Onboard Timing Module for Consistent Crossing Warnings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rail vehicle crossing systems face challenges in providing consistent warning times due to factors like varying train speeds, electrical interference, and limitations of traditional predictor track circuits, leading to inconsistent and often overly long waiting periods for motorists.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an onboard determination module and communication module that transmits absolute timing information to a remote crossing module, allowing for precise activation of crossing warnings regardless of train speed, thus eliminating the need to account for messaging delays and improving consistency in warning times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional predictor track circuits are used to detect train motion and calculate arrival time, then warning times can be provided for slower speeds, but the system fails when trains travel at speeds exceeding the predictor's detection range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an onboard transceiver in the train as an intermediary device that sends timing messages to the crossing control system. This mediator bridges the gap between high-speed trains that move too quickly for traditional track predictors to detect reliably and the crossing warning system that needs accurate arrival time information.
2Adaptability or versatility
If relative timing information is used in messages from the rail vehicle, then the system can adapt to varying speeds, but delays in sending, receiving, and processing messages require the crossing to close earlier, resulting in overly long waiting periods
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by having the train send its absolute arrival time message before it would normally be detected by track circuits, and by pre-calculating the exact closing time based on this absolute time. This eliminates the need to add buffer delays for message processing, as the absolute time is already accounted for in the message itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the warning and closing times based on the actual absolute arrival time provided by the train, rather than using fixed relative time intervals. This allows the system to optimize waiting periods for each specific train arrival, reducing unnecessary delays while maintaining safety.
3Reliability
If crossing gates are activated based on train occupancy within a given distance without respect to relative speed or arrival time, then the system works in electrified areas where predictors cannot function, but warning times vary significantly depending on train speed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical track circuit detection system with an electronic communication-based timing message system. The train's onboard system electronically transmits its precise timing information directly to the crossing controller, substituting the indirect electromagnetic detection method that fails in electrified areas with a direct digital communication approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the key parameter from relative timing (based on distance and speed calculations) to absolute timing (direct time-of-arrival information). This parameter change ensures consistent warning times regardless of train speed variations, as the absolute time directly specifies when the train will arrive rather than requiring calculation based on variable speed parameters.
4Device complexity
If predictor track circuits are positioned within a limited range from the crossing, then the system structure remains simple, but high-speed trains exceed the detection range and arrive before the gate can close
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a new dimension of communication capability to the train (onboard transceiver and message sending ability), rather than extending the track circuit detection range. This allows the system to handle high-speed trains without physically expanding or complicating the track-side detection infrastructure, maintaining simplicity while solving the speed limitation problem.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a determination module and a communication module. The determination module is configured to be located onboard a first vehicle configured to travel along a first route including a crossing corresponding to an intersection of the first route with a second route. The determination module is configured to be communicatively coupled with a remote crossing module. The determination module is configured to determine, based on a speed of the first vehicle, timing information corresponding to a time at which the first vehicle will travel proximate to the crossing on the first route. The communication module is configured to transmit the timing information to the remote crossing module. The timing information includes a reference time configured as an absolute time corresponding to a time for impeding travel of a second vehicle along the second route through the crossing.