Fault detection device and fault detection method for electric point machines

Abstract

The present invention provides a fault detection device and fault detection method for an electric point machine that can determine whether the faulty part of the electric point machine is located inside or outside the electric point machine. [Solution] The fault detection device for the electric point machine 10 includes: an operation result determination unit 52 that individually determines whether the operation result of each operation of the electric point machine 10, such as the switching operation of the operating lever 15 and the unlocking and locking operations of the locking lever 16, is normal; an operation time determination unit 53 that individually determines whether the operation time required for each operation is normal; and a fault detection unit 55 that determines whether there is a fault inside or outside the electric point machine 10 based on a combination of the determination results of the operation result determination unit 52 and the operation time determination unit 53.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to a failure determination device for an electric switch machine and a failure determination method for an electric switch machine.

Background Art

[0002] An electric switch machine that switches and locks the tongue rail of a branch on a line with the driving force of a motor is known. When the electric switch machine fails, the smooth operation of the train is hindered and it becomes difficult to operate on schedule. Therefore, it has been conventionally practiced to constantly monitor the quality of the operating state of the electric switch machine and estimate the signs of failure.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses detecting an abnormality of an electric switch machine based on a current detected by a current sensor in a motor which is a power source of the electric switch machine, and a current value detected and a value derived therefrom. <000管理]]

[0004] Further, Non-Patent Document 1 discloses estimating that an abnormality has occurred in the electric switch machine when the locking lever displacement or the switching load exceeds a threshold value or the deviation amount from the normal value becomes large. <00管理]]

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Non-Patent Documents

[0006]

Non-Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] However, the above-mentioned method for diagnosing faults in electric point machines cannot determine whether the faulty part is inside or outside the machine. In particular, if the faulty part is inside, repair work can take a long time, and it is desirable to start work as early as possible. Currently, however, the location of the faulty part is investigated at the repair site, which prolongs the time until repairs are completed.

[0008] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and aims to provide an electric switch failure detection device and a failure detection method that can determine whether the faulty part of the electric switch is inside or outside the electric switch. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] One aspect of the present invention is an electric point machine fault determination device comprising: an operation result determination unit that individually determines whether the operation results of each operation of the electric point machine, such as the switching operation of the operating lever and the unlocking and locking operations of the locking lever, are normal; an operation time determination unit that individually determines whether the operation time required for each operation is normal; and a fault determination unit that determines whether there is a fault inside or outside the electric point machine based on a combination of the determination results of the operation result determination unit and the operation time determination unit.

[0010] Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention relates to a method for determining a fault in an electric point machine, which includes: an operation result determination step that individually determines whether the operation results of each operation of the electric point machine, such as the switching operation of the operating lever and the unlocking and locking operations of the locking lever, are normal; an operation time determination step that individually determines whether the operation time required for each operation is normal; and a fault determination step that determines whether there is a fault inside or outside the electric point machine based on a combination of the determination results of the operation result determination step and the operation time determination step. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electric switch failure detection device and a failure detection method that can determine whether the faulty part of the electric switch is located inside or outside the electric switch. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a plan view showing the structure of a turnout equipped with an electric switch according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an electric point machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of the cam mechanism of the electric point machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of the cam mechanism of the electric point machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of the cam mechanism of the electric point machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of the cam mechanism of the electric point machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of the switch machine monitor of an electric switch machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing each measurement item in the electric point machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is an operation determination table for determining the operation stage of an electric point machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a fault determination table for determining faults in an electric point machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the control flow of the fault detection unit that performs fault detection on an electric point machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a table showing the relationship between failures occurring outside the electric point machine according to this embodiment and the affected parts, categorized by the timing of the failure. [Figure 13]FIG. 13 is a table showing the relationship between the failures that occur inside the electric turntable machine according to the present embodiment and the affected parts, classified by the time of occurrence of the failures. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of the turntable monitor of the electric turntable machine according to the modified example. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a failure determination table in the failure determination device of the electric turntable machine according to the modified example.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, the failure determination device for the electric turntable machine according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0014] [Turnout] First, the turnout 1 including the electric turntable machine 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a plan view showing the structure of the turnout 1 including the electric turntable machine according to the present embodiment.

[0015] The turnout 1 is a device that branches one track into two or more tracks to switch the route of the vehicle. The turnout 1 includes a tongue rail 2, a basic rail 3, a floor plate 4, a turntable rod 5, a front rod 6, a connecting pipe 7, a switch adjuster 8, a joe pin 8a, a connecting plate 9, and an electric turntable machine 10.

[0016] Strictly speaking, the constituent members of the turnout 1 are the tongue rail 2, the basic rail 3, the floor plate 4, the turntable rod 5, and the connecting plate 9, and the remaining front rod 6, connecting pipe 7, switch adjuster 8, and joe pin 8a are signal members used in combination with the electric turntable machine 10.

[0017] In the present embodiment, the purpose is to determine the failure location of the electric turntable machine 10. Since external failures are highly related to the turnout 1, for convenience, the above signal members will also be described as part of the turnout 1.

[0018] When switching tracks, tongue rail 2 rotates in the direction of arrow A or arrow B in Figure 1, which is perpendicular to the direction of vehicle movement.

[0019] The basic rail 3 is the main rail that is continuously connected from the track outside the turnout 1, and when the tongue rail 2 is switched, the tip 2a of the tongue rail 2 becomes tightly attached or separated.

[0020] The floor plate 4 supports the tongue rail 2 in a rotatable manner and also supports the load of a vehicle running on the stationary tongue rail 2.

[0021] The switch bar 5, in conjunction with the operating lever 15 of the electric switch machine 10 (described later), switches the tongue rail 2 and presses it against the base rail 3.

[0022] The front rod 6 is fixed between the tip portions 2a of the tongue rail 2, and fixes the distance between the tip portions 2a.

[0023] The connecting rod 7 is connected between the front rod 6 and the locking rod 16 of the electric point machine 10, which will be described later, and operates in conjunction with the locking rod 16.

[0024] The switch adjuster 8 is connected to the operating rod 15 and is an adjuster that sets the contact force when the tongue rail 2 is switched and comes into close contact with the base rail 3.

[0025] Jaw pin 8a is the pin that connects the operating lever 15 and the switch adjuster 8.

[0026] The connecting plate 9 is a plate-shaped member that connects the tongue rail 2 and the switch bar 5 at the point where they intersect.

[0027] The electric point machine 10 switches the tongue rail 2 using the operating lever 15 and checks the opening direction with the locking lever 16. The structure of the electric point machine 10 is described below.

[0028] [Electric points machine] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the electric point machine 10. In Figure 2, to clarify the drawing, the components that perform rotational motion are shown as perspective views at the top of the page, and the components that perform linear motion are shown as top views from above the axial direction of the switching roller 18, which will be described later, at the bottom of the page (within the dashed lines).

[0029] The electric point machine 10 includes a motor 11, a clutch 12, a reduction mechanism 13, a cam mechanism 14, an operating lever 15, a locking lever 16, and a motor control unit 17.

[0030] The motor 11 is the driving force source for the electric point machine 10, and it changes the rotational driving force according to the output current.

[0031] The clutch 12 is interposed between the motor 11 and the reduction mechanism 13. When excessive torque is input from the motor 11 or the rotational load on the downstream reduction mechanism 13 becomes excessive, multiple sliding plates slide against each other to protect the reduction mechanism 13. Although a friction clutch is used as an example for clutch 12, other types of clutch 12 may be used as long as they can prevent excessive torque input from the motor 11.

[0032] The reduction mechanism 13 reduces the rotational speed of the motor 11 and increases the rotational driving force by continuously transmitting the rotation of the motor 11 to multiple gears with different gear ratios. In Figure 2, reduction is performed by switching between two gears, but instead, reduction may be performed by switching between one gear or three or more gears.

[0033] The cam mechanism 14 includes a final gear 20 of the reduction mechanism 13, a switching roller 18 provided on the final gear 20, and a pair of lock pieces 19 that move in accordance with the movement of the switching roller 18. The switching roller 18 is fitted into an axially parallel hole provided on the final gear 20 and protrudes cylindrically from the lower gear surface. The lock pieces 19 move linearly in accordance with the movement of the switching roller 18, which rotates with the rotation of the final gear 20, so that the cam surface 19a provided on the inner circumference does not move away from the switching roller 18. Thus, the rotational motion of the final gear 20 is converted into linear motion of the lock pieces 19 by the cam mechanism 14. The final gear 20 rotates and moves the switching roller to switch the operating lever 15, and is therefore hereinafter referred to as the "switching gear 20".

[0034] The operating lever 15 is a rod-shaped member having a notch 15a. The switching roller 18 slides along the notch 15a, moving over a predetermined stroke and driving the tongue rail 2 in the turnout 1 relative to the base rail 3 in the direction of arrow A or arrow B in Figure 1. When the operating lever 15 is driven, it engages with the locking part 19b of the lock piece 19 (described later) and functions as the main locking mechanism.

[0035] The locking pin 16 has a notch 16a on the side opposite to the side where the cam surface 19a of the lock piece 19 is provided, into which the lock piece 19 is inserted and removed. After the tongue rail 2 is rotated, the lock piece 19 is inserted into the notch 16a to check the tip position of the tongue rail 2. In addition, the locking pin 16 functions as a backup lock to prevent the displacement of the operating pin 15 when the primary locking function of the operating pin 15 is lost.

[0036] The motor control unit 17 controls the rotational driving force of the motor 11 by supplying a predetermined current to the motor 11 when the electric point machine 10 is in operation.

[0037] [Cam mechanism] Next, the operation of the cam mechanism 14 will be explained with reference to Figures 3 to 6. Figures 3 to 6 are explanatory diagrams showing the area indicated by the dashed line in Figure 2 rotated 90 degrees to the right. In addition, each figure also includes an explanatory diagram showing the operating state of the operating lever 15 and the lock piece 19 simultaneously. Furthermore, in order to clarify the operation of the cam mechanism 14, the illustration of the locking lever 16 has been omitted.

[0038] As shown in the figure, a pair of lock pieces 19 are laid flat so as to be slidable in the vertical direction of the paper. The lock piece 19 has a cam surface 19a on its inner circumference, and as the conversion gear 20 (Figure 2) rotates, the conversion roller 18 slides against the cam surface 19a, causing it to slide. An operating lever 15, which is slidable in the horizontal direction of the paper, is positioned on the vertical upper surface (towards the front of the paper) of the lock piece 19.

[0039] The operating lever 15 has a notch 15a that forms an inner circumferential surface, and slides as the conversion roller 18 slides along the notch 15a as the conversion gear 20 (Figure 2) rotates. The lock piece 19 has a locking portion 19b on its upper surface that prevents the operating lever 15 from sliding. When the lock piece 19 slides and comes into contact with the lock receiver 15b of the operating lever 15, the operating lever 15 is prevented from sliding any further.

[0040] The locking portion 19b is provided on the upper surfaces of both of the pair of locking pieces 19. When the locking piece 19 on the left side of the page slides, the locking portion 19b prevents the operating rod 15 from sliding to the reverse side, resulting in a locked state. When the locking piece 19 on the right side of the page slides, the locking portion 19b prevents the operating rod 15 from sliding to the reverse side, resulting in a locked state.

[0041] Figure 3 shows the electric point machine 10 before switching, in the normal position and locked state. In this state, the switching roller 18 is stationary, and the operating lever 15 is locked to the locking portion 19b of the lock piece 19. Therefore, as indicated by the arrows in the figure, both the operating lever 15 and the lock piece 19 are in the stopped state.

[0042] Figure 4 shows the unlocking operation on the normal position side of the electric point machine 10. During the unlocking operation, the switching gear 20 rotates, causing the switching roller 18 to slide against the cam surface 19a of the lock piece 19, and the lock piece 19 slides downward from the plane of the paper. As the lock piece 19 slides, the locking part 19b detaches from the lock receiver 15b of the operating lever 15.

[0043] At this time, the switching roller 18 slides along the escape surface 15c on the normal position side of the notch 15a of the operating lever 15, so the operating lever 15 does not slide. Therefore, in the unlocking operation, as shown by the arrow in the figure, the operating lever 15 remains stationary, but the lock piece 19 slides.

[0044] Figure 5 shows the switching operation of the electric point machine 10. In Figure 4, the switching roller 18 slides against the cam surface 19a of the lock piece 19, causing the lock piece 19 to slide downwards from the plane of the paper, and the lock part 19b completely detaches from the lock receiver 15b. In this state, as the switching gear 20 (Figure 2) rotates, the switching roller 18 fits into the switching surface 15e of the notch 15a of the operating lever 15. The switching roller 18 on the switching surface 15e slides the operating lever 15 as it moves. Therefore, in the switching operation, as shown by the arrows in the figure, the operating lever 15 slides, but the lock piece 19 does not.

[0045] Figure 6 shows the locking operation on the reverse side of the electric point machine 10. During the locking operation, the switching gear 20 rotates, causing the switching roller 18 to slide against the cam surface 19a of the lock piece 19, and the lock piece 19 slides upward on the paper. As the lock piece 19 slides, the locking portion 19b advances toward the lock receiver 15b of the operating rod 15.

[0046] At this time, the switching roller 18 slides along the escape surface 15d on the opposite side of the notch 15a of the operating lever 15, so the operating lever 15 does not slide. Therefore, in the locking operation, as shown by the arrow in the figure, the operating lever 15 remains stationary, but the lock piece 19 slides.

[0047] As shown in Figures 3 to 6 above, the operating lever 15 is initially in a non-sliding state, but the rotation of the switching gear 20 (Figure 2) causes the switching roller 18 to move, which unlocks the lock piece 19 and enables the switching operation. Subsequently, further rotation of the switching gear 20 moves the switching roller 18, causing the lock piece 19 to lock and preventing the operating lever 15 from switching.

[0048] Furthermore, although the locking lever 16 is omitted in Figures 3 to 6 above, when the operating lever 15 is detached from the locking portion 19b of the lock piece 19 and in the unlocked state, the lock piece 19 is detached from the notch 16a of the locking lever 16. When the operating lever 15 is engaged with the locking portion 19b of the lock piece 19 and in the locked state, the lock piece 19 is in a state where it can be inserted into the notch 16a of the locking lever 16. In other words, when the notch 16a of the locking lever 16 is in a predetermined position, the locking by the lock piece 19 and the verification are synchronized.

[0049] [Point Monitor] Next, the switch machine monitor 30 will be explained with reference to Figure 7.

[0050] The switch machine monitor 30 is a monitoring device that monitors the operation of the electric switch machine 10. The switch machine monitor 30 includes a sensor terminal 40, a processing terminal 50, and a display terminal 60.

[0051] [Sensor terminal 40] The sensor terminal 40 is installed on the electric point machine 10 and includes a detection unit 41 and a detection value transmission unit 42.

[0052] The detection unit 41 includes a current detection unit 43, a gear rotation detection unit 44, a displacement detection unit 45, an axial force measurement unit 46, and a displacement determination unit 47. Here, each measurement item and measurement position will be explained with reference to the schematic diagram in Figure 8. Note that the configuration and operation of each part in Figure 8 have been explained in Figures 1 and 2, so that explanation will be omitted here.

[0053] The current detection unit 43 measures the motor current. The motor current can be measured using any ammeter, such as a CT (Current Transistor). An increase in the motor current may also be detected as an "increase in the estimated switching torque" or an "increase in the estimated switching load" calculated from the motor current.

[0054] The gear rotation detection unit 44 detects the rotation angle and rotation speed of the switching gear 20 using a magnetic gear sensor or a rotary encoder. The rotation speed and rotation angle of the switching gear 20 may be calculated from the operating rod stroke, or they may be calculated by estimating the rotation speed of the motor 11 from the motor current. Alternatively, the rotation speed of the switching gear 20 may be calculated from the estimated rotation speed of the motor 11 and the slip ratio (speed ratio) of the clutch 12.

[0055] The displacement detection unit 45 detects the amount of displacement of the operating rod 15 using an optical or magnetic linear encoder or a strain-type displacement meter.

[0056] The axial force measuring unit 46 measures the axial force of the operating lever 15, which is the switching load, from the strain of the jaw pin 8a (Figure 1) and the switch adjuster 8.

[0057] The displacement determination unit 47 detects the amount of displacement of the locking pin 16 using an optical or magnetic linear encoder or a strain gauge, and determines whether the amount of displacement of the locking pin 16 exceeds the upper limit of the normal value.

[0058] Returning to Figure 7, the detected value transmission unit 42 has the function of transmitting each measured value detected as described above to the processing terminal 50, or the function of calculating and transmitting indicators necessary for determining state changes or abnormalities from the measured values, such as the maximum value of the motor current, the time when the maximum value was recorded, the switching time, the average current, etc.

[0059] The detection results of each part of the detection unit 41 (hereinafter referred to as state quantities) are measured not only when the electric point machine 10 is in switching operation, but also when it is not in switching operation. There are no specific time periods or measurement items for the measurement function when no vehicle is running on the turnout 1. On the other hand, when a vehicle is running on the turnout 1, the measurement function is equipped with the ability to measure at least the locking lever displacement and acquire the behavior when a vehicle passes over it.

[0060] The changes in the above state variables can be separated by a threshold, or machine learning methods such as comparing them with pre-trained normal values ​​can be used.

[0061] [Processing terminal 50] The processing terminal 50, which functions as a fault detection device, is installed in a command center, signal equipment room, or data center, and receives measured values ​​transmitted from the sensor terminal 40, or calculation results processed and transmitted by the sensor terminal 40. The processing terminal 50 also stores the received status and calculates past data, history for each time period and operation, trend values, etc.

[0062] The processing terminal 50 includes an operation stage determination unit 51, an operation result determination unit 52, an operation time determination unit 53, a locking pin displacement determination unit 54, a fault determination unit 55, a fault status transmission unit 56, and a storage unit 57.

[0063] Furthermore, the functions of the sensor terminal 40 and the processing terminal 50 may be integrated, or the functions of the processing terminal 50 may be implemented on a device that aggregates multiple stations or railway lines, or on cloud computing.

[0064] (Operation stage determination unit 51) The operation stage determination unit 51 determines, based on the state quantities of each part transmitted from the sensor terminal 40, which of the four operation stages the electric point machine 10 is in: before switching, during the unlocking operation of the locking lever 16, during switching, or during the locking operation of the locking lever 16. Note that "before switching" refers to the state before the switching operation begins, when a train is passing through the turnout 1.

[0065] While the above operating stages can be determined from the motor current waveform, it is preferable to directly measure the rotation angle and rotation speed of the switching gear 20 and the stroke amount of the operating lever 15 for higher accuracy.

[0066] The determination of the operation stage will be explained below with reference to Figure 9.

[0067] "Before the transformation" The operation stage determination unit 51 determines that the operation stage of the electric point machine 10 is before switching if the motor current is zero ("none" in the figure), the rotational speed and rotational angle of the switching gear 20 are zero ("none" in the figure), the stroke amount of the operating lever 15 is zero ("no movement" in the figure), and the displacement of the locking lever 16 is within the measurement range in the normal or reversed position.

[0068] "Unlocking in progress" The operation stage determination unit 51 determines the operation stage to be "unlocking in progress" if motor current is detected (indicated as "present" in the figure), the rotational speed and rotational angle of the conversion gear 20 are not zero (indicated as "present" in the figure), the conversion roller 18 is on the escape surface 15c on the normal position side (Figure 4), the stroke amount of the operating lever 15 is zero (indicated as "no movement" in the figure), and the displacement of the locking lever 16 is within the measurement range in the normal or reverse position. Whether or not the conversion roller 18 is on the escape surface 15c on the normal position side is determined based on the rotational angle of the conversion gear 20.

[0069] "In the process of conversion" The operation stage determination unit 51 determines the operation stage to be "converting" if motor current is detected (indicated as "present" in the figure), the rotational speed and rotational angle of the conversion gear 20 are not zero (indicated as "present" in the figure), the conversion roller 18 is on the conversion surface 15e (Figure 5), the stroke amount of the operating lever 15 is zero (indicated as "movement present" in the figure), and the displacement of the locking lever 16 is outside the measurement range in both the normal and reverse positions. Whether or not the conversion roller 18 is on the conversion surface 15e is determined based on the rotational angle of the conversion gear 20.

[0070] "Locking in progress" The operation stage determination unit 51 determines the operation stage to be "locking in progress" if motor current is detected (indicated as "present" in the figure), the rotational speed and rotational angle of the conversion gear 20 are not zero (indicated as "present" in the figure), the conversion roller 18 is on the escape surface 15d on the reverse side (Figure 6), the stroke amount of the operating lever 15 is zero (indicated as "no movement" in the figure), and the displacement of the locking lever 16 is within the measurement range in the normal or reverse position, or outside the measurement range due to a lock malfunction. Whether or not the conversion roller 18 is on the escape surface 15d on the reverse side is determined based on the rotational angle of the conversion gear 20.

[0071] (Operation result determination unit 52) Returning to Figure 7, the operation result determination unit 52 determines "operation" when the part that should be operating during the operation stage is moving, and "stopped" when it is not moving, for the operation stages of the electric point machine 10: "unlocking operation," "switching," and "locking operation."

[0072] (Operation time determination unit 53) The operation time determination unit 53 individually calculates the operation time for each stage of the above operations in which the unlocking operation, switching operation, or locking operation actually occurs. It then individually determines whether the operation time required for each operation is normal or not. Specifically, if the operation time is longer than the preset maximum time allowed for that operation, it is determined that the operation time has increased.

[0073] Furthermore, the calculation of operating time by the operating time determination unit 53 may be performed by individually storing the time from the start of each operation in the storage unit 57 during the processing of the fault determination unit 55, which will be described later. In addition, an increase in operating time may be detected by an increase in motor current or a decrease in the rotational speed of the conversion gear 20.

[0074] (Lock pull displacement determination unit 54) The locking lever displacement determination unit 54 determines, for the "before switching" stage of the electric point machine 10, that the locking lever displacement is a "normal value" if it is within a predetermined range of normal values, and that it is an "abnormal value" if it has deviated significantly beyond the predetermined range.

[0075] (Failure determination unit 55) The fault determination unit 55 determines whether the electric point machine 10 is malfunctioning, and if so, whether the malfunction is occurring inside or outside the electric point machine 10, based on the determination results from the operation stage determination unit 51, the operation result determination unit 52, the operation time determination unit 53, and the locking pin displacement determination unit 54, as well as the fault determination table described later, and supplies the determination result to the fault status transmission unit 56.

[0076] (Fault status transmission unit 56) The fault status transmission unit 56 transmits the result determined by the fault determination unit 55 to a display terminal 60 located in a maintenance area or the like.

[0077] [Display terminal 60] The display terminal 60 includes a notification unit 61 and a display unit 62.

[0078] The notification unit 61 notifies the electric point machine 10, which is equipped with the sensor terminal 40, of a malfunction by means of voice, light, or other means.

[0079] The display unit 62 operates in conjunction with the notification unit 61 to display the location of the malfunctioning electric point machine 10 on a display or the like, and also displays whether the malfunction is an internal or external malfunction of the electric point machine 10 so that it can be visually confirmed.

[0080] [Determination process of fault detection unit 55] (Fault detection table) First, the failure detection table will be explained with reference to Figure 10. The failure detection table has four items: "Operation Stage," "Operation Result," "Current State," and "Decision." "Current State" consists of the items "Operation Time," "Locking Peg Displacement," and "Flag."

[0081] The "Operating Stage" indicates the operating stage of the electric point machine 10. In this example, the operating stages are indicated as the electric point machine 10 being before switching (indicated as "Before Switching"), in the process of unlocking (indicated as "In the Process of Unlocking"), in the process of switching (indicated as "In the Process of Switching"), or in the process of locking (indicated as "In the Process of Locking").

[0082] "Operation result" refers to the state of either moving (indicated as "operating" in the diagram) or stopping (indicated as "stopped" in the diagram) during the operation shown in "Operation stage".

[0083] The "Operating Time" in "Current State" indicates whether the time taken for the operation shown in "Operating Stage" is within the predetermined time and therefore normal (indicated as "Normal" in the figure), or whether it has taken longer than the predetermined time (indicated as "Increased" in the figure). The "Lock Peg Displacement" indicates whether the displacement of the lock peg 16 is within the predetermined range and therefore normal (indicated as "Normal Value" in the figure), or whether it is outside the predetermined range and therefore abnormal (indicated as "Abnormal Value" in the figure). The "Flag" indicates the type of flag that has been set. In this example, in the figure, "F1" indicates flag F1, "F2" indicates flag F2, and "F3" indicates that flag F3 has been set.

[0084] The "Judgment" section indicates the fault status of the electric point machine 10 corresponding to the information shown in "Operation Stage," "Operation Result," and "Current Status." Specifically, it indicates that the electric point machine 10 is functioning normally (indicated as "Normal" in the diagram), that there is a fault inside the electric point machine 10 (indicated as "Internal Fault" in the diagram), or that there is a fault outside the electric point machine 10 (indicated as "External Fault" in the diagram). The "Judgment" section also indicates the type of flag to be set corresponding to the information shown in "Operation Stage," "Operation Result," and "Current Status."

[0085] The fault determination unit 55 determines the state of the electric point machine 10 based on the determination results from the operation stage determination unit 51, the operation result determination unit 52, the operation time determination unit 53, and the locking lever displacement determination unit 54, as well as the fault determination table.

[0086] (Processing by the fault detection unit 55) The process of the fault detection unit 55 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 11. The following process is repeated at predetermined intervals. The process may also be started just before the vehicle approaches the electric switch machine 10 after detecting the approach of a vehicle in advance, or it may be performed continuously.

[0087] In step S1, the fault determination unit 55 detects that the electric point machine 10 is not yet switched, and in step S2, it detects whether the displacement of the locking arm 16 is within a predetermined range of normal values ​​or outside a predetermined range of abnormal values. Specifically, if the fault determination unit 55 detects that the displacement of the locking arm 16 is within a normal range, in step S3, it determines that the electric point machine 10 is functioning normally.

[0088] The fault detection unit 55 stores in the storage unit 57 that it has been determined that the electric point machine 10 is functioning normally.

[0089] In step S4, the fault detection unit 55 sets flag F1 based on the detection result in step S2. Specifically, the fault detection unit 55 sets flag F1 if it detects that the displacement of the locking pin 16 is an abnormal value. This flag F1 means that the locking pin 16 is fluctuating.

[0090] The fault detection unit 55 stores in the storage unit 57 that flag F1 has been set.

[0091] In step S5, the fault determination unit 55 detects whether the electric point machine 10 is in the process of unlocking. If it detects that the electric point machine 10 is in the process of unlocking, in step S6 it detects whether the electric point machine 10 is operating or stopped. Specifically, if the fault determination unit 55 detects that the electric point machine 10 is operating, in step S7 it detects whether the time spent in the unlocking operation is normal or increasing. More specifically, if the fault determination unit 55 detects that the time spent in the unlocking operation is normal, in step S8 it determines that the electric point machine 10 is normal.

[0092] The fault detection unit 55 stores in the storage unit 57 that it has been determined that the electric point machine 10 is functioning normally.

[0093] In step S7, if the fault detection unit 55 detects that the time during the unlocking operation is not normal, it sets flag F2 in step S9. This flag F2 means that the load during locking or unlocking has increased.

[0094] The fault detection unit 55 stores in the storage unit 57 that flag F2 has been set.

[0095] In step S6, if the fault determination unit 55 detects that the electric point machine 10 is not operating, it determines in step S10 that there is an internal fault.

[0096] The fault detection unit 55 stores in the memory unit 57 that it has determined that there is an internal fault in the electric point machine 10.

[0097] In step S11, the fault determination unit 55 detects whether the electric point machine 10 is in the process of switching. If it detects that the electric point machine 10 is in the process of switching, in step S12 it detects whether the electric point machine 10 is operating or stopped. Specifically, if the fault determination unit 55 detects that the electric point machine 10 is operating, in step S13 it detects whether the time spent in the switching operation is normal or increasing. More specifically, if the fault determination unit 55 detects that the time spent in the switching operation is normal, in step S14 it determines that the electric point machine 10 is normal.

[0098] The fault detection unit 55 stores in the storage unit 57 that it has been determined that the electric point machine 10 is functioning normally.

[0099] In step S13, if the fault detection unit 55 detects that the time during the conversion operation is not normal, it sets flag F3 in step S15. This flag F3 indicates that the load during conversion is increasing.

[0100] The fault detection unit 55 stores in the storage unit 57 that flag F3 has been set.

[0101] In step S12, if the fault determination unit 55 detects that the electric point machine 10 is not operating, in step S16 it detects whether flag F2 is set. Specifically, if the fault determination unit 55 detects that flag F2 is set, in step S17 it determines that there is an internal fault in the electric point machine 10.

[0102] The fault detection unit 55 stores in the memory unit 57 that it has determined that there is an internal fault in the electric point machine 10.

[0103] Furthermore, in step S16, it is detected whether flag F2 is set. Specifically, in step S18, if the fault determination unit 55 detects that flag F2 is not set, it determines that the location of the fault in the electric point machine 10 is unknown.

[0104] The fault detection unit 55 stores in the memory unit 57 that it has determined the location of the fault in the electric point machine 10 is unknown. Furthermore, if the location of the fault is unknown, it may be possible to identify it by manually or electrically switching the operating lever 15; therefore, this fact is also stored in the memory unit 57.

[0105] In step S19, the fault determination unit 55 detects whether the electric point machine 10 is in the locking operation. If it detects that the electric point machine 10 is in the locking operation, in step S20 it detects whether the electric point machine 10 is operating or stopped. Specifically, if the fault determination unit 55 detects that the electric point machine 10 is operating, in step S21 it detects whether the time spent in the locking operation is normal or increasing. More specifically, if the fault determination unit 55 detects that the time spent in the locking operation is normal, in step S22 it determines that the electric point machine 10 is normal.

[0106] The fault detection unit 55 stores in the storage unit 57 that it has been determined that the electric point machine 10 is functioning normally.

[0107] In step S21, if the fault detection unit 55 detects that the time during the locking operation is not normal, it sets flag F2 in step S23. This flag F2 means that the load during locking or unlocking has increased.

[0108] The fault detection unit 55 stores in the storage unit 57 that flag F2 has been set.

[0109] In step S20, if the fault determination unit 55 detects that the electric point machine 10 is not operating, in step S24 it detects whether flag F2 or F3 is set. Specifically, if the fault determination unit 55 detects that flag F2 or F3 is set, in step S25 it determines that there is an internal fault in the electric point machine 10.

[0110] The fault detection unit 55 stores in the memory unit 57 that it has determined that there is an internal fault in the electric point machine 10.

[0111] In step S24, the system detects whether flag F2 or F3 is set. Specifically, in step S24, if the fault determination unit 55 detects that neither flag F2 nor F3 is set, it determines in step S26 that there is an external fault in the electric point machine 10.

[0112] The fault detection unit 55 stores in the storage unit 57 that it has determined that there is an external fault in the electric point machine 10.

[0113] Let's summarize the above control methods and return to Figure 10 for further explanation.

[0114] First, when the operating stage is "before conversion," the fault determination unit 55 determines that the system is normal without setting a flag if the "locking lever displacement" while the vehicle is running is within the normal range.

[0115] Furthermore, if the fault determination unit 55 is in the "pre-conversion" operating stage, and the "locking pin displacement" while the vehicle is running is an abnormal value greater than a predetermined threshold, it sets flag F1. Flag F1 suggests that there may be a problem caused by excessive "locking pin displacement".

[0116] Furthermore, when the operation stage is "unlocking operation in progress," the fault detection unit 55 determines that the operation is normal without setting a flag if the "operation result" is "operation occurred" and the "operation time" is normal.

[0117] The fault detection unit 55 sets flag F2 when the operation stage is "unlocking operation in progress" and the "operation result" is "operation occurred" and the "operation time" has increased to longer than the maximum time allowed for that operation. Flag F2 suggests that there may be a problem caused by an increased load on the "unlocking or locking operation".

[0118] The fault detection unit 55 determines that an internal fault has occurred if the operation stage is "unlocking operation in progress," the "operation result" is in a stopped state, and flags F2 and F3 are already set.

[0119] Furthermore, when the operation stage is "conversion operation in progress," the fault determination unit 55 determines that the operation is normal without setting a flag if the "operation result" is "operation occurred" and the "operation time" is "normal."

[0120] The fault detection unit 55 sets flag F3 when the operation stage is "conversion operation in progress" and the "operation result" is "operation occurred" and the "operation time" has increased to longer than the maximum time allowed for that operation. Flag F3 suggests that there may be a problem caused by the increased load of the "conversion operation".

[0121] When the operation stage is "conversion operation in progress" and the "operation result" is in a stopped state, the fault determination unit 55 determines that an internal fault has occurred if flag F2 is already set, and if flag F2 is not set, it determines that the fault location is unknown, as it could be either internal or external.

[0122] In this case, if the fault is internal, the fault can be identified as internal by removing the jaw pin 8a connecting the operating lever 15 and the switch adjuster 8 and performing the switching operation manually or electrically. Therefore, the fault determination unit 55 may decide to notify the unit to "remove the jaw pin 8a and perform the switching operation to check."

[0123] Furthermore, when the operation stage is "locking in progress," the fault detection unit 55 determines that the operation is normal without setting a flag if the "operation result" is "operation occurred" and the "operation time" is normal.

[0124] The fault determination unit 55 sets flag F2 if, when the operating stage is "locking operation in progress", the "operation result" is that an operation was performed and the "operation time" has increased to be longer than the maximum time allowed for that operation.

[0125] The fault determination unit 55, when the operating stage is "locking in progress" and the "operation result" is in a stopped state, determines that an internal fault has occurred if flags F2 and F3 are already set, and determines that an external fault has occurred if flag F1 is set or neither flag is set.

[0126] (Basis for the failure detection table) Here, we will explain the "internal failures" and "external failures" of the electric point machine 10 with reference to Figures 12 and 13. Figures 12 and 13 are tables showing the relationship between failures occurring in the electric point machine 10 and the affected parts, categorized by the timing of the failure. Figure 12 shows the case of "external failures," and Figure 13 shows the case of "internal failures."

[0127] "External failure" First, we will explain "external failures" with reference to Figure 12.

[0128] When the electric point machine 10 is in the "pre-switching" state and a vehicle is passing on the basic rail 3, (1) when the locking arm displacement fluctuates significantly, the following malfunctions are expected: loosening of the lock nut, loosening of the fixing bolt of the electric point machine 10, breakage of the front rod 6, or detachment of the jaw pin 8a. Also, (2) when the operating arm axial force changes, the following malfunction is expected: detachment of the jaw pin 8a.

[0129] During the unlocking operation, (1) if the contact force between the tongue rail 2 and the basic rail 3 decreases, the following malfunctions are expected: the jaw pin 8a falling off, or, if the left-right separation length of the front rod 6 is excessively adjusted, the front rod 6 breaking.

[0130] During the switching operation, if (1) the motor current increases, (2) the switching time increases, or (3) the switching load increases, the malfunction is expected to be caused by foreign matter entering the movable part or an increase in the switching load. Also, if (4) the locking mechanism displacement changes, the malfunction is expected to be caused by loosening of the lock nut, loosening of the fixing bolts of the electric switch machine 10, or breakage of the front rod 6.

[0131] During the locking operation, (1) if the locking rod displacement changes (lock malfunction), possible malfunctions include the locking rod 16 becoming loose, the jaw pin coming out, the lock nut becoming loose, or the front rod 6 breaking. Also, (2) if a change in the contact force occurs, possible malfunctions include the jaw pin coming out, etc.

[0132] In this embodiment, the operation stage determination unit 51 does not determine that the operation stage is stopped immediately after conversion. However, if it does determine that the operation stage is stopped, (1) if the locking rod displacement changes, the malfunctions that can be expected are the locking rod 16 becoming detached, the jaw pin coming loose, the lock nut becoming loose, or the front rod 6 breaking.

[0133] "Internal failure" Next, we will explain "internal failure" with reference to Figure 13.

[0134] If the electric point machine 10 is in the "pre-switching" state and a train is passing over the basic rail 3, it is unlikely that an internal malfunction will occur.

[0135] During the unlocking operation, (1) if the motor current increases, or (2) if the unlocking operation time increases, possible malfunctions include gear failure, increased cam surface friction, increased friction of the locking mechanism, interference from detached parts (gears or lock pieces), or lock piece freezing. Also, (3) if there is a change in the displacement of the lock piece, possible malfunctions include increased friction of the locking mechanism, lock piece freezing, or interference from detached parts.

[0136] During the "conversion operation," if (1) the motor current increases, or (2) the conversion time increases, the following failures are anticipated: gear failure, increased friction on the cam surface, interference between detached parts and the operating rod 15, or freezing of the operating rod 15.

[0137] During the "locking operation," if (1) the motor current increases, or (2) the locking operation time increases, possible malfunctions include gear failure, increased cam surface friction, increased friction of the insert locking rod, interference from detached parts (gears or lock pieces), or freezing of the lock piece.

[0138] Similar to the case of external failure described above, if the operation stage determination unit 51 determines that the state is "stopped immediately after conversion," it is considered that no internal failure will occur.

[0139] Based on the above, in the case of an "external failure," events other than foreign object intrusion occur for the first time before the switching operation, whereas in the case of an "internal failure," many events occur for the first time during the unlocking operation or the switching operation. Furthermore, while foreign object intrusion is an event that can only be recognized during the switching operation due to an increase in motor current, it is easy to distinguish from an internal failure because the intervening foreign object can be easily identified by visual inspection or other means.

[0140] (Relationship between the processing of the fault detection unit 55 and specific examples) The fault detection unit 55 has been explained above in Figures 11 to 13. Now, let's explain the relationship between the processing of the fault detection unit 55 shown in Figure 11 and the specific examples of faults shown in Figures 12 and 13.

[0141] F1+ External Before the switchover (Figure 11, S1; Yes), if a significant fluctuation in the locking mechanism displacement occurs when a vehicle passes (S2; No), flag F1 is set (S4). At this point, for example, a break in the front rod 6 is assumed to be the fault (Figure 12). In this case, during the subsequent locking operation (S19; Yes), the operation is not normal (S20; No), and flag F1 is set (S24; No), so it is determined to be an "external fault" (S26).

[0142] This is thought to be because the front rod 6 broke when the vehicle passed over it, causing the front rod 6, which operates in conjunction with the locking mechanism 16, to stop working, making the locking mechanism inoperable.

[0143] F2+ internal Furthermore, if, during the unlocking operation (Figure 11, S5; Yes), the operation is determined to be normal (S6; Yes), but the operation time is determined to be increasing (S7; No), flag F2 is set (S9). At this point, for example, a defect in the switching gear 20 is assumed to be the fault (Figure 13). In this case, during the subsequent switching operation (S11; Yes), the operation is not normal (S12; No), and flag F2 is set (S16; Yes), so it is determined to be an "internal fault" (S17).

[0144] This is thought to be because the motor current increased due to the failure of the switching gear 20, causing the unlocking operation to take longer than usual, and rendering the operating lever 15 inoperable during the switching operation.

[0145] F3+ internal Furthermore, if, during the switching operation (Figure 11; Yes), the operation is determined to be normal (S12; Yes), but the operation time is determined to be increasing (S13; No), flag F3 is set (S15). At this point, for example, increased friction on the cam surface 15a of the operating lever 15 is assumed to be a malfunction (Figure 13). In this case, during the subsequent locking operation (S19; Yes), the operation is not normal (S20; No), and flag F3 is set (S24; Yes), so it is determined to be an "internal malfunction" (S25).

[0146] This is thought to be because, during the switching operation, increased friction on the cam surface 15a of the operating lever 15 caused the switching operation to take longer than usual, and subsequently, during the locking operation, the increased friction on the cam surface 15a rendered the locking lever 16 inoperable.

[0147] summary In this way, when external or internal failures occur, the malfunctions that will occur in the affected parts are known in advance, allowing for the appropriate flag to be set. Since F1 assumes an external failure and F2 and F3 assume an internal failure, the number of anticipated failures can be narrowed down with greater precision during failure detection.

[0148] [Differentiation] In the above embodiment, the fault determination unit 55 performs fault determination using the fault determination table in Figure 10, which has four items: "operation stage," "operation result," "current state," and "determination." However, as the "current state" during the conversion operation, in addition to "operation time," "conversion load (operating rod axial force)" may also be referenced. The "conversion load" is measured as the axial force of the operating rod 15.

[0149] The following describes the fault determination process when the fault determination unit 55 refers to the "convertible load," with reference to Figures 14 and 15.

[0150] Figure 14 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of the switch machine monitor 30 of the modified electric switch machine 10, and is identical to the above embodiment except that the processing terminal 50 has a switching load determination unit 158. Figure 15 is a fault determination table in the fault determination device of the modified electric switch machine 10, and is identical to the above embodiment except for the switching load column of the fault determination table. In Figures 14 and 15, components having the same function as in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0151] In Figure 14, the conversion load determination unit 158 ​​calculates the operating time at the stage in which the conversion operation occurs. It then determines whether the operating time required for the conversion operation is normal or not. Specifically, if the operating time is longer than the preset maximum time allowed for the conversion operation, it is determined that the operating time has increased.

[0152] The fault determination unit 55, similar to the embodiment described above, determines whether the fault of the electric point machine 10 occurred inside or outside the electric point machine 10.

[0153] In Figure 15, the fault determination table has four items in the top-level column: "Operation Stage," "Operation Result," "Current State," and "Determination." "Current State" further includes "Operation Time," "Switching Load," "Locking Peg Displacement," and "Flag." The fault determination unit 55 checks each item in the fault determination table from top to bottom according to the operation stage of the electric point machine 10 to determine if a fault has occurred.

[0154] First, when the operating stage is "before conversion," the fault determination unit 55 determines that the system is normal without setting a flag if the "locking lever displacement" while the vehicle is running is within the normal range.

[0155] Furthermore, when the operating stage is "before conversion," the fault determination unit 55 sets flag F1 if the "locking lever displacement" while the vehicle is running is an abnormal value greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0156] Furthermore, when the operation stage is "unlocking operation in progress," the fault detection unit 55 determines that the operation is normal without setting a flag if the "operation result" is "operation occurred" and the "operation time" is normal.

[0157] The fault detection unit 55 sets flag F2 if, when the operation stage is "unlocking operation in progress", the "operation result" is "operation occurred" and the "operation time" increases to be longer than the maximum time allowed for that operation.

[0158] The fault detection unit 55 determines that an internal fault has occurred if the operation stage is "unlocking operation in progress" and the "operation result" is in a stopped state, by setting flags F2 and F3.

[0159] Furthermore, when the operating stage is "conversion operation in progress," the fault determination unit 55 determines that the operation is normal without setting a flag if the "operation result" is "operation occurred," the "operation time" is normal, and the "conversion load" is normal.

[0160] The fault detection unit 55 sets flag F4 when the operating stage is "conversion operation in progress," the "operation result" is that an operation was performed, the "operation time" has increased to longer than the maximum time allowed for that operation, but the "conversion load" is normal. Flag F4 suggests that there may be a problem caused by the increased load of the "conversion operation."

[0161] The fault detection unit 55 sets flag F3 if, when the operating stage is "conversion operation in progress", the "operation result" is "operation occurred", the "operation time" has increased to longer than the maximum time allowed for that operation, and the "conversion load" has also increased.

[0162] When the operation stage is "conversion operation in progress" and the "operation result" is in a stopped state, the fault determination unit 55 determines that an internal fault has occurred if at least one of flags F2 and F4 is set, determines that an external fault has occurred if flag F3 is set, and determines that the fault location is unknown if none of flags F2, F3, or F4 are set, as the fault location could be either internal or external.

[0163] In this case, if the fault is internal, the location of the fault can be identified as internal by removing the jaw pin 8a connecting the operating rod 15 and the switch adjuster 8 and performing the switching operation manually or electrically. Therefore, instead of making a determination, it may be acceptable to notify the user to "remove the jaw pin 8a and perform the switching operation to check."

[0164] Furthermore, when the operation stage is "locking in progress," the fault detection unit 55 determines that the operation is normal without setting a flag if the "operation result" is "operation occurred" and the "operation time" is normal.

[0165] The fault detection unit 55 sets flag F2 if the operation stage is "locking in progress", the "operation result" is "operation occurred", and the "operation time" is longer than the maximum time allowed for that operation.

[0166] The fault determination unit 55 determines that an internal fault has occurred if, when the operating stage is "locking in progress" and the "operation result" is in a stopped state, at least one of flags F2 and F3 is set, and if flag F1 is set or neither flag is set, it determines that an external fault has occurred.

[0167] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the conversion roller 18 provided on the final gear 20 of the reduction mechanism 13 converts rotational motion into linear motion using a cam mechanism 14 that slides along the inner circumferential cam surface 19a of the lock piece 19. However, any mechanism that can convert the rotational motion of the reduction mechanism 13 into linear motion of the operating lever 15 may be used, for example, a ball screw or a rack and pinion mechanism.

[0168] Furthermore, in Figure 7 of the above embodiment, the fault determination unit 55 determines the result, which is then transmitted by the fault status transmission unit 56 to a display terminal 60 located in a maintenance area or the like. However, in addition to the above result, specific instructions such as "remove the jaw pin 8a and switch it to check" may also be transmitted.

[0169] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the operation stage determination unit 51 determines the operation stage of the electric point machine 10 based on the motor current, gear rotation speed and angle, and the operating rod stroke, but the locking rod displacement may also be used as the basis for determination in addition to these. In a point machine monitor 30 of the type that does not measure the gear rotation speed, the operation stage can be determined with high accuracy by using the locking rod displacement to determine the operation stage.

[0170] Furthermore, the fault status transmission unit 56 may, based on the fault determination unit 55's determination of "external fault" or "internal fault," transmit a specific assumed fault to the display terminal 60 with reference to Figures 12 and 13.

[0171] [Supplementary explanation of the embodiment] The embodiments described above are all preferred examples of the present invention. The numerical values, components, arrangement positions of components, and connection configurations shown in the embodiments above are examples only and are not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, the figures are not necessarily strictly illustrative.

[0172] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments only represent a part of the application examples of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention to the specific configurations of the above embodiments.

[0173] The series of processes described above can be executed by hardware or by software. When the series of processes are executed by software, the programs that make up the software are installed from a program storage medium on a computer that is built into dedicated hardware, or on a general-purpose computer that can perform various functions by installing various programs.

[0174] The programs executed by the computer may be programs that are processed chronologically in the order described herein, or they may be programs that are processed in parallel or at necessary times, such as when a call is made.

[0175] [Note] The contents described in some of the embodiments above can be understood, for example, as follows:

[0176] (1) Failure determination The fault detection device for the electric point machine 10 is: An operation result determination unit 52 determines whether the operation result of each operation of the electric point machine 10, including the switching operation of the operating lever 15 and the unlocking and locking operation of the locking lever 16, is normal or not. An operation time determination unit 53 determines whether the operation time required for each operation is normal or not for each operation, The system includes a fault determination unit 55 that determines whether there is a fault inside or outside the electric point machine 10 based on a combination of the determination results of the operation result determination unit 52 and the operation time determination unit 53.

[0177] This allows for the determination of whether the faulty part of the electric point machine 10 is located inside or outside the electric point machine 10, based on the operation results and operating time during the unlocking, switching, and locking operations. Therefore, for example, knowing the faulty part in advance can shorten the time required to repair the electric point machine 10.

[0178] (2) Definition of operation results and operation time Furthermore, the operation result determination unit 52 determines that the operation result is not normal when it is in a stopped state. The operation time determination unit 53 may determine that the operation is not normal if the operation time is longer than the maximum allowable time for that operation.

[0179] This makes it possible to distinguish between the operating lever 15 and the locking lever 16 being completely inoperable and being in an operating state but with a long operating time. Therefore, by differentiating between a malfunctioning stopped state and a state with a high operating load that may lead to a malfunction, it is possible to prevent misjudgments.

[0180] (3) Internal fault detection during conversion operation If the operation time of the unlocking operation is determined to be abnormal, and the subsequent switching operation is also determined to be abnormal, the fault detection unit 55 may determine that there is an internal fault.

[0181] Since it is known that most internal failures first occur during the unlocking or switching operation, flag F2 is set when the unlocking operation takes a long time and it is determined that there is a high probability that an internal failure has occurred. Then, if the switching operation that follows the unlocking operation fails to function properly, it can be determined that the malfunction is caused by the internal failure in question.

[0182] This allows for the identification of a potentially faulty area during the unlocking operation, and if that area malfunctions during the subsequent switching operation, it can be determined that the faulty area is inside the electric switch machine 10. Therefore, by simply observing the operation time of the unlocking operation and the operation result of the switching operation, it is possible to determine that the faulty area is inside, thus enabling a simpler and more accurate determination of the faulty area.

[0183] (4) Internal failure determination during locking operation If the operating time of at least one of the unlocking operation and the switching operation is determined to be abnormal, and the subsequent locking operation is also determined to be abnormal, the fault detection unit 55 may determine that there is an internal fault.

[0184] Since it is known that most internal failures first occur during the unlocking or switching operation, flag F2 is set when the operation time of at least one of the unlocking or switching operation is prolonged, making it highly likely that an internal failure has occurred. Then, if the locking operation fails to function properly during the locking operation that follows the switching operation, it can be determined that the malfunction is caused by the internal failure.

[0185] This allows for the identification of a potentially faulty area if at least one of the operating times during the unlocking or switching operation is longer than normal. If that area malfunctions during the subsequent locking operation, it can be determined that the fault is located inside the electric point machine 10. Therefore, by simply observing the operating times of the unlocking and switching operations and the results of the locking operation, it is possible to determine that the fault is located inside, thus enabling a simpler and more accurate identification of the fault location.

[0186] (5) Internal malfunction detection during unlocking operation If the operating time is determined to be abnormal during at least one of the unlocking, switching, and locking operations, and the next unlocking operation is determined to be abnormal, the fault detection unit 55 may determine that there is an internal fault.

[0187] As a result, regardless of the operation result, if the operation time is determined to be longer than normal, and the next unlocking operation is not normal, the fault location is determined to be inside the electric point machine 10. Therefore, by simply looking at the operation time which was determined to be longer than normal and the operation result of the next unlocking operation, it is possible to determine that the fault location is inside the electric point machine 10, making it possible to determine the fault location more simply and accurately.

[0188] (6) External failure determination The system further includes a displacement determination unit 47 for determining the displacement of the locking lever 16. When a train is passing over the tongue rail 2 to which the operating lever 15 is connected, if it is determined that the displacement of the locking lever 16 exceeds the upper limit of the normal value, and the subsequent locking operation is determined to be in a stopped state, the fault determination unit 55 may determine that there is an external fault.

[0189] As a result, if the displacement of the locking arm 16 exceeds the upper limit while a train is actually passing, and it is determined that there is a high probability of failure, and the operation result is a stopped state during the locking operation, it is determined that the fault location is outside the electric point machine 10. Therefore, it is possible to exclude cases that are clearly not internal faults and prevent external faults from being mistakenly identified as internal faults. Thus, the fault location can be determined more simply and accurately.

[0190] (7) Utilize the increase in motor current The electric point machine 10 is further equipped with a current detection unit 43 for detecting the current of the motor 11, and the operating time determination unit 53 may determine that the operation is not normal when the current detected by the current detection unit 43 exceeds an upper limit.

[0191] As a result, when the current value when the motor 11 rotates the conversion gear 20 exceeds the upper limit, it is determined that the operating time is longer than the longest time for which an increase in the load on each component can be estimated. Therefore, the operating time can be estimated without detecting the operating time of the target component. Thus, an increase in load can be easily detected, and costs can be reduced.

[0192] (8) Use the rotational speed of the conversion gear The electric point machine 10 is further equipped with a gear rotation detection unit 44 that detects the rotational speed of one or more switching gears 20 that transmit the rotation of the motor 11, and the operating time determination unit 53 may determine that it is not functioning normally when the rotational speed of the switching gears 20 detected by the gear rotation detection unit 44 falls below a lower limit.

[0193] As a result, the operating time can be determined based on the rotational speed of the switching gear 20 detected by the gear rotation detection unit 44, so the operating time can be estimated without detecting the operating time of the target member. Therefore, an increase in load can be easily detected, and costs can be reduced.

[0194] (9) Consider the conversion load The system may further include an axial force measuring unit 46 for measuring the axial force of the operating lever 15, and the fault determination unit 55 may determine whether there is a fault inside or outside the electric point machine 10 based on a combination of the determination results of the operation result determination unit 52 and the operation time determination unit 53 and the axial force of the operating lever 15.

[0195] This allows for a more accurate determination of whether the fault in the electric point machine 10 is internal or external, as the axial force of the operating lever 15, which is the switching load, is also considered when determining the location of the fault. Furthermore, since only the axial force of the operating lever 15 needs to be measured, the accuracy of fault location determination can be improved at a low cost.

[0196] (10) Failure determination method The method for determining a malfunction in the electric point machine 10 includes: an operation result determination step that individually determines whether the operation results of each operation of the electric point machine 10, such as the switching operation of the operating lever 15 and the unlocking and locking operations of the locking lever 16, are normal; an operation time determination step that individually determines whether the operation time required for each operation is normal; and a malfunction determination step that determines whether there is a malfunction inside or outside the electric point machine 10 based on a combination of the determination results of the operation result determination step and the operation time determination step.

[0197] This allows for the determination of whether the faulty part of the electric point machine 10 is located inside or outside the electric point machine 10, based on the operation results and operating time during the unlocking, switching, and locking operations. Therefore, knowing the faulty part in advance can shorten the time required to repair the electric point machine 10. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0198] 2 Tongue Rail 10 Electric Point Machines 11 Motor 15 Operation 16 Locking mechanism 20 Conversion gear 41 Detection unit 43 Current detection unit 44 Gear rotation detection unit 45 Displacement detection unit 46 Axial force measurement unit 47 Displacement determination unit 50 Processing terminal (fault detection device) 52 Operation Result Determination Unit (Operation Result Determination Step) 53. Operation time determination unit (operation time determination step) 54 Locking mechanism displacement determination unit (displacement determination unit) 55. Fault detection unit (fault detection step)

Claims

1. An operation result determination unit that individually determines whether the operation results of each operation of the electric point machine, including the switching operation of the operating lever and the unlocking and locking operation of the locking lever, are normal or not. An operation time determination unit that individually determines whether the operation time required for each of the aforementioned operations is normal, A fault determination unit determines whether there is a fault inside or outside the electric point machine based on a combination of the determination results of the operation result determination unit and the operation time determination unit, A fault detection device for an electric point machine, characterized by comprising the following:

2. A fault determination device for an electric point machine according to claim 1, The operation result determination unit determines that the operation result is not normal when it is in a stopped state. The operation time determination unit determines that the operation is not normal if the operation time is longer than the maximum allowable time for that operation. A fault detection device for electric point machines, characterized by the following features.

3. A fault determination device for an electric point machine according to claim 2, When the operating time of the unlocking operation is determined to be abnormal, and the subsequent conversion operation is also determined to be abnormal, the fault detection unit determines that there is an internal fault. A fault detection device for electric point machines, characterized by the following features.

4. A fault determination device for an electric point machine according to claim 2, When the operating time of at least one of the unlocking operation and the switching operation is determined to be abnormal, and the subsequent locking operation is determined to be abnormal, the fault detection unit determines that there is an internal fault. A fault detection device for electric point machines, characterized by the following features.

5. A fault determination device for an electric point machine according to claim 2, If the operation time is determined to be abnormal during at least one of the unlocking operation, the switching operation, and the locking operation, and the next unlocking operation is determined to be abnormal, the fault detection unit determines that there is an internal fault. A fault detection device for electric point machines, characterized by the following features.

6. A fault determination device for an electric point machine according to claim 1, The system further includes a displacement determination unit for determining the displacement of the locking mechanism, When a train is passing over the tongue rail to which the operating lever is connected, and it is determined that the displacement of the locking lever exceeds the upper limit of the normal value, and the subsequent locking operation is determined to be in a stopped state, the fault determination unit determines that there is an external fault. A fault detection device for electric point machines, characterized by the following features.

7. A fault determination device for an electric point machine according to claim 1, The electric point machine further comprises a current detection unit for detecting the current of the motor, The operating time determination unit determines that the operation is not normal when the current detected by the current detection unit exceeds the upper limit. A fault detection device for electric point machines, characterized by the following features.

8. A fault determination device for an electric point machine according to claim 1, The electric point machine further comprises a gear rotation detection unit that detects the rotational speed of one or more switching gears that transmit the rotation of the motor of the electric point machine, The operating time determination unit determines that the operation is not normal when the rotational speed of the conversion gear detected by the gear rotation detection unit falls below a lower limit. A fault detection device for electric point machines, characterized by the following features.

9. A fault determination device for an electric point machine according to claim 1, The system further includes an axial force measuring unit for measuring the axial force of the aforementioned operating rod, The fault determination unit determines whether there is a fault inside or outside the electric point machine based on the determination results of the operation result determination unit and the operation time determination unit and the axial force of the operating rod. A fault detection device for electric point machines, characterized by the following features.

10. A step to individually determine whether the operation results of each operation of the electric point machine, including the switching operation of the operating lever and the unlocking and locking operation of the locking lever, are normal or not. An operation time determination step to individually determine whether the operation time required for each of the aforementioned operations is normal, A fault determination step that determines whether there is a fault inside or outside the electric point machine based on a combination of the determination results of the operation result determination step and the operation time determination step, A method for determining the failure of an electric point machine, characterized by comprising the following:

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