Wireless Track Section State Detection by Train Distance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current track transit signal systems face high failure rates and safety risks due to environmental interference affecting track circuits and axle counting devices, leading to unreliable detection of track section occupation.
Innovation Solution
A track section state detection system using beacon devices and queriers to determine the occupied state of track sections based on distance information from the train, utilizing wireless communication to avoid environmental interference and improve reliability and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If track circuit system is used to detect track section occupation, then the detection function is provided, but the system is susceptible to environmental interference resulting in high failure rate and poor reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional track circuit electrical detection system with a wireless communication-based detection system. The beacon device on the train and querier groups on the track use wireless signals (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) to communicate distance information to the processor, eliminating the electrical track circuit infrastructure that is vulnerable to environmental interference such as rail corrosion, moisture, and electromagnetic interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary (beacon device and querier groups) between the train and the detection system. Instead of directly detecting track occupation through electrical circuits, the system uses wireless distance measurement as an intermediary to indirectly determine occupation status, thereby avoiding direct exposure to environmental factors affecting track circuits.
2Reliability
If axle counting device is used to detect track section occupation, then the detection function is provided, but axle counting faults require reset operations that may lead to wrong clear status and safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical axle counting system with a wireless distance-based detection system. Instead of counting physical axles passing through sensors, the system continuously measures the distance between the train and track-side querier groups using wireless communication, eliminating the need for mechanical sensors and complex reset operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless detection system provides continuous automatic detection without requiring manual intervention. The beacon device and querier groups continuously exchange signals to update distance information, and the processor automatically determines occupation status, eliminating the need for maintenance personnel to perform reset operations when faults occur.
3Reliability
If track circuit system is used, then detection function is provided, but high failure rate leads to high subsequent operation and maintenance costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex electrical track circuit infrastructure with simple wireless communication devices. The beacon device on the train and querier groups on the track are standalone units that communicate wirelessly, eliminating the need for extensive track circuit wiring, power supply infrastructure, and associated maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless communication devices (beacon and querier groups) are relatively simple, low-cost components compared to track circuit infrastructure. If a device fails, it can be easily replaced without complex repairs, reducing overall maintenance costs and improving system reliability.
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 effectively reduces failure rates and enhances safety by accurately determining track section occupation states, reducing maintenance costs and preventing safety risks.
Implementation Method 1
The querier is configured to broadcast a ranging signal and sending the detected beacon signal to the processor when detecting a beacon signal returned by the beacon device on the basis of the ranging signal
Data Source
AI summary
A track section state detection system, comprising a processor, a beacon device on a train, and multiple querier groups on a target track. The processor communicates with the beacon device via a querier. The querier is used for broadcasting a ranging signal, and when detecting a beacon signal returned by the beacon device on the basis of the ranging signal, sending the detected beacon signal to the processor. When receiving a first beacon signal that is sent by a first querier in a target querier group corresponding to a target track section, the processor is used for determining first distance information between the train and the first querier according to the first beacon signal, and determining a track section state of the target track section according to the first distance information.