Train Control Device Using Track Voltage and Signal Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current train traffic control systems require manual operation and rely on human intervention, which can lead to safety risks due to operator distractions or medical emergencies, and existing railroad signals do not effectively control train movements, resulting in potential collisions.
Innovation Solution
A device using four-pole, double-throw relays to automatically control train signals and track voltages, changing signal colors and voltages to stop, slow, or allow trains to proceed based on block occupancy, ensuring safe train separation and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual operation is used to control train traffic, then human operators can make real-time decisions, but safety risks increase due to operator distractions or medical emergencies
Solution Approach 1:
The train control system performs self-control by automatically detecting train positions through block occupancy sensors and issuing appropriate control signals (proceed, slow, stop) without human intervention. The system serves itself by monitoring its own state and making autonomous decisions to maintain safe train separation and prevent collisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual control system with an automated electrical control system. Relays and electrical circuits substitute for human operators, automatically detecting train positions and controlling signal lights and track voltages to manage train movements safely without human physical intervention.
2Reliability
If traditional railroad signals are used to control train movements, then signal display is simple, but train collision prevention is ineffective as trains continue moving until rear-ending occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors block occupancy status and uses this feedback to dynamically control signal lights and track voltages. When a train occupies a block, the system detects this state and automatically adjusts subsequent signals to stop or slow approaching trains, creating a closed-loop control system that actively prevents collisions rather than merely displaying static signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces track voltage control as an intermediary mechanism between signal detection and train stopping. Instead of relying solely on visual signals that trains may ignore, the system uses electrical voltage control on the tracks to actively slow and stop trains, providing an additional layer of collision prevention through intermediate control action.
3Reliability
If automated control is implemented using relays and voltage control, then collision prevention improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is divided into discrete functional segments: block occupancy detection sensors, relay control circuits, signal light outputs, and track voltage control outputs. Each segment performs a specific function independently, making the overall complex system manageable through modular segmentation of detection, control, and execution functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The relay system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it controls signal light outputs, manages track voltage levels, and coordinates between different blocks. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each control function, thereby managing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive safety control.
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
The device effectively automates train control, preventing collisions by accurately signaling and powering trains to stop or slow, enhancing safety and reducing the need for constant human intervention.
Implementation Method 1
a voltage input providing a first voltage input, a second voltage input and a third voltage input
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical device not only controls train signals as trains advance, but also alters the voltage in the tracks leading up to the signals so that the trains will actually stop at a red signal, slow at an amber aspect and continue on at full speed when the signal is showing green. The electrical device of the present invention can change the “block signal” from “green” to “red”, thereby signaling the engineer behind the train to come to a stop. In addition, the electrical device can simultaneously change the voltage in the tracks to stop the approaching train at the red signal. Only when the forward train has cleared will the approaching train get a clear signal and voltage to resume its forward progress.