SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROTECTING A RAILROAD GRADE CROSSING OR RAILROAD TRACK SECTION

Abstract

A system for protecting a railroad grade crossing or a railroad track section includes an initiation device located at or in proximity to a grade crossing or track section, the initiation device facilitating a protection signal for the grade crossing or the track section, and an implementation system receiving the protection signal along with location information of the grade crossing or track section and preventing a train from reaching the grade crossing or track section.

Claims

1. A system for protecting a railroad grade crossing or a railroad track section, the system comprising: an initiation device located at or in proximity to a grade crossing or track section, the initiation device being configured to facilitate a protection signal for the grade crossing or the track section, and an implementation system configured to receive the protection signal along with location information of the grade crossing or track section, and wherein the implementation system is configured to prevent an approaching train from reaching the grade crossing or track section.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the implementation system comprises a positive train control (PTC) system, and wherein the PTC system creates a point of protection for the grade crossing or track section and communicates the point of protection as a stop target bulletin to an onboard system of the approaching train.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the implementation system comprises a dispatch system.

4. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a communication system configured to communicate the protection signal between the initiation device and the implementation system.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the communication system is located at or near the grade crossing or track section.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the initiation device is configured to transmit the protection signal directly to the implementation system.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the initiation device comprises a mechanical or electronic switch or mechanism.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the initiation device comprises information and instructions for initiation of the protection signal.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the information and instructions include a phone number, a QR code, a web page, or a combination thereof.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the initiation device comprises an external foul detection system monitoring the grade crossing or track section for an automated initiation and generation of the protection signal.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the external foul detection system comprises one or more sensor(s), one or more video camera(s), one or more LIDAR sensors, or a combination thereof.

12. A method for protecting a railroad grade crossing or railroad track section, the method comprising: initiating protection of a grade crossing or track section utilizing an initiation device located at or in proximity to a grade crossing or track section, generating and sending a protection signal by the initiation device, and preventing a train from reaching the grade crossing or track section based on the protection signal.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising: installing the initiation device at or in proximity to the grade crossing or track section, wherein the initiation device comprises a mechanical or electronic switch installed at or in proximity to the grade crossing or track section.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein the initiation device comprises information and instructions for remotely initiating the protection of the grade crossing or track section.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein the initiation device comprises an external foul detection system, and further comprising monitoring the grade crossing or track section by the external foul detection system, and automatically initiating and generating the protection signal.

16. The method of claim 11, further comprising: adding location information of the grade crossing or track section to the protection signal, and sending the protection signal with the location information to an implementation system.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the implementation system comprises a positive train control (PTC) system, and further comprising: creating a point of protection by the PTC system, and communicating the point of protection as a stop target bulletin to an onboard system of the approaching train.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: removing, by the PTC system, the point of protection after the stop target bulletin has been completed, or the point of protection and/or stop target bulletin is cancelled from the PTC system.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein the implementation system comprises a dispatch system, and further comprising communicating the protection signal with location information to a dispatcher, wherein the dispatcher creates a bulletin utilizing the dispatch system.

20. The method of claim 12, further comprising: notifying a crew that the train is approaching the grade crossing or track section.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram for a system for protecting a railroad grade crossing or a railroad track section in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 2 illustrates a diagram of a grade crossing gate including an initiation device for a system for protecting a railroad grade crossing in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates further embodiments of an initiation device in connection with track sections for a system for protecting a railroad grade crossing in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 4 illustrates a diagram for a system for protecting a railroad grade crossing including a PTC system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 5 illustrates a flow chart of a method for protecting a railroad grade crossing or railroad track section in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] To facilitate an understanding of embodiments, principles, and features of the present disclosure, they are explained hereinafter with reference to implementation in illustrative embodiments. They are described in the context of systems and methods for protecting a grade crossing or a track section.

[0013] The components and materials described hereinafter as making up the various embodiments are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many suitable components and materials that would perform the same or a similar function as the materials described herein are intended to be embraced within the scope of embodiments of the present disclosure. Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram for a system 100 for protecting a railroad grade crossing or a railroad track section in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Grade crossing 102 is an intersection where train tracks 150 (railway line) cross a road, path, highway etc. The grade crossing 102 includes warning systems (gates, lights, etc.) to warn people and cars of approaching trains. The track section 104 can be a section along tracks 150. FIG. 1 shows track section 104 where a crew is working, for example inspecting or repairing track segments.

[0016] As previously noted, at or in proximity to crossings or track sections, such as grade crossing 102 or track section 104, there is no means to notify a train that there is an issue or incident at the crossing 102 or track section 104 In situations where the crossing 102 or track section 104 is fouled or obstructed by an object, for example a car 106 that is disabled or stuck on the tracks as shown in FIG. 1, the only method to prevent oncoming trains 160 from causing an accident is for someone to place a phone call to an emergency responder or to the railroad authority to notify a dispatcher of the fouled crossing 102 or track section 104. The dispatcher then needs to use voice radio to communicate the information to the crew onboard the approaching trains 160. At some crossings, there may be three or more tracks, meaning that the dispatcher may need to reach multiple crews operating approaching trains. This process could take minutes or hours to complete. It is then reliant upon the crew of the train to stop in time to prevent the accident.

[0017] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a system 100 is provided that includes manual, semi-automated or automated means to communicate that there is an issue or incident at the crossing 102 or track section 104, and to initiate and implement measures or actions to avoid an accident or damage. In general, the system 100 provides a solution that, upon activation, generates a signal or command to protect the specific location, i.e. crossing 102 or track section 104. The solution includes communication and implementation. Communication may include notification to the train 160 that there is an issue or incident at the crossing 102 or track section 104. Communication may further include notification to a crew that the train 160 is approaching the train section 104. Implementation to protect or secure the location includes different options. For example, the train 160 may be forced to stop before the location, e.g. crossing 102 or track section 104, or the train 160 may be re-routed on another track, or, in case the train 160 stopped at a station, the train 160 may not leave the station until the location has been cleared.

[0018] Generally, the system 100 comprises an initiation device 110 located at or in proximity to the grade crossing 102 or track section 104. The initiation device 110 is configured to create a protection signal or facilitate creation of a protection signal for the grade crossing 102 or the track section 104. An implementation system 130 is configured to receive the protection signal along with location information of the grade crossing 102 or track section 104, and to communicate, directly or indirectly with the oncoming trains 160. Based on the protection signal, there are several possible scenarios or outcomes to avoid an accident or damage. These scenarios include prohibiting the train 160 from reaching the location, which includes enforcement of the train 160 to stop before the crossing 102 or track section 104, re-routing the train 160, or halting the train 160 at a station or stopping point. Further measures include warning of a crew, for example at the track section 104.

[0019] The initiation device 110 may be a physical device located at or in proximity to the crossing 102 or track section 104. Such a physical device can be a switch or type of mechanical or electronic activation mechanism, requiring an input or action from a person or user (see FIG. 2). In another example, the initiation device 110 may include instructions, displayed by or in proximity to the crossing 102 or track section 104, explaining how to notify or stop oncoming trains (see FIG. 3). This embodiment also requires input from a person (user). In yet another example, the initiation device 110 may comprise an automated solution, utilizing for example an external foul detection system, which does not require interaction from a person or human (see FIG. 4).

[0020] The initiation device 110 and the implementation device 130 may communicate directly, which means that the initiation device 110 can directly send the protection signal along with location information to the implementation system 130. A protection signal as used herein is information, data, a signal, or command that is created or provided by the initiation device 110. Such a protection signal is created or provided upon activation or initiation via the initiation device 110.

[0021] In another embodiment, the system 100 comprises communication system 120 that is configured to facilitate communication between the initiation device 110 and the implementation device 130. For example, the communication device 120 receives and transmits the protection signal or an input based upon the activation of the initiation device 110. As soon as the initiation device 110 is triggered or activated, the communication system 120 receives the protection signal, and transmits the protection signal with or without further information to the implementation system 130. The further information may include location information of the crossing 102 or track section 104. Another type of further information included with the protection signal may be a time stamp of when the initiation device 120 was activated. The communication system 120 may be located at or in proximity to the grade crossing 102/track section 104 and may have a wired connection to the initiation device 110.

[0022] In another embodiment, the communication system 120 may be located remotely from the crossing 102/track section 104 and may include a wireless communication connection to the initiation device 110. Similarly, direct communication between the initiation device 110 and the implementation device 130 may be wired or wireless. A wired connection may include Ethernet cable(s). If communication is wireless, the devices 110, 120, 130 may comprise for example an air interface, e.g. Wi-Fi, to communicate wirelessly for example via Internet. For example, the communication device 120 may be in a crossing bungalow, wherein an antenna mounted on the crossing bungalow can be used for wireless communication. A remote communication device 120 may be located at a central train operator station or rail operations center.

[0023] As noted, the implementation system 130, directly of via communication system 120, is configured to receive the protection signal along with location information of the grade crossing 102 or track section 104. The implementation system 130 then implements an action plan which includes communication to the oncoming trains 160 that the crossing 102 or track section 104 needs to be protected and the train 160 needs to avoid the crossing 102 or track section 104.

[0024] In an embodiment, the implementation system 130 includes PTC system 132 and/or dispatch system 134. For example, the implementation system 130 comprises a Positive Train Control (PTC) system 132 that is configured to communicate with an onboard system of the train(s) 160, wherein the PTC system 132 creates a point of protection for the crossing 102 or track section 104 and communicates the point of protection via a stop target bulletin to the onboard system of the train(s) 160 (see FIG. 4). In another example, the implementation system 130 comprises a dispatch system 134, wherein a dispatcher utilizes the dispatch system, and facilitates stopping of the train(s) 160. For example, the dispatcher may be notified upon activation of the initiation device 110 to review the event, instead of automatically generating a protection signal and/or point of protection. If the crossing 102 or track section 104 is equipped with cameras or other surveillance equipment, the dispatcher may use these to review and confirm an emergency. Further, a two-way-speaker may be added at or around the location of the initiation device 110, for example to the button 112, to communicate locally with the person that activated the button.

[0025] FIG. 2 illustrates a diagram of a grade crossing gate 200 including an initiation device for a system for protecting a railroad grade crossing in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the initiation device 110 is a device located at or in proximity to the crossing 102 or track section 104. As shown in FIG. 2, the crossing gate 200 includes a button 112 (as initiation device 110) located at the gate mechanism 250 which can be activated by a person. Together with the button 112, instructions are provided, saying Press this red button to notify oncoming trains. The button 112 is sort of like the red button on escalator to stop it in an emergency. The button 112 could be on a post near the crossing, or on the gate mechanism 250, or elsewhere. Other examples of such physical initiation devices 110 are mechanical or electronic switches or mechanisms. Once the button 112 (or switch) pressed, the button is read by the communication system 120, at or near the crossing, or directly by the implementation system 130. The switch or button 112 could be momentary or retain pressed state until the situation or emergency is resolved.

[0027] FIG. 3 illustrates further embodiments of an initiation device 110 in connection with track sections for a system for protecting a railroad grade crossing in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the initiation device 110 may not be an actual or physical device, but rather means for initiating and facilitating a protection signal. As shown in FIG. 3, a display or sign 114 is installed by track section 104 (or at crossing 102), wherein information and instructions are displayed how to initiate the protection signal, i.e. how to initiate stopping oncoming train(s) 160.

[0029] In examples, sign 114-A provides an ability to remotely initiate the protection with a cell phone and a QR (quick-response) code. Sign 114-B provides an ability to remotely initiate the protection from a web page. Sign 114-C provides an ability to remotely initiate the protection by phone by calling a 1-800 number. The options for remotely initiate the protection and associated protection signal may require the person or user calling the phone number, visiting the web page, or scanning the QR code and to enter crossing identifier (or track section identifier) posted near the crossing or track section.

[0030] With respect to the initiation device 110, more specifically the switch/button 112 as illustrated in FIG. 2 and the abilities for remote initiation as illustrated in FIG. 3, the initiation, remotely or via switch/button 112, may be associated with or trigger other actions. For example, upon activation, the switch or button 112 or remote initiation may also activate warning devices, such as crossing lights, bells, etc. at the crossing 102. In another example, upon activation, automated notification(s) to local police and/or fire department(s) and ambulance could be triggered.

[0031] FIG. 4 illustrates a diagram for a system 400 for protecting a railroad grade crossing including a PTC system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the initiation device 110 may comprise an automated solution, utilizing for example an external foul detection system, which does not require interaction from a person or human. Such an external foul detection system monitors the grade crossing 102 (or other track section 104) and automatically initiates protection, e.g. provides or generates a protection signal.

[0033] The external foul detection system comprises for example one or more sensor, such as LIDAR (light detection and ranging) sensors, one or more cameras, etc. FIG. 4 illustrates a video camera 116 installed on top of a post of the crossing gate 200. The camera 116 monitors the crossing 102 and upon detection of an object 106, e.g. fallen tree, obstructing the crossing 102, provides corresponding information and data that protection needs be initiated (referred to as protection signal) along with location information of the crossing 102. The video camera 116 itself can be configured, via a processor and instructions, to create the protection signal, add the location information to the signal, and transmit the protection signal with location information to the PTC system 130. In the example of FIG. 4, the communication system 120 is configured to receive the data of the camera 116 and to generate and transmit the protection signal with location information to the PTC system 130.

[0034] With the addition of PTC to the rail industry, there is a means to protect locations, which are referred to as Points of Protection (POPs). The PTC system 130 utilizes POPs to protect switches, signals, and sections of track under construction. Specifically, the point, e.g. location, section, or device, is protected through the issuance of a bulletin to an PTC onboard unit in the train 160, specifically the locomotive of the train 160. These bulletins are created in the office by dispatcher or by office systems.

[0035] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the PTC system 130 is configured to create a point of protection (POP) for the crossing 102, which is then send to PTC onboard units of train(s) 160 within the area of the crossing 102. Specifically, a stop target bulletin is created in the PTC onboard unit based on the point of protection. The stop target bulletin as used herein means that train(s) 160 approaching the respective crossing 102 or track section 104 must stop at or before the crossing 102 or track section 104.

[0036] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the initiation device 110, for example the button/switch 112 may activate cameras or other surveillance equipment at the crossing 102/track section 104 to document false activations or record incidents. The crossing 102 or track section 104 may already be equipped with cameras or surveillance equipment which could be used in connection with the system 100 for protecting the crossing 102 or track section 104.

[0037] FIG. 5 illustrates a flow chart of a method 500 for protecting a railroad grade crossing or railroad track section in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] While the method 500 is described as a series of acts that are performed in a sequence, it is to be understood that the method 500 may not be limited by the order of the sequence. For instance, unless stated otherwise, some acts may occur in a different order than what is described herein. In addition, in some cases, an act may occur concurrently with another act. Furthermore, in some instances, not all acts may be required to implement a methodology described herein. The method is performed by a system 100 as described herein, for example as described with reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and FIG. 4.

[0039] The method 500 may start at 510. The method 500 comprises initiating protection of the grade crossing or track section utilizing an initiation device (520), generating and sending a protection signal (530), creating a point of protection based on the protection signal (540) and implementing the point of protection and stopping an approaching train at the grade crossing or track section (550). At 560, the method may end.

[0040] The method 500 further comprises installing the initiation device 110 at or in proximity to the grade crossing 102 or track section 104. The initiation device 110 may comprise a mechanical or electronic switch installed at or in proximity to the grade crossing or track section, or the initiation device 110 may comprise information and instructions for remotely initiating the protection of the grade crossing 102 or track section 104.

[0041] In another embodiment, the method 500 comprises adding location information of the grade crossing or track section to the protection signal and sending the protection signal with the location information to an implementation system 130. After the train 160 has stopped at the grade crossing 102 or track section 104, the point of protection is removed from and/or by the implementation system 130. Alternatively, in case of a false alarm, the point of protection may be (manually) cancelled and removed.

[0042] In another embodiment, the initiation device 110 comprises an external foul detection system, and the method 500 further comprises monitoring the grade crossing 102 or track section 104 by the external foul detection system, and automatically initiating and generating the protection signal.

[0043] The described systems and methods for protecting a grade crossing or track section significantly reduces the time to notify approaching trains. Protection of the grade crossing or track section can be locally initiated and there may not be a need to have a phone to initiate protection. Further, the system and methods eliminate human dependency on protecting the crossing 102 or track section 104, because in PTC territories, the PTC system protects the crossing 102 or track section 104 once the point of protection is in place.

[0044] While embodiments of the present disclosure have been disclosed in exemplary forms, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications, additions, and deletions can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure and its equivalents, as set forth in the following claims.