SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ESTABLISHING A CONNECTION BETWEEN A TCM SYSTEM AND AN ETC SYSTEM

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a system and a method for creating a connection between a TCM system and an ETC system of a rail vehicle.

[0002] In some European countries, the use of an ETCS (European Train Control System) is already required for controlling rail vehicles. An ETCS is a train control system that, among other things, allows moving rail vehicles to be controlled and, if necessary, stopped from an external system. The ETCS primarily monitors the permissible maximum speed of a rail vehicle. To this end, the ETCS enables fully automatic signal transmission between the rail vehicle and the external system and / or other rail vehicles. It also allows information to be transmitted not only from the external system to a rail vehicle, but also vice versa. To operate a rail vehicle equipped with ETCS, a so-called ETCS operating permit is generally required, which is usually transmitted via Eurobalises or radio.Especially in conjunction with an automatic train control system (ATO), ETCS is intended to simplify and improve the safety of rail vehicle operation. Semi-automated train control can also be enabled by ETCS in conjunction with the ATO. Such ETCS systems are to be installed in new rail vehicles or retrofitted into existing ones.

[0003] Also known from the prior art is a so-called Train Control and Management System (TCM system or TCMS), which is a control system for a rail vehicle. This system connects vehicle subsystems to each other and to a higher-level rail vehicle control system. Such a subsystem can be, for example, a steering system, a braking system, or an air conditioning system.

[0004] The document Unisig: "ERTMS / ETCS Train Interface FFFIS", 16 October 2014 (2014-10-16), pages 1-59, XP055964196 reveals a functional interface between ERTMS / ETCS vehicle components and a vehicle.

[0005] The document Adtranz: "ERTMS / ETCS- Class 1 FIS for the Train Interface; (SUBSET-034)", 30 March 2000 (2000-03-30), pages 1-28, XP055964388 discloses a functional interface between an ERTMS / ETCS vehicle system and a railway vehicle.

[0006] The document Martin Beyer ET AL: "ETCS as a carrier system for improved performance at S-Bahn Stuttgart", Signal und Draht: signalling & datacommunication, Vol. 111, No. 6, June 13, 2019 (2019-06-13), pages 6-186, XP055597219, DE, ISSN: 0037-4997 discloses an ETCS as a carrier system for improved performance of a suburban railway.

[0007] It is desirable to integrate ETCS not only into new vehicles but also into existing vehicles, some of which have been in operation for 20 years or more and have a wide variety of control systems, and which are not necessarily compatible with ETCS.

[0008] The technical problem therefore arises of creating a system and a procedure for establishing a connection between a TCMS and an ETCS of a rail vehicle, which enables reliable data and signal transmission between the systems and, in particular, increases the operational safety of the rail vehicle and is easy to implement.

[0009] The solution to the technical problem is provided by the articles with the features of the independent claims. Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0010] A system is proposed for establishing a connection between a Train Control Management (TCMS) system and a European Train Control System (ETCS) of a rail vehicle. The system includes at least one ETCS signaling interface. This at least one ETCS signaling interface serves for signal transmission and / or data transmission between the proposed system and the ETCS and can be configured accordingly. It is also possible for the system to include multiple ETCS signaling interfaces, all of which are configured for signal transmission or data transmission, or where at least one ETCS signaling interface is configured for signal transmission and at least one other ETCS signaling interface is configured for data transmission.An ETCS signal interface can be, in particular, a software interface, a hardware interface, or a combined software-hardware interface, i.e., a combination of both. A software interface can form an interface / transition between different programs, especially between programs running in the proposed system and in ETCS, and enables data exchange between these programs, specifically the transmission of user data, e.g., in the form of binary signals. A software interface can, for example, be an application programming interface (API). Furthermore, data, functions, and commands from one application program can be read via a software interface and integrated into another application program. In other words, software interfaces can enable the exchange of commands and data between different processes and components of different systems.A software interface can also enable inter-process communication. Examples of such software interfaces include RPC, CORBA, SOAP, and COM interfaces. Of course, other configurations are also possible. For the purposes of this invention, a connection between system components can be a connection for data and / or signal transmission. This connection can be wireless, but preferably wired.

[0011] A hardware interface is an interface between physical systems and can be, for example, a PCI bus interface, AGP interface, SCSI interface, USB interface, FireWire interface, RS422 interface, or RS232 interface. Hardware interfaces can be used to transmit switching signals, especially binary switching signals. A hardware interface can be either parallel or serial. Hardware interfaces can be used to connect external devices, particularly those integrated into external systems, to a system. Alternatively, analog values ​​can also be received and / or transmitted via a hardware interface, for example, for acquisition by a sensor. For instance, it is possible to receive or transmit setpoint values ​​for driving or braking via a hardware interface.

[0012] If the TCMS signal interface is designed as a hardware interface, it can be used to connect a TCMS hardware component to the proposed system, for example, a door control system. If the TCMS interface is designed as a software interface, it enables data transmission between programs running in / from the proposed system and in / from the TCMS. If the ETCS signal interface is designed as a hardware interface, it can be used to connect an ETCS hardware component to the proposed system, for example, an emergency braking system. If the ETCS interface is designed as a software interface, it enables data transmission between programs running in / from the proposed system and in / from the ETCS.

[0013] Furthermore, the proposed system includes at least one signal conversion device for converting an ETCS signal into a TCMS signal or vice versa. The signal conversion device is, or is configured as, a control and / or evaluation unit. A control and / or evaluation unit is, or includes, a microcontroller or an integrated circuit. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0014] Furthermore, the system includes at least one TCMS signal interface. Analogous to the descriptions of the ETCS signal interface, the proposed system may also include multiple TCMS signal interfaces, all configured for data transmission or signal transmission between the proposed system and the TCMS, or wherein at least one TCMS signal interface is configured for data transmission and at least one TCMS signal interface is configured for signal transmission. A TCMS signal interface may also be a software or a hardware interface. It is possible for the system to have at least one TCMS signal interface configured as a software interface and at least one TCMS signal interface configured as a hardware interface.

[0015] Furthermore, the ETCS signal interface is connected to the signal conversion unit, and the signal conversion unit is connected to the TCMS signal interface. It is conceivable that this connection is direct, i.e., a connection without any intermediate components. Preferably, however, the connection is made via other system components, which will be explained below. Thus, at least one ETCS signal interface is connected to the TCMS signal interface via the signal conversion unit.

[0016] The signal conversion unit enables the conversion of a signal received via the ETCS signal interface into a TCMS signal, and vice versa. In other words, the ETCS signal interface allows a signal transmitted from ETCS to the proposed system to be received and transferred to the signal conversion unit. Simultaneously, an ETCS signal generated by the signal conversion unit can be transferred to ETCS via at least one ETCS signal interface. Similarly, a signal transmitted by TCMS can be transferred to the signal conversion unit via the TCMS signal interface, and a TCMS signal generated by the signal conversion unit can be transferred to TCMS via the TCMS signal interface.

[0017] A TCMS signal, in this context, refers to a signal that has a TCMS-specific or TCMS-proprietary format, meaning it is proprietary to TCMS. A TCMS signal can also be transmitted to the TCMS signal interface or signal conversion device according to a TCMS-specific or TCMS-proprietary protocol. Similarly, an ETCS signal refers to a signal that has an ETCS-specific or ETCS-proprietary format, meaning it is proprietary to ETCS. An ETCS signal can also be transmitted to the ETCS signal interface or signal conversion device according to an ETCS-specific or ETCS-proprietary protocol. An ETCS signal is not compatible with a TCMS signal and therefore cannot be interpreted by TCMS. A TCMS signal is not compatible with an ETCS signal and therefore cannot be interpreted by an ETCS.

[0018] It is also possible for a TCMS signal to be converted into a system-specific or system-proprietary signal via the TCMS signal interface, or vice versa. In such a case, the received TCMS signal can be converted into a system-specific signal and then transmitted to the signal conversion unit. A system-specific signal can also be generated by the signal conversion unit and converted into a TCMS signal by the TCMS signal interface. Similarly, it is possible for an ETCS signal to be converted into a system-specific or system-proprietary signal using at least one ETCS signal interface, and vice versa, with the explanations regarding the TCMS signal applying accordingly.

[0019] Signal conversion can refer to the transformation of a TCMS signal into an ETCS signal and vice versa, i.e., from a signal in a TCMS-proprietary format to a signal in an ETCS-proprietary format. This conversion can be performed based on a pre-known mapping of TCMS signals to ETCS signals and vice versa, i.e., on a mapping basis. As explained in more detail below, such a mapping can comprise a generic and a system-specific configurable part. It is also conceivable that conversion can be function-based, where, for example, a TCMS signal is an input for a function and an ETCS signal is an output of the function. As explained in more detail below, monitoring of at least one rail vehicle state or rail vehicle function can also occur during or through signal conversion.

[0020] This allows for a beneficial increase in the safety integrity level (SIL) of the rail vehicle or the proposed system, in particular setting it to a predetermined level from 1 to 4. Furthermore, signals can be adjusted to a higher SIL by conversion. This can be achieved, for example, by combining or fusing a first signal with another signal. A first signal can also be verified with or in relation to another signal.

[0021] The first signal can be, for example, a signal transmitted to the signal converter via a software interface, and the second signal can be a signal transmitted to the signal converter via a hardware interface. For example, a direction signal can be received from the TCMS via the software interface and simultaneously via the hardware interface, with the signal received via the software interface being verified if it matches the signal received via the hardware interface, or vice versa. This can, for example, increase the SIL of the direction signal from SIL 0 to SIL 2.

[0022] The proposed system can also perform a supervisor function during or through signal conversion. For example, it can monitor whether a setpoint, such as a blocking signal setpoint or a switch position, is being set, particularly over a predetermined period. If a deviation is detected, appropriate action can be taken, such as disconnecting fuses, e.g., the main contactors.

[0023] Therefore, monitoring can be carried out to increase a SIL or to provide supervisor functionality.

[0024] If a TCMS signal is converted into a system-specific signal, this conversion can also be assignment-based. Similarly, a conversion between an ETCS signal and a system-specific signal can be either assignment-based or function-based.

[0025] The proposed system advantageously enables the establishment of a reliable connection for data and signal transmission between a TCMS (Train Control Management System), particularly an existing one, and an ETCS (Electronic Train Control System). This facilitates the simple retrofitting and integration of an ETCS into a rail vehicle equipped with a TCMS. Specifically, it allows, for example, the reliable transmission of control signals from the ETCS to the TCMS via the proposed system, enabling the TCMS subsystem to execute the function. The system also advantageously enables the reliable transmission of TCMS control signals to the ETCS, which then trigger the execution of a function within the ETCS. Furthermore, the proposed system allows for the transmission of data generated by the TCMS to the ETCS, enabling, for example, the transmission of data to the ETCS subsystem.Data can be further transmitted and / or stored in an external system, particularly in a time-referenced format. For example, current status data of the rail vehicle, such as information about current speed, door status, lighting status, pantograph status, and / or train number, can be transmitted from the TCMS to the ETCS via the proposed system. It is conceivable, but not mandatory, that this information is requested by a query command generated in the ETCS and transmitted from there to the TCMS via the proposed system. Furthermore, current status data representing the current state of the rail vehicle or the TCMS can be queried from the TCMS by the ATO, which may be part of the ETCS. This current status data is then processed within the framework of train control carried out by the ATO.It is also possible for signals generated by the ATO, particularly control signals, to be transmitted to the TCMS via the proposed system. Such a control signal could, for example, be a signed target value for a brake lever position. However, it is also possible to transmit diagnostic data or actual status data from the ETCS to the TCMS via the proposed system.

[0026] Furthermore, by storing data generated by TCMS and transmitted to ETCS via the proposed system, an accident recorder functionality can be provided by ETCS.

[0027] In a further embodiment, at least part of the functionality of the signal conversion device is defined generically. Another part of the functionality is configurable, in particular configurable for specific rail vehicles, TCMS, and / or ETCS. By defining the functionality generically, the functionality of the signal conversion device can be defined globally, i.e., for all systems or rail vehicles. For example, a generic definition can specify that a TCMS signal of a specific signal type, category, or format is converted into an ETCS signal of a specific signal type, category, or format. A configurable part of the functionality can define precisely how the conversion is carried out, i.e., the concrete implementation of the conversion.It is possible that generically defined functionalities are hard-coded, e.g., provided by a hard-wired logic module. Configurable functionalities can be stored in a memory-programmed interface.

[0028] This advantageously results in a global and improved applicability of the proposed system, particularly since the generic definition ensures that approval requirements are met, while the configurable part ensures that a rail vehicle-specific or ETCS-specific and / or TCMS-specific adaptation is carried out.

[0029] In a further embodiment, the system comprises at least one ETCS gateway device, wherein the ETCS signal interface is connected to the signal conversion device via the ETCS gateway device. Furthermore, the ETCS gateway device enables the conversion of an ETCS signal into a system signal and vice versa. Here, the system signal refers to the system-specific or system-proprietary signal described above. Alternatively or cumulatively, the system comprises at least one TCMS gateway device, wherein the TCMS signal interface is connected to the signal conversion device via the TCMS gateway device, and wherein the TCMS gateway device enables the conversion of a TCMS signal into a system signal and vice versa. Signal conversion can refer to the conversion of a TCMS or ETCS signal into a system signal and vice versa, i.e., from a signal in a TCMS or ETCS-proprietary format to a signal in a system-proprietary format.

[0030] It is conceivable that the system comprises more than one ETCS gateway device and / or more than one TCMS gateway device. A gateway device can refer to a hardware or software component that establishes a connection between a communication system of the proposed system and the TCMS or ETCS. During or for the purpose of processing the transmitted data by the gateways, the data can be processed, particularly for addressing, but also for format and / or content changes. Specifically, the gateway devices can be so-called Layer 2 gateway devices that connect different network types. For example, the TCMS can be or comprise an MVB system (Multi-Vehicle Bus system). The ETCS can also be or comprise such an MVB system.However, a TCMS MVB system and an ETCS MVB system are different and incompatible, particularly in that direct data transmission between these systems is not possible. It is also possible that the MVB systems have different masters.

[0031] The presence of gateway devices advantageously increases the applicability of the proposed system. In particular, the signal conversion provided by the gateway devices into an internal communication system makes it possible to use the system in a large number of vehicles with different TCMS (Traffic Control Management Systems), thereby reducing adaptation effort. This is especially true since each system does not need to be adapted to the specific TCMS with regard to signal conversion; instead, the conversion takes place at the level of the system communication system. Furthermore, signal conversion via gateway devices advantageously results in data transmission that is free from feedback. Data transmission between two networks is free from feedback if no signals or data are introduced into the sending network during or through the data transmission, nor can data in that network be modified.

[0032] In another embodiment, the system signal is a TRDP signal (Train Real Time Data Protocol signal). A TRDP signal is a signal transmitted according to the Train Real Time Data Protocol. This protocol is used for communication over IP-based networks in trains and enables the exchange of process data and message data. The protocol is standardized in IEC 61375-2-3:2015, Electronic railway equipment - Train communication network (TCN) - Part 2-3: TCN communication profile, dated 2015-07, Edition 1.0. This advantageously results in a data and signal transmission that is as easy to implement as possible and adapted for railway vehicles.

[0033] In a further embodiment, at least part of the functionality of a gateway device is generically defined, and another part of the functionality is configurable. As explained above, a generic definition can specify that a TCMS or ETCS signal of a specific signal type, type, or format is converted into a system signal of a specific signal type, type, or format. A configurable part of the functionality can define precisely how this conversion is carried out. This advantageously results—also as already explained—in improved global applicability of the proposed system.

[0034] In another embodiment, communication security is increased by using a gateway device or a signal conversion device. For example, when using a gateway device, a security integrity level (SIL) of the received data can be inserted, implemented, and / or increased, and the data thus enhanced / modified can then be transmitted further. In particular, the implementation can provide a security integrity level (SIL) of at least 2, but also 4, especially in hardware and software. Alternatively or cumulatively, the implementation can check whether a security requirement defined by a security integrity level is met, and the checked data is only transmitted further if this is the case. If a security requirement is not met, an error message can be generated.Of course, other ways of increasing communication security are also conceivable. This advantageously results in increased operational safety for a rail vehicle within a system, since communication security in particular is enhanced.

[0035] In another embodiment, the system comprises at least one switch, wherein the signal conversion device is connected via the switch to the ETCS signal interface and / or to the TCMS signal interface or to a gateway. It is conceivable that the signal conversion device is connected via a switch to a gateway, and the gateway is then connected to the ETCS signal interface. It is also conceivable that the signal conversion device is connected via the switch to another gateway, and the gateway is then connected to the TCMS signal interface. A switch is defined as a coupling device that connects network segments, in this case the segments of the proposed system, and performs the corresponding data routing.The switch can be configured to forward data packets to selected ports, to which the system components—the signal converter, gateway devices, and / or signal interfaces—are connected. A switch can, in particular, be a so-called multiport bridge. However, it is also conceivable that the switch processes data at network layer 3 or higher and is thus configured as a Layer 3 switch or multilayer switch. This advantageously ensures directed and therefore reliable data transmission within the system, which in turn increases the reliability of the connection between ETCS and TCMS. It is, of course, possible for the switch to be connected to other system interfaces, e.g.,with interfaces for connecting a vehicle infotainment system, a camera system, a vehicle diagnostics system, or a system for increasing / ensuring system safety. These systems can be, in particular, systems external to the TCMS or ETCS systems, i.e., systems that are not connected to the TCMS or ETCS.

[0036] In another embodiment, the system comprises at least one ETCS hardware interface and at least one ETCS software interface. Alternatively or cumulatively, the system comprises at least one TCMS hardware interface and at least one TCMS software interface. This and the corresponding advantages have already been explained above.

[0037] A TCMS software interface can be used, in particular, to connect a TCMS communication system. The TCMS hardware interface allows, for example, a brake lever system, a door control system, a pantograph system, or a main switch system—each of which can be a subsystem of the TCMS—to be connected to the proposed system. This enables the system to generate a hardware signal for controlling the corresponding system, such as a signal to set a target brake lever position, a door release signal, a control signal to raise or lower the pantograph, or a control signal to switch the rail vehicle's main switch on or off.

[0038] Accordingly, an ETCS software interface can be used to connect an ETCS communication system. The ETCS hardware interface allows, for example, an emergency braking system, which may be a subsystem of ETCS, to be connected to the proposed system. This enables the system to generate a hardware signal for controlling the corresponding system, such as a signal to initiate emergency braking of the rail vehicle.

[0039] The presence of software and hardware interfaces advantageously results in improved connectivity between ETCS and TCMS, and vice versa, as it also enables direct access to hardware components or systems controlled via hardware interfaces.

[0040] In a further embodiment, the system comprises at least one monitoring device for monitoring at least one railway vehicle state or railway vehicle function. The railway vehicle state can refer to a TCMS system state, an ETCS system state, or the state of a subsystem. A TCMS system state here refers to a state of the TCMS or a subsystem of the TCMS and can, in particular, be represented by at least one TCMS signal. Furthermore, an ETCS system state refers to a state of the ETCS or a subsystem and can, in particular, be represented by an ETCS signal. Specifically, it can be monitored whether an actual system state corresponds to a target system state or deviates from it by no more than a predetermined amount. For example, it can be monitored whether an actual brake lever position corresponds to a target position.However, it is also possible to monitor the coupling state of several rail vehicles, with each rail vehicle comprising a proposed system, and data transmission between the systems of the different rail vehicles is possible, for example via the ETCS of the respective rail vehicle.

[0041] A railway vehicle function can refer to a function performed by the TCMS or the ETCS. A TCMS function can be controlled by at least one TCMS signal. Similarly, an ETCS function can be controlled by at least one ETCS signal. In particular, it can be monitored whether a function is performed correctly, for example, by monitoring whether the target system state is reached, which is the state that results from proper function execution. The monitoring device can be provided by the signal converter or be designed as part of that signal converter.

[0042] Examples of monitoring, particularly monitoring to enhance communication security, have already been explained. The monitoring device can also generate an alarm signal and transmit it, for example, to the ETCS, the TCMS, and / or an external device if the actual state deviates from a target state, especially by more than a predetermined amount, and / or if a function is not being performed correctly. The alarm signal can also be transmitted to a higher-level system and / or output via a device, such as a train driver. The alarm signal can also be a control signal for implementing a safety measure. For example, the monitoring device can monitor a door's status. This door status can be a TCMS system state.Furthermore, the monitoring device can monitor the execution of a speed reduction function. This speed reduction can be a TCMS function or an ETCS function. This advantageously increases the operational safety of the rail vehicle.

[0043] In another embodiment, a TCMS signal interface provides port functionality. In other words, a TCMS interface can have or implement a port, which in turn can be assigned an address. It is possible that the port(s) provided by the TCMS signal interface corresponds to the port(s) of a TCMS component or subsystem, for example, the port(s) of a multifunction display. This advantageously enables the proposed system and / or the ETCS to simulate such a component, or to integrate the functionality of the TCMS component or subsystem into the proposed system and / or the ETCS. This advantageously results in increased functionality of the proposed system, particularly through the simulation of a TCMS component.For example, the TCMS signal interface can provide a standard TCMS port, i.e., a port already used in TCMS, with an address previously used in TCMS. It is also conceivable that an ETCS signal interface could provide port functionality. The explanations regarding the TCMS signal interface apply accordingly.

[0044] In a further embodiment, the system comprises at least one input and / or output interface. This input and / or output interface can be different from the at least one ETCS signal interface and the at least one TCMS signal interface. This advantageously allows the system to be connected to other devices and / or systems that are different from ETCS and TCMS. This, in turn, enables improved functionality of the proposed system.

[0045] In a further embodiment, the input and / or output interface is configured for connection to a device external to the TCMS system or an ETCS system, in particular for connection to devices and / or systems that are not connected to the TCMS and / or the ETCS. Such a device could, in particular, be a train radio device, i.e., a device for transmitting radio signals, or a vehicle infotainment system. The interface described can, for example, be configured as an RS422 interface. This advantageously results in improved functionality of the proposed system.

[0046] The previously described system components, such as the signal conversion device, a gateway device, a switch device, and a device providing the signal interface, can be arranged or mounted together in a single enclosure or on a mounting device, which may, for example, be a rack. It is also possible that some, but not all, components are located together in the enclosure or on the mounting device, with the remaining components not located in the enclosure / on the mounting device. Alternatively, all or the remaining components can be distributed, thus forming a distributed system.

[0047] Furthermore, a method for establishing a connection between a TCMS and an ETCS of a rail vehicle with a system according to one of the embodiments described in this disclosure is proposed.

[0048] In this process, at least one ETCS signal, i.e., a signal generated by or within the ETCS system, is received via at least one ETCS signal interface. The ETCS signal is then transmitted to at least one signal conversion unit. Alternatively, the ETCS signal is converted, particularly by means of the signal interface or an ETCS gateway device, into a system signal representing the ETCS signal, and this system signal is transmitted to at least one signal conversion unit. The signal transmitted to the signal conversion unit is then converted into a TCMS signal or into a system signal representing the TCMS signal, particularly by the signal conversion unit itself, and the TCMS signal is then transmitted to or made available at at least one TCMS signal interface.Alternatively, the system signal representing the TCMS signal is converted into the TCMS signal, for example via the TCMS signal interface or a TCMS gateway device, and then transmitted to the TCMS signal interface.

[0049] Alternatively or cumulatively, at least one TCMS signal is received via the at least one TCMS signal interface, and this TCMS signal is transmitted to the at least one signal conversion unit. Alternatively, the TCMS signal is converted into a system signal, for example, using the signal interface or a gateway device, and then transmitted to the signal conversion unit, which then converts the TCMS signal or the system signal into an ETCS signal or into a system signal representing the ETCS signal. If the signal is converted into an ETCS signal, it can be transmitted to or made available at the ETCS signal interface. If a system signal is generated, it can, for example, be converted into an ETCS signal using the signal interface or a gateway device and then transmitted to the ETCS signal interface. The corresponding advantages have already been explained above.A signal transmitted to or provided at a signal interface can then be transmitted to the system connected to the interface.

[0050] In a further embodiment, signal-based monitoring of at least one railway vehicle state or railway vehicle function is carried out, in particular by means of a monitoring device. For this purpose, the received ETCS signal, a received TCMS signal and / or a system signal generated from these signals, in particular by conversion, can be evaluated. This and corresponding advantages have already been explained above.

[0051] In another embodiment, communication security is increased by implementing a gateway device. This and its corresponding advantages have also been explained previously.

[0052] The invention is explained in more detail using exemplary embodiments. The figures show: Fig. 1 a schematic block diagram of a system according to the invention, Fig. 2 a schematic block diagram of a system according to the invention in a further embodiment, Fig. 3 a schematic block diagram of a system according to the invention in a further embodiment, Fig. 4 a schematic flow diagram of a method according to the invention and Fig. 5 a schematic flow diagram of a method according to the invention in a further embodiment.

[0053] In the following, identical reference symbols denote elements with the same or similar technical characteristics.

[0054] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a system 1 for establishing a connection between a TCMS 2 and an ETCS 3 of a rail vehicle (not shown). The connection can be used for transmitting signals and / or data. It is conceivable that the connection is bidirectional. However, the connection can also be unidirectional, enabling either transmission from TCMS 2 to ETCS 3 or vice versa.

[0055] System 1 comprises an ETCS signal interface 4 and a TCMS signal interface 5, as well as a signal conversion unit 6. It is shown that TCMS 2 also comprises a signal interface 7 and ETCS a signal interface 8, with these signal interfaces 7 and 8 being connected to the corresponding signal interfaces 4 and 5 of the proposed System 1. A bus system 9 of TCMS 2 and a bus system 10 of ETCS 3 are also shown, whereby the bus systems shown can be configured as MVB bus systems and are connected to the respective interfaces 7 and 8. The TCMS signal interface 5 is connected to the signal conversion unit 6. Likewise, the ETCS signal interface 4 is connected to the signal conversion unit 6. For the purposes of this description, a connection for data and / or signal transmission can be configured.The signal conversion unit 6 converts a signal received via the ETCS signal interface 4, i.e., an ETCS signal, into a TCMS signal. Furthermore, a signal received via the TCMS signal interface 5, i.e., a TCMS signal, can also be converted into an ETCS signal. A signal generated by this conversion can then be transmitted via the corresponding signal interfaces 4 and 5 to the ETCS 3 or the TCMS 2, where it is further transmitted via the corresponding bus system 10 or 9.

[0056] Fig. 2 Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a further embodiment of System 1 according to the invention. It shows that System 1 comprises a first and a second TCMS gateway device 11a, 11b, and an ETCS gateway device 12. System 1 also comprises a switch device 13. The TCMS signal interface 5 is connected to the switch device 13 via the TCMS gateway devices 11a, 11b. Likewise, the ETCS signal interface 4 is connected to the switch device 13 via the ETCS gateway device 12. In other words, the gateway devices 11a, 11b, 12, and the signal conversion device 6 are connected to the switch device 13. It is further shown that System 1 comprises a TCMS hardware interface 14, via which a hardware component 15 of TCMS 2 is connected to System 1.This hardware component could, for example, be a control unit of a subsystem of TCMS 2, such as a door control system.

[0057] This TCMS hardware interface 14 is also connected to the switch device 13. It is possible that the signal conversion device 6, in particular from a signal received via the ETCS signal interface, generates a TCMS hardware signal by conversion and transmits it via the switch device 13 to the TCMS hardware interface 14. This signal is then transmitted via a TCMS-side hardware interface 16 to the hardware component 15, which it controls, for example. For instance, a door release signal can be transmitted from system 1 to TCMS 2 in this way. Fig. 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the TCMS signal interface 5 can be configured as a TCMS software interface. Likewise, the illustrated ETCS signal interface 4 can be configured as a software interface.

[0058] It is possible for the TCMS gateway devices 11a and 11b to convert a TCMS signal received via the TCMS signal interface 5 into a system signal, where a system signal could be, for example, an IPT-COM signal. In other words, a signal type or format is converted from a TCMS-proprietary type / format to a system-specific / proprietary format. These gateway devices 11a and 11b can also convert a system-specific signal into a TCMS signal. Similarly, the ETCS gateway device 12 can convert an ETCS signal into a system-specific signal or a system signal into an ETCS signal. The first TCMS gateway unit 11a can provide a first port of system 1 and the second TCMS gateway unit 11b can provide another port of system 1, with addresses assigned to these ports through which system 1 can be addressed from TCMS 2.

[0059] Fig. 3 Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a system 1 according to the invention in a further embodiment. In contrast to the one in Figure 1, the block diagram shows a schematic block diagram of a system 1 according to the invention in a further embodiment. Fig. 2 The illustrated embodiment shows that the system includes an ETCS hardware interface 17 to which a hardware component 18 of the ETCS 3 is connected. Thus, the signal conversion device 6 can, for example, generate a control signal for this hardware component 18 and transmit it to this hardware component 18 via the switch device 13, the ETCS hardware interface 17, and a hardware interface 19 of the ETCS 3. This hardware component 18 can, for example, be a control device that can control an emergency braking maneuver of the rail vehicle. A signal transmitted to this hardware component can therefore be an emergency braking signal. This signal can, for example, but not necessarily, be generated from a TCMS signal received via the TCMS signal interface 5.

[0060] Also shown is a hardware interface 20 of system 1, via which hardware components 21 of the rail vehicle can be connected. Another software or hardware interface 22 of system 1 is also shown, via which further external devices, for example a train radio, can be connected. A hardware component of the rail vehicle and an external device cannot be part of ETCS 3 or TCMS 2, nor can they be connected to either of these systems 2, 3. Via these signal interfaces 20, 22, for example, a received signal from the signal conversion unit 6 can be converted into a TCMS signal or an ETCS signal. It is also conceivable that a signal generated by the signal conversion unit 6, which is generated, for example, but not necessarily, from a TCMS signal or an ETCS signal by conversion, is transmitted to the devices 21, 23, for example, for control purposes.For example, it is conceivable that the system 1 generates an ETCS signal via the ETCS signal interface 4 and the signal conversion device 6 transmits information extracted from the signal via the signal interface 22 to a train radio device 23, which then transmits information further, for example to a higher-level system.

[0061] Fig. 4 shows a schematic block diagram of a method according to the invention for establishing a connection between a TCMS 2 and an ETCS 3 (see Fig. 1 ) of a rail vehicle using a system 1.

[0062] In a first step (S1), at least one ETCS signal is received via at least one ETCS signal interface 4. This ETCS signal is then transmitted to at least one signal conversion unit 6, which converts it into a TCMS signal (second step S2). In a third step (S3), the TCMS signal is then made available at TCMS signal interface 5. Alternatively, in the first step (S1), at least one TCMS signal can be received via at least one TCMS signal interface 5 and transmitted to at least one signal conversion unit 6. In a second step (S2), this signal can then be converted into an ETCS signal. In a third step (S3), the resulting ETCS signal is then transmitted to or made available at at least one ETCS signal interface 4, 17.

[0063] Fig. 5 Figure 1 shows a flowchart of a further embodiment of a method according to the invention. In a first step, S1 receives an ETCS signal via an ETCS signal interface 4, wherein this ETCS signal is converted into a system signal that represents the ETCS signal or parts thereof. This conversion can be performed by an ETCS gateway device 12 (see Figure 1). Fig. 2 ) in a second step S2. The system signal is then transmitted to the signal conversion device 6 and in a third step S3 converted by this device into a system signal that represents a TCMS signal (or parts thereof). This system signal can then be converted into a TCMS signal in a fourth step S4, for example by a TCMS gateway device 11a, 11b, whereby this signal is then made available at a TCMS signal interface 5, 14 in a fifth step S5.

[0064] It is further possible that the signal conversion unit 6, which can also be an evaluation unit and / or control unit, can monitor at least one railway vehicle state. The execution of a railway vehicle function, in particular by the TCMS 2 or by the ETCS 3, can also be monitored, especially by evaluating ETCS signals transmitted to system 1 via the ETCS signal interface 4 or by evaluating TCMS signals transmitted to system 1 via the TCMS signal interface 5. It is also possible that, particularly by the signal conversion unit 6, steps to increase communication security can be implemented. For example, conversion can be carried out according to an SDTv2 or SDTv4 protocol, in particular using one of these protocols, whereby the use of SDTv2 provides a SIL of 2 and the use of SDTv4 provides a SIL of 4.These protocols are part of the previously explained TRDP and are also specified in the standard cited in this context. Alternatively or cumulatively, proprietary security measures for data transmission can be implemented within the proposed system and / or between the system and an external system. Proprietary security measures can be implemented, for example, by integrating and verifying a system-specific, i.e., proprietary, checksum.

[0065] System 1, in particular its functionality and further specifically the functionality of its components, for example the signal conversion unit 6 and the gateway units 11a, 11b, and 12, can be partly generic and partly configurable. A generic part of the functionality can be the same across all systems, i.e., systems used in different rail vehicles, especially of different types. The configurable part then allows the generically defined functionality to be adapted to the specific rail vehicle or rail vehicle type. Reference symbol list

[0066] 1 System 2 TCMS 3 ETCS 4 ETCS signal interface 5 TCMS signal interface 6 Signal conversion device 7 Interface 8 Interface 9 Bus system 10 Bus system 11a, 11b TCMS gateway devices 12 ETCS gateway device 13 Switch device 14 TCMS hardware interface 15 Hardware component 16 Interface 17 ETCS hardware interface 18 Hardware component 19 Interface 20 Interface 21 External device 22 Interface 23 External device S1 First step S2 Second step S3 Third step S4 Fourth step S5 Fifth step

Claims

1. System for establishing a connection between a TCM system (2) and an ETC system (3) of a rail vehicle, comprising: - at least one ETCS signal interface (4) for signal or data transmission between the system (1) and the ETC system (3), - at least one signal conversion device (6), - at least one TCMS signal interface (5) for signal or data transmission between the system (1) and the TCM system (2), wherein the ETCS signal interface (4) is connected to the signal conversion device (6) and the signal conversion device (6) is connected to the TCMS signal interface (5), wherein a signal received via the ETCS signal interface (4) and transmitted to the signal conversion device (6) can be converted into a TCMS signal with the signal conversion device (6) and a signal received via the TCMS signal interface (5) and transmitted to the signal conversion device (6) can be converted into an ETCS signal with the signal conversion device (6), wherein the signal conversion device (6) is a control and / or evaluation device or is formed by such a device, wherein the control and / or evaluation device is a microcontroller or an integrated circuit or comprises one thereof.

2. System according to claim 1, characterised in that at least part of the functionality of the signal conversion device (6) is defined generically and another part of the functionality is configurable.

3. System according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one ETCS gateway device (12), wherein the ETCS signal interface (4) is connected to the signal conversion device (6) via the ETCS gateway device (12), wherein an ETCS signal can be converted into a system signal and vice versa with the ETCS gateway device (12) and / or comprising at least one TCMS gateway device (11, 11b), wherein the at least one TCMS signal interface (5) is connected to the signal conversion device (6) via the TCMS gateway device (11a, 11b), wherein a TCMS signal can be converted into a system signal and vice versa with the TCMS gateway device (11a, 11b).

4. System according to claim 3, characterised in that the system signal is a TRDP signal.

5. System according to any one of claims 3 or 4, wherein at least part of the functionality of a gateway device (11a, 11b, 12) is defined generically and a further part of the functionality is configurable.

6. System according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein communication security is enhanced by the conversion with a gateway device (11a, 11b, 12) or the signal conversion device (6).

7. System according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one switch device (13), wherein the signal conversion device (6) is connected via the switch device (13) to the ECTS signal interface (4) and / or to the TCMS signal interface (5) and / or to a gateway device (11a, 11b, 12).

8. System according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least one ETCS hardware interface (17) and at least one ETCS software interface and / or at least one TCMS hardware interface (14) and at least one TCMS software interface.

9. System according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a monitoring device for monitoring at least one rail vehicle condition or one rail vehicle function.

10. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a TCMS signal interface (5) provides a port functionality.

11. System according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one input and / or output interface (20, 22).

12. System according to claim 11, wherein the input and / or output interface (20, 22) is configured for connection to a device external to the TCM system and / or external to the ETC system.

13. Method for establishing a connection between a TCM system (2) and an ETC system (3) of a rail vehicle with a system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein - at least one ETCS signal is received via the at least one ETCS signal interface (4), wherein the ETCS signal or a system signal representing the ETCS signal is transmitted to the at least one signal conversion device (6), is converted into a TCMS signal or into a system signal representing the TCMS signal by the at least one signal conversion device (6), wherein the TCMS signal is then transmitted via the at least one TCMS signal interface (5) and / or - at least one TCMS signal is received via the at least one TCMS signal interface (55), wherein the TCMS signal or a system signal representing the TCMS signal is transmitted to the at least one signal conversion device (6), is converted into an ECTS signal or into a system signal representing the ECTS signal by the at least one signal conversion device (6), wherein the ECTS signal is then transmitted via the at least one ETCS signal interface (4), wherein the signal conversion device (6) is a control and / or evaluation device or is formed by such a device, wherein the control and / or evaluation device is a microcontroller or an integrated circuit or comprises one thereof.

14. Method according to claim 13, characterised in that signal-based monitoring of at least one rail vehicle condition or one rail vehicle function is carried out.

15. Method according to claim 13 or 14, characterised in that communication security is enhanced by the conversion with a gateway device (11a, 11b, 12).