Railway Track Geometry Video Imaging with Dynamic Camera Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in obtaining accurate and reliable video recordings of railway track geometry under varying weather conditions and train movement, with requirements for high image quality, alignment of multiple camera views, and detection of defects like missing fasteners and cracks, while also being durable, affordable, and environmentally friendly.
Innovation Solution
The use of digital matrix or line scan cameras with CMOS or CCD technology, combined with strategically positioned LED lamps and a control unit for optimal lighting, allows for high-resolution video recordings of the track geometry, including the upper rail surface, with cameras and lamps aligned to ensure clear defect detection and adaptability to different speeds and weather conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If cameras are mounted on the resilient suspended part of the measuring train, then the instrument can be installed more easily, but the distance and angle between the measuring system and the track continuously vary due to suspension retraction and extension
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the camera mounting position adjustable and adaptable to the dynamic conditions of the measuring train. The camera can be positioned on either the spring-suspended part or the non-spring-suspended part depending on the operating conditions, allowing the system to adapt to vibration and movement characteristics at different speeds and track conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of camera mounting location based on operating conditions. By selecting different mounting positions (spring-suspended vs. non-spring-suspended) and adjusting camera angles and positions, the system optimizes image quality while accounting for the dynamic behavior of the measuring train during operation.
2Manufacturing precision
If the camera exposure time is increased to capture clear images, then image quality improves, but the measuring train must slow down reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action by employing flash lamps that synchronize with the camera exposure timing. The flash lamps provide brief, intense illumination periods that coincide with the camera shutter being open, allowing for clear images to be captured at high speeds without requiring prolonged exposure times that would reduce measuring productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The flash lamps act as an intermediary between the camera and the track, providing sufficient light during the brief exposure period to achieve high image quality without requiring the camera to be exposed for extended periods, thus maintaining high measuring speeds.
3Reliability
If multiple cameras are used to capture comprehensive track views, then detection capability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the track monitoring task into multiple specialized camera views. Different cameras capture specific aspects (overall track geometry, rail head details, switch components) and the system processes each view appropriately, improving defect detection capability while managing complexity through functional segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves universality by designing a multi-camera system where each camera serves multiple purposes. The same camera system can capture images at different speeds, adjust exposure times based on conditions, and detect various defect types, allowing a single complex system to perform multiple functions that would otherwise require separate specialized systems.
4Measurement precision
If the camera is positioned to capture detailed rail surface images, then defect detection precision improves, but the field of view is reduced limiting overall track monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the monitoring task into different spatial scales. Some cameras are positioned and oriented to capture detailed close-up views of rail surfaces for high-precision defect detection, while other cameras capture broader views of the overall track geometry. This segmentation allows each camera to optimize for its specific function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses another dimension by employing multiple cameras at different positions, angles, and focal lengths. Instead of trying to capture both detailed and broad views with a single camera, the system adds dimensional diversity through multiple viewing perspectives, allowing simultaneous optimization for both detail and field of view across the camera array.
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
This solution provides reliable, durable, and environmentally friendly video recordings that ensure accurate detection of defects with high image quality, meeting the requirements for both detail and overall images of the track, even under challenging conditions, with a high degree of precision and consistency.
Implementation Method 1
strategically positioned LED lamps
Implementation Method 2
digital matrix or line scan cameras with CMOS or CCD technology
Data Source
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AI summary
Measuring train with an optical system having means for making a video overall image recording with a camera and a lamp, of an area of the superstructure of a railway being located right below the measuring train. The camera is aimed at a by a light element on the superstructure of the rail projected light line. The on the rail head and rail foot projected part of the light line is provided by a single light element and the part of the light line on one or both sides thereof is provided by a double light element. A long light bar is 2.30 meters long and a short light bar centered on the long light bar is 1 meter long. At the side of the long light bar an additional light bar having a length between 10 and 50 centimeters.