Railway Signaling Test Device Merging Multiple Circuits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current railway signaling system testing equipment is complex and inadequate, as it can only test one specific aspect of the system, requiring multiple devices for comprehensive testing, and lacks real-time data logging and wireless upload capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The development of a multifunctional tool, the Station Time, Grade Time, Stop Time, and Relay Time Testing Device (SGSRTD), which can test various components and systems of railway signaling, including time signals, controls, circuits, motors, interlockings, and relays, with the ability to wirelessly log and upload test data in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate testing equipment are used to test different aspects of signaling system, then testing coverage is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate testing functions (station time testing, grade time testing, stop time testing, and relay time testing) into a single integrated device. The device includes multiple testing circuits that can be selectively activated through a common control panel, allowing field personnel to perform comprehensive signaling system tests using one unified tool rather than multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing device is designed with universal applicability to test various aspects of railway signaling systems including time signals, controls, circuits, motors, interlockings, and relays. The device incorporates multiple testing circuits (station time circuit, grade time circuit, stop time circuit, relay time circuit) that can be selectively engaged through a single control interface, making it a multi-functional tool for comprehensive signaling system evaluation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate testing equipment are used to test different aspects of signaling system, then testing coverage is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate testing functions (station time testing, grade time testing, stop time testing, and relay time testing) into a single integrated device. The device includes multiple testing circuits that can be selectively activated through a common control panel, allowing field personnel to perform comprehensive signaling system tests using one unified tool rather than multiple separate devices.
3Device complexity
If traditional testing equipment is used, then device complexity is reduced, but real-time data logging and wireless upload capabilities are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a data logger that acts as an intermediary component between the testing circuits and wireless communication modules. The data logger captures test results from multiple testing circuits (station time, grade time, stop time, relay time) and stores them locally, then enables wireless transmission of this accumulated data to remote systems or cloud servers, bridging the gap between simple testing functionality and advanced data management capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
The Station Time Grade Time Stop Time and Relay Time Testing Device (SGSRTD) is a portable device that allows one to test whether various railroad-based components and elements, circuits, controls, relays, and systems are operating optimally or pursuant to manufacturers' specifications. SGSRTD comprises a multitude of components, including a power switch, electronic programmable timers, connectors, shunt switch, DC relays, AC relay, and leads. When coupled with a limit switch, an SGSRTD system is formed.