Signal control station linked worker alarm system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a signaling station-linked personnel warning system (9) for warning personnel (8) of the approach of a rail vehicle (6) on a service track (5) located within a warning zone (14) of a service track (2), the personnel warning system (9) including a track-laying machine (1) for working on the service track (2), a location determining system for determining the location of the track-laying machine (1), a computer-aided monitoring system (10) for generating warning information, warning means (26, 27) for generating an acoustic, optical, or tactile warning signal, and a wireless system for wireless data transmission. In this case, the computer-aided monitoring system (10) is configured to define a boundary (16) of the warning zone (14) based on the current position of the track-laying machine (1) and to automatically generate warning information for the warning zone (14), the track-laying machine (1) having a central control unit (18) for processing the warning information, the central control unit (18) being coupled to the computer-aided monitoring system (10) via a wireless system. In this way, the warning zone also moves with the track-layer on the move.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a signal operation point cooperation type worker alarm system for warning personnel of the approach of a railway vehicle on an operating track located within a warning area of a working track, the system includes a track laying machine for working on the working track, a positioning system for identifying the position of the track laying machine, a computer-aided monitoring system for generating warning information, warning means for generating an acoustic or optical or tactile warning signal, and a wireless system for wireless data transmission. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for operating the worker alarm system.

Background Art

[0002] When laying or maintaining a track section, a track laying machine is usually used. At this time, in order to control the machine unit or monitor the working process, there are often personnel (workers) staying on the track. In order to ensure the safety of these personnel, a so-called worker alarm system is used. Thereby, the approach of a train is warned acoustically, optically, and in some cases tactilely (for example, by vibration of a warning vest) to the personnel in the dangerous area. This is because there is usually an operating track with continuous traffic extending adjacent to the working track.

[0003] Modern train control systems (e.g., European Train Control System, ETCS) and digital mobile radio systems for railway operations (e.g., Global System for Mobile Communications-Railway, GSM-R) form important components of higher-level management systems for railway operations (e.g., European Rail Traffic Management System, ERTMS). Such technical solutions provide means for automating warning systems. Known signal-controlled warning systems (SCWS) utilize signal station information to generate warning information for workers using computer-assisted monitoring systems.

[0004] According to prior art, worker warning systems consist of stationary and mobile devices. The stationary device is constructed next to the work track during installation at the track construction site and divides the track section into multiple warning zones (warning areas). The mobile device is carried by a safety supervisor or mounted on a track laying machine on the work track. Such a system is known, for example, from European Patent Application Publication No. 2085286. In this case, the mobile device mounted on the track laying machine is configured to automatically recognize different warning zones. Thus, the warning device on the track laying machine is activated in relation to each warning zone. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] The problem that this invention is based on is to improve the type of signal control station-linked worker warning system described at the beginning, in order to minimize the labor required for track laying at the construction site. Furthermore, the safety of personnel present at the site should also be enhanced. A further challenge is to present an optimal method for operating the worker warning system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to the present invention, these problems are solved by the features of independent claims 1 and 12. Dependent claims illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention.

[0007] In this case, the computer-assisted monitoring system is configured to define the boundaries of the warning zone based on the current position of the track layer and to automatically generate warning information for the warning zone. The track layer is equipped with a central control unit for processing the warning information, and this central control unit is connected to the computer-assisted monitoring system via a wireless system. The key point here is that the position data of the track layer is used to define the warning zone. In this way, the warning zone also moves with the moving track layer. This eliminates the need for transfers from warning zone to warning zone. Furthermore, the central control unit is integrated into the track layer for the automatic processing of warning information. This allows the track layer to be used as a mobile automatic warning system (mobile AWS). Additional warning devices on the track are not required.

[0008] In a preferred development, the location system is integrated into a higher-level train control system, and the computer-assisted monitoring system is configured to process information from the train control system to generate warning information for warning zones. In this case, the location data generated by the train control system is used to automatically identify dangerous situations. Thus, the train control system is used as an additional source of information for generating warning information using the computer-assisted monitoring system.

[0009] The wireless system preferably comprises a mobile radio module of a protected mobile radio network. For example, GSM-R (Global System for Mobile Communications-Railway) or FRMCS (Future Railway Mobile Communication System) based on LTE (Long Term Evolution) or 5G (Fifth Generation) is used. In this system, both the computer-assisted monitoring system and the central control unit are coupled to a dedicated mobile radio module.

[0010] To enable particularly efficient use of the warning function, the central control unit is preferably connected to warning means located on the track laying machine via a data network. In this way, the warning means can be easily complemented and coordinated with each other. In this case, the central control unit includes a network module equipped with TCP / IP terminals in particular.

[0011] In a further improvement example, the central control unit is envisioned to be connected via a data network to operating devices located on the track laying machine to constitute the central control unit. Multiple operating devices may be provided. In this case, when one operating device is in use, all other operating devices are configured to be deactivated for the duration of that device's use.

[0012] For operator-initiated triggers for additional warnings, the central control unit is preferably connected via a data network to a trigger unit located on the track laying machine for warning signals.

[0013] Further improvements can be achieved through the arrangement of mobile devices. Preferably, a central control unit is coupled to mobile operating devices via a wireless system to constitute the central control unit. These operating devices are also configured to temporarily block other operating devices when in use.

[0014] Furthermore, a mobile trigger unit connected to a central control unit via a wireless system to activate warning signals is also advantageous. In this way, additional warnings can be issued at any time by safety monitors in orbit.

[0015] A preferred further development of the present invention relates to personal warnings. In this case, the central control unit is coupled to at least one so-called personal alarm device. This type of alarm device is carried by personnel working on the track. It includes an alarm generator that transmits optical, acoustic, and / or tactile warning signals. In particular, this alarm device is equipped with a wireless module to receive warning notifications from the central control unit via a wireless system. Wired alarm devices can also be used in the case of activities to be performed in close proximity to the machine. These are coupled to the central control unit, for example, via a TCP / IP interface.

[0016] To integrate various alarm system components, the central control unit preferably includes a so-called ERRI interface. This allows components from common manufacturers to be connected to and used with the central control unit. The ERRI interface also supplies power voltage for these types of components.

[0017] According to a further improvement of the present invention, the orbital layer is equipped with a GNSS receiver, which is coupled to a central control unit. The position of the orbital layer is continuously detected using this satellite positioning system. The position data is transmitted via the central control unit to a computer-assisted monitoring system, where this data is either used directly for defining warning zones or first compared with data from other positioning systems.

[0018] In the method according to the present invention for operating the described worker warning system, the boundaries of the warning area are defined based on the current position of the track layer before warning information is generated using a computer-assisted monitoring system, the generated warning information is transmitted via a wireless system to the track layer's central control unit, and the warning means is activated using the central control unit. In this way, the track layer is used as a mobile automatic warning system.

[0019] Preferably, the position data of the track laying machine and the position data of approaching railway vehicles are derived from information from the train control system. The information from the train control system is available at the signal control center and is evaluated using a computer-assisted monitoring system for the generation of warning information.

[0020] In a further improvement, the approach of a railway vehicle is detected as entering a designated approach zone before and after a warning zone. Specifically, the boundary of the corresponding approach zone is defined based on the current position of the track laying machine. This enables a variety of warning scenarios.

[0021] The functionality of the positioning system is preferably enhanced by obtaining the current position data of the track layer using a GNSS receiver located on the track layer, and transmitting this position data to a computer-assisted monitoring system. Additionally, the use of a ground-based radio system along the track is also advantageous. Specifically, a reference antenna of a differential GNSS system (DGNSS) is used here to achieve high-precision positioning of the track layer.

[0022] The present invention will be described below using illustrative methods with reference to the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0023] [Figure 1] This diagram shows a track laying machine on a track system. [Figure 2] This is a block circuit diagram of the worker alarm system.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0024] The track laying machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 is performing work on the working track 2 of the track system 3. The track laying machine is, for example, a tamping machine, a sweeper, a track stabilizer, a conversion train, etc. having various work units 4. An exemplary track system 3 includes an operating track 5 extending adjacent to the working track 2. During the performance of the work, the working track 2 is closed to other railway vehicles 6. In contrast, train operation continues on the operating track 5. In order to control and monitor railway operation, a signal operation station 7 is assigned to the track system 3.

[0025] In the area around the track laying machine 1, there are personnel 8 called operators. These personnel 8 are regarded as operators of the track laying machine 1, work as safety monitors, or are involved in the work process in other ways. In any case, these personnel 8 need to be warned of the approach of railway vehicles 6 on the operating track 5. For this purpose, a signal operation station-linked operator warning system 9 is installed. The structure of this operator warning system 9 is shown in FIG. 2. Such a system 9 is also referred to as an Automatic Warning System (AWS) or an Automatic Train Warning System (ATWS).

[0026] The stationary components of the operator warning system 9 are preferably arranged inside the building of the signal operation station 7. This includes a computer-aided monitoring system 10 for generating warning information. This computer-aided monitoring system 10 functions as an AWS center and processes the position data of the track laying machine 1 and the position data from the approaching railway vehicle 6. Here, the computer-aided monitoring system 10 is coupled to a railway safety system 11 (an electronically controlled signal operation station main system). All points, signals, axle counters, vacant track notification systems, etc. are incorporated into this railway safety system 11 to control and monitor train running, shunting, and auxiliary running.

[0027] Preferably, the signal control station 7 is integrated into a higher-level train control system 12, in which case the railway safety system 11 forms an element of this train control system 12. One example is the European Train Control System (ETCS). The train control system 12 integrates a positioning system, through which the track layer 1 and other railway vehicles 6 continuously report their current positions. This position data is transmitted via a wireless system, for example, a digital mobile radio system for railway operations (e.g., Global System for Mobile Communications-Railway, GSM-R). The signal control station 7 is connected to the wireless system using a mobile radio module 13.

[0028] According to the present invention, the position data of the track laying machine 1 is used to define the warning area 14 of the worker warning system 9 using a computer-assisted monitoring system 10. Warning information is generated immediately when another railway vehicle enters or approaches the warning area 14. At that time, the warning area 14 automatically moves along with the track laying machine 1 as it travels along the work track.

[0029] To define the warning zone 14, for example, the starting point is the work area 15 of the track laying machine 1. This work area 15 is known from the position data and the type of track laying machine 1. For example, the work area 15 is determined by the tamping unit of the tamping machine. The boundary 16 of the warning zone 14 is created at a predetermined distance from the work area 15. These distances may be variable if the speed of the approaching railway vehicle 6 is also taken into consideration. In that case, as the speed increases, the warning zone 14 expands, and therefore a constant approach time is always created from the zone boundary 16 to the work area 15. Furthermore, it is also advantageous to define approach sections 17 before and after the warning zone 14. Travel through the approach sections 17 triggers the pre-warning stage along with the corresponding warning information. Moreover, when defining the warning zone 14, the length of the track laying machine 1 is also taken into consideration. In this case, it is also possible to define a group of multiple machines present on the work track 2 as a connected track laying machine 1.

[0030] The generated warning information is transmitted to the track laying machine 1 via a wireless network. For this purpose, the track laying machine 1 is equipped with a mobile wireless module 13. The information is processed in a central control unit 18, which is preferably coupled to the mechanical control unit of the track laying machine 1. Furthermore, the central control unit 18 has a network interface (TCP / IP interface) and a power supply 19.

[0031] The track laying machine 1 is equipped with at least one operating device 20, which is directly connected to the central control unit 18 via a network interface. Such a fixed operating device 20 is installed where a system operator (safety monitor, SiPo) performs safety activities inside the track laying machine 1. For safety work outside the track laying machine 1, a mobile operating device 21 is provided. This mobile operating device 21 includes a mobile radio module 13. For connection of the mobile operating device 21, the central control unit 18 is connected to the mobile radio module 13 of the track laying machine 1 via an interface module 22.

[0032] As soon as one of the operating devices 20 or 21 is activated, the other operating devices 20 or 21 are deactivated for the duration of this activation. By using these operating devices 20 or 21, it is also possible to configure a central control unit. For example, country-specific warning signals (RO1, RO2, RO3) can be set.

[0033] A fixed trigger unit 23 (e.g., a manual alarm button) is connected to the central control unit 18 for triggering warning signals. A mobile trigger unit 24 is coupled to the central control unit 18 via a mobile radio module 13 and a further interface module 25. Trigger units 23 and 24 are provided for additional warnings in the event of a hazard. Warning signal triggers are typically performed by further safety monitors inside or outside the track laying machine 1.

[0034] To generate an audible warning signal, the track laying machine 1 is equipped with a powered acoustic warning device 26 (AWM), which is connected to the central control unit 18 via its respective network connection. Specifically, the acoustic warning device 26 is installed within the audible range of personnel 8 working on the tracks 2,5. To reduce noise emission, targeted operation of the acoustic warning device 26 is advantageous. In this way, warnings can be given precisely where work is being done. In this case, the noise source of the track laying machine 1 is also taken into consideration. The acoustic warning device 26 is set to be reliably perceptible at a volume 3 dB(A) louder than that of the track laying machine 1.

[0035] An optical warning device 27 (OWM) equipped with a power supply is provided to emit an optical warning signal, and is connected to a central control unit 18 via a network connection. This optical warning device is mounted on the track maintenance machine 1 within the field of view of personnel 8 working on the tracks 2,5.

[0036] Furthermore, it is advantageous for each personnel 8 working on the tracks 2,5 to be equipped with a personal alarm device 28. A unique interface module 29 is provided for connecting such personal alarm devices 28 to the central control unit 18. Each personal alarm device 28 is equipped with at least one warning means 26,27. Wired personal alarm devices 28 may be placed at fixed work locations within the track laying machine 1. Mobile personal alarm devices 28 are equipped with a mobile radio module 13 for connecting to a wireless system.

[0037] In a preferred development, the functions of the personal alarm device 28, the mobile operating device 21, and the mobile trigger unit 24 are integrated into the mobile device.

[0038] Preferably, an ERRI interface box 30 with a power supply is provided to incorporate components of an existing alarm system.

[0039] A further suitable supplement is a GNSS receiver 31 located on the track laying machine 1. This detects the current GNSS position data of the track laying machine 1 and transmits it to the central control unit 18. The data is then transmitted to the signal control station 7 via a wireless system, where it is processed using the computer-assisted monitoring system 10. Specifically, the GNSS position data can be used to define warning zones or to validate existing position data.

[0040] The described worker warning system 9 has various operating modes. In the "safety confirmation" operating mode, the central control unit 18 triggers the stopping function of another track vehicle 6 via the signal control station 7 if there is no response confirmation from a safety observer when a warning signal is given. For example, after the triggering of a warning signal, 30 seconds are left for evacuation from the hazardous area and for response confirmation to be carried out using the operating devices 20,21. To issue a warning signal, for example, the optical warning means 24 of the track laying machine 1 is activated. This warning means 24 is deactivated again when the railway vehicle 6 has completely passed the work area 15.

[0041] In "warning" mode, a warning signal is issued for a predetermined duration (e.g., 30 seconds) before the railway vehicle 6 enters the warning zone 14. At that time, the predetermined approach section 17 is adjusted to match the speed of the railway vehicle 1.

[0042] The connection and configuration between the central control unit 18 and the machine control unit of the track laying machine 1 ensures that a safe state is brought about in the event of a malfunction, in accordance with the "fail-safe" function and safety assurance level 3. Any malfunction of the safety-related components of the alarm system 9 is recognized by the central control unit 18. Subsequently, a malfunction alarm (RO3) is automatically triggered, and the machine 1 is brought to a safe state. This includes stopping the machine 1 and the work unit 14.

Claims

1. A signal control station-linked worker warning system (9) for warning personnel (8) of a railway vehicle (6) on an operating track (5) approaching a warning area (14), wherein the operating track (5) extends adjacent to a work track (2), A computer-assisted monitoring system (10) for generating warning information, Wireless systems for wireless data transmission, A track laying machine (1) for working on the work track (2), including a central control unit (18) for processing the warning information, which is connected to the computer-assisted monitoring system (10) via the wireless system, A positioning system for determining the current position of the track laying machine (1), Warning means (26, 27) for generating acoustic, optical or tactile warning signals, In a worker alarm system (9) including, The computer-assisted monitoring system (10) is configured to define a single boundary (16) of the warning area (14) based on the current position of the track laying machine (1) and the length of the track laying machine (1), so that the warning area (14) moves automatically with the track laying machine (1) as it travels along the work track (2), and to automatically generate warning information for the warning area (14) as soon as the railway vehicle (6) enters or approaches the automatically moving warning area (14). Worker alarm system (9).

2. The worker warning system (9) according to claim 1, wherein the location identification system is integrated with a higher-level train control system (12), and the computer-assisted monitoring system (10) is configured to process location data generated by the train control system (12) in order to automatically identify dangerous situations and generate warning information for the warning area (14).

3. The worker alarm system (9) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the wireless system includes a mobile radio module (13) of a protected mobile radio network.

4. The worker alarm system (9) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the central control unit (18) is connected via a data network to the warning means (26, 27) located on the track laying machine (1).

5. The worker alarm system (9) according to claim 4, wherein the central control unit (18) is connected via a data network to operating equipment (20) located on the track laying machine (1) in order to constitute the central control unit (18).

6. The worker alarm system (9) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the central control unit (18) is connected via a data network to a trigger unit (23) located on the track laying machine (1) for a warning signal.

7. The worker alarm system (9) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the central control unit (18) is coupled to a mobile operating device (21) via the wireless system to constitute the central control unit (18).

8. The worker alarm system (9) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the central control unit (18) is coupled to a mobile trigger unit (24) via the wireless system for a warning signal.

9. The worker alarm system (9) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the central control unit (18) is equipped with a so-called ERRI interface (30).

10. The worker alarm system (9) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the track laying machine (1) is equipped with a GNSS receiving device (31), and the GNSS receiving device (31) is coupled to the central control unit (18).

11. A method for operating the worker alarm system (9) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, Track laying work is carried out on the work track (2) using a track laying machine (1). In a method in which, when a railway vehicle (6) on an operating track (5) enters or approaches a warning zone (14) to which it automatically moves, warning information is automatically generated using a computer-assisted monitoring system (10), Before the warning information is generated using the computer-assisted monitoring system (10), a single boundary (16) of the warning area (14) is defined based on the current position of the track laying machine (1) and the length of the track laying machine (1) so that the warning area (14) automatically moves along with the track laying machine (1) as it travels along the work track (2). The generated warning information is automatically transmitted via the wireless system to the central control unit (18) of the track laying machine (1). A method characterized in that warning means (26, 27) are activated using the central control unit (18).

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the position data of the track laying machine (1) and the position data of the approaching railway vehicle (6) are derived from information of the train control system (12).

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the approach of the railway vehicle (6) is detected as entry into an approach section (17) defined before and after the warning area.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the current position data of the track laying machine (1) is obtained using a GNSS receiving device (31) located on the track laying machine (1), and the position data is transmitted to the computer-assisted monitoring system (10).

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