Rail Yard Asset Tracking via Virtual Map and GPS
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rail yards lack a continuous, real-time view of asset locations, relying on inaccurate and time-consuming manual and automated methods, which hampers efficient management and decision-making due to the absence of precise track location data.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a track layout database created from aerial photography or GPS data, where geographical position signals from assets are compared to the database to provide a graphical representation of their location and associated yard processes, enabling real-time tracking and management decisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional survey methods are used to collect track location information, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and productivity deteriorate due to time-consuming and costly survey operations that negatively impact railroad freight operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy of the physical rail yard environment using aerial photography to generate a virtual map with track locations and switch positions. This digital replica allows continuous tracking of assets without requiring physical surveyors to measure and update track locations, thereby maintaining measurement precision while eliminating time loss associated with conventional survey methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical surveying system (physical measurement tools and personnel) with an automated optical system using aerial photography and image processing. This substitution eliminates the need for manual track location collection while providing continuous, real-time data without disrupting railroad freight operations
2Productivity
If AEI readers and GPS systems are used for asset location, then productivity is improved through automated detection, but measurement precision deteriorates because location information is limited to discrete points only
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the automated detection capability of AEI readers with the continuous spatial coverage of aerial photography. The system combines discrete asset identification data with continuous track location data from the virtual map, creating a unified tracking system that maintains both high productivity through automation and high measurement precision through continuous positional information
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a virtual map as an intermediary between AEI readers and the tracking system. The virtual map provides continuous spatial context that bridges the gap between discrete AEI detection points, allowing the system to maintain automated detection efficiency while achieving continuous, precise asset location information throughout the rail yard
3Device complexity
If voice radio communications are used for location reporting, then device complexity is reduced through simple communication methods, but loss of information deteriorates because continuous real-time location data cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service tracking system where assets automatically report their locations through onboard GPS receivers without requiring manual voice radio communications. This maintains simplicity in the communication infrastructure while eliminating information loss by providing continuous, automated location data transmission to the central server
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual voice radio communication system with an automated electronic data transmission system using GPS receivers and wireless communication. This substitution maintains the simplicity of the overall system while eliminating the information loss inherent in manual reporting by providing continuous, real-time location data
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
Enables fast, accurate, and cost-effective creation of track location databases, providing continuous real-time asset tracking and process visibility, enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making in rail yards.
Implementation Method 1
GPS data acquisition (e.g., using a radio-navigation system formed from satellites and ground stations, wherein a GPS receiver measures distance using the travel time of radio signals)
Data Source
AI summary
A method for tracking assets within a rail yard, the method comprising: creating a track layout database for the rail yard, the track layout database providing a map of rail tracks and switches within the rail yard, wherein the track layout database includes machine readable data identifying discrete locations of the rail tracks and switches of the rail yard, each discrete location corresponding to a geographical position of a portion of a rail track or switch; associating rail yard processing steps with portions of the track layout database; receiving a geographical position signal corresponding to an asset within the rail yard; comparing the geographical position signal to the machine readable data of the track layout database in order to identify the location of the asset within the map; and presenting a graphical representation of the location of the asset on the map along with the yard process steps associated with the track section occupied by the asset, wherein the geographical position signal is received within a time period to allow the graphical presentation to be used in a management decision corresponding to the asset.