CBTC Route Release for Rail Network Capacity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rail network capacity is low due to the limitations of traditional route reservation methods, which require predefined track sections and fixed trackside facilities, leading to inefficient use of rail resources and potential communication link failures.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing an onboard CBTC module and CBTC signal box to determine the position of rail vehicles with high spatial accuracy, allowing for quasi-continuous route resolution independent of fixed trackside facilities, enabling route sections to be released dynamically based on the vehicle's position and direction of travel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional route reservation methods are used with predefined track sections and fixed trackside facilities, then route safety is ensured, but rail network capacity is limited and operational efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical trackside facilities (signals, axle counters, fixed sections) with a communication-based system that uses onboard CBTC modules to determine vehicle position and manage routes dynamically, eliminating the need for complex fixed infrastructure while increasing network capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static predefined track sections to dynamic route sections that are continuously adjusted based on real-time vehicle position data, allowing routes to be created and dissolved at any point along the track rather than being fixed in advance
2Productivity
If partial route release is implemented with predefined discrete track sections, then route capacity is improved, but sections of the route remain reserved for trains that have already traversed them
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous route resolution by constantly monitoring vehicle position and immediately releasing route sections as the train passes through them, rather than waiting for predefined section boundaries or destination arrival, ensuring that route resources are continuously optimized
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses real-time feedback from onboard CBTC modules about vehicle position to dynamically adjust route reservations, allowing the control system to respond immediately to the train's actual location and release route sections accordingly, eliminating delays associated with predefined sections
3Measurement precision
If CBTC system with onboard modules is used to determine vehicle position with high accuracy, then route resolution precision is improved, but communication link reliability is challenged during failures
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates safety margins in route section calculations and maintains conservative route reservations during communication uncertainties, ensuring that even if position data is temporarily unavailable or inaccurate, the system maintains safe operating conditions through pre-calculated safety buffers
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method (50), in particular a computer-implemented method, for partially releasing train routes (10). The method (2) comprises the following steps: Determining the position (N) of a rail vehicle (6), in particular by means of an onboard CBTC module (16) of the rail vehicle (6). Transmitting the position (N) of the rail vehicle (6) by means of a communication device of the rail vehicle (6) to a CBTC interlocking unit (11). Checking by the CBTC interlocking unit (11) whether a set train route (10) exists for the rail vehicle (6) with a route segment (3) in the direction of travel (F) behind the position of the rail vehicle (6). If such a route segment (3) exists, releasing this route segment (3) up to the position of the rail vehicle (6).