Train Sensor Track Mapping and Malfunction Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for mapping railroad tracks lack efficiency and accuracy, particularly in detecting track malfunctions and conditions, which can lead to safety issues and suboptimal train operation.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method using sensors onboard trains to collect and process data, generating and updating maps of railroad tracks, including initial sensor calibration, data validation, and variance analysis to detect anomalies, with a remote computer server communicating via a wireless network to generate alarms for potential issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual surveying methods are used to map railroad tracks, then map generation can be performed with simple equipment, but the efficiency and accuracy of detecting track malfunctions are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical surveying methods with an automated sensor-based system. Sensors mounted on trains automatically collect track data during normal train operations, eliminating the need for manual surveying while significantly improving both accuracy and efficiency of track mapping and malfunction detection
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables trains to automatically map tracks during their regular operations without requiring separate surveying missions. The train's own movement and onboard sensors are utilized to collect track data, transforming the train into a self-service mapping device that improves productivity without additional operational overhead
2Productivity
If sensors are mounted on trains to collect track data during operations, then mapping efficiency improves, but sensor calibration and data accuracy become critical challenges
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calibration of sensors using known reference track sections before deploying the sensors for actual track mapping. This pre-calibration process establishes baseline accuracy and compensates for sensor variations, ensuring measurement precision is maintained throughout the mapping operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously validates sensor data by comparing measurements against expected track geometry and previously mapped sections. When anomalies or drift are detected, the system triggers recalibration or flags data for review, maintaining measurement precision through ongoing feedback and correction mechanisms
3Productivity
If automated sensor-based mapping is implemented, then productivity increases, but system complexity and data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multi-functional sensors that serve both primary train operation monitoring and secondary track mapping functions. The same sensors used for train safety and control systems are leveraged for track geometry collection, eliminating the need for dedicated mapping equipment and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a centralized data processing server that acts as an intermediary between multiple trains' sensors and the final map output. This server aggregates, validates, and processes data from multiple sources, managing complexity centrally rather than requiring complex processing on each train, thereby simplifying individual train systems while maintaining high productivity
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes at least one train having one or more sensors and a device remote from the at least one train. The device is configured to communicate with the at least one train via one or more networks, collect data from the one or more sensors of the at least one train at a plurality of different locations in a defined area, and generate a map of the one or more tracks based on the data collected from the one or more sensors of the at least one train at the plurality of different locations in the defined area. Other example systems and computer-implemented methods of mapping one or more railroad tracks in a defined area are also disclosed.