Rotating Laser Track Positioning with Hemispherical Scanning Aid
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the exact track position defined by a fixed point next to a track are complex and prone to misinterpretation, lacking a simplified and automated solution for continuous machine advance.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a rotating laser on a measuring vehicle with a hemispherical or distinct scanning aid attached to the fixed point, allowing for precise distance and spatial position calculation of the fixed point, and distinguishing it from the track environment through point cloud scanning, enabling automatic correction of track position deviations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a stationary front measuring vehicle is used with a laser transmitter aligned to fixed points, then track position measurement is possible, but the process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the stationary measuring vehicle into a moving measurement system. The laser transmitter is integrated onto a tamping machine that moves continuously along the track, enabling dynamic measurement during machine advance rather than requiring separate stationary measurement operations. This resolves the contradiction by making the measurement system mobile and operational during normal track maintenance activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the measurement function with the tamping machine by integrating a laser receiver and evaluation unit directly onto the moving machine. This merging of measurement and maintenance operations allows simultaneous track positioning and correction, eliminating the need for separate stationary measurement phases and reducing overall time loss.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional fixed points are used without distinctive scanning aids, then the setup is simpler, but misinterpretation of fixed point position occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies reflective scanning aids with specific optical properties to fixed points. These aids reflect laser beams in distinctive patterns that differ from the surrounding track environment, enabling reliable automatic identification and position determination by the laser receiver. The optical contrast between scanning aids and track background ensures accurate differentiation without complicating the physical setup.
3Productivity
If automated position detection during continuous movement is implemented, then productivity increases, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the laser receiver continuously detects the position of reflective scanning aids on fixed points, and an evaluation unit processes this data to determine actual track position and deviations. This real-time feedback during continuous machine movement maintains measurement precision while enabling automated operation and high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual alignment and measurement procedures with an automated optical measurement system. The laser transmitter and receiver, combined with electronic evaluation, substitute for mechanical alignment methods, enabling precise position detection during continuous machine movement without compromising accuracy while significantly improving productivity.
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 quick and accurate detection of the fixed point position, reducing misinterpretation and facilitating continuous machine advance with precise correction values for track alignment.
Implementation Method 1
A rotating laser 5 is arranged at one end of a machine frame 4 and can be rotated about an axis 7 extending longitudinally along the machine by a drive 6. The rotating laser 5 is designed as a transmitter and receiver for laser beams and can thus calculate the distance to the reflection point as well as its spatial position with high precision.
Implementation Method 2
The rotating laser 5 is designed as a transmitter and receiver for laser beams and can thus calculate the distance to the reflection point
Implementation Method 3
A hemispherical scanning aid 12, coated with a reflection-optimizing material, is attached to this bolt
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~6
AI summary
In order to determine the position of a fixed track point, the fixed track point is connected to a three-dimensional scanning aid (12), which has a shape that significantly deviates from a track environment and that spatially enlarges the fixed point (9). The track environment is permanently scanned by a rotating laser (5), which is continuously moved along the track, and registered as a point cloud. The characteristic form of the scanning aid (12) is determined from the point cloud by means of software, the location of the associated fixed point (9) in relation to the track (3) is automatically calculated, and possible correction values are registered as the difference between the target location and actual location of the track.