Rail Vehicle Location via RF Transmitter Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rail vehicles operating in train control systems face challenges in accurately determining their location when GPS satellite signals are lost or blocked, such as in tunnels or by structures, leading to unreliable positioning data.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing radio frequency (RF) signals transmitted by radio transmitter devices to determine the location of rail vehicles, where a processor receives and processes RF signals containing location data to calculate the rail vehicle's position based on the transmitter device's location, independent of satellite-based positioning system coordinates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS satellite signals are used for location determination, then location accuracy is improved in open environments, but location determination becomes unreliable when signals are blocked by tunnels or structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces radio transmitter devices as intermediary elements along the track that emit RF signals containing location information. These intermediaries serve as mediators between the rail vehicle and the location determination system, providing alternative positioning data when satellite signals are blocked by tunnels or structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the continuous satellite-based positioning system into discrete segments by placing multiple radio transmitter devices at specific locations along the track. Each transmitter device covers a specific segment, and the rail vehicle can determine its location by receiving signals from the appropriate segment's transmitter, ensuring continuous coverage even when satellite signals are blocked.
2Adaptability or versatility
If satellite-based positioning systems are used, then location data can be obtained independently of ground-based infrastructure, but location determination fails in environments with signal blockage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal location determination system that can function in multiple environments by combining satellite-based positioning with ground-based radio transmitter devices. The system automatically selects the appropriate positioning method based on signal availability, providing versatility across different operational conditions including open areas, tunnels, and structures with signal blockage.
3Reliability
If RF signal-based location determination is implemented, then location reliability in blocked environments is improved, but system complexity increases due to additional transmitter devices
Solution Approach 1:
The radio transmitter devices are strategically placed along the track to automatically provide location information to rail vehicles as they pass by. The system operates autonomously without requiring complex control mechanisms, as the transmitters continuously emit signals and the rail vehicle's processor automatically processes these signals to determine location, reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for determining a location of a rail vehicle based on a radio frequency (RF) signal includes at least one processor programmed or configured to receive an RF signal transmitted by at least one radio transmitter device, where the RF signal includes location data associated with the location of the at least one radio transmitter device, determine a location of the at least one radio transmitter device based on the location data associated with the location of the at least one radio transmitter included in the RF signal, and determine a location of a rail vehicle based on the location of the at least one radio transmitter device. A method and computer program product are also disclosed.