Train Localization via Optical and Radar Sensor Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for guideway-mounted vehicle localization, movement authority determination, coupler status, and train length determination face challenges such as interference sensitivity, complex installations, high life cycle costs, and limited bandwidth, particularly with inductive loops, RFID transponders, and radio-based communication systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of radar, LIDAR, camera, and IR-based sensors at both ends of the train and along the guideway for on-board and wayside systems to detect SSD/QR signs and RF reflectors/transceivers, enabling accurate location determination, movement authority, coupler status, and train length assessment through fusion sensor arrangements and data fusion centers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If inductive loops, RFID transponders, and radio-based communication systems are used for train control and tracking, then vehicle localization and movement authority determination can be achieved, but the systems suffer from interference sensitivity, complex installations, high life cycle costs, and limited bandwidth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electromagnetic-based systems (inductive loops, RFID, radio communication) with optical detection systems (cameras, image processors). This substitution eliminates interference sensitivity while maintaining localization accuracy, as optical systems are not affected by electromagnetic interference that plagues the previous systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses visual copying of physical markers (SSD signs, QR codes, reflectors) placed along the guideway. These visual markers serve as reference points that can be detected and processed by image-based systems, providing a reliable foundation for train localization without the interference problems of electromagnetic systems.
2Measurement precision
If inductive loops, RFID transponders, and radio-based communication systems are used for train control and tracking, then vehicle localization and movement authority determination can be achieved, but the systems face complex installations and high life cycle costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses visual copying of physical markers (SSD signs, QR codes, reflectors) placed along the guideway. These visual markers serve as reference points that can be detected and processed by image-based systems, providing a reliable foundation for train localization without the interference problems of electromagnetic systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The on-board camera system captures images of the guideway environment, and the image processor automatically identifies marker positions and calculates train location. The system uses the visual information from the environment itself to determine position, eliminating the need for complex electromagnetic infrastructure installation.
3Measurement precision
If inductive loops, RFID transponders, and radio-based communication systems are used for train control and tracking, then vehicle localization and movement authority determination can be achieved, but the systems face limited bandwidth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electromagnetic-based systems (inductive loops, RFID, radio communication) with optical detection systems (cameras, image processors). This substitution eliminates interference sensitivity while maintaining localization accuracy, as optical systems are not affected by electromagnetic interference that plagues the previous systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses visual copying of physical markers (SSD signs, QR codes, reflectors) placed along the guideway. These visual markers serve as reference points that can be detected and processed by image-based systems, providing a reliable foundation for train localization without the interference problems of electromagnetic systems.
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
This solution provides accurate, reliable, and efficient determination of train location, movement authority, and coupler status, reducing installation complexity and costs while enhancing communication between on-board and wayside systems.
Implementation Method 1
The implementation of radar, LIDAR, camera, and IR-based sensors at both ends of the train and along the guideway
Implementation Method 2
The implementation of radar, LIDAR, camera, and IR-based sensors at both ends of the train and along the guideway
Implementation Method 3
camera, and IR-based sensors at both ends of the train and along the guideway for on-board and wayside systems to detect SSD/QR signs
Implementation Method 4
The implementation of radar, LIDAR, camera, and IR-based sensors at both ends of the train and along the guideway
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, systems, methods, and software for train control and tracking using multi sensors, SSD/QR signs, and/or RF reflectors are disclosed, which enable determination of train location on a guideway, train movement authority, train length, and coupler status of each vehicle (married pair) and the consist (integrity) of the train.