VOBC Train Length Determination via Relay Signal Propagation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining train configuration and position of vital on-board controllers (VOBCs) in train systems either rely on external detection systems or manual operator input, and are not effective in determining train length and VOBC position independently, especially in random configurations.
Innovation Solution
A train system where each VOBC unit independently determines its location relative to the lead or trailing end and the overall train length using internal communication lines and relay systems, without relying on secondary detection systems or operator input, by transmitting and receiving specific communication signals through relay devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external detection systems (axle counters) are used to determine train length, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and independence is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the train length determination function from external detection systems and relocates it to the train units themselves. Each train unit independently determines its own length and position using internal sensors and communication systems, eliminating the need for external axle counters and wayside computing devices.
Solution Approach 2:
Each train unit autonomously determines its own configuration and position information without requiring external verification. The train units self-verify their length and position data through internal communication protocols, making the system independent of external detection infrastructure.
2Ease of operation
If manual operator input is used for train configuration, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity decreases and reliability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines train configuration and VOBC positions without requiring manual operator input. Train units autonomously communicate their configuration data to neighboring units, enabling automatic train length and formation determination that improves both productivity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where train units continuously verify their configuration and position information through bidirectional communication. This self-verification process ensures data accuracy and enables real-time updates, improving reliability while eliminating manual input requirements.
3Reliability
If secondary detection systems are used to verify train configuration, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The verification function is extracted from centralized wayside computing devices and distributed to individual train units. Each unit independently verifies its own configuration data and cross-checks with neighboring units, eliminating the need for complex external verification infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
Train units perform self-verification of their configuration and position data using internal sensors and communication systems. This self-service approach ensures reliable data without requiring external detection systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining verification accuracy.
4Measurement precision
If centralized wayside computing devices determine VOBC positions, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and automation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized position determination function is segmented and distributed to individual train units. Each VOBC independently determines its own position relative to the train formation using local sensors and communication with adjacent units, enabling autonomous operation without centralized control.
Solution Approach 2:
Each VOBC autonomously determines its position within the train formation through internal communication and verification systems. This self-service capability eliminates dependency on centralized wayside computing devices, maximizing automation while maintaining position determination precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A train system that includes a plurality of coupled train units. Each train unit includes a controller VOBC configured to independently determine the location of each VOBC, and a configuration of the train system by comprising a plurality of inputs, a plurality of train lines spanning each train unit and coupled with the controllers at the plurality of inputs and configured to transmit two communication signals between a front end and a rear end of the train system, and a plurality of sets of relay devices connected in series along the plurality of train lines, and each set of relay devices corresponding to each input of the plurality of inputs, and configured to transmit the two communication signals between the front end and the rear end of the train system.