Wireless Train Control System Backup Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radio train control systems face increased facility costs and operational challenges when the ground base device is out of order, as they require a device for detecting trains connected to an on-track vehicle control device.
Innovation Solution
A radio train control system that includes a ground radio device for radio communication with trains, a field device for acquiring track circuit state information, and an on-track vehicle control device that can manage on-track information and transmit control information without relying on the ground base device, allowing the system to operate as a substitute when the ground base device is out of order.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a device for detecting trains connected to an on-track vehicle control device is added to enable operation when the ground base device is out of order, then the reliability of train control is improved, but the facility cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The on-track vehicle control device is designed to perform multiple functions: it normally receives control information from the ground base device, but when the ground base device fails, it automatically takes over and transmits control information to trains directly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate detection devices while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The on-track vehicle control device monitors the operational status of the ground base device and autonomously determines when to switch to backup operation mode. This self-service capability allows the system to maintain train control reliability without requiring additional external detection devices or manual intervention.
2Device complexity
If the system relies on the ground base device for all train control operations, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates when the ground base device is out of order
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a backup transmission path from the on-track vehicle control device to trains as a preventive measure. This cushioning arrangement ensures that if the primary ground base device fails, train control continuity is maintained without interruption, resolving the reliability issue while keeping the overall structure relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between normal operation mode (using the ground base device) and backup operation mode (using the on-track vehicle control device). This dynamic adaptability allows the system to maintain reliability under varying conditions without requiring complex permanent dual-path infrastructure.
3Reliability
If the on-track vehicle control device can operate independently without the ground base device, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to increased system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The on-track vehicle control device continuously monitors the operational status of the ground base device and automatically switches between normal and backup modes based on this feedback. This automated feedback mechanism maintains operational independence and reliability while preserving ease of operation, as no manual intervention is required to manage the complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A radio train control system 8 aims at suppressing increase in facility cost and reliably performing on-track control of trains 6A and 6B even when ground base devices 3A and 3B are out of order, controls the trains 6A and 6B on tracks on which track circuits are built, and includes: ground radio devices 4A and 4B that perform radio communication with the trains 6A and 6B and acquire position information of the trains 6A and 6B; field devices 5A and 5B that acquire track circuit state information indicating whether each of the track circuits is ON or OFF; ground base devices 3A and 3B that receive the position information and the track circuit state information and transmit control information to the trains 6A and 6B; and an on-track vehicle control device 1 that receives the position information and the track circuit state information and manages on-track information, wherein the ground radio devices 4A and 4B and the field devices 5A and 5B have transmission paths connected with the on-track vehicle control device 1 without using the ground base devices 3A and 3B, and the on-track vehicle control device 1 is capable of transmitting the control information to the trains 6A and 6B through the transmission paths when the ground base device 3A or 3B is out of order.