AI Optical Train Localization Using Passive Track Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current railway location and speed control systems rely on expensive and unreliable electronic beacons and satellite positioning systems, which can fail, necessitating a more independent and cost-effective solution for accurate train location and speed monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A method and equipment using optical recognition through high-resolution video cameras and artificial intelligence technologies, including signal detectors, character readers, and optical flow meters, to determine train location and speed independently of train equipment and track signals, providing a redundant and robust system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electronic beacons are used for train location, then location information can be obtained, but the system becomes expensive and less reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic beacons and satellite positioning systems with an optical recognition system using video cameras and AI technology. This substitution eliminates the need for expensive electronic infrastructure while achieving reliable train location and speed detection through image processing of passive track signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual copy of track signals by capturing images with video cameras and processing them through AI algorithms. Instead of relying on physical electronic beacons, the system reproduces location information from visual data of passive track markers, achieving the same functional outcome with lower cost and higher reliability.
2Measurement precision
If satellite positioning systems are used, then location data can be obtained, but the system is subject to errors and failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces satellite positioning systems with an optical recognition system that uses video cameras to capture and process images of passive track signals. This substitution eliminates dependency on satellite signals and their associated errors, providing more reliable and accurate location data through local visual recognition.
3Adaptability or versatility
If optical recognition with AI is used, then system independence is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces AI algorithms as an intermediary between the video camera and the location determination process. These algorithms automatically recognize passive track signals in images, extracting location and speed information without requiring complex manual processing or additional hardware, thus managing complexity while maintaining independence.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a METHOD AND EQUIPMENT FOR DETECTING THE LOCATION AND SPEED OF A RAILWAY VEHICLE which comprises: high-resolution video cameras (1) with a high capture rate incorporated in the train (2), to capture an image of the track (6) and passive elements (5) of the track; optical processors (3a, 3b, 3c), connected to the camera or cameras (1), based on artificial intelligence technologies and deep neural networks, to determine the speed and location of the train (2), preferably a signal detector (3a), a character reader (3b) and an optical flow meter (3c); a screen (4) that displays a representation of the processed information; a communication module for sending data to the screen (4) and/or to other remote devices of rail traffic control centres.