Interlocking Device Dynamic Route Control for Train Delays

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional interlocking devices for trains fail to ensure smooth operation when train delays occur, leading to disruptions in route control.

Innovation Solution

An interlocking device that performs route control based on first and second operation diagram information, as well as on-track position information, adjusting signal and switch control according to whether predetermined conditions are met, including starting and through times, to improve depot entry/departure control and allow trains to depart as scheduled.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional interlocking devices perform route control based on fixed operation diagram information, then route control is simple and stable, but train delays cause disruptions and smooth operation cannot be ensured

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesmooth operationVSAvoidresponse to delays
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The interlocking device dynamically adjusts route control based on real-time train position information and actual operation diagram information. When a train is detected to be delayed or ahead of schedule, the system automatically modifies signal control and route setting parameters to maintain smooth operation, transforming the static control system into an adaptive dynamic one.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously receives real-time train position information from track circuits and other detection devices, compares actual train positions with scheduled positions, and uses this feedback to automatically adjust route control decisions. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables the system to respond to delays and maintain reliable operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Manufacturing precision

If the interlocking device controls signals and switches based on multiple types of information (first operation diagram, second operation diagram, on-track position), then depot entry/departure control quality improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol qualityVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a first operation diagram information acquisition unit for scheduled operations, a second operation diagram information acquisition unit for real-time adjustments, a train position detection unit, and a control execution unit. This modular segmentation allows each component to handle specific information types independently, improving control quality while managing system complexity through organized functional division.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Loss of time

If the interlocking device dynamically adjusts control based on real-time information, then trains can depart on time even when delays occur, but information processing requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeparture timingVSAvoidinformation processing
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-acquires and stores both first operation diagram information (scheduled operations) and second operation diagram information (real-time adjustments) before control decisions are needed. Train position detection thresholds and control rules are pre-configured, allowing the system to rapidly execute control actions when departure timing critical events occur, minimizing information processing delays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP3176050B1Interlocking device
Publication Date: 2019.10.02 EAST JAPAN RAILWAY COMPANY
  • EP3176050B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3176050B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3176050B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An interlocking device performs route control for trains based on: first operation diagram information as train operation diagram information on a train which runs between stations; second operation diagram information as train operation diagram information on a train which moves in a station yard; and on-track position information on the trains. The interlocking device performs control with time on a signal and/or a switch on a route of a train based on different information according to whether a predetermined condition is satisfied.