Train Presence Detection in Loop Lines Using Virtual Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In a loop line section, determining whether a train is present in a designated section is challenging due to ambiguity when two end points define two potential sections, making it impossible to accurately determine the train's presence using conventional absolute position methods.
Innovation Solution
A train presence detection apparatus that includes an information acquisition unit for acquiring position information on the end points and virtual block presence/absence information, a designated section determination unit to identify the correct section, and a presence determination unit to determine if the train is within the designated section, utilizing this information to accurately assess the train's presence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If absolute position information is used to determine train presence, then the measurement precision is improved, but in loop line sections two possible sections are created causing inability to determine actual train presence
Solution Approach 1:
A direction information unit is introduced as an intermediary element that provides direction information indicating the direction from the first end point to the second end point. This direction information acts as a mediator that resolves the ambiguity of two possible sections in loop line sections, enabling the train presence determination unit to accurately identify which section contains the train.
2Device complexity
If only end point positions are used to define sections, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of train presence determination deteriorates in loop configurations
Solution Approach 1:
Direction information is introduced to create asymmetry in the section definition process. While the physical loop line section is symmetric, the direction information breaks this symmetry by indicating a specific direction from the first end point to the second end point, allowing the system to reliably distinguish between the two possible sections without adding complex hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
A train presence detection apparatus includes an information acquisition unit to acquire position information on a first end point and a second end point located in a first line section formed in a loop and virtual block presence/absence information indicating whether a virtual block indicating a specific position in the first line section is included in a designated section that is any of a first section and a second section in which the first end point and the second end point are located at both ends; a designated section determination unit to determine which of the first section and the second section is the designated section based on the position information on the first end point and the second end point and the virtual block presence/absence information; and a presence determination unit to determine whether a train is present in the designated section.