Train Navigation System Using Inertial Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing train navigation systems face challenges in accurate initial location determination and route navigation, particularly in push-pull commuter operations and terminal areas, due to reliance on costly hardware and unreliable GPS in obstructed or underground environments, as well as the undesirability of crew interaction for safety-critical systems.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented train navigation system with on-board computers and communication devices that determine and communicate location and railway data between locomotives or control cars, utilizing inertial sensors and databases to generate route signature data for accurate navigation, reducing the need for additional hardware and crew input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If transponders, track circuits, or forward-looking vehicle cameras are used for initial location determination, then location accuracy is improved, but system cost and hardware complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical hardware systems (transponders, track circuits, cameras) with an inertial navigation system that uses accelerometers and gyroscopes to determine train location through mathematical integration of motion data, eliminating the need for extensive hardware installation along the track
Solution Approach 2:
The inertial navigation system is self-contained and requires no external infrastructure or hardware installation along the track. The system uses onboard sensors to autonomously determine position, speed, and acceleration without requiring transponders, track circuits, or other external aids
2Ease of operation
If GPS path tracking is used for route navigation, then navigation capability is improved, but reliability deteriorates in obstructed or underground environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces GPS satellite-based navigation with an inertial navigation system using onboard accelerometers and gyroscopes that calculate position through integration of measured motion, providing reliable navigation in tunnels and obstructed areas where GPS signals are unavailable
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-determines expected route parameters from the route database before the train enters areas where GPS may be obstructed, allowing continuous navigation through tunnel or urban canyons by comparing inertial measurements against the pre-loaded route profile
3Device complexity
If crew interaction is used for location determination or route selection, then system complexity is reduced, but safety and accuracy deteriorate due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The inertial navigation system automatically determines train position, speed, and acceleration without requiring crew input or interaction. The system autonomously compares measured inertial data against the route database to identify current location and navigate routes, eliminating human error while maintaining system simplicity
4Measurement precision
If switch position monitors are installed for predictive enforcement, then route determination accuracy is improved, but system cost and hardware requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces switch position monitoring hardware with an inertial navigation system that determines route by comparing measured acceleration patterns and position changes against the pre-loaded route database, eliminating the need for switch position monitors or other trackside detection equipment
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 provides improved accuracy and efficiency in initial location determination and route navigation, enhancing safety and reducing operational costs by automating navigation processes and utilizing inertial data for precise route tracking in complex environments.
Implementation Method 1
at least one inertial sensor positioned on the at least one locomotive or control car or on at least one railroad car of the train, wherein the at least one inertial sensor is programmed or configured to generate inertial data
Data Source
AI summary
A navigation system for a train having at least one locomotive or control car and, optionally, at least one railroad car, operating in a track network, wherein an on-board computer determines or receives location data and communicates or causes the communication of the location data and/or railway data to another locomotive or control car, another train, a remote server, or the like. A train navigation method is also provided.