Rail Track Positioning Using GNSS Signal Receivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machines for restoring track positions after ballast removal lack accuracy and durability, requiring significant constructive effort and frequent position corrections, making them inefficient and difficult to retrofit.
Innovation Solution
A machine equipped with vertically and laterally adjustable track lifting devices and signal receivers for global navigation satellite systems, along with a reference station and inertial measuring units, allows for precise scanning and restoration of track positions with minimal constructive effort, enabling easy retrofitting and extended durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional scanning devices are used for track position restoration, then the machine can function, but the accuracy and durability of restoring the original track position cannot be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical scanning devices with a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) based signal receiver. This substitution enables high-precision absolute position determination without mechanical wear, achieving both high measurement precision for track position scanning and improved reliability for restoration durability through satellite-based positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reference station as an intermediary element to enhance the accuracy of position signals. The reference station provides correction data that compensates for signal errors, thereby improving the overall measurement precision of the track position scanning system while maintaining the reliability benefits of satellite-based positioning.
2Measurement precision
If complex scanning and restoration systems are implemented, then accuracy improves, but constructive effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
By replacing complex mechanical scanning systems with a GNSS signal receiver and control device, the patent achieves high measurement precision while significantly reducing constructive effort. The satellite-based system requires minimal physical infrastructure compared to traditional mechanical scanners, simplifying the overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The signal receiver and control device serve multiple functions: scanning track position, determining absolute position via GNSS, and controlling the track lifting device for restoration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate complex subsystems, thereby lowering constructive effort while maintaining high accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If frequent position corrections are performed, then track position accuracy is maintained, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary scanning of the track position before ballast removal using the GNSS signal receiver. By determining the absolute track position in advance and storing it for later retrieval, the system eliminates the need for frequent corrections during restoration, thereby maintaining high accuracy while improving productivity through reduced intervention frequency.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device continuously monitors the track position using the GNSS signal receiver and compares it with the stored reference position. This feedback mechanism enables precise automatic adjustment of the track lifting device, maintaining accurate track position restoration with minimal corrections and maximizing restoration efficiency.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The machine achieves accurate and durable restoration of track positions with minimal constructive effort, allowing for efficient and precise positioning with reduced need for subsequent corrections, enhancing the longevity of the newly tamped track.
Implementation Method 1
a first signal receiver (12) for scanning a track position, which is suitable for determining a position in a global navigation satellite system
Implementation Method 2
or as in 2 can be seen to be arranged on a driver's cab 15. Likewise, as a further variant of the invention, a third signal receiver 16 arranged directly behind the track lifting device 11--suitable for position determination in a global navigation satellite system--can be provided for scanning the track position.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
A machine for cleaning a ballast bed has, in front of a take-up device (3) relative to a working direction (9), a first signal receiver (12) - suitable for position determination in a global navigational satellite system - for scanning an actual track position. A second signal receiver (13) connected to the machine (1) for scanning a new track position created by laying down the raised track (2) onto the re-applied ballast bed (4) is arranged downstream. Both signal receivers (12, 13) are associated with a control device (14) designed to act on the drives (10) that displace a track-lifting device (11) relative to the machine frame (8).