed on the side of the flag (2) away from the flagpole (1).

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