Track Network Data Synchronization via Sensor-Augmented Big Data Framework
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for navigating track maintenance machines within track networks face issues due to inconsistent, incomplete, and imprecise network data, leading to potential delays and incorrect operations, especially when network changes occur, such as switch removals, requiring manual updates and relying on operator knowledge.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a big data framework with sensors on movable or stationary carrier platforms to collect raw data, which is evaluated using machine learning algorithms to continuously update network data, enabling real-time position determination and automated synchronization with navigation devices, incorporating sensor systems on track maintenance machines, measuring vehicles, and drones for data augmentation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual update of network data is performed when track network changes occur, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability and measurement precision deteriorate due to delays and potential errors in updating
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically updates network data by having track maintenance machines collect their own position and operational data, which is then processed to generate updated network representations without requiring manual intervention. The machines essentially update the network model themselves based on their operational experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback loop where operational data from track maintenance machines is continuously collected, processed, and used to update the network model. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that the network data is automatically kept current with actual track conditions and changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple databases are used to store network data for different installations, then adaptability is improved, but measurement precision and data consistency deteriorate due to different references and manual maintenance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges data from multiple sources and databases into a unified network model. By integrating position data, track geometry information, and operational data into a single consistent representation, the system eliminates the inconsistencies that arise from maintaining separate databases with different reference systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The unified network model serves multiple functions simultaneously - it represents track geometry, stores position information, and maintains operational data. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for separate specialized databases while ensuring consistent data across all applications.
3Device complexity
If operator knowledge is relied upon for navigation, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates when operators are unfamiliar with local circumstances or make errors in operating plan compilation
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical reliance on operator experience and manual planning with an automated electronic navigation system. The navigation device automatically processes network data, determines optimal routes, and guides the track maintenance machine without requiring operator intervention for route planning or local knowledge.
Solution Approach 2:
The navigation system autonomously performs route calculation, position determination, and guidance without requiring operator expertise. The system serves itself by automatically processing available data to make navigation decisions, eliminating the need for operator knowledge while improving reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for navigating within a track network includes, as system components, a system central, a track maintenance machine and a communication device. The system central is set up for administering network data representing a model of the track network. The track maintenance machine is suited for treatment of track sections of the track network. The track maintenance machine includes a navigation device for processing navigation data derived from the network data. The communication device is provided for data exchange between the system central and the navigation device. The system includes at least one movable or stationary carrier platform with sensors for collecting raw data representing characteristic information of the track network. A big data framework is set up in the system central to evaluate the raw data and synchronize them with the network data. Automated updating of the network data can be carried out with the system.