СИСТЕМА МОНИТОРИНГА ЖЕЛЕЗНОДОРОЖНОГО ПОЕЗДА

Группа изобретений относится к системам текущего контроля железнодорожных поездов, в которых используется колодка с измерительным прибором держателя роликового подшипника для обнаружения возникновения и причин неудовлетворительных характеристик на уровне комплекта колес, тележки, грузового вагона или поезда. Система содержит корпус вагона и множество тележек, один или более чувствительных блоков, каждый из которых содержит несущую подушку, размещенную между комплектом колес и соответствующей тележкой. Также система содержит один или более датчиков, размещенных на подушке, вычислительный элемент, запрограммированный для управления частотой дискретизации и периодичностью дискретизации считываний и для выполнения анализа собранных данных считываний, и блок связи, блок управления данными. В способе устанавливают подушки между колесами и корпусами колесных подвижных модулей, причем указанные подушки содержат заделанные датчики для измерения рабочих параметров колесных подвижных модулей, а также ...

РЕЛЬСОВОЕ ТРАНСПОРТНОЕ СРЕДСТВО

Изобретение относится к рельсовому транспортному средству. Рельсовое транспортное средство содержит по меньшей мере один блок датчиков (18.1-18.8) для измерения значения по меньшей мере одного параметра, представляющего динамическую характеристику, присущую транспортному средству и регулируемую машинистом. Рельсовое транспортное средство содержит также блок (24) обработки данных, предназначенный для определения в процессе движения транспортного средства прогнозируемой величины параметра износа для определенного промежутка времени или для определенного, еще не пройденного участка пути, путем обработки данных на основе указанного по меньшей мере одного параметра, и блок выведения данных, предназначенный для непрерывного выведения для машиниста информации, полученной на основе указанной прогнозируемой величины параметра износа. В результате обеспечивается улучшенная функциональность для рельсового транспортного средства, которая может быть получена во время его движения. 2 н. и 10 з.п. ф-лы ...

СИСТЕМА И СПОСОБ ОПТИМИЗАЦИИ ДВИЖЕНИЯ ПОЕЗДА

Группа изобретений относится к оптимизации работы поезда. Система управления для управления транспортным средством содержит оптимизатор рейса, датчик для сбора эксплуатационных данных, систему связи и преобразовательный модуль. Способ управления системой двигателя транспортного средства содержит операции, на которых определяют данные, связанные с условиями эксплуатации транспортного средства, причем условия эксплуатации содержат данные, связанные со скоростью транспортного средства, когда оно перемещается вдоль пути следования. Также определяют информацию, связанную с путем следования транспортного средства. Дополнительно определяют параметры настройки, по меньшей мере, одного из скорости, мощности и/или дроссельного клапана на основе эксплуатационных данных транспортного средства и информации о пути следования транспортного средства, и регулируют один из параметров настройки скорости, мощности и/или дроссельного клапана частично на основе эксплуатационных данных транспортного средства.

МНОГОУРОВНЕВАЯ СИСТЕМА И СПОСОБ ОПТИМИЗАЦИИ РАБОТЫ ЖЕЛЕЗНОДОРОЖНОГО ТРАНСПОРТА

Изобретение относится к оптимизированной работе железнодорожного транспорта. Система для управления системой (50) железнодорожного транспорта содержит первый процессор, связанный с первым уровнем системы железнодорожного транспорта, и второй процессор, связанный со вторым уровнем системы железнодорожного транспорта. Первый процессор обеспечивает второй процессор рабочими параметрами первого уровня, определяющими рабочие характеристики и данные первого уровня, а второй процессор обеспечивает первый процессор рабочими параметрами второго уровня, определяющими рабочие характеристики и данные второго уровня. Каждый процессор выполнен с возможностью оптимизации работы на его соответствующем уровне, основываясь на рабочих параметрах первого уровня и данных и на рабочих параметрах второго уровня и данных в зависимости от оптимизирования параметра оптимизации системы железнодорожного транспорта. Уровни могут представлять собой уровень (100) инфраструктуры железных дорог, уровень (200) сети железнодорожных ...

СИСТЕМА СЛЕЖЕНИЯ ЗА ЖЕЛЕЗНОДОРОЖНЫМИ ВАГОНАМИ

Изобретение относится к железнодорожному транспорту, а именно к отслеживанию местоположений железнодорожных вагонов в пределах железнодорожной транспортной сети. Система содержит оборудование для определения местоположения железнодорожного вагона, установленное на железнодорожном вагоне, считываемую электронным способом метку, прикрепленную к железнодорожному вагону для идентификации этого железнодорожного вагона придорожным устройством считывания меток, и оборудование связи локомотива. Оборудование связи установлено в локомотиве и выполнено с возможностью осуществления связи с оборудованием определения местоположения железнодорожного вагона, когда железнодорожный вагон и локомотив сцеплены в общий поезд, при этом оборудование связи локомотива функционирует таким образом, чтобы идентифицировать прицепленный железнодорожный вагон, и включает в себя передатчик для передачи данных удаленному приемнику, причем эти данные включают в себя данные железнодорожного вагона. Оборудование определения ...

ИНТЕЛЛЕКТУАЛЬНАЯ СИСТЕМА СВЯЗИ, УПРАВЛЕНИЯ И КОНТРОЛЯ ДЛЯ НАЗЕМНЫХ ТРАНСПОРТНЫХ СРЕДСТВ

... 1. Система связи (например, 10, 50) для железнодорожного состава, содержащего, по меньшей мере, один локомотив, для автоматической настройки системы связи для обеспечения эффективной передачи командных данных для управления работой локомотива, причем система содержит: приемопередатчик (например, 82), установленный на локомотиве; по меньшей мере, один приемопередатчик (например, 80), удаленный от локомотива, причем этот приемопередатчик составляет часть системы связи; базу данных (например, 18) для хранения данных относительно множества схем связи, доступных системе связи; первое контрольно-измерительное устройство (например, 12) для определения параметра, указывающего на качество связи между приемопередатчиками, когда приемопередатчики работают по первой из доступных схем связи и формируют данные, указывающие на качество связи; и процессор (например, 16), осуществляющий связь с контрольно-измерительным устройством и базой данный, для выбора, по меньшей мере, второй схемы связи, когда качество ...

УСТРОЙСТВО ДЛЯ ПРИЕМА, ОБРАБОТКИ И ФОРМИРОВАНИЯ СИГНАЛОВ ДЛЯ АВТОМАТИЧЕСКОГО УПРАВЛЕНИЯ РЕЛЬСОВЫМ ТРАНСПОРТНЫМ СРЕДСТВОМ

... 1. Устройство для приема, обработки и формирования сигналов для автоматического управления рельсовым транспортным средством, включающее в себя контроллер, подключенный к принимающему модулю и передающему модулю, отличающееся тем, что оно содержит первый принимающий модуль (2) в виде GPS-приемника, второй принимающий модуль (4) в виде GSM-модема, третий принимающий модуль (8) в виде спидометра, четвертый принимающий модуль (9) в виде RFID-антенны и пятый принимающий модуль (12) в виде блока торможения, где первый, четвертый и пятый принимающие модули (2, 9 и 12) одновременно являются исполнительными модулями, причем все модули (2, 4, 8, 9 и 12) подключены к контроллеру типа ПЛК (1).2. Устройство по пункту 1, отличающееся тем, что контроллер (1) подключен к GSM-модему посредством разветвителя (7) и преобразователя сигнала (6) типа RS232.3. Устройство по пункту 1, отличающееся тем, что контроллер (1) подключен к GPS-приемнику посредством преобразователя сигнала (3) типа RS232.4. Устройство ...

КОМПРЕССОРНАЯ СИСТЕМА И СПОСОБ ФУНКЦИОНИРОВАНИЯ КОМПРЕССОРНОЙ СИСТЕМЫ В ЗАВИСИМОСТИ ОТ ФАКТИЧЕСКОЙ СИТУАЦИИ РЕЛЬСОВОГО ТРАНСПОРТНОГО СРЕДСТВА

Изобретение относится к области рельсовых транспортных средств. Компрессорная система включает в себя приводимый в действие от электродвигателя через приводной вал компрессор, резервуар для сжатого воздуха. Электродвигатель выполнен с возможностью настройки посредством регулировочного устройства, по меньшей мере, с одной частотой вращения, в пределах от максимальной частоты вращения до минимальной частоты вращения. В расположенном по ходу потока от компрессора, проводящем сжатый воздух трубопроводе расположен датчик давления для определения давления для регулировочного устройства. Исполнительный орган для непрерывного воздействия на частоту вращения электродвигателя расположен между устройством подачи электроэнергии и электродвигателем. Настройка исполнительного органа осуществляется в соответствии с сенсорным устройством, включающим в себя датчик для регистрации внешнего граничного условия рельсового транспортного средства, через регулировочное устройство. Достигается повышение эффективности ...

УСТРОЙСТВО И СПОСОБ ФОРМИРОВАНИЯ ТЯЖЕЛОГО ГРУЗОВОГО ПОЕЗДА И ЭЛЕКТРОУПРАВЛЯЕМАЯ ПНЕВМАТИЧЕСКАЯ ТОРМОЗНАЯ СИСТЕМА

Изобретение относится к железнодорожной автоматике для формирования грузовых поездов. Устройство содержит головной узел HEU и множество вагонных узлов управления, HEU связан с каждым из вагонных узлов управления; каждый вагонный узел управления содержит вагонный модуль управления и модуль позиционирования Бейдоу и модуль связи, соответственно соединенные с вагонным модулем управления; терминал идентификации первого транспортного средства дополнительно предусмотрен в вагонном узле управления, выступающем в качестве первого транспортного средства. Причем вагонный модуль управления собирает данные о статусе первого транспортного средства посредством терминала идентификации первого транспортного средства; вагонный модуль управления получает команду, переданную HEU, и передает на HEU данные о широте и долготе вагонного узла управления, считанные с модуля Бейдоу, и данные о статусе первого транспортного средства вагонного узла управления. Достигается повышение скорости и упрощение формирования ...

СИСТЕМА И СПОСОБ ОПТИМИЗАЦИИ РЕЙСА ДЛЯ ТРАНСПОРТНОГО СРЕДСТВА

... 1. Система управления, по меньшей мере, одним транспортным средством, причем каждое транспортное средство включает в себя двигатель, работающий, по меньшей мере, на одном типе топлива, содержащая ! базу данных для хранения информации характеристик для каждого из упомянутого, по меньшей мере, одного типа топлива, ! процессор, конфигурированный для приема информации из упомянутой базы данных, ! алгоритм, осуществленный в рамках процессора, имеющий доступ к информации из базы данных о каждом из, по меньшей мере, одного типа топлива, чтобы создать план рейса, который оптимизирует рабочие характеристики, по меньшей мере, одного транспортного средства в соответствии с одним или более рабочих критериев для, по меньшей мере, одного транспортного средства. ! 2. Система по п.1, отличающаяся тем, что дополнительно содержит ! элемент определения местоположения транспортного средства, ! элемент характеристики для получения информации о территории нахождения, по меньшей мере, одного транспортного средства ...

СПОСОБ СТАБИЛИЗАЦИИ РЕЛЬСОВОГО ТРАНСПОРТНОГО СРЕДСТВА

КОМПРЕССОРНАЯ СИСТЕМА И СПОСОБ ФУНКЦИОНИРОВАНИЯ КОМПРЕССОРНОЙ СИСТЕМЫ В ЗАВИСИМОСТИ ОТ ФАКТИЧЕСКОЙ СИТУАЦИИ РЕЛЬСОВОГО ТРАНСПОРТНОГО СРЕДСТВА

РЕЛЬСОВОЕ ТРАНСПОРТНОЕ СРЕДСТВО

СИСТЕМА ПРЕДУПРЕЖДЕНИЯ О ВТОРЖЕНИИ В ПРЕДЕЛЫ РАБОЧЕЙ ЗОНЫ

СПОСОБ И СИСТЕМА ПЛАНИРОВАНИЯ ПОТОКОВ С ДИНАМИЧЕСКОЙ ОПТИМИЗАЦИЕЙ

... 1. Способ генерирования оптимизированных планов движения потока для региона, имеющего множество потоков и множество условий потока, в котором определяют первую границу планирования для упомянутого потока на основе условий потока упомянутого региона; используют упомянутую первую границу планирования и многократно генерируют первое множество планов движения потока для потока упомянутого региона; выбирают один из упомянутого первого множества планов движения потока в качестве первого оптимизированного плана движения потока для исполнения; выдают указанный первый оптимизированный план движения потока для управления движением потока в упомянутом регионе; определяют текущие условия потока упомянутого региона; обновляют упомянутую первую границу планирования для обеспечения второй границы планирования для упомянутого потока на основе упомянутых текущих условий потока; используют упомянутую вторую границу планирования и многократно генерируют второе множество планов движения потока для потока упомянутого ...

ДИАГНОСТИКА И МОНИТОРИНГ СОСТОЯНИЯ СТРЕЛОК, ПЕРЕСЕЧЕНИЙ ИЛИ СТРЕЛОЧНЫХ ПЕРЕВОДОВ, А ТАКЖЕ РЕЛЬСОВЫХ СТЫКОВ И НЕРОВНОСТЕЙ ПУТИ ПРИ ПОМОЩИ РЕЛЬСОВОГО ТРАНСПОРТНОГО СРЕДСТВА

... 1. Способ диагностики и мониторинга состояния стрелки и/или пересечения и/или стрелочного перевода и/или рельсового стыка и/или неровностей рельсового пути, отличающийся тем, что при проезде рельсового транспортного средства по стрелке, пересечению, стрелочному переводу, рельсовому стыку или неровности путина по меньшей мере конструктивном элементе рельсового транспортного средства в по меньшей мере одном пространственном направлении измеряют и запоминают вибрационные ускорения, создаваемые в конструктивном элементе рельсового транспортного средства по его проезде по стрелке, пересечению, стрелочному переводу, рельсовому стыку или неровности пути,измеряют и запоминают скорость рельсового транспортного средства, и определяют и запоминают направление движения,определяют и запоминают местоположение стрелки, пересечения, стрелочного перевода, рельсового стыка или неровности пути,и осуществляют контроль превышения характеристических заданных предельных значений измеренных вибрационных ускорений ...

СПОСОБ И КОМПЬЮТЕРНЫЙ ПРОГРАММНЫЙ ПРОДУКТ ДЛЯ СЛЕЖЕНИЯ ЗА ЦЕЛОСТНОСТЬЮ ЖЕЛЕЗНОДОРОЖНОГО СОСТАВА

... 1. Способ слежения за целостностью железнодорожного состава (10) и определения прохождения состава относительно множества виртуальных блок-участков, определенных посредством беспроводных передач вдоль участка (54) пути, по которому перемещается состав, с помощью упомянутых виртуальных блок-участков, обеспечивающих меры безопасности для перемещения состава относительно других составов на участке пути, когда имеется совместное использование участка пути, при этом упомянутый способ содержит этапы, на которых определяют множество состояний отказа, которые могут привести к ошибочному определению, что весь состав пересек границу одного из соответствующих упомянутых виртуальных блок-участков; собирают данные у местоположения конца состава, упомянутые данные являются собираемыми от множества датчиков (14), где каждый из упомянутых датчиков следит за различными параметрами и формирует данные, пригодные для оценки того, возникло ли по меньшей мере одно из упомянутых состояний отказа; собирают данные ...

Abfrage und Antwort-Datenkommunikationsnetzwerk mit synchronem Zeitmultiplex mit Mehrfachzugriff

Verfahren zum Erkennen eines Fahrschlauchs bei schienengebundenen Fahrzeugen

Im Bereich der schienengebundenen Fahrzeuge haben bislang aus dem Bereich der KFZ-Industrie bekannte Fahrassistenzsysteme wie Kollisionswarn- und Vermeidungssysteme wenig Einzug erhalten. Dies ist insbesondere auf eine ungenaue und unzuverlässige Erfassung des Fahrschlauchs, der zur Kollisionserkennung notwendig ist, aufgrund einer fehlenden Möglichkeit der Lenkwinkelerfassung und fehlender optischer Fahrbahnkennzeichnungen bei Schienenfahrzeugen zurückzuführen. Die vorliegende Erfindung offenbart eine Möglichkeit den Fahrschlauch, unter Ausnutzung der Schienenbindung von Schienenfahrzeugen, anhand eines in einer Datenbank gespeicherten digitalen Streckennetzes, sowie den aktuellen Positions- und Bewegungsdaten des Fahrzeugs zuverlässig zu ermitteln. Somit ist sie die Grundlage für die Anwendung von Kollisionswarn- und Vermeidungssystemen im Schienenverkehr und trägt damit zu einer erheblichen Sicherheitssteigerung im modernen Straßenverkehr bei.

Bereitstellen von Fahrtstatus in einem Fahrzeug

Ein Computer, der einen Prozessor und einen Speicher aufweist, der Anweisungen speichert, die durch den Prozessor ausführbar sind. Der Computer ist zu Folgendem programmiert: Bestimmen eines Gesamtfahrtparameters, der einem Ziel eines Insassen eines Fahrzeugs zugeordnet ist; Bestimmen eines Fortschrittsparameters seit Beginn einer Insassenfahrt; und Steuern einer Lichtausgabe einer Statusbaugruppe, wobei die Ausgabe die Parameter darstellt.

Verfahren zum Betrieb von Schienenfahrzeugen sowie Zugsteuerzentrale und Fahrzeuggerät hierfür

Es wird ein Verfahren zum Betrieb von auf einer Strecke (S) hintereinander fahrenden Schienenfahrzeugen (SFZ1, SFZ2) angegeben, durch das sich die Kapazität der Strecke deutlich erhöhen läßt. Erfindungsgemäß halten die Schienenfahrzeuge zueinander den sog. relativen Bremswegabstand (RBWA) ein. Um kurze Reaktionszeiten zu gewährleisten, kommunizieren unmittelbar folgende Schienenfahrzeuge drahtlos und direkt, d. h. ohne Mitwirkung eines weiteren Kommunikationspartners, miteinander. Eine Zugsteuerzentrale (ZSZ) teilt den Schienenfahrzeugen mit, ob und welche Schienenfahrzeuge sich in ihrer unmittelbaren Nachbarschaft befinden, so daß diese selbsttätig eine Kommunikationsverbindung (DDKV) aufbauen können. DOLLAR A Vorzugsweise handelt es sich bei den Schienenfahrzeugen um kurze, einen automatischen fahrerlosen Betrieb ermöglichende Transporteinheiten.

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zur Sicherung einer eisenbahntechnischen Anlage

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zur Sicherung einer eisenbahntechnischen Anlage (13) in wenigstens einem Überwachungsbereich (15). Um die Sicherheit zu erhöhen ist erfindungsgemäß vorgesehen, dass für wenigstens einen Zug (1) im Überwachungsbereich (15) wenigstens eine Schutzzone (3) um den Zug (1) herum bestimmt wird, für wenigstens ein Streckenelement (8) im Überwachungsbereich (15), dessen aktueller Schaltzustand (12) und wenigstens eine Schutzzone (9) um das Streckenelement (8) herum bestimmt wird und eine Unfallgefahr für den wenigstens einen Zug (1) im Überwachungsbereich (15) unter Berücksichtigung der Schutzzone (3) des wenigstens einen Zugs (1) und der Schutzzone (9) des wenigstens einen Streckenelements (8) und dem Schaltzustand (12) des wenigstens einen Streckenelements (8) ermittelt wird.

DYNAMISCH OPTIMIERTES VERKEHRSPLANUNGSVERFAHREN UND SYSTEM

ZUGSTEUERSYSTEM, BODENSTEUERVORRICHTUNG UND BORDEIGENE STEUERVORRICHTUNG

Die vorliegende Erfindung umfasst eine bordeigene Steuervorrichtung (68), die eine Zugpositionsinformation unter Verwendung einer Bodenspulenpositions-Information und einer Zuggeschwindigkeitsinformation erzeugt und die die Zugpositionsinformation ausgibt, und eine Bodensteuervorrichtung (3), die die von der bordeigenen Steuervorrichtung (68) ausgegebene Zugpositionsinformation empfängt, die eine Position eines Zugs unter Verwendung der Zugpositionsinformation und einer gespeicherten Gleisinformation identifiziert, die Zugsteuerdaten mit einer Größe entsprechend der identifizierten Position des Zugs erzeugt und die die Zugsteuerdaten in Richtung des Zugs ausgibt.

DIAGNOSE UND ZUSTANDSMONITORING VON WEICHEN, KREUZUNGEN ODER KREUZUNGSWEICHEN SOWIE SCHIENENSTÖSSEN DURCH EIN SCHIENENFAHRZEUG

Einrichtung zum Ermitteln und Verarbeiten der Fahrdaten eines Schienenfahrzeugs

VORRICHTUNG UND VERFAHREN ZUR POSITIONIERUNG UND STEUERUNG VON SCHIENENFAHRZEUGEN MIT ULTRABREITBAND

VORRICHTUNG UND VERFAHREN ZUR AUFFINDUNG VON ANLAGEN IN EINEM RANGIERBAHNHOF

Autonome Laufverfolgung und Disposition von Güterwagen mittels Satellitenortung und Sensorik

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zur Laufverfolgung und Disposition von Güterwagen mittels an den Güterwagen befestigten Satellitenortungsgeräten, wobei ein Satellitenortungsgerät Sensorik, ein Kommunikationsmodul, Schnittstellen und einen Energiespeicher beinhaltet und am Güterwagen fest montiert ist. Die Laufverfolgung und Disposition der Güterwagen wird von einem Leitstand aus durchgeführt, der aus einem Kommunikations- und Applikationsserver sowie einer Datenbank besteht. DOLLAR A Erfindungsgenäß wird durch einen in der Datenbank hinterlegten Referenztransportplan (RTP) der gesamte Laufweg des Güterwagens von der Abgangsstelle bis zum Ziel beschrieben. Dem Satellitenortungsgerät wird die Zeit-/Weginformation in Form von Geokoordinaten, Zeitpunkt der nächsten Messung und Sensorik-Konfiguration vorgegeben. DOLLAR A Dieses Verfahren wird insbesondere bei Schienenbahnen angewendet, bei denen Güterwagen verkehren, die Güter über Ländergrenzen hinweg transportieren.

Vorrichtung zur automatischen Verlegung von Balisen im Gleisbett

Eine Vorrichtung zur schnellen und präzisen Verlegung von Balisen im Gleisbett ist gekennzeichnet durch ein Schienenfahrzeug (1) mit einem Verlegeroboter (3), der einen Balisengreifer, eine Bohreinrichtung, eine Dübel-/Anker-Positioniereinrichtung und eine Verschraubungseinrichtung aufweist.

RAILWAY NETWORK MONITORING AND CONTROL

A railway network monitoring system monitors the position and speed of a train (1) on a track (2). An aerial (3) and receiver (4) receive signals from earth satellites of a global positioning system, for example the Navstar System. The signals are passed to a processor (5) which determines the location of the train (1). The speed of the train (1) is measured by a speed sensor (6) and the measured value is input to the processor (5). The processor (5) accesses a digitally coded information from a data store (7) of a map of the train's route and associated speed data. The processor (5) then compares the train's determined location with the map and compares the known speed of the train (1) with the maximum permissible speed programmed into the data store for that particular location. The train's location, speed and difference from the maximum allowed are displayed on a visual display unit (8). If the train (1) is exceeding the allowed maximum on alarm (9) is activated to warn the driver. If ...

GPS receiver using central processing

System for improving timekeeping and saving energy on long-haul trains

Control station, mobile station, system and method for communication in object movement control

Railroad track survey system

System for improving timekeeping and saving energy on long-haul trains

Rail track asset survey system

System and method for tracking personnel

POSITIVE TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEM AND APPARATUS THEREFOR

A traffic supervision system for vehicles.

To protect and watch transport units consisting of a towing unit and one or more transported or transporting units, the towing unit has a data processing system (1)capable of communicating with the outside world via communications and gps satellites (45)and/or a gsm system (39)and with tags (10b)burried in a road. The transporting otr transported unit or units additionally have a data processing system (15)capable of communicating with a data processing system (1)in the towing unit via a wireless interface (7)or interface (8). The data processing system in the transporting or transported unit or units is moreover interfaced with an aerial (16)capable of communicating with tags in a road or surfaces (10b)or tags (10a)located in the top of transporting ot transported units. A system designed as described above provides the advantage that a cargo or a transport unit can always be positioned and watched.

A traffic supervision system for vehicles

POSITIVE TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEM AND APPARATUS THEREFOR

A traffic supervision system for vehicles

A traffic supervision system for vehicles

POSITIVE TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEM AND APPARATUS THEREFOR

PROCEDURE FOR THE ENTERPRISE OF RAIL-MOUNTED VEHICLES AS WELL AS COURSE EXPENSIVE CENTER FOR THIS

CONTROL STATION, MOBILE STATION AND PROCEDURE FOR COMMUNICATION DURING OBJECT MOVEMENT CONTROL

PROCEDURE AND DEVICE FOR THE COURSE SIGNALING

Collision protection for rail vehicles

Verfahren zur Verhinderung einer Kollision zwischen zwei Schienenfahrzeugen (1, 2), welche jeweils in Fahrtrichtung vorne mit einem ersten Transponder (3) und in Fahrtrichtung hinten mit einem zweiten Transponder (4) ausgestattet sind, wobei ein Abstand (17) ermittelt wird und wobei eine Warnung (16) ausgegeben wird wenn eine Kollisionswahrscheinlichkeit gegeben ist ...

MONITOR FOR RAILWAY TRAINS

INTELLIGENT COMMUNICATION, COMMAND AND CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A LAND-BASED VEHICLE

METHOD, DEVICE AND STORAGE MEDIUM FOR THE REGULATION OF A POSSIBLE COURSE COLLISION

PROCEDURE FOR THE ADMISSION OF POINTS OF DISTANCE

RADSATZLAGERGEHÄUSE MIT POSITIONSERFASSUNGSEINRICHTUNG FÜR EIN SCHIENENFAHRZEUG UND DAMIT AUSGESTATTETES SCHIENENFAHRZEUG

A wheelset bearing (10) for a rail vehicle comprises a position detection device (9), which includes a preferably satellite-aided radio position detection receiver (4), a radio transmitter (3) which transmits position data supplied by the radio position detection receiver to a remote server (30), and a power supply unit for supplying the position detection device (9) with electric power. The power supply unit comprises an electric generator (8) having a rotor (1) and a stator (2), wherein the rotor (1) can be driven by a wheelset bearing (14) that is rotatably mounted in the wheelset bearing housing (10). The stator (2) is installed on the inside of a cover (16) of the wheelset bearing housing. The electric generator (8) is preferably designed as a hub generator without bearing.

RADSATZLAGERGEHÄUSE MIT POSITIONSERFASSUNGSEINRICHTUNG FÜR SCHIENENFAHRZEUG UND DAMIT AUSGESTATTETES SCHIENENFAHRZEUG

A wheelset bearing (10) for a rail vehicle comprises a position detection device (9), which includes a preferably satellite-aided radio position detection receiver (4), a radio transmitter (3) which transmits position data supplied by the radio position detection receiver to a remote server (30), and a power supply unit for supplying the position detection device (9) with electric power. The power supply unit comprises an electric generator (8) having a rotor (1) and a stator (2), wherein the rotor (1) can be driven by a wheelset bearing (14) that is rotatably mounted in the wheelset bearing housing (10). The stator (2) is installed on the inside of a cover (16) of the wheelset bearing housing. The electric generator (8) is preferably designed as a hub generator without bearing.

PROCEDURE FOR PLACE-DEPENDENT ADDRESSING OF RAIL-MOUNTED VEHICLES

Methods and apparatus for measuring navigational parameters of a locomotive

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A VEHICLE SYSTEM TO ACHIEVE DIFFERENT OBJECTIVES DURING A TRIP

A system (e.g., a control system) includes a sensor configured to monitor an operating condition of a vehicle system during movement of the vehicle system along a route. The system also includes a controller configured to designate one or more operational settings for the vehicle system as a function of time and/or distance along the route. The controller is configured to operate in a first operating mode responsive to the operating condition of the vehicle system being at least one of at or above a designated threshold, and in a second operating mode responsive to the operating condition of the vehicle system being below the designated threshold. The controller designates operational settings to drive the vehicle system toward achievement of a first objective when in the first operating mode and toward achievement of a different, second objective when in the second operating mode.

Apparatus and method for calculating wooden crosstie plate cut measurements and rail seat abrasion measurements based on rail head height

A system and method for inspecting a railway track. The system preferably includes: a processor; at least one sensor oriented to capture data of the railway track; a data storage device in electronic communication with the processor; and computer executable instructions stored on a computer readable storage medium in communication with the processor operable to: determine an elevation of a surface of a rail head of a rail located on the railway track based on a distance to the rail head from the at least one sensor, determine an elevation of a surface of a crosstie of the railway track based on a distance to a top surface of the crosstie from the at least one sensor, estimate a total rail height and underlying rail support, and calculate a crosstie wear value based on the determined rail head surface elevation, crosstie surface elevation, and estimated total rail height and underlying rail support.

Train control network, method for communication and method for controlling train integrity

A train control network according to the invention comprises a rail (3), a first communication element (1') and a second communication element (2'), which are to communicate with each other, wherein the first communication element (1') comprises a first HF-injector (4), adapted for injecting HF-signals into the rail (3), wherein the second communication element (2') comprises a HF-receiver (5), adapted for receiving HF-signals transmitted via the rail (3); and wherein an evaluation unit (6) is provided for analyzing the received HF-signals.

Method for secure determination of an object location, preferably a vehicle moving along a known course

SAFETY VEHICLE AND SYSTEM FOR AVOIDING TRAIN COLLISIONS AND DERAILMENTS

Method and system for ensuring that a train operator remains alert during operation of the train

Methods for forming 3D image data and associated apparatuses

A method for forming 3D image data representative of the subsurface of infrastructure located in the vicinity of a moving vehicle. The method includes: rotating a directional antenna, mounted to the moving vehicle, about an antenna rotation axis; performing, using the directional antenna whilst it is rotated about the antenna rotation axis, a plurality of collection cycles in which the directional antenna emits RF energy and receives reflected RF energy; collecting, during each of the plurality of collection cycles performed by the directional antenna: (i) radar data representative of reflected RF energy received by the directional antenna during the collection cycle; (ii) angular position data representative of an angular position of the directional antenna about the antenna rotation axis during the collection cycle; and (iii) translational position data regarding a translational position of the directional antenna during the collection cycle; processing the radar data, the angular position ...

A traffic supervision system for vehicles

Storage of track data in a position-controlled tilt system

Remote verification of software configuration information

Method and apparatus for determining relative locomotive position in a train consist

Dual mode data communication for monitoring and diagnostics of remote assets

AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE COLLISION/CROSSING WARNING SYSTEM

... ²²²An autonomous vehicle collision/crossing warning system provides for simple, ²inexpensive and decentralized installation, operation and maintenance of a ²reliable vehicle collision/crossing warning system. The autonomous warning ²system preferably utilizes a single frequency TDM radio communication network ²with GPS clock synchronization, time slot arbitration and connectionless UDP ²protocol to broadcast messages among vehicles and components in the warning ²system. Adaptive localized mapping of components of interest within the ²warning system eliminates the need for centralized databases or coordination ²and control systems and enables new vehicles and warning systems to be easily ²added to the system in a decentralized manner. Preferably, stationary warning ²systems are deployed as multiple self-powered units each equipped to receive ²broadcast messages and to communicate with the other units by a low power RF ²channel in a redundant Master-Slave configuration. The communication ...

AUTOMATED SIGNAL COMPLIANCE MONITORING AND ALERTING SYSTEM

A data acquisition and recording system (DARS) for mobile assets that includes a data recorder and an automated signal monitoring and alerting system. The data recorder includes a data encoder, an onboard data manager, a vehicle event detector, at least one local memory component, and a queueing repository. DARS processes data from at least one input sensor and stores a compressed record of the data at least once per second in the local memory module. DARS is designed to run in near real-time mode, storing a full record comprising five minutes of data to a remote memory module every five minutes, and in real-time mode, streaming data to the remote memory module by uploading a record of data at least once per second and up to once every tenth of a second. Remotely located users can view video, audio, and data acquired by DARS through a web browser, which provides for quicker emergency response, validate the effectiveness of repairs and rerouting, and monitor crew performance and safety, ...

SIGNALLING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR RAILWAY VEHICLES

The present invention is related to a signalling device to obtain signalling related data in a vehicle, whereby the signalling device is arranged to be stored in the vehicle and comprising - a database, comprising at least information on the position of virtual beacons on a reference grid, and - localisation means to locate the vehicle within the reference grid.

RAIL COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM

A method and apparatus for transmitting an information carrying signal, such as an electromagnetic frequency signal or an acoustic signal, through the tracks of a railroad to a remote position on the track where the information is extracted. The extracted information can be used to relate speed and location of trains, location of obstructions, and/or track conditions. The in situ track (10) is evaluated using an autoranging digital multimeter which establishes the resistance between two opposite rails (12, 14).

AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE COLLISION/CROSSING WARNING SYSTEM

An autonomous vehicle collision/crossing warning system provides for simple, inexpensive and decentralized installation, operation and maintenance of a reliable vehicle collision/crossing warning system. The autonomous warning system preferably utilizes a single frequency TDM radio communication network with GPS clock synchronization, time slot arbitration and connectionless UDP protocol to broadcast messages among vehicles and components in the warning system. Adaptive localized mapping of components of interest within the warning system eliminates the need for centralized databases or coordination and control systems and enables new vehicles and warning systems to be easily added to the system in a decentralized manner. Preferably, stationary warning systems are deployed as multiple self-powered units each equipped to receive broadcast messages and to communicate with the other units by a low power RF channel in a redundant Master-Slave configuration. The communication schemes are preferably ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATED FAULT REPORTING

An automated fault reporting system for a train includes a controller that gathers information concerning malfunctioning wayside status devices and automatically reports the information to an appropriate party. In one embodiment, the control module uses a positioning system and a database including device locations in order to determine when the train is near a device. If no status information is received from the device as the train approaches, or the status information indicates a problem, the train is allowed to continue at a reduced speed to allow the operator to visually confirm that it is safe to proceed. If an area monitored by the device has been passed, or if the operator indicates that there is no problem, or the device fails to respond, the controller records and reports the malfunction.

SYSTEM, METHOD, AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING AN END-OF-TRAIN POSITION

A system, method, and apparatus for determining a location of a train as it travels on a track network is provided. The system includes an end-of-train device located on an end of the train, the end-of-train device comprising at least one signal receiving device configured to activate and receive transponder data from a plurality of passive transponders located throughout at least a portion of the track network. The system also includes at least one processor in communication with the at least one signal receiving device, the at least one processor programmed or configured to determine a location of the train based at least partially on at least a portion of the transponder data.

MONITORING AND CONTROLLING OF DISTRIBUTED MACHINES

According to various aspects, exemplary embodiments are disclosed of apparatus and methods for monitoring and controlling distributed machines. In an exemplary embodiment, a network includes machines each having sensor(s) and/or actuator(s). Each machine has a node resident on the machine and/or in communication with the machine and that provides raw data from the sensor(s) and/or actuator(s). Each node has a network interface, and a processor and memory configured as a node agent to embed the raw data in message(s) without reformatting the raw data. An engine receives and reformats messages from the node agents without reformatting raw data embedded in the messages. The engine directs the reformatted messages including the raw data to user device(s) for use in managing machine activity and/or status. The engine may send a message from a user device to a node of a given machine, for use in controlling activity and/or status of the given machine.

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PERFORMANCE AND FAULT DATA ANALYSIS

An analysis scheduler for scheduling the automatic processing of performance data through a plurality of analysis tools is disclosed. Performance data provided to some of the tools by the analysis scheduler may be specified to be within a predetermined (but variable) look-back period. The analysis tools identify faults and anomalous conditions and also create repair recommendations, and automatically create problem cases when conditions warrant, or update existing problem cases with additional data, all under control of the analysis scheduler. The problem cases are reviewed by a human user and then forwarded to the railroad for implementation. A process for determining which faults are regarded as critical is also disclosed.

METHOD & APPARATUS FOR A TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEM

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING RELATIVE DIFFERENTIAL POSITIONING SYSTEM MEASUREMENT SOLUTIONS

A method and system in which a vehicle carries an on-board positioning system and has access to a database of information pertaining to a plurality of fixed paths. A vector between the position of the fixed path and a position of the vehicle as reported by the positioning system is calculated prior to arriving at a point of divergence (i.e., a point at which a path branches, such as a switch on a railroad track). After passing the path divergence, a second vector is calculated between the position of the vehicle as reported by the positioning system and at least one of the alternate paths, preferably the correct alternate path. The first vector is compared to the second vector, and a determination as to which path the vehicle is on is made based on the comparison.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING A RAILROAD HUMP YARD

A method of monitoring a railroad hump yard, including storing a profile of the hump yard. The commands sent to one or more of the retarding devices and track switches are determined. The telemetry of a car at at least one point after release over the hump is obtained. Finally, the telemetry of the car for the remainder of the path in the hump yard is calculated. The calculated telemetry of the car over the path in the hump yard may be displayed real time or may be stored and subsequently displayed. A remote control locomotive device includes operator input, a display, a data base of at least a track profile and a program to drive the display with the location of the train on the track profile.

TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING A TRAIN OR TRAINS

A train control system includes positioning systems at the end of the train and at the front of the train, allowing the conductor or engineer to unambiguously determine that no cars of the train have become detached. The positioning system at the end of the train is also used to verify that the entrie train has cleared a block. This information can be relayed to a dispatcher, thereby eliminating the need for trackside sensing equipment. A control unit prevent s the train from moving without an authorization that includes the train's current position.

METHOD OF FORECASTING TRAIN SPEED

TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING A TRAIN OR TRAINS

A train control system includes positioning systems at the end of the train and at the front of the train, allowing the conductor or engineer to unambiguously determine that no cars of the train have become detached. The positioning system at the end of the train is also used to verify that the entrie train has cleared a block. This information can be relayed to a dispatcher, thereby eliminating the need for trackside sensing equipment. A control unit prevent s the train from moving without an authorization that includes the train's current position.

TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING A TRAIN OR TRAINS

A train control system includes positioning systems at the end of the train and at the front of the train, allowing the conductor or engineer to unambiguously determine that no cars of the train have become detached. The positioning system at the end of the train is also used to verify that the entrie train has cleared a block. This information can be relayed to a dispatcher, thereby eliminating the need for trackside sensing equipment. A control unit prevent s the train from moving without an authorization that includes the train's current position.

WORK VEHICLE CONTROL SYSTEM

Provided is a dump truck control system which is capable of dealing with block sections in accordance with a travel position and can reduce the information transmission amount. The present invention comprises a dump truck (1) that is equipped with: a permission request unit (4d) which, when a vehicle body (1a) is travelling in a prescribed block section (S1) within a travel path to be travelled, requests a travel permission request signal to be sent from a vehicle-mounted wireless device (2b) and for the purpose of requesting a travel permission signal that permits travel in a block section (S2) which is positioned ahead of the block section (S1); and a calculation unit (4c). If, on the basis of the travel position detected by a GPS device (2a), it is determined that travel is taking place in the block section (S1), the calculation unit (4c) varies the frequency of request of the travel permission signal by the permission request unit (4d) in accordance with the remaining distance (a) to ...

TRAIN AND RAIL YARD MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

A rail yard management system and method that takes advantage of infrastructure installed in rail yards and on train consists to allow the management of the assembly, disassembly and validation of train consists in the rail yard. A train management system and method is also provided.

PROTOCOL AND MECHANISM FOR MUTTER MODE COMMUNICATION FOR STATIONARY MASTER TRACKING UNIT

A local area network (LAN) of tracked mobile assets which are temporarily located in an area having a high density of mobile assets, such as a railway yard, employs a stationary master tracking unit that is responsible for communicating, with mobile tracking units affixed to the mobile assets and transmitting information to a central station. The stationary master tracking unit may be mounted at an elevation, as on a pole, and single or multiple stationary master tracking units may exist in the same vicinity. Each stationary master tracking unit has a constant supply of power and communicates with the central station by way of either satellites or dedicated land line connection. A protocol is provided for communicating between the stationary master tracking unit and the mobile tracking units. The protocol provides a mechanism for acquiring new mobile tracking units entering the railway yard and a mechanism for releasing mobile tracking units leaving the railway yard.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING RELATIVE LOCOMOTIVE POSITION IN A TRAIN CONSIST

A method and apparatus for determining the position of one or more locomotives (102, 104) in a train consist. The receiver (108) receives a signal such as a reference signal from a global system determines a coordinate position for that locomotive. A processor (112) determines a relative position for the locomotive in the train consist based on its determined coordinate position. This process is periodically repeated for each locomotive in the train consist so that the configuration of locomotives in the train consist may be tracked or verified as cars (106) are added or removed from the train.

Course warning system.

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Zugwarnsystem für Baustellen im Gleisbereich eines Schienennetzes. Das System besitzt eine Auslösevorrichtung (30) zum Auslösen eines Alarms, mehrere Baumaschinen (10) mit jeweils wenigstens einer Warnvorrichtung (20) zum Signalisieren einer Warnung nach dem Auslösen eines Alarms und einen zentralen Server (40), der mit dem Internet (12) gekoppelt ist. Die Auslösevorrichtung (30) und die Warnvorrichtungen (20) weisen jeweils ein Funkmodem (31; 21) zur Herstellung einer drahtlosen Verbindung mit dem Internet (12) auf. Die Auslösevorrichtung (30) und die Warnvorrichtungen (20) sind dazu vorgesehen, über die drahtlose Verbindung mit dem Internet (12) eine Datenverbindung mit dem zentralen Server (40) aufzubauen. Die Auslösevorrichtung (30) ist dazu vorgesehen, nach Auslösen eines Alarms ein Alarmsignal über die Datenverbindung an den Server (40) zu übertragen. Die Warnvorrichtungen (20) weisen jeweils ein Global Positioning System(GPS)-Modul (26) zur Erfassung der ...

Position detector system for guided vehicle such as train

The system includes a memory block (1) in which there is stored each journey, divided into sections identified by their theoretical absolute position parameters, length and radius and in which the correction curves are stored. At least one recording unit sensitive to travel in a curve and a relative position recorder, send signals to a control unit. The control unit uses these signals to establish the variation profile of the actual correction curves parameters. - The control unit undertakes an adjustment based upon achieving the minimum error in the profiles of coordinates obtained using the theoretical parameters and the actual parameters, determining the absolute real position of the vehicle. The recording unit may be a sensor for measuring the turning velocity in a bend of the vehicle and the relative position recorder may supply information to measure the variation of the position of the vehicle and its absolute speed in the direction of travel.

Arrangement for the supply of communication and positioning at control system.

Train warning system.

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Zugwarnsystem für Baustellen im Gleisbereich eines Schienennetzes. Das System besitzt eine Auslösevorrichtung (30) zum Auslösen eines Alarms, mehrere Baumaschinen (10) mit jeweils wenigstens einer Warnvorrichtung (20) zum Signalisieren einer Warnung nach dem Auslösen des Alarms und einen zentralen Server (40), der mit dem Internet (12) koppelbar ist. Die Auslösevorrichtung (30) und die Warnvorrichtungen (20) weisen jeweils ein Funkmodem (31; 21) zur Herstellung einer drahtlosen Verbindung mit dem Internet (12) auf. Die Auslösevorrichtung (30) und die Warnvorrichtungen (20) sind dazu vorgesehen, über die drahtlose Verbindung mit dem Internet (12) eine Datenverbindung mit dem zentralen Server (40) aufzubauen. Die Auslösevorrichtung (30) ist dazu vorgesehen, nach Auslösen des Alarms ein Alarmsignal über die Datenverbindung an den Server (40) zu übertragen. Die Warnvorrichtungen (20) weisen jeweils ein Global Positioning System (GPS)-Modul (26) zur Erfassung der Position ...

Method for ensuring, that stretching block of a railroad line is free from the last unit of a train.

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zur Sicherstellung, dass ein Streckenblock (11, 13) einer Eisenbahnstrecke frei von der letzten Einheit (19) eines Zuges (17) ist, wobei jeder in den Streckenblock (11) einfahrende Zug (17) mit wenigstens einem Zugendgerät, genannt OTU – On-Train-Unit (21), am Ende des Zuges (19), definiert durch die Fahrtrichtung des Zuges (17), ausgerüstet ist, welche OTU (21) der periodischen Positionserfassung des Zuges dient. Das Verfahren umfasst die folgenden Verfahrensschritte: a) In der OTU (21) ist wenigstens ein Polygon (23, 25), welches durch eine Mehrzahl von Geodaten definiert ist, pro Streckenblock (11, 13) hinterlegt. b) Das jeweils befahrene Polygon (23, 25) wird von der OTU (21) mittels GNSS wenigstens einmal registriert. c) Die OTU (21) sendet die Identifikation des jeweils befahrenen Polygons (23, 25) wenigstens einmal an ein EDV-System zur Auswertung.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SYSTEM CONTROL VEHICLES FOR ACHIEVEMENT OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF TARGETS DURING TRIP

КОРПУС ПОДШИПНИКА КОЛЕСНОЙ ПАРЫ С УСТРОЙСТВОМ ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ ПОЛОЖЕНИЯ ДЛЯ РЕЛЬСОВОГО ТРАНСПОРТНОГО СРЕДСТВА И СНАБЖЕННОЕ ИМ РЕЛЬСОВОЕ ТРАНСПОРТНОЕ СРЕДСТВО

Корпус (10) подшипника колесной пары для рельсового транспортного средства имеет устройство (9) определения положения, которое содержит предпочтительно спутниковый радиоприемник (4) определения положения, радиопередатчик (3), который передает полученные от радиоприемника определения положения данные положения в удаленный сервер (30), и блок электроснабжения для снабжения устройства (9) определения положения электрической энергией. Блок электроснабжения содержит электрический генератор (8) с ротором (1) и статором (2), при этом ротор (1) приводится установленным с возможностью вращения в корпусе (10) подшипника колесной пары валом (14) колесной пары. Статор (2) смонтирован на внутренней стороне крышки (16) корпуса подшипника колесной пары. Предпочтительно электрический генератор (8) выполнен в виде безопорного втулочного генератора.

CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ENERGY SYSTEMS OF TRANSPORT VEHICLES

КОРПУС ПОДШИПНИКА КОЛЕСНОЙ ПАРЫ С УСТРОЙСТВОМ ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ ПОЛОЖЕНИЯ ДЛЯ РЕЛЬСОВОГО ТРАНСПОРТНОГО СРЕДСТВА И СНАБЖЕННОЕ ИМ РЕЛЬСОВОЕ ТРАНСПОРТНОЕ СРЕДСТВО

Корпус (10) подшипника колесной пары для рельсового транспортного средства имеет устройство (9) определения положения, которое содержит предпочтительно спутниковый радиоприемник (4) определения положения, радиопередатчик (3), который передает полученные от радиоприемника определения положения данные положения в удаленный сервер (30), и блок электроснабжения для снабжения устройства (9) определения положения электрической энергией. Блок электроснабжения содержит электрический генератор (8) с ротором (1) и статором (2), при этом ротор (1) приводится установленным с возможностью вращения в корпусе (10) подшипника колесной пары валом (14) колесной пары. Статор (2) смонтирован на внутренней стороне крышки (16) корпуса подшипника колесной пары. Предпочтительно электрический генератор (8) выполнен в виде безопорного втулочного генератора.

СИСТЕМА БЕЗОПАСНОСТИ НА ЖЕЛЕЗНОДОРОЖНОМ ТРАНСПОРТЕ

... 1. Способ определения возможности столкновения поездов, содержащий этапы, на которых получают данные о положении поезда, передают упомянутые данные в контроллер, принимают упомянутые данные в контроллере, выполняют в контроллере с использованием принятых данных вычисления для прогнозирования положения поезда в будущее время и используют сведения о прогнозируемом будущем положении, чтобы определить, нужно ли предпринять какое-либо действие. 2. Способ по п.1, в котором на этапе вычисления из данных положения определяют векторы дифференциального положения, причем координаты векторов дифференциального положения выражают разность между двумя последовательными координатами вектора данных положения. 3. Способ по п.1 или 2, в котором вычисление включает обращение к базе данных сохраненных данных, относящихся к предыдущим перемещениям поезда, и идентификацию в базе данных векторов, подобных текущему вектору перемещения, причем текущий вектор перемещения является либо данными положения, либо векторами ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROL OF ENERGY SUPPLY SYSTEMS FOR VEHICLES

Control of throttle and braking actions at individual distributed power locomotives in a railroad train

A method for controlling first and second locomotives of a railroad train, the first and the second locomotives separated by at least one railcar. The method comprises determining a location of the first locomotive and a location of the second locomotive, determining an operating condition of the first locomotive and an operating condition of the second locomotive, determining a first control aspect of the first locomotive responsive to the operating condition and the location of the first locomotive, determining a second control aspect of the second locomotive responsive to the operating condition and the location of the second locomotive, and controlling the first and the second locomotives according to the first control aspect and the second control aspect, respectively.

Railroad Train Monitoring System

Railcar monitoring utilizes instrumented, flexible pads supported within the truck pedestal jaws on the bearing adapters. The pads contain sensors for monitoring temperature pressure, shifting loads, truck hunting and the like and have circuitry for processing information received from the sensors and for processing and reporting departures of performance variables to a remote source. The system cyclically activates polling each pad on a car and communicates signals of critical departures and car identity to a remote source.

Locomotive acoustic warning system

A sound system for a locomotive mounts a loudspeaker line array for broadside firing forward from the vehicle. Additional loudspeakers are installed on the locomotive for projecting sound to the sides. A control system applies drive signals to the loudspeakers of the line array with the control system providing phase adjustment of drive signals applied to each loudspeaker of the line array to control side to side directional steering of a projected sound beam. The control system includes an automated, location dependent sub-system for selecting beam width and directional steering of a projected sound beam.

Monitoring and controlling of distributed machines

According to various aspects, exemplary embodiments are disclosed of apparatus and methods for monitoring and controlling distributed machines. In an exemplary embodiment, a network includes machines each having sensor(s) and/or actuator(s). Each machine has a node resident on the machine and/or in communication with the machine and that provides raw data from the sensor(s) and/or actuator(s). Each node has a network interface, and a processor and memory configured as a node agent to embed the raw data in message(s) without reformatting the raw data. An engine receives and reformats messages from the node agents without reformatting raw data embedded in the messages. The engine directs the reformatted messages including the raw data to user device(s) for use in managing machine activity and/or status. The engine also sends a message from a user device to a node of a given machine, for use in controlling activity and/or status of the given machine.

COMPRESSOR SYSTEM FOR A RAIL VEHICLE AND METHOD FOR OPERATING THE COMPRESSOR SYSTEM WITH SAFE EMERGENCY OPERATION

A rail vehicle compressor system and method for controlling the same use a compressor driven by an electrical machine via a drive shaft, to produce compressed air for at least one compressed air tank, wherein the electrical machine can be activated at least indirectly via a control device for operating the electrical machine at at least one nominal speed between a maximum speed and a minimum speed, wherein at least one pressure sensor determines the pressure for the control device and is disposed in a compressed-air-carrying line downstream of the compressor. A final control element continuously influences the speed of the electrical machine and can be activated via the control device, and wherein a pressure switch for monitoring the pressure in the at least one compressed air tank and for influencing at least the speed of the electrical machine is disposed in the compressed-air-carrying line downstream of the compressor. 1. A compressor system for a rail vehicle , the compressor system comprising:at least on compressed-air vessel;an electric machine;a drive shaft;a compressor which is driven by the electric machine via the drive shaft and which generates compressed air for the at least one compressed-air vessel;a regulation device which at least indirectly controls the electric machine for operation of the electric machine at at least a rated rotational speed between a maximum rotational speed and a minimum rotational speed;a compressed air-conducting line arranged downstream of the compressor and including at least one pressure sensor for determining the pressure for the regulation device;an electric supply; andan actuator arranged between the electrical supply and the electric machine, wherein the actuator continuously manipulates the rotational speed of the electric machine and is controlled by the regulation device; anda pressure switch arranged in the compressed air-conducting line downstream of the compressor for monitoring pressure in the at least one ...

Device and method for controlling train

An on-board device controls the speed of the control target train so that the control target train is set to a given speed-controlled state upon reception of the earthquake detection signal, the given speed-controlled state being a state in which the speed of the control target train is set to be equal to or lower than a reduced speed, or the control target train is stopped. A speed control part estimates an estimated position and an estimated timing at which the control target train is set to a speed-controlled state when a given brake is continuously applied, and controls the speed of the control target train based on the positional relationship between the estimated position and the recommended avoiding-train-existence section when there is a time allowance between the estimated timing and the estimated earthquake arrival timing.

TRAIN POSITION DETECTING DEVICE

A train position detecting device includes: a GPS position guarantee range calculation part for calculating, based on a result of measurement of a position of a train by GPS signals; a tachogenerator-position guarantee range calculation part for calculating, based on a result of measurement of a position of the train by a tachometer generator that measures a relative distance from a measurement carried out previously; and a position determination part that determines, between an end part of the GPS position guarantee range in the first-direction and an end part of the tachogenerator-position guarantee range in the first-direction, a position of an end part on the positive side of the second direction to be a position of the end part of the train in the first-direction. 1: A train position detecting device comprising:an absolute position guarantee range calculation part for calculating, based on a result of measurement of a position of a train by an absolute distance measuring sensor, an absolute position guarantee range that is an estimated range of a position of an end part of the train in consideration of a measurement error;a relative position guarantee range calculation part for calculating, based on a result of measurement of a position of the train by a relative distance measurement sensor that measures a relative distance from a measurement carried out previously, a relative position guarantee range that is an estimated range of a position of an end part of said train in consideration of a measurement error; anda position determination part that sets one of a train forward traveling direction and a train backward traveling direction to be a first direction and the other to be a second direction, and determines, between an end part of said absolute position guarantee range in the first direction and an end part of said relative position guarantee range in the first direction, a position of an end part on a positive side of the second direction to be a position ...

COLLISION PROTECTION AND SAFETY SYSTEM FOR RAIL VEHICLES

The present disclosure relates to a railway collision protection and safety system having a vehicle device located on rail vehicles at a work zone, a personal protection unit located with rail workers at the work zone, and a dispatcher processor at a control center. An authority limit within the work zone may be determined by the dispatcher processor, and an authority exceeded signal is sent to the rail vehicle when the rail vehicle is determined to exceed the authority limit. 120-. (canceled)21. A method for providing rail worker safety , the method comprising:defining at least one geographical boundary;receiving, at a dispatcher processor of a control center, a location of a rail vehicle;determining whether a first distance between the location of the rail vehicle and the at least one geographical boundary is less than a threshold; andtransmitting a first warning signal to the rail vehicle based on a determination that the first distance is less than the threshold, the first warning signal configured to initiate a first alarm of a first alarm system;wherein the at least one geographical boundary is defined independent of a speed of the rail vehicle.22. The method of claim 21 , wherein the at least one geographical boundary is defined within a work zone.23. The method of claim 21 , further comprising:receiving, by the dispatcher processor, vehicle information from a telematics unit that is configured to collect the vehicle information of the rail vehicle.24. The method of claim 21 , further comprising:determining whether a rail worker unit is within the at least one geographical boundary; andtransmitting a second warning signal to the rail worker unit based on a determination that the location of the rail worker unit is outside the at least one geographical boundary, the second warning signal configured to activate a second alarm of a portable handheld device.25. The method of claim 21 , further comprising:determining a second distance between the rail vehicle and ...

VEHICLE POSITION IDENTIFICATION

A method for determining a location of a vehicle driving on a track is provided, the method comprising the step of obtaining a real-time image from an imaging device () located on the vehicle and deriving information from the obtained real-time image. The derived information is compared with a database comprising derived information from a plurality of images, each of the plurality of images being associated with a specific track segment. The closest match is then determined between a sequence of the real-time images to a sequence of the plurality of images, and the location of the vehicle on a track segment is identified based on the specific track segment associated with the closest matched sequence of images. The track segments are associated with a specific track amongst a set of parallel or closely spaced tracks. 1. A method for determining a location of a vehicle driving on a track , the method comprising:obtaining a real-time image from an imaging device located on the vehicle;deriving information from the obtained real-time image;comparing the derived information with a database comprising derived information from a plurality of images, each of the plurality of images being associated with a specific track segment;determining the closest match between a sequence of the real-time images to a sequence of the plurality of images;identifying the location of the vehicle on a track segment based on the specific track segment associated with the closest matched sequence of images;wherein the track segments are associated with a specific track amongst a set of parallel or closely spaced tracks.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the vehicle is a train.3. The method of claim 1 , the method further comprising:establishing the database comprising derived information from the plurality of images.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the establishing the database comprising derived information from the plurality of images further comprises:providing a video feed from the ...

AUTOMATED ON-VEHICLE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A RAIL VEHICLE

An automated on-vehicle rail vehicle control system has an on-vehicle set point value detection unit, an automated train operating system, a driving and braking unit, and additional sensors for detecting environment-related information. The on-vehicle set point value detection unit is configured to determine, based on on-vehicle positioning and map data as well as sensor data from the additional sensors, operative set point values for the control mode and the current driving mission of the rail vehicle. The automated train operating system is configured to generate driving and braking commands based on the set point values of the on-vehicle set point value detection unit. The driving and braking unit is configured to carry out traction and braking operations based on the driving and braking commands so determined. There are also described a rail vehicle and a method for the automated control of a rail vehicle. 110-. (canceled)11. An automated on-vehicle rail vehicle control system , comprising:an on-vehicle setpoint value specification determination unit;an automated train operating system;a driving and braking unit; anda plurality of sensors for acquiring environmental information;said on-vehicle setpoint value specification determination unit being configured, based on a high-precision on-vehicle position determination and high-precision map data, and based on dynamic influences identified from environmental information acquired via sensor data from said sensors, to determine operative setpoint value specifications for a regulation mode and a current driving mission of the rail vehicle, in order to move the rail vehicle according to the driving mission and an external environmental situation;said automated train operating system being configured to generate driving and braking commands based on the setpoint value specifications determined by said on-vehicle setpoint value specification determination unit; andsaid driving and braking unit being configured to carry ...

Train and Rail Yard Management System

A rail yard management system and method that takes advantage of infrastructure installed in rail yards and on train consists to allow the management of the assembly, disassembly and validation of train consists in the rail yard. A train management system and method is also provided. 1. A rail yard management system for managing railcars having a railcar-based mesh network overlaid thereon , and train consists having a train-based mesh network overlaid thereon comprising:a rail yard-based mesh network having one or more powered wireless gateways deployed in said rail yard as nodes; and (a) logically assembling train consists;', '(b) validating assembled train consists; and', '(c) logically disassembling train consists., 'said system configured for performing the functions of2. The rail yard management system of wherein said system performs the further function of validating disassembled train consists.3. The rail yard management system ofwherein said railcar-based mesh network comprises a communication management unit mounted on a railcar; andwherein said train-based mesh network comprises a powered wireless gateway and said one or more of said communication management units in a mesh network configuration; andwherein said railcar-based mesh network further comprises one or more wireless sensor nodes on a single railcar in a mesh network configuration with said communication management unit, each of said one or more wireless sensors nodes having one or more sensors for sensing an operational parameter of said railcar.4. (canceled)5. The rail yard management system of wherein said railcar-based mesh network further comprises one or more wireless sensor nodes on a single railcar in a mesh network configuration with said communication management unit claim 3 , each of said one or more wireless sensors nodes having one or more sensors for sensing an operational parameter of said railcar.6. The rail yard management system of wherein said function of logically assembling ...

VEHICLE CONTROL SYSTEM

A system includes a locator device and one or more processors operably connected to the locator device. The locator device determines a trailing distance between a trailing vehicle system that travels along a route and a leading vehicle system that travels along the route ahead of the trailing vehicle system in a same direction of travel. The one or more processors compare the trailing distance to a first proximity distance relative to the leading vehicle system. In response to the trailing distance being less than the first proximity distance, the one or more processors set a permitted power output limit for the trailing vehicle system to be less than a maximum achievable power output for the trailing vehicle system, the permitted power output limit being set based on a power-to-weight ratio of the leading vehicle system. 1. A system comprising:a locator device configured to determine a trailing distance between a trailing vehicle system that travels along a route and a leading vehicle system that travels along the route ahead of the trailing vehicle system in a same direction of travel; andone or more processors operably connected to the locator device, the one or more processors configured to compare the trailing distance to a first proximity distance relative to the leading vehicle system and, in response to the trailing distance being less than the first proximity distance, set a permitted power output limit for the trailing vehicle system to be less than a maximum achievable power output of the trailing vehicle system, the permitted power output limit being set based on a power-to-weight ratio of the leading vehicle system.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more processors set the permitted power output limit for the trailing vehicle system such that an effective power-to-weight ratio of the trailing vehicle system is no greater than the power-to-weight ratio of the leading vehicle system.3. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a vehicle ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTION OF DEFECTS IN AN ELECTRIC CONDUCTOR SYSTEM OF A TRAIN

A method and system for identification of obstacles near railways and for providing alarm to an operator of a train if obstacles constitute threat to the train are disclosed. The system comprise IR sensor disposed at the front of the train facing the direction of travel. The IR sensor receives images of the rails in front of the train. The system comprises pre-stored vibration profile of the train's engine that is used to eliminate influence of the engine's vibrations on the accuracy of the received images. Presence of rails in the received frames is detected based on inherent differences of temperature between the rails and the substrate in the rails' background, such as the railway sleepers and the materials underneath it. The system may detect defects in an electric conductor system of a train. 1. A method for railway obstacle identification , the method comprising:receiving infrared (IR) images from at least one IR sensor installed on an engine of a train, the at least one IR sensor facing the direction of travel;obtaining a vibration profile;filtering effects of vibrations from the IR images based on the vibration profile;deciding, based on pre-prepared rules and parameters, whether the IR images contain an image of an obstacle and whether that obstacle forms a threat on the train's travel; andproviding an alarm signal if the IR images contain the image of at least one of an obstacle and irregularities detected in an overhead cable.2. The method of claim 1 , comprising:detecting rails in the IR images based on temperature differences between the rails and their background.3. The method of claim 2 , comprising:extracting the vibration profile based on a pattern and location of the rails in the IR images.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the vibration profile is pre stored.5. The method of claim 1 , comprising:dynamically studying the vibration profile of the train engine.6. The method of claim 1 , comprising:defining a zone of interest around the detected rails ...

Position measurement device and position measurement method

A position and time calculator, based on a navigation satellite signal, calculates a position of a navigation satellite and a position and a time where an antenna receives the navigation satellite signal. An upper limit error determiner evaluates an upper limit of error caused in positioning a reception position of the antenna based on an amount obtained by multiplying a difference between the time calculated based on the navigation satellite signal and the time measured by a time measurer by a coefficient determined based on arrangement of navigation satellites, and information on the position on the track stored in a memory. A position determiner corrects the moved distance measured by the speed measurer based on the evaluation of the upper limit of error in positioning, and determines the position of the antenna.

SATELLITE POSITIONING APPARATUS AND TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEM CAPABLE OF DETERMINING ACCURATE AND LIMITED POSITION RANGE OF MOVING OBJECT

A moving path memory stores a moving path of a train in advance. A signal receiver receives satellite positioning signals. A position calculator calculates measured positions and receiver clock errors, based on the satellite positioning signals and the moving path. A error area calculator sets vector pairs, each consisting of arbitrary two vectors perpendicular to each other on a plane spanned by a tangent vector and a radial vector of a tangent circle of the moving path at the measured positions, and calculates an error area for each vector pair, based on the measured positions, the receiver clock errors, and positions of positioning satellites. A position range extractor extracts a part of the moving path included in each error area, as a candidate position range corresponding to the error area. A position range restrictor determines a common area of the candidate position ranges, as a position range of the train. 111-. (canceled)12. A satellite positioning apparatus for determining a positional range of a moving object based on a plurality of satellite positioning signals received from a plurality of positioning satellites , respectively , the satellite positioning apparatus comprising:a moving path memory that stores, in advance, a moving path of the moving object;a signal receiver that receives the satellite positioning signals through a receiving antenna mounted at a predetermined position on the moving object;a position calculator that calculates measured positions and receiver clock errors, based on satellite positioning signals received from three positioning satellites having a predetermined relationship among their relative positions, and based on the moving path, the measured positions indicating results of positioning the moving object, and the receiver clock errors indicating errors among clocks of the positioning satellites and a clock of the satellite positioning apparatus;an error area calculator that sets a plurality of vector pairs, each of the ...

DIGITAL CONTEXT-AWARE DATA COLLECTION

Examples relate to digital context aware (DCA) data collection. In some examples, a DCA start location component is positioned at a first location along a travel route, and a DCA end location component is positioned at a second location along the travel route. In response to using a wireless interface to detect the DCA start location component, data collection of measurements by a sensor are initiated. In response to using the wireless interface to detect the DCA end location component, the data collection by the sensor is halted. 1. A system comprising: detect, by a wireless interface, a digital context aware (DCA) start location component positioned at a first location along a travel route;', 'initiate data collection of vibration measurements by an accelerometer and capture of a video stream by a camera device in response to the detection of the DCA start location component;', 'detect, by the wireless interface, a DCA end location component positioned at a second location along the travel route; and', 'halt the data collection by the accelerometer and the capture of the video stream by the camera device in response to the detection of the DCA end location component., 'a computing device comprising a processor and a machine-readable medium with instructions that, when executed by the processor cause the system to2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising the camera device claim 1 , wherein the DCA start location component is detected based on a signal emitted by the DCA start location component claim 1 , the signal identifies the DCA start location component claim 1 , and the signal specifies a type of data to be collected.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the travel route is a railway claim 1 , and wherein the camera device is a hyperspectral camera that is targeted at the railway.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the camera device is mounted to a train on the railway.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the instructions further cause the system to:detect a ...

PORTABLE STOP DETERMINING DEVICE, STOP DETERMINING SYSTEM, AND STOP DETERMINING METHOD

A portable stop determining device includes an acceleration sensor and a state grasp unit in order to detect that a vehicle such as a train stops, with an adequate degree of accuracy, even when position information of a user and time information are not available. The state grasp unit outputs an alarm signal when detecting deceleration in a direction of travel of the vehicle based on a measured value from the acceleration sensor, and detecting that posture of the portable stop determining device carried by a person riding on the vehicle inclines in the direction of travel and then returns to a basic state. 1. A portable stop determining device comprising:an acceleration sensor; anda processor configured to output an alarm signal when detecting deceleration of a vehicle in a direction of travel based on a measured value from the acceleration sensor, and detecting that posture of the portable stop determining device carried by a person riding on the vehicle inclines in the direction of travel from a basic state then returns to the basic state.2. The portable stop determining device according to claim 1 , wherein the processor determines that the posture of the portable stop determining device inclines in the direction of travel when an angle representing the posture of the portable stop determining device is equal to or greater than a first predetermined angle claim 1 , and determines that the portable stop determining device is in the basic state when the angle is equal to or less than a second predetermined angle being smaller than the first predetermined angle claim 1 , the angle is an angle between a direction of gravitational acceleration based on the measured value from the acceleration sensor and a direction of gravitational acceleration preregistered in a situation where the portable stop determining device is in the basic state.3. The portable stop determining device according to claim 1 , wherein the processor determines that an acceleration direction based ...

Work block encroachment warning system

The present disclosure generally relates to work block encroachment warning systems for providing protection for rail workers working in a mobile or fixed work block. For example, a vehicle (V)-aware unit installed on a moving rail vehicle and a work block limit encroachment unit mounted on a railroad may wirelessly communicate with each other to determine a distance between them. When a vehicle is moving toward an occupied work block, the distance may be used to identify potential hazards.

VEHICLE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD

System includes a controller configured to obtain one or more of a route parameter or a vehicle parameter from discrete examinations of one or more of a route or a vehicle system. The route parameter is indicative of a health of the route over which the vehicle system travels. The vehicle parameter is indicative of a health of the vehicle system. The discrete examinations of the one or more of the route or the vehicle system separated from each other by one or more of location or time. The controller is configured to examine the one or more of the route parameter or the vehicle parameter to determine whether the one or more of the route or the vehicle system is damaged. The system also includes examination equipment configured to continually monitor the one or more of the route or the vehicle system responsive to determining that the one or more of the route or the vehicle is damaged. 1. A system comprising: examine a route parameter and a vehicle parameter to determine whether one or both of a route or a vehicle system are physically damaged;', 'receive interface information associated with one or more interfaces used to communicate with one or more components of the vehicle system;', 'receive application information associated with one or more applications configured to receive information from the one or more components of the vehicle system via the one or more interfaces;', 'store, based on the interface information and the application information, registration information that indicates whether the one or more applications are permitted to communicate via the one or more interfaces;', 'receive, from an application of the one or more applications, a request for vehicle information from an interface of the one or more interfaces;', 'verify whether the application is permitted to communicate via the interface; and', 'selectively route the request for the vehicle information to the interface based on verifying whether the application is permitted to communicate via ...

TRANSPORT AND RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE MONITORING SYSTEM

A rail infrastructure monitoring system enables integrated continuous monitoring and analysis of above and below rail assets, providing passenger and freight operators an end-to-end solution. Embodiments of the system comprise monitoring, coordinator control and display, communications, and business integration. Modern rail and transport techniques of providing integrated logistics are supported, offering improved safety, reduced total cost of ownership and the ability to increase capacity. Also, identification of links between different sets of data in ‘real time’ across all monitored infrastructure is enabled. Field hardware includes three modules: control; wagon master; and sensor, the latter communicating wirelessly with a wagon master module, and each sensor module is associated with a respective wagon or portion of below rail infrastructure. Sensor data values indicate the condition of either values outside the threshold alert of a train master via wagon master units or for below rail directly to the train master, which is then forwarded to a business component. 1. A rail infrastructure monitoring system comprising;a control unit;a plurality of wagon master modules; a processor; and', 'one or a plurality of sensors adapted to measure one or more sensor data values indicative of a condition of a portion of the track infrastructure and/or the wagon, the sensors further adapted for inputting the sensor data values to the processor; and, 'a plurality of sensor modules configured to communicate wirelessly with a wagon master module, wherein each sensor module is associated with a respective wagon of a train on a track, each sensor module including one or more sensors, the sensor modules comprisinga train master unit;wherein the processor is adapted to determine whether the measured sensor data values from the sensors is within a threshold range thereof and respond to a determination that the measured sensor data values are outside the threshold range by generating ...

TRAIN SAFETY SYSTEM

A method and system for assisting the safe operation of a train adapted to be operated by a locomotive operating crew comprises generating GPS-located critical information at a central location, the GPS-located critical information being based at least in part on one or more railroad maps and one or more train dispatcher information systems; monitoring the real-time location of the train with a GPS device on-board the train; and generating alerts for the locomotive operating crew based on the GPS-located critical information and the real time location of the train, so that the crew is alerted as to upcoming changes to be implemented. 121-. (canceled)22. A safety system for a train having a locomotive operating crew , said system comprising:a database containing one or more railroad maps and one or more train dispatcher information systems;a central server adapted to be at least intermittently coupled to said database to generate GPS-located critical information;a GPS device on-board the train to monitor the real-time location of the train; anda computer on-board the train and adapted to be at least intermittently coupled to said central server and said GPS device for executing an application utilizing said GPS-located critical information and said real-time location of the train, said application generates a braking curve with look ahead window, and further generates alerts for said locomotive operating crew based on the GPS-located critical information, the real time location of the train, and the look ahead window, so that the crew is alerted as to upcoming changes to be implemented;wherein said system looks ahead to ensure there is sufficient braking time to meet future speed zones based on information generated by at least one of said application and said central server dependent upon type of equipment included in a consist.23. The safety system of which includes one or more network interfaces between said central server and said on-board computer for ...

RAILWAY CYBER SECURITY SYSTEMS

A system for providing security to a railway system, the system comprising: a data monitoring and processing hub; a network comprising a plurality of data collection agents synchronized to a same network clock and configured to monitor railway infrastructure devices and onboard devices of rolling stock having a train communication network (TCN), train to wayside communications (such as GSM-R) and forward monitored data to the hub for processing by the hub to detect anomalies in railway operation that are indicative of a cyber-attack; wherein an agent of the plurality of data collection agents monitoring an onboard device connected to the TCN of a given rolling stock receives signals propagated to or from the device via the TCN and forwards to the hub data based on a given received signal together with a time stamp comprising a network clock time at which the given received signal is received by the agent. 1. A cyber security system for providing security to a railway , the system comprising:a data monitoring and processing hub;a network comprising a plurality of data collection agents synchronized to a same network clock and configured to monitor railway infrastructure devices and onboard devices of rolling stock having a train communication network (TCN), and forward monitored data to the hub for processing by the hub to detect anomalies in railway operation that are indicative of a cyber-attack;wherein an agent of the plurality of data collection agents monitoring an onboard device connected to the TCN of a given rolling stock receives signals propagated to or from the device via the TCN and forwards to the hub data based on a given received signal together with a time stamp comprising a network clock time at which the given received signal is received by the agent.2. The cyber security system according to wherein the TCN comprises a multifunctional vehicle bus (MVB) coupled to a wired train bus (WTB) and the time stamp comprises a value of a time lapse between a ...

AUTOMATED RAILROAD SAFETY SYSTEMS

An exemplary method includes electronically determining that movement of a rolling stock should be prevented based on a failure condition of the rolling stock. And if it is electronically determined that movement of the rolling stock should be prevented based on the failure condition of the rolling stock, the method further includes preventing movement of the rolling stock including preventing the rolling stock from initiating a movement from a stationary position along a track within a work area defined around the rolling stock by: preventing brakes of the rolling stock from being released via one or more pneumatic components; and/or preventing the rolling stock from receiving or accepting a movement command. 1. A method comprising:electronically determining that movement of a rolling stock should be prevented based on a failure condition of the rolling stock; and preventing brakes of the rolling stock from being released via one or more pneumatic components; and/or', 'preventing the rolling stock from receiving or accepting a movement command., 'if it is electronically determined that movement of the rolling stock should be prevented based on the failure condition of the rolling stock, preventing movement of the rolling stock including preventing the rolling stock from initiating a movement from a stationary position along a track within a work area defined around the rolling stock by2. The method of claim 1 , wherein:the rolling stock includes a user interface onboard the rolling stock; andthe method includes electronically receiving, via the user interface, a report of the failure condition of the rolling stock.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein:the rolling stock includes a diagnostic system onboard the rolling stock; andthe method includes electronically detecting, via the diagnostic system, the failure condition of the rolling stock.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method includes electronically scheduling claim 1 , alerting claim 1 , and guiding a work ...

VEGETATION DETECTION AND ALERT SYSTEM FOR A RAILWAY VEHICLE

The present disclosure relates generally to vegetation detection and, in particular, to a vegetation detection and alert system for a railway vehicle 1. An acquisition device mountable to a railway vehicle for detecting vegetation , the acquisition device comprising:an imaging sensor configured to capture images of an environment of the railway vehicle including a clearance zone around a railroad track on which the railway vehicle moves, the imaging sensor being configured to capture the images from the railway vehicle as the railway vehicle moves on the railroad track;a geospatial position sensor configured to determine a geolocation of the geospatial position sensor and thereby the environment imaged by the imaging sensor; and reference the images captured by the imaging sensor to the geolocation determined by the geospatial position sensor to form geospatial images of the environment including the clearance zone; and for one or more geospatial images of the geospatial images,', 'process the one or more geospatial images to produce a geometric computer model of the environment in which objects in the environment are represented by a collection of geometry;', 'detect vegetation in the clearance zone based on the geometric computer model; and', 'upload the one or more geospatial images and a notification of detected vegetation from which a backend server is configured to generate an alert for a client., 'a processor coupled to the imaging sensor and geospatial position sensor, and programmed to at least2. A method comprising detecting vegetation using an acquisition device mountable to a railway vehicle , the acquisition device including imaging sensors and a geospatial position sensor , the method comprising:capturing, by the imaging sensor, images of an environment of the railway vehicle including a clearance zone around a railroad track on which a railway vehicle moves, the imaging sensor capturing the images from the railway vehicle as the railway vehicle moves ...

Real Time Machine Vision and Point-Cloud Analysis For Remote Sensing and Vehicle Control

Methods and apparatus for real time machine vision and point-cloud data analysis are provided, for remote sensing and vehicle control. Point cloud data can be analyzed via scalable, centralized, cloud computing systems for extraction of asset information and generation of semantic maps. Machine learning components can optimize data analysis mechanisms to improve asset and feature extraction from sensor data. Optimized data analysis mechanisms can be downloaded to vehicles for use in on-board systems analyzing vehicle sensor data. Semantic map data can be used locally in vehicles, along with onboard sensors, to derive precise vehicle localization and provide input to vehicle to control systems.

ROUTE EXAMINING SYSTEM

Systems for examining a route inject one or more electrical examination signals into a conductive route from onboard a vehicle system traveling along the route, detect one or more electrical characteristics of the route based on the one or more electrical examination signals, and detect a break in conductivity of the route responsive to the one or more electrical characteristics decreasing by more than a designated drop threshold for a time period within a designated drop time period. Feature vectors may be determined for the electrical characteristics and compared to one or more patterns in order to distinguish between breaks in the conductivity of the route and other causes for changes in the electrical characteristics. 1. A system comprising:plural conductive bodies attached to a vehicle system that is configured to travel along a conductive route, wherein the conductive bodies are configured to inject plural electrical examination signals into the route from onboard the vehicle system and to detect plural electrical characteristics of the route based on the electrical examination signals; andone or more processors are configured to determine feature vectors representative of different values of the electrical characteristics, the one or more processors also configured to compare the feature vectors to one or more patterns of feature vectors associated with different conditions of the route, at least one of the patterns of feature vectors is associated with the break in the conductivity of the route,wherein the one or more processors are configured to detect a break in the conductivity of the route responsive to one or more of the electrical characteristics decreasing by more than a designated drop threshold for a time period within a designated drop time period and responsive to the feature vectors more closely matching the at least one pattern of feature vectors associated with the break in the conductivity of the route.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the ...

Rail track asset survey system

The present application involves a railroad track asset surveying system comprising an image capture sensor, a location determining system, and an image processor. The image capture sensor is mounted to a railroad vehicle. The location determining system holds images captured by the image capture sensor. The image processor includes an asset classifier and an asset status analyser. The asset classifier detects an asset in one or more captured images and classifies the detected asset by assigning an asset type to the detected asset from a predetermined list of asset types according to one or more features in the captured image. The asset status analyser identifies an asset status characteristic and compares the identified status characteristic to a predetermined asset characteristic so as to evaluate a deviation therefrom.

WORK BLOCK ENCROACHMENT WARNING SYSTEM

The present disclosure generally relates to work block encroachment warning systems for providing protection for rail workers working in a mobile or fixed work block. For example, a vehicle (V)-aware unit installed on a moving rail vehicle and a work block limit encroachment unit mounted on a railroad may wirelessly communicate with each other to determine a distance between them. When a vehicle is moving toward an occupied work block, the distance may be used to identify potential hazards. 120-. (canceled)21. A work block limit encroachment unit , comprising:a body having one or more transceivers configured to wirelessly communicate with a rail vehicle moving along a rail;one or more magnets coupled to the body and configured to magnetically couple the body to the rail; anda processor configured to determine, based on the communication with the rail vehicle, a first distance between the rail vehicle and a boundary limit of a work block.22. The work block limit encroachment unit of claim 21 , wherein the one or more transceivers are configured to wirelessly communicate with a receiver coupled to the rail vehicle.23. The work block limit encroachment unit of claim 21 , wherein based on the communication with the rail vehicle claim 21 , the processor is configured to determine a second distance between the body and the rail vehicle.24. The work block limit encroachment unit of claim 21 , wherein:the communication with the rail vehicle comprises sending and receiving chirp signals to a collision avoidance unit of the rail vehicle; andthe first distance is determined based on the chirp signals.25. The work block limit encroachment unit of claim 21 , further comprising:an alarm coupled to the body; andbased on the first distance being less than or equal to a first threshold distance, the processor is configured to activate the alarm.26. The work block limit encroachment unit of claim 25 , wherein the alarm is an audio alarm and/or a visual alarm.27. The work block limit ...

Railroad Train Monitoring System

Railcar monitoring utilizes instrumented, flexible pads supported within the truck pedestal jaws on the bearing adapters. The pads contain sensors for monitoring temperature pressure, shifting loads, truck hunting and the like and have circuitry for processing information received from the sensors and for processing and reporting departures of performance variables to a remote source. The system cyclically activates polling each pad on a car and communicates signals of critical departures and car identity to a remote source.

GROUND APPARATUS

A ground apparatus system performs polling communication in which ground apparatuses are set as primary stations and trains are set as secondary stations. The ground apparatus stores a train list of train IDs of trains to be managed. The ground apparatus acquires, train information including train location information from the train to determine a train location of each train included in the train list. The ground apparatus calculates a coming-in allowable range of each train to generate traveling control information, and transmits the traveling control information to the train. The ground apparatus updates the train list by adding a train ID of a train that comes in a radio communication control region of the ground apparatus and deleting a train ID of a train that goes out from the radio communication control region by performing handover control of the trains to be managed with an adjacent ground apparatus. 1. A ground apparatus of a ground apparatus system in which a plurality of ground apparatuses for performing radio communication with trains are provided along a track ,a radio communication control region of a ground apparatus among the plurality of ground apparatuses having an overlapped radio region in which the radio communication control region partially overlaps with a radio communication control region of an adjacent ground apparatus,the radio communication being polling communication in which the plurality of ground apparatuses are set as primary stations, and the trains are set as secondary stations,the ground apparatus comprising:a storage unit that stores a train list that is a list of train identification information of trains to be managed with which the ground apparatus can perform communication through the radio communication;a train control unit that acquires, by performing the polling communication with each train included in the train list, train information including train location information from the train to determine a train location of ...

Mass transit safety notification system and device

A system and device that will notify roadway maintenance workers of an approaching mass transit vehicle and, conversely, will notify the operators and administrators of mass transit vehicles of roadway maintenance workers within the vicinity of an approaching section of track.

COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD OF A VEHICLE CONSIST

A communication system and method receive, at an energy management system disposed onboard a vehicle system formed from a lead vehicle and one or more remote vehicles, trip data that represents one or more characteristics of an upcoming trip of the vehicle system along a route. A selected portion of the trip data is communicated from the energy management system to a distributed power system also disposed onboard the vehicle system. The selected portion includes identifying information and one or more orientations of the one or more remote vehicles. Using the distributed power system, communication links between the lead vehicle and the one or more remote vehicles are established using the identifying information and the one or more orientations. 1. A system comprising:a first directional sensor configured to output a first directional signal indicative of a first heading of a first vehicle;a second directional sensor configured to output a second directional signal indicative of a second heading of a second vehicle, wherein the first vehicle and the second vehicle travel together in a vehicle system; anda heading determination unit having a communication interface and a controller, wherein the communication interface is configured to receive the first and second directional signals, and wherein the controller is configured to determine an orientation for the second vehicle based on the first and second directional signals.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the heading determination unit is onboard the first vehicle.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the heading determination unit is remotely located from the first and second vehicles.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the heading determination unit is configured to compare the first directional signal with the second directional signal to determine the orientation of the second vehicle.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first or second directional sensors comprises a digital compass.6. The ...

Discharge Gate Sensing Method, System and Assembly

A system, method and assembly for detecting the operational status of one or more discharge gates on one or more railcars. The system and method monitor parameters that include whether the discharge gate is open or closed, whether the railcar is in motion or not, and whether the railcar is in a location where it is acceptable for the discharge gate to be open. Sensors carry out the monitoring, and the information obtained by monitoring the parameters are used to determine if a notification event has taken place and if so, a notification of such event can be transmitted to a remote receiver. A change in the status of any one of the monitored parameters can trigger the determination of whether a notification event has occurred.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING THE POINT LOCATION OF A STOPPED VEHICLE ON A STORAGE TRACK, USING VIRTUAL BEACONS

A method for determining the point location of a vehicle stopped on one storage track among a set of storage tracks, using virtual beacons is provided. It determines and compares the likelihood of a plurality of hypotheses as to the stopped location of the vehicle, corresponding to a first set of NBe predefined virtual beacons Be(i), i varying from 1 to NBe, the respective positions of which are known in an amount of one virtual beacon per storage track, by correlating the GNSS geo-positioning signals received at various synchronization reset times of a second set by the GNSS receiver located on board the vehicle with predicted GNSS geo-positioning signals of replicas expected for the various positions of the virtual beacons of the first set at the various times. The detected holding position of the vehicle is the position that corresponds to the maximum likelihood.

V-AWARE END OF TRAIN DEVICE

The present disclosure teaches inter-vehicle communications for avoiding rear collision of rail vehicles on a railroad. For example, a collision avoidance system may comprise an end-of-train device and a V-aware unit located on different vehicles. The two devices may be configured to wirelessly communicate with each other, and then detect each other's presence by estimating a distance between them. Warnings may be issued to respective operators against a collision hazard when the distance drops to or below a pre-determined threshold. 1. An end-of-train device positioned at about a rear end of a train , the end-of-train device comprising:at least one transceiver configured to wirelessly communicate with a rail vehicle that is moving towards the rear end of the train; anda processor configured to detect, based on the communication with the rail vehicle, a presence of the rail vehicle to prevent a potential collision between the train and the rail vehicle.2. The end-of-train device of claim 1 , wherein the train comprises a locomotive and at least one car coupled to the locomotive claim 1 , wherein the end-of-train device is configured to be installed on a last car claim 1 , and wherein the end-of-train device is further configured to notify a train operator of the presence of the rail vehicle by sending a data signal to the locomotive.3. The end-of-train device of claim 1 , wherein the rail vehicle is equipped with a vehicle (V)-aware unit located thereon claim 1 , and wherein the V-aware unit communicates with the at least one transceiver over a radio link for determining at least a distance range between the train and the rail vehicle.4. The end-of-train device of claim 3 , wherein the communication between the V-aware unit and the at least one transceiver over the radio link comprises using radio frequencies near about 400 MHz.5. The end-of-train device of claim 3 , wherein the communication with the V-aware unit comprises sending chirp signals in a radio frequency ...

Work block encroachment warning system

The present disclosure generally relates to work block encroachment warning systems for providing protection for rail workers working in a mobile or fixed work block. For example, a vehicle (V)-aware unit installed on a moving rail vehicle and a work block limit encroachment unit mounted on a railroad may wirelessly communicate with each other to determine a distance between them. When a vehicle is moving toward an occupied work block, the distance may be used to identify potential hazards.

METHOD FOR SAFELY AND AUTONOMOUSLY DETERMINING THE POSITION INFORMATION OF A TRAIN ON A TRACK

A method for safely determining a position information of a train on a track includes an on-board system determining appearance characteristics, current distances relative to the train and current angular positions relative to the train of passive trackside structures with a first sensor arrangement of a first localization stage of the on-board system. The on-board system stores a map data base in which georeferenced locations and appearance characteristics of the passive trackside structures are registered. A first position information about the train is derived from a comparison of determined current distances and current angular positions and the registered locations of allocated passive trackside structures by the first localization stage. A second position information about the train is derived from satellite signals determined by a second sensor arrangement of a second localization stage. The first and second position information undergo a data fusion resulting in a consolidated position information. 1. A method for safely determining a position information of a train on a track , the method comprising the steps of:providing an on-board system of the train identifying trackside structures, wherein the trackside structures comprise passive trackside structures which are passive in their identification by the on-board system, wherein the on-board system stores a map data base in which georeferenced locations and appearance characteristics of the passive trackside structures are registered;determining, by the on-board system, appearance characteristics, current distances relative to the train and current angular positions relative to the train of the passive trackside structures by means of a first sensor arrangement of a first localization stage of the on-board system, wherein the first localization stage allocates passive trackside structures measured by the first sensor arrangement to passive trackside structures registered in the map data base using the ...

POSITIVE TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD

A positive train control system and method may comprise one or more switch monitors and/or one or more track monitors providing sensor data relative to one or more switches and/or one or more tracks, respectively, determining whether there is an anomaly of a switch or track, and when there is, providing a message, alert and/or warning, and/or initiating a train control action. Determination of an anomaly may be preformed on a train or at a remote location, e.g., a central facility. 1. A positive train control system for a train movable on a track way comprising:one or more switch monitors disposed at one or more locations along a track way proximate a switch of the track way, or one or more track monitors disposed at one or more locations proximate a track of the track way, or a combination thereof;each of said switch monitors including a sensor providing sensor data relating to a physical condition of one or more switches of the track way proximate to the switch monitor and including a communication device for transmitting the switch monitor sensor data and switch monitor location data representative of the location of the switch monitor;a processor configured to receive and process the switch monitor sensor data and the switch monitor location data to determine when there is an anomaly of the switch and the location thereof;each of said track monitors including a sensor providing sensor data relating to a physical condition of one or more tracks of the track way proximate to the track monitor and including a communication device for transmitting the track monitor sensor data and track monitor location data representative of the location of the track monitor;said processor configured to receive and process the track monitor sensor data and track monitor location data to determine when there is an anomaly of the track and the location thereof;said processor generating a message, alert and/or warning when an anomaly of the switch and/or an anomaly of the track is ...

Determining The Position Of A Vehicle

A sensor device for a vehicle that traveling on a predetermined route, particularly a rail vehicle, includes a plurality of sensors configured to detect movement of the sensor device and/or physical variables of an environment of the sensor device, and to issue corresponding measurement values. The sensors include magnetic sensors for detecting orientation and/or pressure sensors and/or real time clocks. A data storage unit is configured to store reference measurement values for the sensors, relating to predetermined positions on the predetermined route. A computing unit is configured to compare the measurement values issued by the sensors with the stored reference measurement values and, when the measurement values issued by the sensors coincide with the reference measurement values, to issue, as a current position of the sensor device, a position corresponding to the respective reference measurement values. A corresponding vehicle and a corresponding method are also provided. 115-. (canceled)16. A sensor device for a vehicle or rail vehicle traveling on a predetermined route , the sensor device comprising:a plurality of sensors configured to detect at least one of a movement of the sensor device or physical variables of an environment of the sensor device and to issue corresponding measurement values, said sensors including magnetic field sensors for detecting an orientation of the vehicle;a data storage unit configured to store reference measurement values for said sensors relating to predetermined positions on the predetermined route; and to compare the measurement values, including measurement values detected for detection of an orientation of the vehicle, issued by said sensors with the stored reference measurement values and', 'to issue a position corresponding to the respective reference measurement values as a current position of the sensor device, when the measurement values issued by said sensors coincide with the reference measurement values., 'a ...

RAILWAY MONITORING SYSTEM

A railway monitoring system for detecting degradations, anomalies, changes, and other states of the railway that may indicate an increased probability of derailment, the need for maintenance, or the impedance of railway operation. The railway monitoring system broadly includes a sensor, a data storage component, a data collection and processing component, and a location positioning component. The sensor and other equipment are mounted in a specially designed or modified rail car and cooperatively collect data representative of railway conditions or states and detect changes in the conditions or states by comparing the collected data to previously collected data points. 1. A system for monitoring a condition of a railway , the system comprising:a sensor configured to be positioned in or on a rail car for sensing states of features of the railway as the rail car traverses the railway at least a first time and a second time; and receive from the sensor a first set of signals representative of the states of the features of the railway as the rail car traverses the railway the first time;', 'receive from the sensor a second set of signals representative of the states of the features of the railway as the rail car traverses the railway the second time;', 'compare the first set of signals with the second set of signals for identifying any differences between the first set of signals and the second set of signals; and', 'generate at least one alert representative of the identified differences, the differences being representative of a change in the state of one or more features of the railway., 'a data collection and processing component configured to2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the data collection and processing component transmits alerts representative of the identified differences to a remote computer while the system is operating and moving with the rail car.3. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a location determining component configured to generate ...

System and method for detecting wheel condition

The present disclosure is directed to a method for detecting a condition associated with a wheel on a train car. The method may include detecting a position of the wheel. The method may also include detecting a position of a rail on which the wheel travels. The method may further include comparing the position of the wheel relative to the position of the rail, and determining a wheel condition based on the comparison.

VEHICLE DRIVING ASSISTANCE METHOD, ONBOARD DEVICE, AND VEHICLE HAVING ONBOARD DEVICE

A vehicle driving assistance method includes detecting a speed of a vehicle, obtaining a speed limit of the vehicle in a corresponding section of road based on images when the speed of the vehicle exceeds the speed threshold, and issuing a warning when the speed of the vehicle exceeds the speed limit of the vehicle in the corresponding section of road. 1. A vehicle driving assistance method comprising:detecting a speed of a vehicle;obtaining a speed limit of the vehicle in a corresponding section of road based on images when the speed of the vehicle exceeds the speed threshold; andissuing a warning when the speed of the vehicle exceeds the speed limit of the vehicle in the corresponding section of road.2. The vehicle driving assistance method of claim 1 , wherein the speed limit of the vehicle in the corresponding section of road based on images is obtained by:obtaining an image comprising a speed limit sign;cutting out an area of the image where the speed limit sign is located from the image; andidentifying the speed limit from the speed limit sign in the cut out area of the image to obtain the speed limit of the vehicle.3. The vehicle driving assistance method of claim 1 , wherein the speed limit of the vehicle in the corresponding section of road based on images is obtained by:obtaining a track image of a track where the vehicle is located and calculating a track path based on the track image;calculating a track bending angle of the track based on the track path; andobtaining the speed limit according to the track bending angle.4. The vehicle driving assistance method of claim 1 , wherein the speed limit of the vehicle in the corresponding section of road based on images is obtained by:training a database using training samples; andobtaining a track image and obtaining the speed limit of the vehicle based on the track image according to the database.5. The vehicle driving assistance method of claim 4 , wherein the database is trained using training samples by: ...

RAILROAD TRACK SURVEY SYSTEM

The present application involves a railroad track inspection system comprising a plurality of track scanning sensors, a data store, and a scan data processor. The data store is used for storing track scan data recorded by the track scanning sensors. The scan data processor is used for automatic analysis of the track scan data upon receipt thereof to detect one or more track components within the scan data from a predetermined list of component types according to one or more features identified in said scan data. The system comprises a common support structure to which the track scanning sensors, the data store and scan data processor are attached, the common support structure having a mounting for attachment of the system to a railway vehicle in use. 133-. (canceled)34. A railroad track inspection system comprising:a plurality of track scanning sensors;a data store for storing track scan data recorded by the track scanning sensors; anda scan data processor for automatic analysis of said track scan data upon receipt thereof to detect one or more track components within the scan data from a predetermined list of component types according to one or more features identified in said scan data;wherein the system comprises a common support structure to which the track scanning sensors, the data store and scan data processor are attached, the common support structure having a mounting for attachment of the system to a railway vehicle in use.35. The system according to claim 34 , wherein the common support structure comprises a rigid enclosure within which the track scanning sensors claim 34 , the data store and scan data processor are housed as a single module or assembly.36. The system according to claim 35 , wherein the scan data processor and data store are provided in a housing as a removable processing unit claim 35 , which is releasably mechanically and electrically coupled to the common support structure by one or more connector formation.37. The system according to ...

Vehicle control system

A control system includes a communication device onboard a vehicle system approaching or entering an airflow restricted area along a route and one or more processors. The communication device configured to receive status messages that contain data parameters representative of ambient conditions within the airflow restricted area. The processors are configured to monitor the ambient conditions and determine different power output upper limits that a trail propulsion vehicle of the vehicle system can generate within the airflow restricted area based on the ambient conditions and different power outputs generated by a lead propulsion vehicle of the vehicle system. The processors further configured to communicate instructions to control the lead propulsion vehicle within the airflow restricted area to generate the power output of the different power outputs that results in the greatest total available power output of the vehicle system as the vehicle system travels within the airflow restricted area.

LOCOMOTIVE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD

A locomotive control system includes a mobile platform that moves under remote and/or autonomous control, a sensor package supported by the mobile platform that obtains information relating to a component of a railroad, and one or more processors that receive the sensor information and analyze the information in combination with other information that is not obtained from the sensor package. The processors also generate an output that displays information relating to one or more of a status, a condition, and/or a state of health of the component of the railroad; initiates an action to change an operational state of the component; identifies a hazard to one or more locomotives traveling within the railroad; and/or collects the information relating to the component. Optionally, the component is not communicatively coupled to an information network and the mobile platform provides the information obtained by the sensor package to the information network. 1. A locomotive control system comprising:a locomotive controller that is configured to control the operation of at least one locomotive;a mobile platform configured to move under remote control or under autonomous control;a sensor package supported by the mobile platform and configured to obtain information relating to a component of a railroad; and displays information relating to one or more of a status, a condition, or a state of health of the component of the railroad,', 'initiates an action to change an operational state of the component,', 'identifies a hazard to the at least one locomotive within the railroad, or', 'collects the information relating to the component,, 'one or more processors configured to receive the information obtained by the sensor package and to analyze the information in combination with other information that is not obtained from the sensor package, and to generate an output that at least one ofwherein the component is not communicatively coupled to an information network, and the mobile ...

Work vehicle control system

A work vehicle control system includes an on-board communication controller for requesting, while a current travel position indicates that the work vehicle travels in a predetermined first block section of a travel path, a travel permission request signal for permitting travel in a second block section located next to the first block section from an on-board wireless controller. The on-board communication controller, respectively coupled to an on-board wireless controller and a GPS device, changes an interval of requesting the travel permission signal in accordance with a remaining distance to an emergency stop point in the case where it is determined from a current travel position detected by the GPS device that the work vehicle is traveling in the first block section and a control center is controlling travel of the work vehicle.

RUNNING LOCATION IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM, RUNNING LOCATION IDENTIFICATION APPARATUS, AND RUNNING LOCATION IDENTIFICATION METHOD FOR RAILROAD CARS

A running location identification system for railroad cars includes: a track displacement output unit outputting a signal responsive to displacement of a track when a railroad car is running on the track; and a running location identification unit determining whether the railroad car has run in a predetermined range of the track based on a degree of similarity between displacement data based on output from the track displacement output unit and reference profile data responsive to track displacement in the predetermined range. 1. A running location identification system for railroad cars , the running location identification system comprising:a track displacement output unit outputting a signal responsive to displacement of a track when a railroad car is running on the track; anda running location identification unit determining whether the railroad car has run in a predetermined range of the track based on a degree of similarity between displacement data of the track with respect to a running distance on the track based on output from the track displacement output unit and reference profile data responsive to track displacement in the predetermined range.2. The running location identification system for railroad cars according to claim 1 , whereinthe reference profile data is previously measured data.3. The running location identification system for railroad cars according to claim 1 , whereinthe running location identification unit identifies, based on a degree of similarity between the displacement data and each of a plurality of pieces of the reference profile data corresponding to a plurality of respective tracks, one of the tracks corresponding to one of the pieces of the reference profile data most similar to the displacement data.4. The running location identification system for railroad cars according to claim 1 , whereinthe track displacement output unit includes an acceleration sensor outputting acceleration of the railroad car during running responsive ...

Method and measuring vehicle for determining an actual position of a track

A method for determining an actual geometry of a track by a track inspection vehicle which is movable on the track, wherein reference points positioned in a lateral environment of the track are automatically recorded by a non-contacting recording system arranged on the track inspection vehicle and their respective actual distance from the track is determined. A three-dimensional trajectory of the track is recorded by an inertial measuring system arranged on the track inspection vehicle, wherein the trajectory is divided by a computing unit into trajectory sections each having a section starting point related to a first reference point and a section end point related to a second reference point, wherein a virtual longitudinal chord is defined for each trajectory section in relation to the assigned reference points, and wherein actual distances between the trajectory and the respectively defined longitudinal chord are calculated for each trajectory section.

Vehicle control system and method for implementing safety procedure

A system includes a safety mode activation device disposed onboard a vehicle system and operatively connected to a controller of the vehicle system. The safety mode activation device is configured to receive a status signal indicating a presence of one or more of an operator or an active work marker in a location proximate to the vehicle system. The safety mode activation device is further configured to transmit a lockout signal to the controller to prevent movement of the vehicle system along a route responsive to receiving the status signal.

Monitoring and controlling of distributed machines

Exemplary embodiments are disclosed of apparatus and methods for monitoring and controlling distributed machines. In an exemplary embodiment, a network includes machines each having sensor(s) and/or actuator(s). Each machine has a node resident on the machine and/or in communication with the machine and that provides raw data from the sensor(s) and/or actuator(s). Each node has a network interface, and a processor and memory configured as a node agent to embed the raw data in message(s) without reformatting the raw data. An engine receives and reformats messages from the node agents without reformatting raw data embedded in the messages. The engine directs the reformatted messages including the raw data to user device(s) for use in managing machine activity and/or status. The engine also sends a message from a user device to a node of a given machine, for use in controlling activity and/or status of the given machine.

AUTOMATIC END OF TRAIN DEVICE BASED PROTECTION FOR A RAILWAY VEHICLE

An end of train device suitable of use on a railway vehicle includes a tracking device providing location data of a railway vehicle, a protection module with a processor and configured via computer executable instructions to monitor a motion of a part of the railway vehicle utilizing the location data, and initiate an emergency brake application of the part of the railway vehicle in response to a detected state of motion. 1. An end of train device suitable of use on a railway vehicle comprising:a tracking device providing location data of a railway vehicle, monitor a motion of at least one part of the railway vehicle utilizing the location data, and', 'initiate an emergency brake application of the at least one part of the railway vehicle in response to a detected state of motion., 'a protection module comprising at least one processor and configured via computer executable instructions to'}2. The end of train device of claim 1 , wherein the tracking device comprises a global positioning system (GPS) receiver or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receiver.3. The end of train device of claim 1 , wherein the protection module is configured to communicate with a remote tracking system comprising a database of geographic information including end-of-track locations and railway switch locations.4. The end of train device of claim 3 , wherein the protection module is configured to select an end-of-track location or railway switch location from the remote tracking system and establish a geo-fence around a selected end-of-track location or railway switch location.5. The end of train device of claim 4 , wherein the protection module is configured to transmit real-time position data of the at least one part of the railway vehicle in relation to the selected end-of-track location or railway switch to the tracking system.6. The end of train device of claim 1 , wherein the protection module is configured to access a locomotive-based database of the railway vehicle claim ...

Condition monitoring system and method for monitoring a condition of a bearing unit for a vehicle

A condition monitoring system (CMS) for vehicle bearing units, including at least one condition monitoring unit (CMU) for measuring at least one operating parameter of one bearing unit and a control unit for receiving and processing signals from the CMU. The control unit is configured to activate/deactivate the CMU(s) upon reaching at least one predetermined waypoint stored in a waypoint memory of the control unit. The CMS can be equipped with a waypoint setting unit for setting the at least one waypoint at which the CMU(s) shall be activated/deactivated and to store the waypoint in the waypoint memory. The waypoint setting unit processes route data includes data on at least a curviness of at least one route intended for vehicle travel. The processing includes extracting at least one route section within the curviness of the route within a predetermined range and setting the waypoint(s) within the extracted route section.

CONDITION MONITORING SYSTEM, CONDITION MONITORING UNIT AND METHOD FOR MONITORING A CONDITION OF A BEARING UNIT FOR A VEHICLE

A condition monitoring system for bearing units for vehicles, the system including at least one condition monitoring unit for measuring at least one operating parameter of one bearing unit and a control unit for receiving and processing signals obtained from the condition monitoring unit. The system additionally includes a circuit for detecting a geographic position, wherein the condition monitoring unit is configured to be at least one of activated and deactivated depending on the detected geographic position. 1. A condition monitoring system for bearing units for vehicles , the system comprising:at least one condition monitoring unit for measuring at least one operating parameter of one bearing unit;a control unit for receiving and processing signals obtained from the condition monitoring unit; anda circuit for detecting a geographic position of the vehicle,wherein the condition monitoring unit is configured to be at least one of activated and deactivated depending on the detected geographic position.2. The condition monitoring system according to claim 1 , the control unit further comprising a memory for storing route data of the vehicle claim 1 , the route data including a plurality of possible route sections along which the vehicle can travel claim 1 ,wherein the control unit is configured to activate the condition monitoring unit when the vehicle is travelling in one route section out of a predetermined set of route sections and to deactivate the condition monitoring unit in route sections not included in the predetermined set of route sections.3. The condition monitoring system according claim 1 , the control unit further comprising a memory for storing route data of the vehicle claim 1 , the route data including a plurality of possible route sections along which the vehicle can travel claim 1 ,wherein the control unit is configured to evaluate at least one characteristic of the route sections of the route data and to activate the condition monitoring unit ...

Train status presentation based on aggregated tracking information

A control system presents a configurable virtual representation of at least a portion of a train and associated train assets, including a real-time location, configuration, and operational status of the train and associated train assets traveling along a railway. The control system may include a train position determining system, and a train configuration determining system. The control system may further include a train asset operational parameter sensing device, and a controller configured to receive data produced by the train position determining system, the train configuration determining system, and the train asset operational parameter sensing device. The controller may also process and aggregate the received data to provide a real-time virtual representation of the train and the train assets including the actual real-time position and configuration of the train assets relative to each other and to a geographical location, and coordinate a presentation of the aggregated data such that implementation of a select presentation process to the aggregated data results in a simultaneous implementation of the same select presentation process to at least one of electronic map data associated with the real-time location of the train and the train asset operational parameter data. A graphical user interface (GUI) may be configured to display in one or more display areas the real-time virtual representation of the train including a coordinated and configurable presentation of at least a portion of the aggregated data and the train asset operational parameter data.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A VEHICLE SYSTEM

A system (e.g., a control system) includes a sensor configured to monitor an operating condition of a vehicle system during movement of the vehicle system along a route. The system also includes a controller configured to designate one or more operational settings for the vehicle system as a function of time and/or distance along the route. 1. A system comprising:at least a first sensor configured to monitor at least one operating condition of a vehicle system while traveling a route from a first location to at least a second location;a control system, the control system including at least one or more processors, the control system configured to receive data communicated from the at least first sensor and to generate a trip plan that includes plural designated operational settings for control of the vehicle system during a trip;wherein the operational settings include at least a first operational mode and second operational mode;wherein the control system is configured to control the vehicle system in the first operating mode responsive to the operating condition of the vehicle system being at least one of at or above a designated threshold; andwherein the control system is configured to control the vehicle system in the second operating mode responsive to the operating condition of the vehicle system being below the designated threshold.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one operating condition of the vehicle system is a speed of the vehicle system along the route claim 1 , and the designated threshold is a threshold speed.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the sensor is a speed sensor configured to determine the speed of the vehicle system along the route claim 2 , the speed sensor configured to communicate the speed of the vehicle system to the control system claim 2 , the control system configured to compare the speed of the vehicle system to the threshold speed.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one operating condition of the vehicle ...

Diagnostic System for a Rail Vehicle

A visual diagnostic system for a rail vehicle having multiple assets is disclosed. The visual diagnostic system may have a data interface configured to receive a message from a wayside unit. The message may indicate that at least one of the multiple assets is experiencing an issue. The data interface may also be configured to receive geo-information and configuration-information. The system further includes a controller configured to determine, from the geo-information and the configuration-information, a geographic location of each of the multiple assets. The controller is further configured to determine, from the received message and the determined geographic location of each of the multiple assets, which of the multiple assets is experiencing the issue. The controller is further configured to render for display in a user interface a visual representation of the rail vehicle with an identification of the at least one of the multiple assets experiencing the issue.

SYSTEM FOR MONITORING THE OPERATING CONDITIONS OF A TRAIN

A system includes an onboard device and a ground device. The onboard device incorporates a geolocation device, a plurality of sensors and at least one shaping module for the raw measurement signals delivered by one or more of said sensors to generate at least one formatted signal. The ground device incorporates a computer able to analyze said at least one formatted signal, to generate at least one indicator relative to the track and/or the rolling stock, said indicator making it possible to detect damage and monitor its variations so as to optimize maintenance of the track and/or rolling stock. The computer is a damage module able to compute said damage indicator from said at least one formatted signal and a model of the monitored damage type. 1. A system for monitoring the operating conditions of a rail vehicle , comprising: a geolocation device,', 'a plurality of sensors selected for their relevance to measure an instantaneous operating condition of a monitored component of said rail vehicle, and', 'at least one module shaping the raw measurement signals delivered by one or more of said sensors to generate at least one formatted signal corresponding to said instantaneous operating state of said monitored component, and, 'an onboard device onboard said rail vehicle, comprisinga ground device, comprising a computer analyzing said at least one formatted signal, to generate at least one indicator relative to the monitored component, said indicator making it possible to detect damages and follow variations of said damage so as to optimize a maintenance step of the monitored component, wherein the computer is a damage module computing said indicator from said at least one formatted signal and a fatigue model of the monitored component.2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the ground device includes a damage variation module computing a variation of an indicator claim 1 , from several successive values of said indicator generated at the output of the damage module ...

METHOD FOR STABILIZING A RAIL VEHICLE

In a method for stabilizing a rail vehicle with a wheel set, the speed of the rail vehicle is changed when a critical vibration state of the wheel set occurs. An advantageous state can be achieved if the speed of the rail vehicle is changed by using a vibration state variable of the wheel set. 117-. (canceled)18. A method for stabilizing a rail vehicle having a wheel set , which comprises the steps of:changing a speed of the rail vehicle if a critical vibration state of the wheel set occurs; andchanging the speed of the rail vehicle using a vibration state variable of the wheel set.19. The method according to claim 18 , which further comprises using the vibration state variable as a controlled variable for changing the speed.20. The method according to claim 18 , wherein the vibration state variable is an acceleration running generally perpendicular to a direction of travel of the rail vehicle.21. The method according to claim 18 , which further comprises increasing the speed if the rail vehicle has remained within a non-critical vibration state range of the wheel set for a predefined travel span.22. The method according to claim 18 , which further comprises determining a maximum speed of the rail vehicle that is different from a changed speed in dependence on the changed speed.23. The method according to claim 22 , which further comprises determining the maximum speed as the changed speed multiplied by a safety factor.24. The method according to claim 18 , which further comprises:reducing the speed;measuring the vibration state variable during the reducing of the speed; andreducing the speed until the vibration state variable falls below a predetermined limit value due to the reducing of the speed.25. The method according to claim 18 , which further comprises changing the speed to a discrete speed value.26. The method according to claim 18 , which further comprises reducing the speed with a constant deceleration.27. The method according to claim 18 , wherein if the ...

LOCATION DETERMINATION SYSTEM

A location determination system includes one or more processors configured to determine a location of a vehicle system based on output from a location determination system onboard the vehicle system. The one or more processors also are configured to determine whether the location of the vehicle system as determined by the location determination system is accurate based on one or more of performance of the vehicle system, communication between two or more vehicles in the vehicle system, one or more other locations determined by one or more other location determination systems onboard the vehicle system, and/or operation of a brake system of the vehicle system. 1. A system comprising:one or more processors configured to determine a location of a vehicle system based on output from a location determination system onboard the vehicle system,wherein the one or more processors also are configured to determine whether the location of the vehicle system as determined by the location determination system is accurate based on one or more of performance of the vehicle system, communication between two or more vehicles in the vehicle system, one or more other locations determined by one or more other location determination systems onboard the vehicle system, or operation of a brake system of the vehicle system.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more processors are configured to implement one or more responsive actions in response to determining that the location of the vehicle system is inaccurate.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more processors are configured to determine whether the location of the vehicle system is accurate by determining whether communication devices disposed onboard multiple different vehicles in the vehicle system are communicatively coupled with each other.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more processors are configured to determine whether the location of the vehicle system is accurate by examining a propagation time ...

VEHICLE CONTROL SYSTEM

A system and method that includes determining a relationship between a moving resistance of a vehicle system and one or more characteristics of the vehicle system. A trip plan may be generated based at least in part on the relationship for movement of the vehicle system through one or more sections of one or more routes based at least in part on the relationship. One or more operational settings of the vehicle system are then designated for implementing the trip plan to drive movement of the vehicle system to achieve one or more objectives. 1. A method comprising:determining a relationship between a moving resistance of a vehicle system and one or more characteristics of the vehicle system;generating a trip plan based on the relationship for movement of the vehicle system through one or more sections of one or more routes based on the relationship; anddesignating one or more operational settings of the vehicle system for implementing the trip plan to drive movement of the vehicle system to achieve one or more objectives.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the relationship between the moving resistance of the vehicle system and the one or more characteristics of the vehicle system includes determining a tractive power using at least one speed dependent resistance coefficient.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the at least one speed dependent resistance coefficient includes a drag coefficient associated with a linear component.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising varying the one or more characteristics of the vehicle system to generate the trip plan.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the varying the one or more characteristics of the vehicle system is responsive to a reduction in a speed threshold in at least one section of the one or more sections of the one or more routes.6. The method of claim 1 , comprising modifying the relationship based on speed constraints for the vehicle system associated with the one or more sections of the one or more ...

TRAIN SECURITY SYSTEM

A method for identifying an alteration of an object in the vicinity of a train in operation travelling on a rail track along a route. The train is operative to transport passengers or cargo. The method includes capturing image data of an object located at a point of interest along said route when said train is operational on said rail track. Furthermore, said image data is analyzed to find matching reference image data stored in a data storage device. Based on said matching reference image data, said object is located at a position within said point of interest. Further, said image data is analyzed to find an alteration of said object compared to said matching reference image data. If an alteration is found, an action depending may be taken. 1. A method for identifying an alteration of an object in the vicinity of a train in operation when travelling on a rail track along a route , said train being operative to transport passengers and/or cargo , the method comprising:capturing image data of an object located at a point of interest along said route when said train is operating on said rail track;analyzing said image data to find matching reference image data stored in a data storage device;based on said matching reference image data, locating said object at a position within said point of interest;analyzing said image data to find an alteration of said object compared to said matching reference image data;if an alteration is found, performing an action depending on said alteration.2. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of subsequently replacing said matching reference image data by said image data in said data storage device to form new matching reference image data.3. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising claim 1 , in the event that said alteration is found claim 1 , reporting said alteration by sending an alarm from said train to an off-train control center.4. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising storing a ...

Vehicle control system

A vehicle control system and method includes identifying a segment of a route where one or more first vehicle systems were operated manually instead of operated by one or more processors according to one or more trip plans during prior traversals of the segment by the one or more first vehicle systems. A segment plan is generated for traversing the segment under control of the one or more processors. The segment plan is generated based on how the one or more first vehicle systems were manually operated during the prior traversals of the segment. One or more second vehicle systems are controlled with the one or more processors to traverse the segment according to the segment plan.

Rail Vehicle

A rail vehicle includes at least one sensor unit for sensing at least one variable that is characteristic of inherent vehicle dynamics which can be controlled by the driver of the vehicle. In order to provide a rail vehicle in which an advantageous functionality, which is based on the sensed characteristic parameter and is available during the journey, can be obtained, the rail vehicle includes an evaluation unit for determining a characteristic wear variable or parameter during a vehicle movement phase by performing an analysis on the basis of the at least one characteristic variable.

A Track Monitoring System

A track monitoring system (and a method thereof) for mounting to a vehicle on a track comprising at least one rail is provided. The track monitoring system comprises a position and attitude measurement unit configured to determine a geographical position and attitude of the system during at least one pass of the vehicle on the track, a storage medium for storing track geometry data, a laser imaging and/or scanning unit configured to determine a position of the at least one rail relative to the track monitoring system, and a position of the at least one rail and surroundings relative to the track monitoring system during the at least one pass, a processor configured to determine, in the at least one pass, a first geographically referenced rail position based on the geographical position and attitude of the rail monitoring system and the position of the at least one rail relative to the system, determine, in the at least one pass, a second geographically referenced rail position based on the geographical position and attitude of the rail monitoring system and the position of the at least one rail and surroundings relative to the rail monitoring system, determine a third geographically referenced rail position based on the first and the second geographically referenced rail positions, and corresponding geographically referenced track geometry data, acquire, in a further pass, track geometry data associated with each position of the rail relative to the rail monitoring system, and the output of the position and attitude measurement unit, update, based on the third geographically referenced position of the rail, the track geometry data acquired in the further pass, and store updated track geometry data to the storage medium. 1. A track monitoring system for mounting to a vehicle on a track comprising at least one rail , the track monitoring system comprising:a position and attitude measurement unit configured to determine a geographical position and attitude of the ...

TRACKSIDE DEVICE, TRACK STARLINK SYSTEM AND TRAIN OPERATION CONTROL SYSTEM

Embodiments of the application provide a trackside device, a track starlink system and a train operation control system, which relate to a technical field of traffic trackside intelligent devices and are used to overcome a problem of a limited sensing range of existing on-board intelligent devices. The trackside device includes: a collection module configured to collect detection information at a side of a track; a processing module configured to process the detection information to obtain a processing result; a trackside resource control module configured to drive and control a trackside resource when a trackside resource request is received from a target train and the trackside resource is in a released state, wherein the trackside resource control module is further configured to monitor a state of the trackside resource; and a communication module configured to communicatively connect with a ground center and the target train. 1. A trackside device , characterized by comprising:a collection module configured to collect detection information at a side of a track;a processing module configured to process the detection information to obtain a processing result, wherein the processing result comprises at least one of the following: a track section having been cleared, the track section having been occupied, an obstacle detection result and an obstacle recognition result;a trackside resource control module configured to drive and control a trackside resource when a trackside resource request is received from a target train and the trackside resource is in a released state, wherein the trackside resource control module is further configured to monitor a state of the trackside resource; anda communication module configured to communicatively connect with a ground center and the target train and send the processing result and/or the state of the trackside resource to the ground center and/or the target train.2. The trackside device according to claim 1 , characterized in ...

VEHICLE CONTROL SYSTEM

A system includes a locator device and one or more processors operably connected to the locator device. The locator device determines a trailing distance between a trailing vehicle system that travels along a route and a leading vehicle system that travels along the route ahead of the trailing vehicle system in a same direction of travel. The one or more processors compare the trailing distance to a first proximity distance relative to the leading vehicle system. In response to the trailing distance being less than the first proximity distance, the one or more processors set a permitted power output limit for the trailing vehicle system to be less than a maximum achievable power output for the trailing vehicle system, the permitted power output limit being set based on a power-to-weight ratio of the leading vehicle system. 1. A system comprising:a communication device located offboard multiple vehicle systems scheduled to travel along a segment of a route within a predetermined time period; andone or more processors operably connected to the communication device, the one or more processors configured to set a permitted power output per weight limit for the vehicle systems, the permitted power output per weight limit being less than a maximum achievable power output per weight of at least one of the vehicle systems, wherein the permitted power output per weight limit is set based on one or more of a predetermined power output per weight, one or more route characteristics of the segment of the route, or the maximum achievable power output per weight of one or more of the vehicle systems, wherein the permitted power output per weight limit is enforced as a function of one or more of time, distance, or location along the route, andwherein the communication device is configured to communicate the permitted power output per weight limit to the vehicle systems such that the vehicle systems traveling along the segment of the route do not exceed the permitted power output ...

Railway vehicle comprising a perfected system of protection against pressure waves

The railway vehicle is intended to run on a railway including at least one tunnel, wherein it includes a system for protection against pressure waves, and is configured to hermetically isolate the interior of the railway vehicle from the exterior of the railway vehicle when this protection system is activated. The vehicle includes a geolocation unit providing instantaneous geolocation coordinates of the railway vehicle, wherein a database includes fixed geolocation coordinates of an entry point of this tunnel for each tunnel of the railway, and a unit for comparing the instantaneous coordinates with the fixed coordinates, and wherein it is configured to indicate when the instantaneous geolocation coordinates of the railway vehicle substantially correspond to the fixed coordinates of the entry point of one of the at least one tunnels.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTION OF DEFECTS IN AN ELECTRIC CONDUCTOR SYSTEM OF A TRAIN

A method and system for identification of obstacles near railways and for providing alarm to an operator of a train if obstacles constitute threat to the train are disclosed. The system comprise IR sensor disposed at the front of the train facing the direction of travel. The IR sensor receives images of the rails in front of the train. The system comprises pre-stored vibration profile of the train's engine that is used to eliminate influence of the engine's vibrations on the accuracy of the received images. Presence of rails in the received frames is detected based on inherent differences of temperature between the rails and the substrate in the rails' background, such as the railway sleepers and the materials underneath it. The system may detect defects in an electric conductor system of a train. 1. A method of detecting defects in an electric conductor system of a train , the method comprising:receiving infrared (IR) images from at least one IR sensor installed on a train, the at least one IR sensor aimed at the electric conductor system of the train; anddetecting defects in the electric conductor system based on the IR images.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising detecting defects in the electric conductor system based on the IR images by detecting areas of elevated temperatures with relation to a background of the electric conductor system.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising detecting defects in the electric conductor system based on the IR images by detecting areas in which a temperature difference between the electric conductor system and a background of the electric conductor system is above a predetermined threshold.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising detecting defects in the electric conductor system based on the IR images by detecting areas or points in the electric conductor system in which an absolute temperature is above a predetermined threshold.5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising detecting defects in the electric ...

RAILROAD CAR TRACKING SYSTEM

Tracking railroad cars during transit using computer implemented methods. Location information for railroad cars is obtained from sensors through a computer network and input into a computer. Locations of trains are represented by train symbols on a graphical representation of a geographical region. In different embodiments, the real time location information is used to determine how the railroad cars are grouped into trains; when an operator selects one of the train symbols, one railcar symbol is displayed for each of the railroad cars that make up the trains; or a bad ordered car is depicted at a last position of the location information received for that car. In various embodiments, train symbols are shown at a shifted location when two of the trains are close together, a particular train is displayed in an ocean when location information is unavailable, or railcar symbols are displayed in a spiral pattern. 1. A computer-implemented method of tracking railroad cars during transit , the method comprising , in any order , at least the acts of:inputting into a user computer real time location information for the railroad cars, wherein the real time location information is obtained from multiple sensors through at least one computer network;using the user computer, using the real time location information for the railroad cars to determine how the railroad cars are grouped into multiple trains; andusing the user computer and using the real time location information for the railroad cars, displaying locations of the multiple trains on a graphical representation of a geographical region, each of the multiple trains including at least one of the railroad cars, wherein each of the multiple trains is represented on the geographical region by one of multiple train symbols.2. The computer-implemented method of wherein the act of inputting into the user computer the real time location information for the railroad cars comprises inputting into the user computer data obtained ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING TRACK LOCATION AND/OR DIRECTION OF TRAVEL

A system and method for determining a track location and/or a direction of travel of a train includes at least one computer programmed or configured to determine at least one of a track on which the train is located and a direction of travel of the train on the track based at least partly on at least one location associated with at least one locomotive or control car of the train and at least one other location associated with at least one other locomotive or control car of the train. The at least one computer can be programmed or configured to determine a track on which the train is located based at least partly on the at least one location associated with the at least one locomotive or control car of the train and at least one additional location associated with at least one additional locomotive or control car of at least one additional train. 1. A system for determining a track location of a train including at least two locomotives or control cars and , optionally , at least one railroad car , in a track network having a plurality of tracks , the system comprising at least one computer programmed or configured to:receive or determine at least one location associated with at least one locomotive or control car of the train;receive or determine at least one other location associated with at least one other locomotive or control car of the train; anddetermine a track of the plurality of tracks on which the train is located based at least partly on the at least one location associated with the at least one locomotive or control car and the at least one other location associated with the at least one other locomotive or control car.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one computer is programmed or configured to:determine a distribution of the at least one location associated with the at least one locomotive or control car and the at least one other location associated with the at least one other locomotive or control car and normalize the distribution to ...

Inspection system and method

An inspection management system is provided. The inspection management system includes an inspection data provider that receives inspection data relating to an inspector, one or more devices used to complete an inspection, one or more assets associated with an inspection, an inspection plan, etc. A display of the inspection management system presents one or more graphical user interfaces based upon the inspection data. The graphical user interfaces may facilitate inspection planning, execution, preparation, and/or real-time inspection monitoring.

Method & apparatus for a train control system

A method and an apparatus for a train control system are disclosed, and are based on virtualization of train control logic and the use of cloud computing resources. A train control system is configured into two main parts. The first part includes physical elements of the train control system, and the second part includes a virtual train control system that provides the computing resources for the required train control application platforms. The disclosed architecture can be used with various train control technologies, including communications based train control, cab-signaling and fixed block, wayside signal technology. Further, the disclosure describes methodologies to convert cab-signaling and manual operations into distance to go operation.

PROCEDURE FOR TRACKING RADIO EQUIPPED VEHICLES WITHOUT ODOMETER

A method for locating a railway vehicle in a railway network, including first detection devices detecting the passage of a railway vehicle in a first perimeter, second detection devices detecting the passage of a railway vehicle in a second perimeter and a centralized server, includes the following steps: detection, by one of the first detection devices, of the passage of the railway vehicle and sending of a first detection signal; detection, by one of the second detection devices, of the passage of the railway vehicle and sending of a second detection signal; and reception of the signals by the centralized server and determination of the position of the railway vehicle on the railway network by intersection of the first perimeter and the second perimeter. 1. A method for locating at least one railway vehicle in a railway network , the railway network comprising:a plurality of first detection devices, each first detection device being configured to detect the passage of a railway vehicle in a given first perimeter associated with said first detection device;a plurality of second detection devices different from the first detection devices, each second detection device being configured to detect the passage of a railway vehicle in a given second perimeter associated with said second detection device; anda centralized server;the method comprising, for each railway vehicle, the following steps:detection, by at least one of the first detection devices, of the passage of said railway vehicle in the first perimeter;transmission of a first detection signal by each first detection device having detected the presence of the railway vehicle in the first associated perimeter;detection, by at least one of the second detection devices, of the passage of said railway vehicle in the associated second perimeter;transmission of a second detection signal by each second detection device having detected the presence of the railway vehicle in the second associated perimeter;reception of ...

Train Control Device

This train control device is provided with a leading carriage position measuring means for measuring the position of a leading carriage during travel, a final carriage position measuring means for measuring the position of a final carriage during travel, a train length calculating means for calculating a train length from measurement results obtained by the leading carriage position measuring means and the final carriage position measuring means, a leading carriage passing time measuring means for measuring the time at which the leading carriage passed a specific location, a final carriage passing time measuring means for measuring the time at which the final carriage passed the specific location, a speed measuring means for measuring the speed of the train, a traveled distance calculating means for calculating a traveled distance through which the train traveled from the leading carriage passing time until the final carriage passing time, on the basis of the measurement results obtained by the speed measuring means, the leading carriage passing time measuring means, and the final carriage passing time measuring means, a train completeness determining means for determining whether a difference between the train length and the traveled distance is equal to or less than a prescribed difference value, and a taillight means for indicating the final carriage, wherein the taillight means is a portable train taillight, and the final carriage position measuring means and the final carriage passing time measuring means are arranged integrally. 1. A train control device , comprising:a leading carriage positioning unit for measuring a position of a leading carriage of a train including a plurality of carriages at least in traveling;a final carriage positioning unit for measuring a position of a final carriage of the train at least in traveling;a train length calculation unit for calculating a train length of the train at least in traveling using a measurement result of the ...

System and method for aggregation display and analysis of rail vehicle event information

This disclosure relates to a rail vehicle event analysis system configured to facilitate analysis of rail vehicle event records that correspond to rail vehicle events. The system may be configured to visually present a user with information related to operation of a rail vehicle. The user may review the information related to operation of the rail vehicle in real time, responsive to the rail vehicle being involved in a rail vehicle event, and/or at other times. The system may be configured to visually present information based on output signals generated by one or more sensors associated with the rail vehicle. The system may synchronize the presented information such that information from individual sensors may be compared and/or viewed at the same time by the user. The system may be configured to receive observations made by the user based on the user's review of the presented visual information.

RAILWAY CONDITION MONITORING SENSOR DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MONITORING THE CONDITION OF A RAILWAY BEARING

The invention provides a railway condition monitoring sensor device attached to a railway bearing of a railway vehicle including at least one vibration sensor; means for detecting movement of the railway vehicle; a control unit for processing at least the signals obtained by the vibration sensor to determine a health parameter indicating the bearings state of health. The control unit triggers measurements based on at least one predetermined condition; and a wireless communication device for communicating the health parameter to a monitoring and control server. The control unit configured to be operated in an energy-saving sleep mode and in at an activated mode. The control unit is configured to switch from the sleep mode to the activated mode upon detecting that a predetermined set of conditions is met. The predetermined set of conditions includes the condition that the means for detecting the movement detects that the railway vehicle is moving. 1. A railway condition monitoring sensor device configured to be attached to a railway bearing of a railway vehicle comprising:at least one vibration sensor;means for detecting a movement of the railway vehicle;a control unit for processing at least the signals obtained by the vibration sensor to determine a health parameter indicating the state of health of the bearing, wherein the control unit is configured to trigger measurements based on at least one predetermined condition; anda wireless communication device for communicating the health parameter to a monitoring and control server, whereinthe control unit is configured to be operated in an energy-saving sleep mode and in at least one activated mode, whereinthe control unit is configured to switch from the sleep mode to the activated mode upon detecting that a predetermined set of conditions is met, and whereinthe predetermined set of conditions includes the condition that the means for detecting the movement detects that the railway vehicle is moving.2. The railway ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING A BREAK IN A RAILWAY TRACK

The present invention refers to a method for detecting a break in a railway track, system for detecting a break in a railway track () and device for detecting a break in a railway track (), in which a first track () and a second track () are connected defining measuring sections () and electrical detection networks (M, M), in which a device for detecting a break in a railway track () is coupled to said tracks () and arranged to measure at least one electrical parameter of at least one electrical detection network (M, M) and selectively promote an output () that indicates a state of at least one track (). 1. A method for detecting a break in a railway track , the method for detecting a break in a railway track comprising the stages of:a) Electrically connecting a first track to a second track by way of a first jumper;b) Electrically connecting the first track to the second track by way of a second jumper, distant from the first jumper;c) Electrically coupling a device for detecting a break in a railway track at a first point of the first track and at a second point of the second track, establishing along the first track and the second track a first distance between the device for detecting a break in a railway track and the first jumper and establishing along the first track and the second track a second distance between the device for detecting a break in a railway track and the second jumper;d) Defining a first section of the tracks to be monitored,comprised at least by the distance and defining a first electrical detection network, comprised at least by the first section of the tracks, first jumper and device for detecting a break in a railway track;e) Defining a second section of the tracks to be monitored, comprised at least by the distance and defining a second electrical detection network, comprised at least by the second section of the tracks, second and device for detecting a break in a railway track;f) Applying an electrical measuring current at the first ...

Determining Location of a Rail Vehicle Based on a Radio Frequency Signal

A system for determining a location of a rail vehicle based on a radio frequency (RF) signal includes at least one processor programmed or configured to receive an RF signal transmitted by at least one radio transmitter device, where the RF signal includes location data associated with the location of the at least one radio transmitter device, determine a location of the at least one radio transmitter device based on the location data associated with the location of the at least one radio transmitter included in the RF signal, and determine a location of a rail vehicle based on the location of the at least one radio transmitter device. A method and computer program product are also disclosed.

TRAIN EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM

A system that can automatically control the emissions of each locomotive in a consist to reduce overall train emissions. An emissions module determines the amount of emissions emitted by a train. An emissions control module commands the locomotive, via the train control system, to operate in a predetermined state to achieve a particular amount of emissions. A location module can track the location of the locomotive of the train relative geographic locations having emission regulations so that the emissions control module can command appropriate changes in the locomotive to reduce emissions. 1. A system for controlling train emissions , comprising:an emissions module programmed to determine the amount of emissions emitted by each locomotive in a train; andan emissions control module interconnected to the emissions module and programmed to independently command each locomotive to operate in a predetermined state to achieve a particular amount of emissions.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the emissions module is interconnected to at least one sensor that directly measures the amount of emissions emitted by the train.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the emissions module receives data representing the current operating conditions of the train and calculates the amount of emissions based on the data.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the emissions module also receives data representing ambient weather conditions and uses the data representing ambient weather conditions along with the data representing the current operating conditions of the train to calculate the amount of emissions.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the emissions control module is interconnected to a train control system.6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the emissions control module is programmed to send a command to the train control system that indicates the predetermined state of the locomotive.7. The system of claim 6 , wherein the system includes a location module.8. The system of claim 7 , ...

TRAIN CONTROL DEVICE

A train control device, according to one embodiment, includes a storage unit, an acquiring unit, and a control unit. The storage unit is configured to store therein information of a plurality of limit speeds corresponding to a plurality of respective blocks and being determined based on a block on which a preceding train traveling at least one ahead is located. The acquiring unit is configured to acquire schedule information of the preceding train indicating a time at which the preceding train exits each of the blocks. The control unit is configured to determine a limit speed in each of the blocks associated with a travel of a train, based on the acquired schedule information and the information of the limit speeds; and to create a travel plan of the train using the determined limit speed. 1. A train control device comprising:a storage unit that stores therein information of a plurality of limit speeds corresponding to a plurality of respective blocks and being determined based on a block on which a preceding train traveling at least one ahead is located;an acquiring unit that acquires schedule information of the preceding train indicating a time at which the preceding train exits each of the blocks; anda control unit, whereinthe control unit determines a limit speed in each of the blocks associated with a travel of a train, based on the acquired schedule information and the information of the limit speeds; and creates a travel plan of the train using the determined limit speed.2. The train control device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit determines the limit speed in each of the blocks based on the acquired schedule information and the information of the limit speeds at a timing when the train enters a succeeding block.3. The train control device according to claim 2 , wherein the control unit determines the timing based on a time of entering the succeeding block when the train travels according to the created travel plan.4. The train control device ...

VEHICLE ORIENTATION DETERMINATION SYSTEM

A vehicle orientation determination system includes one or more processors configured to determine a first distance between a reference device disposed on a first vehicle and a front device disposed on a second vehicle. The first and second vehicles are both disposed on a route. The one or more processors are further configured to determine a second distance between the reference device disposed on the first vehicle and a rear device disposed on the second vehicle. The front device is located more proximate to a front end of the second vehicle than a proximity of the rear device to the front end. The one or more processors are configured to determine that the second vehicle has a common orientation as the first vehicle relative to the route based on the first distance being less than the second distance. 1. A system comprising:one or more processors configured to determine a first distance between a reference device disposed on a first vehicle and a front device disposed on a second vehicle, the first and second vehicles both disposed on a route, the one or more processors further configured to determine a second distance between the reference device disposed on the first vehicle and a rear device disposed on the second vehicle, wherein the front device is located more proximate to a front end of the second vehicle than a proximity of the rear device to the front end,the one or more processors configured to determine that the second vehicle has a common orientation as the first vehicle relative to the route based on the first distance being less than the second distance.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more processors are configured to determine that the second vehicle has an opposite orientation as the first vehicle relative to the route based on the first distance being greater than the second distance.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more processors are disposed onboard the first vehicle claim 1 , and the system further includes a ...

Real Time Machine Vision and Point-Cloud Analysis For Remote Sensing and Vehicle Control

Methods and apparatus for real time machine vision and point-cloud data analysis are provided, for remote sensing and vehicle control. Point cloud data can be analyzed via scalable, centralized, cloud computing systems for extraction of asset information and generation of semantic maps. Machine learning components can optimize data analysis mechanisms to improve asset and feature extraction from sensor data. Optimized data analysis mechanisms can be downloaded to vehicles for use in on-board systems analyzing vehicle sensor data. Semantic map data can be used locally in vehicles, along with onboard sensors, to derive precise vehicle localization and provide input to vehicle to control systems. 1. An apparatus for identifying assets within point-cloud survey data , the apparatus comprising:a front end component accessible via a digital communications network for receiving a point-cloud dataset;a data storage component, the data storage component storing the point-cloud dataset and subdividing the point-cloud dataset into a plurality of data chunks;a processing unit comprising a compute cluster, the processing unit receiving streamed data chunks from the data storage component and applying one or more analysis mechanisms to each data chunk to extract asset information; anda map generator combining asset information extracted from the data analysis mechanisms into an output map.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , in which each data chunk comprises one or more tiles of point-cloud data.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , in which each tile comprises a subset of point-cloud data within a rectangular column extending lengthwise along the Earth's gravity vector.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , in which each data chunk contains a number of contiguous tiles optimized to achieve a target data chunk size.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , in which the map generator further comprises an annotation integrity verifier comparing asset information in an output map with asset information in one or more ...

Railcar Security System With Car Lighting

A railcar security system that includes a railcar, a first sensor having a first sensor type and a first sensor location with respect to the railcar, a second sensor having a second sensor type and a second sensor location with respect to the railcar, a first lighting group linked with the first sensor, a second lighting group linked with the second sensor, and a controller. The controller is configured to receive an arming signal, receive a trigger signal indicating a sensor of the plurality of sensors has been triggered, determine a sensor type and a sensor location for the sensor based on the trigger signal, activate the first lighting group when the determined sensor type and the determined sensor location correspond with the first sensor, and activate the second lighting group when the determined sensor type and the determined sensor location correspond with the second sensor. 1. A railcar security system comprising:a railcar; a first sensor having a first sensor type and a first sensor location with respect to the railcar, and', 'a second sensor having a second sensor type and a second sensor location with respect to the railcar;, 'a plurality of sensors disposed on the railcar comprising a first lighting group linked with the first sensor, and', 'a second lighting group linked with the second sensor; and, 'a plurality of lighting groups disposed on the railcar comprising receive an arming signal indicating to monitor signals from the plurality of sensors;', 'receive a trigger signal indicating a sensor of the plurality of sensors has been triggered;', 'determine a sensor type for the sensor based on the trigger signal in response to receiving the trigger signal;', 'determine a sensor location for the sensor based on the trigger signal in response to receiving the trigger signal;', 'compare the determined sensor type to the first sensor type and the second sensor type;', 'compare the determined sensor location to the first sensor location and the second sensor ...

Railroad Locomotive Monitoring System Configuration System and Method

A railroad locomotive monitoring system configuration system for a plurality of trains comprising: a monitoring system, and an on-board computer programmed or configured to: determine or receive railroad locomotive data; determine or receive railroad operation data; determine or receive configuration data; and based at least partially on at least a portion of the railroad locomotive data, at least a portion of the railroad operation data, and at least a portion of the configuration data, automatically configure at least one setting of the at least one component of the monitoring system. 1. A railroad locomotive monitoring system configuration system for a plurality of trains , each having at least one locomotive or control car , operating in at least one railroad's track network , the system comprising:at least one monitoring system configured to record or monitor at least one parameter or condition in or associated with the at least one locomotive or control car; and (i) determine or receive railroad locomotive data representing information or data related to the at least one locomotive or control car;', '(ii) determine or receive railroad operation data representing information or data related to at least one of the following: the railroad that owns the locomotive or control car, the railroad that owns the track on which the at least one locomotive or control car is operating, the railroad that employs at least one member of at least one crew that is operating the at least one locomotive or control car, or any combination thereof;', '(iii) determine or receive configuration data representing information or data related to at least one setting of or associated with at least one component of the at least one monitoring system; and', '(iv) based at least partially on at least a portion of the railroad locomotive data, at least a portion of the railroad operation data, and at least a portion of the configuration data, automatically configure at least one setting of ...

Selective Operational Modes of End-of-Train Unit Based on GPS Information

In a method of controlling operation of an end-of-train unit (EOTU) of a train during travel of the train on a path, a GPS receiver of the EOTU receives first GPS data and a controller, based on the received first GPS data, sets an electrical/electronic device or system of the EOTU to a first mode of operation. After travel of the train on the path following setting the electrical/electronic device or system to the first mode of operation, the GPS receiver receives second GPS data. The controller, based on the received second GPS data, sets the electrical/electronic device or system of the EOTU to a second, different mode of operation. 1. A method of controlling operation of an end-of-train unit (EOTU) of a train during travel of the train on a path , the method comprising:(a) determining, by a controller, comprising one or more processors, from first GPS data received by a GPS receiver of the EOTU, a first geographical location of the EOTU;(b) causing, by the controller, an electrical/electronic device or system of the EOTU to operate in a first mode of operation on the basis of the first geographical location of the EOTU determined in step (a);(c) following travel of the train on the path after step (b), determining, by the controller, from second GPS data received by the GPS receiver of the EOTU, a second geographical location of the EOTU;(d) causing, by the controller, the electrical/electronic device or system of the EOTU to operate in a second mode of operation that is different than the first mode of operation on the basis of the second geographical location of the EOTU determined in step (c).2. The method of claim 1 , wherein:the electrical/electronic device or system comprises an EOTU communication device that is operative for communicating with a head-of-train unit (HOTU) via a communication channel;the first mode of operation includes the EOTU communication device communicating with the HOTU at a first data transmission rate; andthe second mode of ...

Method & apparatus for a train control system

A method and an apparatus for a train control system are disclosed, and are based on virtualization of train control logic and the use of cloud computing resources. A train control system is configured into two main parts. The first part includes physical elements of the train control system, and the second part includes a virtual train control system that provides the computing resources for the required train control application platforms. The disclosed architecture can be used with various train control technologies, including communications based train control, cab-signaling and fixed block, wayside signal technology. Further, the disclosure describes methodologies to convert cab-signaling and manual operations into distance to go operation.

Virtual Railroad Crossing Alert

System and method for a virtual crossing alert system that provides a notification, an alert, or a command to an alert receiving system depending on the spatial relationships of actors within a specified area.

V-AWARE END OF TRAIN DEVICE

The present disclosure teaches inter-vehicle communications for avoiding rear collision of rail vehicles on a railroad. For example, a collision avoidance system may comprise an end-of-train device and a V-aware unit located on different vehicles. The two devices may be configured to wirelessly communicate with each other, and then detect each other's presence by estimating a distance between them. Warnings may be issued to respective operators against a collision hazard when the distance drops to or below a pre-determined threshold. 1. An end-of-train device positioned at about a rear end of a train , the end-of-train device comprising:at least one transceiver configured to wirelessly communicate with a rail vehicle that is moving towards the rear end of the train; anda processor configured to detect, based on the communication with the rail vehicle, a presence of the rail vehicle to prevent a potential collision between the train and the rail vehicle;wherein the rail vehicle is equipped with a vehicle (V)-aware unit located thereon, and wherein the V-aware unit communicates with the at least one transceiver over a radio link for determining at least a distance range between the train and the rail vehicle.2. The end-of-train device of claim 1 , wherein the train comprises a locomotive and at least one car coupled to the locomotive claim 1 , wherein the end-of-train device is configured to be installed on a last car claim 1 , and wherein the end-of-train device is further configured to notify a train operator of the presence of the rail vehicle by sending a data signal to the locomotive.3. The end-of-train device of claim 1 , wherein the communication between the V-aware unit and the at least one transceiver over the radio link comprises using radio frequencies near about 400 MHz or 900 MHz.4. The end-of-train device of claim 1 , wherein the communication with the V-aware unit comprises sending chirp signals in a radio frequency band near about 2.4 GHz.5. The end-of ...

POSITIVE TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEM AND APPARATUS EMPLOYING RFID DEVICES

A positive train control system and method comprises a plurality of RFID devices embedded in a track way and having data representing location stored therein, and an RFID reader/detector mounted on a train for reading the location data from the embedded RFID devices. The location data is processed on the train and/or at a central facility for determining whether the train location and/or time is consistent with a train routing order. Messages, alerts and/or warnings may be generated for an alert device and/or for automated response, e.g., via a train control system. 1. A method for positive train control of a train movable on a track way comprising:embedding in the track way or having embedded in the track way a plurality of RFID devices, the RFID devices being embedded below grade in the track way at least at boundaries between blocks of the track way, and each embedded RFID device having stored therein data including a unique identifier, location data including the geographic location on the track way whereat the embedded RFID device is embedded, or both the unique identifier and the location data, wherein the unique identifier is associated with the geographic location along the track way whereat the embedded RFID device is embedded; detecting and reading the unique identifier and/or the location data stored in ones of the RFID devices embedded in the track way when the train is proximate each particular one of the embedded RFID devices;', 'transmitting the unique identifier and/or the location data received from the embedded RFID devices and a unique train identifier, and/or determining from the location data and/or from the unique identifier received from the embedded RFID devices whether the train is at a geographic location consistent with a train routing order for that train, or both; and, 'providing or obtaining a positive train control unit for mounting on a train operating on the track way wherein each train has a unique train identifier and is authorized ...

METHOD FOR OPTIMIZING PASSENGER COMFORT IN A RAILWAY VEHICLE

The vehicle including an active suspension system () parameterized by a set of adjustment parameters. The railway track is cut into segments. For each segment (T), the method includes campaigns for optimization of the set of parameters, such that: during the first campaign, to each passage of the suspension system () on the segment (T), a first set of parameters, specific to this passage, is predefined and applied to the suspension system (), and a comfort quality index is calculated, and then a metaheuristic algorithm is applied for determining second sets of parameters, and during each following optimization campaign, at each passage of the suspension system over the segment, one of the determined sets of parameters by the previous optimization campaign is applied to the suspension system, and the comfort quality index is calculated, and then the metaheuristic algorithm is applied in order to determine new sets of parameters. 1. A comfort optimization method for optimizing the comfort in a railway vehicle circulating on a railway track , the railway vehicle including at least one active suspension system parameterized by a set of adjustment parameters , wherein:the railway track is cut out in segments, during the first optimization campaign, at each passage of the active suspension system on the segment, a first set of adjustment parameters, specific to this passage, is predefined and applied to the active suspension system, and a comfort quality index is calculated, and then a metaheuristic algorithm is applied for determining second sets of adjustment parameters,', 'during each following optimization campaign, at each passage of the active suspension system over the segment, one of the sets of adjustment parameters determined by the previous optimization campaign is applied to the suspension system and the comfort quality index is calculated, and then the metaheuristic algorithm is applied for determining new sets of adjustment parameters., 'for each segment, ...

Engine monitoring and maintenance dispatch system

A method and system that monitors various functions and criteria within a standard vehicle platform (“SVP”) or a small engine platform (SEP″). The SVP uses an OBD-II adapter as a central controller to collect the information and communicate with a mobile communication device or a cloud based application to monitor the health of in-vehicle systems within the SVP and determine if maintenance is required. The SEP utilizes a run hour meter to collect information and communicates with a mobile communication device, an OBD-II adapter, or a cloud based application to monitor the health of an engine within the SEP and determine if maintenance is required. The method and system can automatically dispatch maintenance resources if maintenance is deemed necessary, thereby providing a managed maintenance solution for either a SVP or SEP.

Driving assistance device for a railway vehicle

The driving assistance device () for a railway vehicle comprises means () for determining a target speed (V), means () for comparing an instantaneous speed (V) of the railway vehicle with the target speed (V) or an interval surrounding the target speed, and means () for indicating driving instructions intended for a driver of the railway vehicle, said driving instructions including instructions for modifying the instantaneous speed (V) with view to bringing it closer to the target speed (V). 1. A driving assistance device for assisting driving for a railway vehicle , comprising a speed determining unit for determining a target speed , wherein the driving assistance device includes:a comparison unit for comparing an instantaneous speed of the railway vehicle with the target speed or with an interval surrounding the target speed, andan indication unit for indicating driving instructions intended for a driver of the railway vehicle, said driving instructions including instructions for modifying the instantaneous speed with view to bringing it closer to the target speed,and wherein the target speed is determined on a track segment in one of the following ways:the target speed is predetermined, by calculation beforehand, taking into account the energy consumption of the railway vehicle and the schedules which have to be observed by this railway vehicle, and preferably features of the vehicle, features of the relevant track segment and environmental conditions;the target speed is calculated in real time, taking into account the energy consumption of the railway vehicle and the schedules which have to be observed by this railway vehicle, and preferably features of the vehicle, features of the relevant track segment and environmental conditions; orthe target speed is defined by a learning unit recording at each travel, the speed of the vehicle on the relevant track segment, and then by selecting the most adapted speed from among those recorded on this track segment.2. The ...

Discharge Gate Sensing Method, System and Assembly

A system, method and assembly for detecting the operational status of one or more discharge gates on one or more railcars. The system and method monitor parameters that include whether the discharge gate is open or closed, whether the railcar is in motion or not, and whether the railcar is in a location where it is acceptable for the discharge gate to be open. Sensors carry out the monitoring, and the information obtained by monitoring the parameters are used to determine if a notification event has taken place and if so, a notification of such event can be transmitted to a remote receiver. A change in the status of any one of the monitored parameters can trigger the determination of whether a notification event has occurred. 1. A system for detecting the operational status of a discharge gate on a railcar , the system comprising:a communication management unit located on the railcar; and receive, from one or more sensors on the railcar, status information pertaining to the discharge gate, wherein the discharge gate status information comprises an indication of whether the discharge gate is open or closed,', 'receive motion information associated with the railcar,', 'receive location information associated with the railcar,', 'determine, based on the status information, the motion information and the location information, whether one or more notification events have occurred, and', 'in response to determining that one or more notification events have occurred, communicating a notification of the one or more notification events to a remote receiver., 'a computer-readable storage medium comprising one or more programming instructions that, when executed, cause the communication management unit to2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more programming instructions that claim 1 , when executed claim 1 , cause the communication management unit to receive motion information associated with the railcar comprise one or more programming instructions that claim 1 , ...

METHOD FOR ENSURING THAT A SECTION BLOCK OF A RAILWAY SECTION IS FREE OF THE LAST UNIT OF A TRAIN

A method for ensuring that a section block of a railway section is free of the last unit of a train, wherein each train travelling into the section block is equipped with at least one train terminal (OTU—On Train Unit) at the end of the train, defined by the direction of travel of the train, which OTU is used for the periodic position detection of the train. The method comprises storing at least one polygon, which is defined by a plurality of geo-data, for each section block is stored in the OTU, registering the respectively traveled polygon at least once by the OTU by means of Global Navigation Satellite System, and sending the identification of the respectively traveled polygon with the OTU at least once to an electronic data processing system for evaluation. 117-. (canceled)18. A method for ensuring that a section block of a railway section is free of a last unit of a train , comprising:equipping each train travelling into the section block with at least one train terminal (OTU—On Train Unit) at an end of the train defined by a direction of travel of the train;using the OTU for a periodic position detection of the train;storing at least one polygon, which is defined by a plurality of geo-data, for each section block in the OUT;registering a respectively traveled polygon at least once by the OTU by Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) if the position of the OTU is within the polygon; andusing the OTU to send an identification of the respectively traveled polygon at least once to an electronic data processing system for evaluation.19. The method of claim 18 , wherein the evaluation of the identification includes a time and an order of traveled polygons and a time when the OTU moves from one section block to an adjacent section block.20. The method of claim 18 , wherein the identification of the respective polygon includes geo-data claim 18 , the identification of the respective section block and the respective track identification.21. The method of claim 18 , ...

Vehicle control system

A system includes a locator device and one or more processors operably connected to the locator device. The locator device determines a trailing distance between a trailing vehicle system that travels along a route and a leading vehicle system that travels along the route ahead of the trailing vehicle system in a same direction of travel. The one or more processors compare the trailing distance to a first proximity distance relative to the leading vehicle system. In response to the trailing distance being less than the first proximity distance, the one or more processors set a permitted power output limit for the trailing vehicle system to be less than a maximum achievable power output for the trailing vehicle system, the permitted power output limit being set based on a power-to-weight ratio of the leading vehicle system.

Train Stop Timer

A train control system and method for a train including at least one locomotive or control car and, optionally, at least one railroad car, in a track network having a plurality of tracks, includes at least one computer programmed or configured to receive or determine an indication that the train is stopped, continuously increment a counter in response to the indication that the train is stopped, and control an operator interface to output a current count of the counter to an operator of the train. 1. A train control system for a train including at least one locomotive or control car and , optionally , at least one railroad car , in a track network having a plurality of tracks , the system comprising:an operator interface on-board the at least one locomotive or control car configured to provide information to an operator of the train; and receive or determine an indication that the train is stopped;', 'continuously increment a counter in response to the indication that the train is stopped; and', 'control the operator interface to output a current count of the counter to the operator of the train., 'at least one computer programmed or configured to2. The train control system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one computer is programmed or configured to:receive or determine an indication that the train is moving; andstop incrementing the counter in response to the indication that the train is moving.3. The train control system of claim 1 , further comprising an active wheel tachometer configured to provide the indication that the train is stopped to the at least one computer.4. The train control system of claim 1 , wherein the operator interface comprises a visual display device configured to display the current count of the counter to the operator of the train.5. The train control system of claim 1 , wherein the operator interface comprises an audio output device configured to output an audible signal based at least partly on the current count of the counter.6. The ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INSPECTING A RAILROAD TRACK

A method for inspecting a railroad track include detecting, using one or more sensors of an inspection system, movement of a transport device along the railroad track, responsive to the detecting, automatically actuating one or more cameras of the inspection system, receiving, from at least one of the one or more cameras, first image data reproducible as a first image of a first portion of the railroad track, analyzing the first image data to identify the presence or absence of one or more features of interest on the first portion of the railroad track; determining a first location of the transport device, and associating the first location of the transport device with the first image data. 1. A method for inspecting a railroad track , the method comprising:detecting, using one or more sensors of an inspection system coupled to a transport device, an initial movement of the transport device along the railroad track;responsive to detecting the initial movement of the transport device, automatically actuating one or more cameras of the inspection system;receiving, from at least one of the one or more cameras, first image data reproducible as a first image of a first portion of the railroad track;analyzing the first image data to identify the presence or absence of one or more features of interest on the first portion of the railroad track;determining a first location of the transport device; andassociating the first location of the transport device with the first image data.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising transmitting at least a portion of the first image data and the associated first location to a remote computer system responsive to identifying the presence of one or more features of interest on the first portion of the railroad track during the analyzing claim 1 , wherein the analyzing includes using one or more processors of the inspection system to identify the presence or absence of the one or more features of interest.3. The method of claim 2 , ...

DIGITAL CONTEXT-AWARE DATA COLLECTION

Examples relate to digital context aware (DCA) data collection. In some examples, a DCA start location component is positioned at a first location along a travel route, and a DCA end location component is positioned at a second location along the travel route. In response to using a wireless interface to detect the DCA start location component, data collection of measurements by a sensor are initiated. In response to using the wireless interface to detect the DCA end location component, the data collection by the sensor is halted. 1. A system comprising:digital context aware (DCA) start location component positioned at a first location along a travel route;DCA end location component positioned at a second location along the travel route; and in response to using the wireless interface to detect the DCA start location component, initiate data collection of vibration measurements by the accelerometer; and', 'in response to using the wireless interface to detect the DCA end location component, halt the data collection by the accelerometer., 'an analysis device comprising a processor, a wireless interface, machine-readable medium with instructions, and an accelerometer, the processor to execute the instructions to2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a camera device claim 1 , wherein the processor of the analysis device is further to:also in response to using the wireless interface to detect the DCA start location, initiate capture of a video stream by the camera device; andalso in response to using the wireless interface to detect the DCA end location component, halt the capture of the video stream by the camera device3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the travel route is a railway claim 2 , and wherein the camera device is a hyperspectral camera that is targeted at the railway.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the analysis device and the camera device are mounted to a train on the railway.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the processor of the analysis device ...

Railyard crew member vest for use within a railyard

The present invention relates to a smart vest for use by railyard personnel at a railyard. The smart vest utilizes many safety features, such as improved visibility, a real-time camera, an environmental monitor, high-accuracy location tracking, tracking the “state” of the railyard crew member, real-time communication, and mobile power. Each of these features may be incorporated with the smart vest.

Train collision avoidance and alert

Systems and methods are provided for generating a safety notification to a first train with respect to a speed of a second train along a track, the system including a camera transceiver, comprising a light emitter configured to emit a narrow bandwidth light, an image sensor, one or more light reflectors and a lens subsystem; and a processor configured to perform the steps of: determining a train speed and a train position; receiving images from the camera transceiver; processing the images to calculate a speed and a position of a potential obstacle on the track; responsively to calculating the potential obstacle speed and position, determining a safe speed of the train and providing a control signal to control the first train.