Train Coupling Support System Using Camera Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing coupling operation between train units relies heavily on visual checks, which can lead to errors in determining the open or closed status of coupler covers, resulting in potential damage and service disruptions if couplers are coupled with closed covers.
Innovation Solution
A support system that combines distance measurement with coupler cover configuration status using a camera and image processing, issuing warnings and applying brakes if the coupler cover is closed, thereby reducing the risk of damage and ensuring accurate coupling operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If visual checking by driver or track-side personnel is used to determine coupler cover status, then the operation can proceed with simple equipment, but the risk of coupling error increases due to human error in visual assessment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual checking system with an automated optical detection system. A camera captures images of the coupler cover, and an image processing unit automatically analyzes the images to determine whether the coupler cover is open or closed. This substitution eliminates human error in visual assessment while providing objective, reliable detection of coupler cover status.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of a camera and image processing unit that acts as a mediator between the driver and the coupler cover status. Instead of the driver directly observing and judging the coupler cover status, the intermediary system captures images, processes them, and provides automated feedback about the cover status, thereby reducing reliance on human visual judgment.
2Measurement precision
If automated detection system with camera and image processing is implemented, then the measurement precision of coupler cover status improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective human visual assessment with objective automated image processing. The system uses a camera to capture images and an image processing unit to automatically analyze pixel values and determine coupler cover status. This substitution provides precise, consistent, and repeatable measurements free from human error, fatigue, or distraction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the coupler cover appearance through camera imaging. Instead of directly observing the physical coupler cover, the system captures an optical copy (image) and analyzes it digitally. This allows for precise measurement and analysis of the coupler cover status without physical contact, enabling automated detection while maintaining measurement precision.
3Reliability
If distance measurement and image processing are used to detect closed coupler covers, then the risk of coupler damage is reduced, but the loss of time for processing images and making decisions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by continuously capturing images and pre-processing them during the approach phase before coupling is attempted. The system prepares the image data in advance, so when coupling is imminent, the analysis is already underway or complete. This reduces the critical decision time at the moment of coupling while maintaining comprehensive protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous image capture and processing during the entire coupling approach operation. Rather than taking a single snapshot at the critical moment, the system continuously monitors the coupler cover status throughout the approach, ensuring that protective action can be taken at any point if a closed cover is detected, thereby reducing overall risk while distributing processing time across the entire operation.
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 system effectively reduces the risk of coupler cover damage by providing objective distance and configuration status feedback to drivers, minimizing errors and ensuring safe coupling operations.
Implementation Method 1
a camera which obtains an image of the front of the second train unit
Implementation Method 2
an image processing unit which determines the distance between the first train unit and the second train unit from the obtained image
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A support system for supporting a coupling operation between a first train unit and a second train unit is provided. Each train unit has a respective coupler for coupling to the coupler of the other train unit, and a respective coupler cover which is movable between a closed configuration in which the cover covers its coupler and an open configuration in which the coupler is revealed to allow coupling. The support system includes a distance measuring device mountable at a front of the first train unit and operable to measure a distance between the first train unit and the second train unit. The support system further includes a coupler cover monitoring device mountable to the first train unit and operable to detect an open or closed configuration status of the first train unit's coupler cover. The support system further includes a protection sub-system mountable to the first train unit. The protection sub-system receives a distance measurement from the distance measuring device and a configuration status from the coupler cover monitoring device, and issues a coupling stop signal when the distance measurement is less than a predetermined threshold distance and the configuration status indicates the first train unit's coupler cover is closed.