Sequence control device for a main signal / pre-signal system

Abstract

Sequence control device (100, 200, 300) for a main signal / distant signal system (220, 320), comprising: - a receiving module (102, 202, 302) configured to receive (401) a first control data set from a first interlocking (222, 322), wherein the first control data set contains at least a first speed data for a defined rail vehicle, - a transmission module (108, 208, 308) configured to transmit (403) the received first control data set to a second interlocking (224, 324) of the main signal / distant signal system (220, 320), - at least one control unit (104, 204, 304) with at least one control module (106, 206, 306), - wherein the receiving module (102, 202, 302) is configured to Receiving (405) a second control data set from the first interlocking (222, 322), wherein the second control data set contains at least a second speed data for the defined rail vehicle,- wherein the control module (106, 206,306) is set up to control (411) the transmission module (108, 208, 308) such that in a first transmission step a stop data record is transmitted to the second interlocking (224, 324), containing at least one stop information date, and that after the expiry of a defined time interval in a second transmission step (413) the second control data record is transmitted to the second interlocking (224, 324).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a sequence control device for a main signal / pre-signal system. Furthermore, the invention relates to a main signal / pre-signal system and a method.

[0002] A rail line in a rail system or a main signal / distant signal system for rail vehicles is usually divided into a number of consecutive section lines. A first section may thus connect to a second section. In such a system, the movement or entry of a rail vehicle into or into the first, defined section is regulated or controlled by the display of so-called main signal aspects. For this purpose, main signal displays, so-called main signal railway signals, may be arranged along the rail line and configured to display the main signal aspect. A main signal aspect displayed by a main signal display at a section transition must always be observed by the driver of a rail vehicle.

[0003] Basically, three different main signal aspects can be generated and displayed, as shown in Table 1 below. Table 1 Main signal aspect Meaning HP 0 Stop Hp 1 with or without additional speed indicator Travel at the speed permitted in the timetable, unless otherwise indicated by an additional speed indicator Hp 2 with or without additional speed indicator Slow driving with a speed limit of 40 km / h, unless a different speed is indicated by an additional speed indicator.

[0004] For the main signal aspect Hp 0, the rail vehicle must halt or stop before the corresponding section of track. The additional display of a speed data item or the value of the speed data item for the main signal aspects Hp 1 and Hp 2 indicates, in particular, the maximum permitted speed on the corresponding or subsequent section of track.

[0005] Due to the structural arrangement of the main signal displays, the braking distance of a rail vehicle (particularly at higher rail vehicle speeds), and / or weather conditions (e.g., fog, etc.), which can prevent timely recognition of the main signal aspect indicated by a main signal display, the state of the art uses additional displays, so-called distant signal displays or distant signal railway signals, to indicate distant signals or distant signal aspects. A distant signal display is arranged in the direction of travel in front of a corresponding main signal display. As a distant signal aspect, a distant signal display indicates, in particular, the main signal aspect expected on the subsequent main signal display.

[0006] Basically, three different distant signal aspects can be generated and displayed, as shown in Table 2 below. Table 2 Distant signal concept Meaning Vr 0 Expect a stop Vr 1 with or without additional speed indicator Expect to travel at the speed permitted in the timetable, unless otherwise indicated by an additional speed indicator Vr 2 with or without additional speed indicator Expect to drive slowly with a speed limit of 40 km / h unless a different speed is indicated by an additional speed indicator.

[0007] Main signal and distant signal aspects are generated and specified by at least one interlocking of the main signal / distant signal system. In other words, at least one interlocking controls the aforementioned displays. A fundamental distinction must be made between two cases.

[0008] In a first case, both the distant signal display and the subsequent main signal display are located within the operating area of ​​the same interlocking. In this case, the interlocking controls both the distant signal display and the main signal display.

[0009] In a second case, the distant signal display is located in a second operating area of ​​a second interlocking, and the main signal display is located in a first operating area of ​​a first interlocking. In other words, the responsibility for a distant signal display and a corresponding main signal display is separated.

[0010] In order to display the distant signal aspect on the distant signal display, which corresponds to the main signal aspect displayed on the main signal display, the first interlocking and the second interlocking are communicatively linked in the prior art. If, for example, a main signal aspect with a maximum speed of 90 km / h is permitted in the first defined section of track for a defined rail vehicle, i.e., in particular, the rail vehicle next entering the said section of track, the first interlocking can be configured to control the main signal display (assigned to this section of track) such that the main signal display displays this main signal aspect. In addition, the first interlocking sends a first control data set to the second interlocking.The first control data set can contain the main signal aspect together with a speed data item, in particular the value of the permitted maximum speed. In the example mentioned, the value of the speed data item is 90 km / h. Upon receipt of the first control data set, the second interlocking system is configured to control the distant signal display (assigned to the defined route section) such that the distant signal display displays the information contained in the first control data set as the distant signal aspect, i.e., in particular, the value of the speed data item, for example, 90 km / h.

[0011] Such a prior art main signal / distant signal system or rail system is associated with disadvantages, particularly when the maximum permitted speed for the specified rail vehicle on the first track section changes. If this speed increases to 120 km / h, for example, the first interlocking system controls the main signal display such that the main signal display now shows 120 km / h, thus indicating, in particular, the changed main signal aspect. Furthermore, the first control signal sends a second control data set to the second interlocking system. The second control data set can contain the changed main signal aspect together with a changed second speed data item, in particular the value of the changed permitted maximum speed. In the example mentioned, the value of the second speed data item is 120 km / h.

[0012] Upon receipt of the second control data set, the second interlocking system is configured to control the distant signal display (assigned to the defined track section) such that the distant signal display shows "Expect stop" as the distant signal aspect. In other words, the value of the changed second speed data is not displayed, but always "Expect stop."

[0013] For safety reasons, the second interlocking system is set up so that upon receipt of a changed second speed data item, the distant signal display is always set to the distant signal aspect "Expect stop." In the example mentioned, this means that the driver of the defined rail vehicle also expects the "Stop" signal on the subsequent main signal display due to the distant signal aspect "Expect stop" and therefore initiates appropriate measures, in particular slowing or braking the rail vehicle. In fact, however, in the example mentioned, the driver could increase the speed of the defined rail vehicle due to the interim increase in the maximum permitted speed. Consequently, a corresponding interim change in the permitted speed regularly leads to delays in operations.

[0014] Therefore, the object of the invention is to provide a possibility for a main signal / pre-signal system which at least reduces the disadvantages of the prior art and in particular reduces delays in the operational process while at the same time maintaining the high safety standards of a main signal / pre-signal system.

[0015] According to a first aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a sequence control device according to claim 1 for a main signal / pre-signal system. The sequence control device comprises a receiving module. The receiving module is configured to receive a first setting data set from a first interlocking system. The first setting data set contains at least one first speed data item for a defined (or specific) rail vehicle. The sequence control device comprises a transmission module. The transmission module is configured to transmit the received first setting data set to a second interlocking system of the main signal / pre-signal system. The sequence control device comprises at least one controller with at least one control module. The receiving module is configured to receive a second setting data set from the first interlocking system. The second setting data set contains at least one second speed data item for the defined rail vehicle.The control module is configured to control the transmission module such that, in a first transmission step, a stop data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system, containing at least one stop information data item, and that, after expiration of a defined time interval, the second control data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system in a second transmission step.

[0016] By virtue of the fact that, in contrast to the prior art, a sequence control device can be interposed between a first interlocking and a second interlocking, and the sequence control device is in particular set up to control the second interlocking upon receipt of a second setting data set with a second speed data item, in such a way that the content of the second setting data set is not forwarded directly to the second interlocking, but rather a stop data set is first sent and the second setting data set is only forwarded to the second interlocking after a defined time interval has elapsed, the disadvantages of the prior art are at least reduced and, in particular, delays in the operational sequence are reduced and, at the same time, the high safety standards of a main signal / pre-signal system are maintained.

[0017] According to the invention, it has been recognized that when the second interlocking system receives a signal aspect combination or data set combination consisting of an initially transmitted stop data set and a subsequently transmitted second setting data set, the second interlocking system controls the distant signal display in such a way that it first displays the "expect stop" signal as the distant signal aspect for the defined time interval and then displays the data content of the second setting data set, in particular the value of the second speed data, as the distant signal aspect. In particular, it is advantageous according to the invention that neither the first sequence program of the first interlocking system nor the second sequence program of the second interlocking system is intervened in. In other words, the said sequence programs or processing processes remain unchanged. The high safety standards can be maintained.

[0018] The sequence control device is for use in a main signal / distant signal system. A main signal / distant signal system is characterized in particular in that the entry of a defined or specific rail vehicle into a defined section of a rail line is regulated or controlled by displaying main signal aspects and distant signal aspects. In particular, at least one main signal display can be arranged on the rail line and in the direction of travel of the defined rail vehicle upstream of the defined section of track or in a transition area between two track sections. Furthermore, at least one distant signal display assigned to this main signal display can be arranged upstream of the main signal display, in particular in the direction of travel of the rail vehicle entering the defined section of track or rail section.

[0019] The main signal / pre-signal system according to the invention comprises at least the second signal box. In particular, the sequence control device can be arranged, in particular interposed, between the second signal box and a first signal box during normal operation. Preferably, the main signal / pre-signal system can additionally comprise the first signal box. For interposition, the sequence control device comprises at least one receiving module and one transmitting module.

[0020] The receiving module (which may comprise suitable communication technology) is particularly configured to receive data from the first interlocking device. In particular, a first (wireless and / or preferably wired) communication connection can be provided between the first interlocking device and the sequence control device, wherein the receiving module can be coupled to the communication connection. In particular, the receiving module can be configured to receive a signal from the first interlocking device containing the first or second control data set. The format of the received signal can be digital or analog. Analog can mean that the first interlocking device outputs a control data set or the corresponding data content as a DC voltage signal or as a combination of DC voltage signals.

[0021] The transmission module (which may comprise suitable communication technology) is particularly configured to send, in particular transmit, data to the second interlocking device. In particular, a second (wireless and / or preferably wired) communication connection can be provided between the second interlocking device and the sequence control device, wherein the transmission module can be coupled to the communication connection. In particular, the transmission module can be configured to transmit a signal to the second interlocking device containing the first setting data set or second setting data set or holding data set. The format of the transmitted signal can be identical to the format of the received signal. The signal can be digital or analog. Analog can mean that the transmission module outputs a data set or the corresponding data content as a DC voltage signal or as a combination of DC voltage signals.

[0022] As already described, the receiving module (initially) receives a first setting data set. The first setting data set contains at least one speed data item, which is to be displayed in particular in the form of a distant signal aspect by a distant signal display. The speed data item can in particular contain or represent a speed value, preferably a maximum permissible speed. The speed data item is set in particular for a defined rail vehicle. In this case, a defined rail vehicle means in particular the rail vehicle that will next enter a defined (first) section of track. For this rail vehicle, in particular (at the time of transmission by the first signal box), the first speed data item or the corresponding value of the first speed data item on the defined section of track applies.

[0023] In particular, if the speed data for the defined rail vehicle on the defined route section changes, the receiving module can receive a second control data set from the first interlocking for the defined rail vehicle. In other words, in particular if the maximum permitted speed on the defined route section changes, the first interlocking can send a second control data set for the defined rail vehicle (which has not yet entered the defined route section) to the second interlocking, in order to inform the second interlocking about the change, in particular about the changed maximum permitted speed.

[0024] Due to the interposition of the sequence control device during normal operation between the first interlocking and the second interlocking, the receiving module of the sequence control device first receives the second control data set.

[0025] According to the invention, upon receipt (e.g., automatically) by a controller (e.g., formed by a processor with storage means) with a control module (e.g., formed by executable software code), a defined control sequence or a defined control program is executed. In particular, the second position data record (unlike a first position data record) is not forwarded directly to the second interlocking system. According to the invention, the control module initially controls the transmission module such that a stop data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system in a first transmission step. The stop data record contains at least one stop information datum.Receipt of such a stop data record (which can also be referred to as a third control data record) by the second interlocking box has the effect, in particular, that the second interlocking box controls a distant signal display accordingly, in particular sets it to the distant signal aspect “expect stop”.

[0026] After a defined time interval has elapsed, the control module then controls the transmission module in such a way that the previously received second setting data set (or the data content) is transmitted to the second interlocking system in a second transmission step. As described, the second setting data set contains at least a second speed data item. Receiving such a second setting data set in the second interlocking system causes it, in particular, to control a distant signal display accordingly, in particular to change the distant signal aspect “expect stop” to a distant signal aspect “expect travel” or “expect slow travel” with the second speed data item or the corresponding speed value. In other words, a distant signal display initially shows the distant signal aspect “expect stop” for the defined (and usually very short) time interval for the defined rail vehicle and immediately afterwards the second speed data item orthe corresponding value.

[0027] The sequence control according to the invention can prevent unnecessary slowing down of the rail vehicle due to an incorrect distant signal aspect in the form of an “expect stop” signal aspect.

[0028] It is understood that if the speed data for the defined rail vehicle changes even further, a further (fourth) control data set with a further (fourth) speed data set can be transmitted. The sequence control device can process this control data set in a manner analogous to the second control data set.

[0029] It should also be noted that the first setting data record and the second setting data record are processed by the sequence control device (in the manner described above) within the framework of a defined (first) setting session for exactly one defined (first) rail vehicle. In particular, after the defined (first) rail vehicle has entered the defined section of track, the defined section of track can be blocked to prevent another rail vehicle from entering until the first rail vehicle has completely left the section of track. For this purpose, in particular at the end of a respective setting session, a stop data record can be received by the sequence control device from the first signal box, which is only replaced by a travel data record once the rail vehicle has completely left the defined section of track.

[0030] Preferably, the sequence control device, in particular the transmission module, can be configured to (immediately) forward a received stop data record. In particular, after the first rail vehicle leaves the defined route section, a previously described first control data record for the second or subsequent, defined rail vehicle can then be received by the sequence control device from the first signal box.

[0031] In particular, a second setting data set is a second setting data set (and not a first setting data set) if no holding data set was received from the first interlocking system by the sequence control device between a previously received (first) setting data set and this second setting data set.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the sequence control device according to the invention, the first control data record can contain, in particular, a main signal aspect of the first interlocking system together with the first speed data item, or the data content can represent the main signal aspect together with a first speed data item. In particular, the first speed data item can be part of the main signal aspect (e.g., see Table 1). As already described, the first speed data item can contain, as a value, a maximum permissible speed for the defined, first route section.

[0033] Alternatively, but preferably additionally, the second control data record can contain a modified main signal aspect of the first interlocking system together with a modified second speed data item, or the data content can represent the modified main signal aspect together with a modified second speed data item. In particular, the second speed data item can be part of the main signal aspect (e.g., see Table 1). The second speed data item can contain a modified maximum permissible speed for the defined first route section as a value.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment of the sequence control device according to the invention, the controller can comprise at least one comparison module (e.g. in the form of executable software code). The comparison module can be configured to compare the second speed data item with the first speed data item upon receipt of the second control data set. For example, the sequence control device can comprise a data memory. A (immediately) previously received first (or second) speed data item can (always) be stored in the data memory. For example, upon each receipt of a first (or second) control data set, the respective first (or second) speed data item can be stored in the data memory.In particular, immediately after receiving a second control data set and before the control module activates the transmission module, the comparison module can compare the received second speed data with the (stored) first speed data. Upon receiving a stop data set, the speed data stored in the data memory can preferably be deleted or marked accordingly.

[0035] The control module can preferably be configured to control the transmission module in such a way that a stop data set is transmitted to the second signal box in the first transmission step, and after expiry of the defined time interval in the second transmission step, the second control data set is transmitted to the second signal box only if it is determined (by the comparison module in the comparison step) that the value of the second speed data differs from the value of the first speed data or the said speed data are different. In other words, the sequence control or sequence procedure according to the invention can only be carried out if the second speed data differs from the previously received first speed data. In particular, the above-described check can prevent unnecessary execution of the sequence procedure.

[0036] According to a further preferred embodiment of the sequence control device according to the invention, if it is determined (through the described comparison by the comparison module) that the value of the second speed datum is identical to the value of the first speed datum or the aforementioned speed datum is identical, the control module can be configured to refrain from controlling the transmission module. In particular, in this case, no second control data set can be transmitted to the second signal box. Unnecessary transmission of data sets can be prevented.

[0037] According to a further embodiment of the sequence control device according to the invention, a value of the second speed datum can be higher than a value of the first speed datum. In other words, in particular, the permissible maximum speed for a defined rail vehicle on the defined track section can have been increased, so that the value of the second speed datum can be higher than a value of the first speed datum. This can also be referred to as signal enhancement, in which the second speed datum is enhanced relative to the first speed datum.

[0038] Alternatively, a value of the second speed datum may be lower than a value of the first speed datum. In other words, in particular, the maximum permitted speed for a defined rail vehicle on the defined track section may have been reduced, so that the value of the second speed datum may be lower than a value of the first speed datum. This can also be referred to as signal downgrading, in which the second speed datum is downgraded compared to the first speed datum.

[0039] According to a further preferred embodiment of the sequence control device according to the invention, a (temporal) length of the defined time interval can be adjustable based on the processing speed of the second interlocking system for processing a received data set, in particular the stop data set. In particular, it has been recognized that a processing procedure for a received stop information datum of a stop data set must first be completely completed in the second interlocking system. The processing procedure is completely completed, in particular, when the distant signal aspect "expect stop" is displayed on the corresponding distant signal display. In particular, this is the only way to ensure that a subsequently transmitted second speed datum is actually displayed as a distant signal aspect by a distant signal display under the control of the second interlocking system (and not the distant signal aspect "expect stop").In other words, the defined time interval can be selected to maintain the required switching sequences (the processing procedure) for switching on and testing safety-relevant properties of the existing second interlocking with the existing system of H / V signals.

[0040] In particular, the length of the defined time interval can be set between 0.1 s and 5 s, preferably between 0.5 s and 2 s. Particularly preferably, the set length of the defined time interval can be in the range of 1 s. A corresponding time interval is so short that a stop signal displayed during this time is highly unlikely to result in a deceleration of the defined rail vehicle, but is long enough, in particular, to (fully) complete a processing procedure for a received stop information datum in the second interlocking.

[0041] Another aspect of the invention is a main signal / pre-signal system. The main signal / pre-signal system comprises a previously described sequence control device. The main signal / pre-signal system comprises a second signal box (previously described) connectable to the sequence control device via a second communication link.

[0042] The main signal / pre-signal system may further comprise the second communication link (described above).

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment of the main signal / pre-signal system according to the invention, the sequence control device can be arranged on or in the second signal box. For example, the second signal box (in particular in the form of at least one computing device) can be arranged in a building, a housing, etc. Preferably, the sequence control device can be arranged in this building, this housing, etc., or in the immediate vicinity (e.g., at a distance of less than 10 m) thereto.

[0044] According to a further embodiment of the main signal / pre-signal system according to the invention, the main signal / pre-signal system can comprise a (previously described) first interlocking system connectable to the sequence control device via a first communication connection. The main signal / pre-signal system can further comprise the (previously described) first communication connection. In particular, the sequence control device can be (permanently) connected between the first interlocking system and the second interlocking system, so that preferably all setting and / or stopping data sets are always transmitted from the first interlocking system to the second interlocking system via the sequence control device. In other words, a direct transmission of a setting data set from the first interlocking system to the second interlocking system is not possible in this case.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment of the main signal / pre-signal system according to the invention, the main signal / pre-signal system can comprise at least one pre-signal display. The second interlocking system can comprise at least one (second) display control. The (second) display control can be configured to control the pre-signal display based on the first setting data set transmitted to the second interlocking system, the transmitted second setting data set and / or the transmitted stopping data set. In particular, the (second) display control can be configured to control the pre-signal display based on the first setting data set transmitted to the second interlocking system, the transmitted second setting data set and / or the transmitted stopping data set, such that the corresponding pre-signal aspect (cf.in particular Table 2) by the distant signal display (in particular in the form of a distant railway signal arranged on the railway line in the direction of travel of the defined railway vehicle in front of the defined section of track).

[0046] According to a further preferred embodiment of the main signal / pre-signal system according to the invention, the main signal / pre-signal system can comprise at least one main signal display. The first interlocking system can comprise at least one (first) display control. The (first) display control can be configured to control the main signal display based on a main signal aspect to be displayed (see in particular Table 1). In particular, the (first) display control can be configured to control the main signal display such that a corresponding main signal aspect is displayed by the main signal display (in particular in the form of a main signal railway signal arranged on the rail line in the direction of travel of the defined rail vehicle in front of the defined track section and behind the pre-signal display).

[0047] The main signal aspect can, in particular, be provided by the first interlocking. In particular, the main signal aspect can depend on the occupancy status of the defined route section (e.g., occupied or unoccupied by a rail vehicle) and / or the type of route section (e.g., high-speed section or non-high-speed section) and / or the (current) condition of the route section (e.g., impaired or unimpaired) and / or the current meteorological ambient conditions of the route section (e.g., fog, sunshine, storm, etc.).

[0048] According to a further embodiment, the first interlocking system can comprise a data set generator configured to generate a first setting data set and / or a second setting data set (and / or a stopping data set) based on the provided main signal aspect. In particular, a setting data set and / or a second setting data set (and / or a stopping data set) can be generated, which contains as data content at least substantially the data content of the provided main signal aspect. In particular, upon a change in the provided main signal aspect, a corresponding setting data set (and / or stopping data set) can be generated. The generated setting data set can be transmitted by the first interlocking system in the manner described above.

[0049] Yet another aspect of the invention is a method. The method comprises: - receiving, by a receiving module of a sequence control device of a main signal / pre-signal system, a first control data set from a first interlocking, wherein the first control data set contains at least a first speed data item for a defined rail vehicle, - transmitting, by a transmission module of the sequence control device, the received first control data set to a second interlocking station, - subsequent receipt, by the receiving module, of a second control data set from the first interlocking system, wherein the second control data set contains at least a second speed data item for the defined rail vehicle, - Controlling, by a control module of the sequence control device, the transmission module in such a way that in a first transmission step a stop data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system, containing at least one stop information data item, and that after expiry of a defined time interval the second control data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system in a second transmission step.

[0050] The method can preferably be carried out by a previously described sequence control device or under at least partial control of a previously described sequence control device, in particular in a previously described main signal / pre-signal system.

[0051] A further aspect of the invention is a computer program comprising instructions which, when the computer program is executed by at least one processor of a (previously described) sequence control device, cause the latter to execute and / or control the previously described method.

[0052] The computer program, in particular the instructions or program instructions, can be stored in a computer program product, in particular a program memory. For example, a program memory is a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory, a magnetic memory, an EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), and / or an optical memory.

[0053] In addition, a sequence control device in the form of a data processing device can have a main memory, for example, a volatile or non-volatile memory, in particular a random access memory (RAM), such as a static random access memory (SRAM), a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), a ferroelectric random access memory (FeRAM), and / or a magnetic random access memory (MRAM). The at least one processor of the data processing device can, for example, store intermediate results or the like in the main memory.

[0054] The modules described above are preferably at least partially software elements (e.g., executable code) and can be executed by a processor of the data processing device. It should also be noted that terms such as "first," "second," etc., do not indicate a sequence, but rather serve to distinguish between two elements (e.g., signal box, etc.), unless such a temporal sequence is explicitly specified, as with the signal data sets, where a first signal data set can always be transmitted before a second signal data set.

[0055] The features of the sequence control devices, main signal / pre-signal systems, methods, and computer programs can be freely combined with one another. In particular, features of the description and / or the dependent claims can be independently inventive, even if they completely or partially circumvent features of the independent claims, either alone or freely combined with one another.

[0056] There are now numerous possibilities for designing and further developing the sequence control device, the method, the computer program, and the main signal / pre-signal system according to the invention. Reference is made, on the one hand, to the claims subordinate to the independent claims and, on the other hand, to the description of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the drawing. The drawing shows: Fig.1 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a sequence control device according to the invention, Fig. 2 a schematic view of an embodiment of a main signal / pre-signal system according to the invention with a further embodiment of a sequence control device according to the invention, Fig. 3 is a schematic view of another embodiment of a main signal / pre-signal system according to the invention, and Fig. 4 a diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present invention.

[0057] In the following, the same reference symbols are used for the same elements.

[0058] The Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a sequence control device 100 according to the invention. The sequence control device 100 is intended for use in or for a main signal / pre-signal system (not shown).

[0059] The sequence control device 100 comprises a receiving module 102 configured to receive a first control data set from a first signal box (not shown). In particular, the receiving module 102 can be connected to a first (wireless and / or wired) communication link 110 and include suitable communication technology. The first communication link 110 serves, in particular, to (permanently) connect the first signal box to the sequence control device 100.

[0060] The first control data set contains at least a first speed datum for a defined rail vehicle. Preferably, the data content of the first control data set can be based on, or in particular contain, a data content of the first main signal aspect (in particular Hp1 or Hp2) for the defined rail vehicle.

[0061] The sequence control device 100 further comprises a transmission module 108 or a transmission module 108 configured to transmit the received first control data set to a second (not shown) interlocking system of the main signal / pre-signal system. In particular, the transmission module 108 can be connected to a second (wireless and / or wired) communication link 112 and include suitable communication technology. The second communication link 112 serves, in particular, to (permanently) connect the second interlocking system to the sequence control device 100.

[0062] The sequence control device 100 comprises at least one controller 104 (e.g. comprising a processor and memory means) with at least one control module 106 (e.g. in the form of software code executable by the processor in the form of an executable control procedure).

[0063] The receiving module 102 is configured to receive a second control data set from the first interlocking system. In particular, no stop data set is received between the first control data set and the second control data set. The second control data set contains at least a second speed datum for the defined rail vehicle.

[0064] The control module 106 (for example, when executing the corresponding software code) is configured to control the transmission module 108 such that, in a first transmission step, a stop data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system, containing at least one stop information datum, and that, after expiration of a defined time interval, the second control data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system in a second transmission step.

[0065] The Fig.Figure 2 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a main signal / pre-signal system 220 according to the invention with a further embodiment of a sequence control device 200 according to the invention. To avoid repetition, only the differences between the embodiment of the Fig. 2 and the previous embodiment and otherwise reference is made to the previous explanations.

[0066] The main signal / pre-signal system 220 includes a sequence control device 200. The sequence control device 200 includes a receiving module 202, a transmitting module 208, and a controller 204. In addition to the control module 206, the controller 204 optionally includes a comparison module 226 and a data memory 228.

[0067] In addition, the main signal / pre-signal system 220 comprises a second signal box 224 connectable to the sequence control device 200 via a second communication connection 212. Preferably, the sequence control device 200 can be arranged on or in the second signal box 224, for example in a building (not shown) and / or housing of the second signal box 224.

[0068] The main signal / pre-signal system 220 can, in particular, comprise a first interlocking system 222 connectable to the sequence control device 200 via a first communication connection 210. As can also be seen, the main signal / pre-signal system 220 can comprise at least one pre-signal display 232 arranged on the rail line 234. The second interlocking system 224 can comprise at least one (second) display controller 230. The (second) display controller 230 can be configured to control the pre-signal display 232 (in particular via a further communication connection 238) based on the first setting data set, the second setting data set, and / or the stop data set.

[0069] The operation of the sequence control device 200 is described in more detail below.

[0070] When a first control data set for a defined rail vehicle 236 (the direction of travel is designated by 240) is received by the receiving module 202 (in particular after a stop data set has previously been received), the first control data set can be transmitted (immediately), in particular forwarded, to the second interlocking system 224 by the transmission module 208. Optionally, at least the first speed data item of the received first control data set can be stored in the data memory 228.

[0071] Upon receipt of the transmitted first setting data set by the second interlocking system 224, the (second) display control 230 can control the distant signal display 232 based on said first setting data set in such a way that the corresponding distant signal aspect and in particular the value of the first speed data item is displayed by the distant signal display 232.

[0072] If a second setting data set is subsequently received by the receiving module 202 (without a hold data set being received after the first setting data set), the comparison module 226 can compare the value of the received second speed data with the (stored) value of the first speed data set.

[0073] If the comparison determines that the specified values ​​are identical, the control module 206 may refrain from controlling the transmission module 208. If the comparison determines that the specified values ​​are different, in particular only if the control module 206 controls the transmission module 208 such that, in a first transmission step, a stop data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system 224, containing at least one stop information datum, and that, after the expiration of a defined time interval, the second control data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system 224 in a second transmission step.

[0074] Upon receipt of the stop data set by the second interlocking system 224, the display controller 230 can control the distant signal display 232 based on said stop data set in such a way that "expect stop" is displayed by the distant signal display 232 as the distant signal aspect. Upon receipt of the second setting data set by the second interlocking system 224, after the defined time interval has elapsed, the display controller 230 can control the distant signal display 232 based on said second setting data set in such a way that the value of the second speed data item is displayed by the distant signal display 232.

[0075] The Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic view of another embodiment of a main signal / pre-signal system 320 according to the invention. To avoid repetition, only the differences from the previous embodiments are explained below, and otherwise reference is made to the previous explanations.

[0076] The main signal / pre-signal system 320 comprises a sequence control device 300 with a receiving module 302, a controller 304 comprising a control module 306, a comparison module 326 and a data memory 328, and a transmission module 308. In addition, the main signal / pre-signal system 320 comprises a second signal box 324 and in particular a first signal box 322. By means of a first communication connection 310 and a second communication connection 312, the sequence control device 300 is (permanently) connected between the first signal box 322 and the second signal box 324.

[0077] The first interlocking unit 322 may include a first display controller 358, a data set generator 360, and a first transmit module 362. The second interlocking unit 324 may include a second receive module 362 and a second display controller 330.

[0078] As can further be seen, a rail line 334 may include at least a first, defined track section 356 and a second track section 354. It is understood that a rail line 334 may be divided into three or more track sections.

[0079] In the present exemplary embodiment, the first track section 356 can be located in a first operating area 352 of the first interlocking system 322, and the second track section 354 can be located in a second operating area 350 of the second interlocking system 324. A first main signal indicator 370 and a second distant signal indicator 332 are provided to control travel on the first track section 356 by a defined rail vehicle 336 (the direction of travel is designated by 340). In particular, the main signal / distant signal system 320 can comprise the first main signal indicator 370 and the second distant signal indicator 332. Furthermore, a second main signal indicator 366 can be provided to control travel on the second track section 354, and a first distant signal indicator 368 can be provided for a further track section (not shown) following the first track section 356.As can be seen, respective displays can be arranged in a transition area between two track sections 354, 356.

[0080] The main signal aspect can be provided in particular by the first interlocking system 322, i.e., in particular, by the interlocking system 322 in whose operating area 352 the main signal display 370 is located. In particular, the main signal aspect can depend on the occupancy status of the defined first track section 356 (e.g., occupied or not occupied by a rail vehicle) and / or the type of track section (e.g., high-speed section) or not a high-speed section and / or the condition of the track section (e.g., impaired or not impaired) and / or current meteorological ambient conditions (e.g., fog, sunshine, storm, etc.).

[0081] The first display controller 358 can be configured to control the first main signal display 370 (and in particular the first distant signal display 368) via a communication connection 372. In particular, the first main signal display 370 can be controlled based on the provided main signal aspect (see, for example, Table 1). For example, the first distant signal display can be controlled via the same communication connection 372.

[0082] The data set generator 360 can be configured to generate a first control data set and / or a second control data set (and / or a hold data set) based on a provided main signal aspect. The first control data set and / or the second control data set can be transmitted to the sequence control device 300 by the transmission module 362.

[0083] The second display controller 330 can be configured to control the second main signal display 366 (and in particular the second distant signal display 332, as previously described) via a communication link 338. In particular, the second main signal display 366 can be controlled based on a main signal aspect provided by the second interlocking system 324 (see, for example, Table 1). For example, the second distant signal display can be controlled via the same communication link 338.

[0084] For example, in the state shown, the first main signal aspect permits travel into the first section of track 356 with a maximum speed of 120 km / h (indicated by the number "12"). A first distant signal display 368 can be arranged on the first main signal display 370, which indicates with the number "6" that a travel aspect with a permissible maximum speed of 60 km / h is to be expected for a further section of track (not shown). The second main signal display 366 indicates with the number "9" a travel aspect with a second permissible maximum speed of 90 km / h for the second section of track 354. The second distant signal display 332 can be arranged on the second main signal display 366, which indicates with the number "12" that a travel aspect with a permissible maximum speed of 120 km / h is to be expected for the first section of track 356.

[0085] With regard to the functioning of the sequence control device 300, particular reference is made to the explanations for Fig. 2.

[0086] The Fig. Figure 4 shows a diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present invention, which can be implemented, for example, by a sequence control device according to Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and / or 3 can be executed.

[0087] In step 401, a receiving module of a sequence control device of a main signal / pre-signal system receives a first control data set from a first interlocking system, as already described. The first control data set contains at least one first speed datum for a defined rail vehicle.

[0088] In a step 403, the received first control data set is transmitted to a second control center by a transmission module of the sequence control device, as described.

[0089] In a step 405, the receiving module subsequently receives a second control data set from the first interlocking system, as described. The second control data set contains at least a second speed datum for the defined rail vehicle.

[0090] In an optional step 407, a comparison module of the controller of the sequence control device can compare the second speed data with the first speed data upon receipt of the second control data set.

[0091] If it is determined by the comparison (step 407) that the value of the second speed data is identical to the value of the first speed data, the transmission module may not be activated in step 409.

[0092] If it is determined by the comparison (step 407) that the value of the second speed data differs from the value of the first speed data, the transmission module can only be controlled in such a way that in the first transmission step (step 411) a stop data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system, and after the defined time interval has elapsed in the second transmission step (step 413) the second control data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system, as already described. List of reference symbols 100 sequence control device 102 Receiver module 104 Control 106 Control module 108 transmission module 110 Communication connection 112 Communication connection 200 sequence control device 202 Receiver module 204 Control 206 control module 208 transmission module 210 Communication connection 212 Communication connection 220 Main signal / distant signal system 222 first signal box 224 second signal box 226 Comparison module 228 data storage 230 Display control 232 distant signal display 234 rail line 236 rail vehicles 240 Direction of travel of the rail vehicle 238 Communication connection 300 sequence control device 302 Receiver module 304 Control 306 control module 308 transmission module 310 Communication connection 312 Communication connection 320 Main signal / distant signal system 322 first signal box 324 second signal box 326 Comparison module 328 data storage 330 Display control 332 distant signal display 334 rail line 336 rail vehicles 338 Communication connection 340 Direction of travel of the rail vehicle 350 operating range 352 operating area 354 section 356 section 358 Display control 360 Dataset Generator 362 transmitter module, receiver module 366 Main signal display 368 distant signal display 370 Main signal display 372 Communication connection 401 receiving step 403 Transfer step 405 Receive step 407 Comparison step 409 Omission step 411 Transfer step 413 Transfer step

Claims

[1] Sequence control device (100, 200, 300) for a main signal / pre-signal system (220, 320), comprising: - a receiving module (102, 202, 302) configured to receive a first control data set from a first interlocking system (222, 322), wherein the first control data set contains at least a first speed data item for a defined rail vehicle, - a transmission module (108, 208, 308) configured to transmit the received first control data set to a second interlocking station (224, 324) of the main signal / pre-signal system (220, 320), - at least one controller (104, 204, 304) with at least one control module (106, 206, 306), - wherein the receiving module (102, 202, 302) is configured to receive a second control data set from the first interlocking system (222, 322), wherein the second control data set contains at least a second speed data item for the defined rail vehicle, - wherein the control module (106, 206, 306) is configured to control the transmission module (108, 208, 308) such that, in a first transmission step, a stop data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system (224, 324), containing at least one stop information datum, and that, after expiry of a defined time interval, the second control data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system (224, 324) in a second transmission step. [2] Sequence control device (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized by , that - the first control data record contains as data content in particular a main signal aspect of the first signal box (222, 322) together with the first speed data, wherein the first speed data contains as a value a maximum permissible speed on a first section of track (356), and / or - the second control data record contains as data content a changed main signal aspect of the first signal box (222, 322) together with a changed second speed data item, wherein the second speed data item contains as value a changed maximum permissible speed on the first section of track (356). [3] Sequence control device (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that - the controller (104, 204, 304) comprises at least one comparison module (226, 326) configured to compare the second speed data item with the first speed data item upon receiving the second control data set, - wherein the control module (106, 206, 306) is configured to control the transmission module (108, 208, 308) only in such a way that in the first transmission step a stop data set is transmitted to the second signal box (224, 324), and after expiry of the defined time interval in the second transmission step the second control data set is transmitted to the second signal box (224, 324) if it is determined that the value of the second speed data differs from the value of the first speed data. [4] Sequence control device (100, 200, 300) according to claim 3, characterized by , that - if it is determined that the value of the second speed data is identical to the value of the first speed data, the control module (106, 206, 306) is configured to refrain from controlling the transmission module (108, 208, 308). [5] Sequence control device (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that - a value of the second speed data is higher than a value of the first speed data, or - a value of the second speed data is lower than a value of the first speed data. [6] Sequence control device (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that - a length of the defined time interval is adjustable based on the processing speed of the second interlocking unit (224, 324) for processing a received data set, in particular the hold data set. [7] Sequence control device (100, 200, 300) according to claim 6, characterized by , that - the length of the defined time interval is set between 0.1 s and 5 s, preferably between 0.5 s and 2 s. [8] Main signal / pre-signal system (220, 320), comprising: - a sequence control device (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, and - a second signal box (224, 324) connectable to the sequence control device (100, 200, 300) via a second communication connection. [9] Main signal / pre-signal system (220, 320) according to claim 8, characterized by , that - the sequence control device (100, 200, 300) is arranged on or in the second signal box (224, 324). [10] Main signal / pre-signal system (220, 320) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized by , that - the main signal / pre-signal system (220, 320) comprises a first signal box (222, 322) connectable to the sequence control device (100, 200, 300) via a first communication connection. [11] Main signal / pre-signal system (220, 320) according to one of the preceding claims 8 to 10, characterized by , that - the main signal / pre-signal system (220, 320) comprises at least one pre-signal display (232, 332), - the second signal box (224, 324) comprises at least one display control (230, 330), - wherein the display control (230, 330) is configured to control the distant signal display (232, 332) based on the first setting data set, the second setting data set and / or the stop data set. [12] Method comprising: - receiving (401), by a receiving module (102, 202, 302) of a sequence control device (100, 200, 300) of a main signal / pre-signal system (220, 320), a first setting data set from a first signal box (222, 322), wherein the first setting data set contains at least a first speed data item for a defined rail vehicle, - transmitting (403) the received first control data set to a second control center (224, 324) by a transmission module (108, 208, 308) of the sequence control device (100, 200, 300), - subsequent reception (405), by the receiving module (102, 202, 302), of a second control data set from the first interlocking system (222, 322), wherein the second control data set contains at least a second speed data item for the defined rail vehicle, - controlling (411), by a control module (106, 206, 306) of the sequence control device (100, 200, 300), the transmission module (108, 208, 308) in such a way that in a first transmission step a stop data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system (224, 324), containing at least one stop information datum, and that after expiry of a defined time interval in a second transmission step (413) the second control data record is transmitted to the second interlocking system (224, 324).

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