CN117994999A - Signal communication system - Google Patents

Abstract

A signal communication system is provided that may include a signal light assembly, a receiver device, and a communication device. The signal lamp assembly may include a lamp that generates light indicative of the status of the wayside equipment. In response to receiving the activation signal, the lamp may generate light. The receiver may receive timing signals from one or more remote sources and output a time indication based on the received timing signals. In response to the lamp receiving the activation signal, the receiver may output a time indication. In response to the lamp receiving the activation signal, the communication device may transmit a status signal indicating a status of the wayside device and a time indication.

Description

Signal communication system

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application No. 63/421,197, filed on 1 at 11 at 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

The subject matter described herein relates to signal communication systems and methods for vehicle systems.

Background

The vehicle system may use the same route for traffic in two or more directions. The signal may be placed at a wayside location adjacent to the route. Roadside signals may be indicative of route conditions and may be used by engineers, dispatchers, computerized control systems, etc. to control route access and prevent conflicting vehicle movements. Switches (switches) may be used along the route to change the route of the vehicle. At the switch, the route may be mechanically moved to divert the vehicle to a new route. The wayside signal may include light to indicate when the route is safe to travel (e.g., green) or when the route is unsafe to travel (e.g., red). An operator of the vehicle may monitor roadside signals to determine the status of the route.

While roadside signals with visual indications are widely used, visual indications are effective in conveying route status only when the roadside signals are within the visual range or zone of the vehicle and vehicle operator. If the vehicle and the vehicle operator are outside the visual range of the wayside signal, the wayside signal may not be effective in indicating the status of the route. Additionally, it may be beneficial to use another method of communicating roadside signals, as there may be operator error.

In order to communicate roadside signals to greater distances, additional infrastructure may be required to house components for communicating signals, such as radio and roadside interface units. Additionally, a separate power supply may be required to implement a separate communication system. Implementation along certain routes may be inconvenient and expensive. It may be desirable to have systems and methods that differ from currently available systems and methods.

Disclosure of Invention

According to one example or aspect, there is provided a signal communication system comprising a signal light assembly, a receiver device, and a communication device. The signal lamp assembly may include a lamp that may generate light indicative of a status of the roadside apparatus. The light may be generated by the lamp in response to receiving an activation signal. The receiver device may receive timing signals from one or more remote sources and output a time indication based on the received timing signals. The receiver device may output the time indication in response to the lamp receiving the activation signal. The communication device may transmit a status signal in response to the lamp receiving the activation signal. The status signal may indicate the status of the wayside device and the time indication.

According to one example or aspect, there is provided a method comprising: in response to receiving the activation signal, a lamp using the signal lamp assembly generates light. The light may indicate a status of the roadside device. The method may include: timing signals from one or more remote sources are received at a receiver of the signal lamp assembly. The method may include: a time indication is output based on the timing signal that may be received by the receiver. The time indication output may be in response to the lamp receiving the activation signal. The method may include: in response to the lamp receiving the activation signal, a communication device using the signal lamp assembly communicates a status signal. The status signal may indicate the status of the wayside device and the time indication.

According to one example or aspect, a method is provided, which may include: in response to receiving the activation signal, a signal is generated using the signal component. The signal may be indicative of a status of the wayside device. The method may include: timing signals from one or more remote signal sources are received at a receiver of the signal assembly. The method may include: a time indication is output based on the timing signal that may be received by the receiver. The time indication output may be in response to the signal component receiving the activation signal. The method may include: in response to the signal component receiving the activation signal, a communication device using the signal component communicates a status signal. The status signal may indicate the status of the wayside device and the time indication.

Drawings

The subject matter may be understood by reading the following description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which

In the figure:

fig. 1 illustrates a signal communication system of a roadside apparatus and a vehicle system according to one example.

Fig. 2 illustrates a signal communication system having a signal lamp assembly according to one example.

Fig. 3 shows a flow chart of a method of roadside device-to-vehicle signal communication, according to one example.

Fig. 4 shows a flow chart of a method of roadside device-to-vehicle signal communication, according to one example.

Detailed Description

Embodiments of the subject matter described herein relate to signal communication systems and methods for vehicle control systems. Embodiments of the described subject matter relate to a signaling device (e.g., a light assembly) that can generate a signal indicative of a status of a wayside device. The signaling device may include a light or display that may generate light indicative of the status of the wayside device. The light of the light may provide a visual indication of the status of the roadside apparatus to the vehicle or vehicle operator.

The signal light may comprise a communication device. The communication device may communicate the status of the roadside device to the vehicle control system. By transmitting the status of the roadside apparatus to the vehicle control system, the vehicle control system can determine the status of the roadside apparatus before the vehicle reaches the roadside apparatus. The range of the communication device may be greater than the range of visibility of the lamp to the vehicle operator. This may allow an operator and/or vehicle control system to more effectively control movement of the vehicle.

In one embodiment, the signal light may be a retrofit kit designed such that the signal light may replace a light bulb of an existing roadside device. The signal lights may be powered by existing electrical infrastructure of existing roadside equipment. Additionally, the signal lamp may be sized and shaped such that the signal lamp may fit within a recess of an existing wayside unit in which the light bulb was previously placed. The system and method may extend the range of use of a vehicle control system without requiring expensive and/or laborious addition of infrastructure and components.

Suitable lamps may include incandescent bulbs or Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), or other light generating devices; and these may be individual light emitters or an array of light emitters. In embodiments with multiple emitters, the emitters may create a uniform image (Quan Gong light, full green light, full yellow light) or may form a patterned image (e.g., cross, dash, circle, X). In one embodiment, the image formed may be static, or in another embodiment may be alternating on/off to create a moving or flashing optical effect (e.g., a tinted screen (WASH SCREEN), a flashing X, an expanding or contracting circle). The lamp may be electrically connected to existing wiring inside the housing and may be mechanically supported in a similar manner. The light emitting portion may extend to the outside of the housing and form a larger display surface than a display surface adapted to be mounted within the housing. The transparent protective case may protect the light emitter.

While one or more embodiments are described in relation to a rail vehicle and/or rail vehicle system, other embodiments are not related to a rail vehicle and rail vehicle system. Unless specifically denied or otherwise stated, the subject matter described herein extends to other types of vehicle systems, such as automobiles, trucks (with or without trailers), buses, boats, airplanes, mining vehicles, agricultural vehicles, or other off-highway vehicles. The vehicle systems described herein (rail vehicle systems or other vehicle systems that do not travel on rails or routes) may be formed of a single vehicle or multiple vehicles. With respect to multi-vehicle systems, vehicles may be mechanically coupled to each other (e.g., by a coupler) or logically coupled but not mechanically coupled. For example, vehicles may be logically but not mechanically coupled when separate vehicles communicate with each other to coordinate movement of the vehicles with each other to cause the vehicles to travel together (e.g., as a fleet).

Fig. 1 illustrates a signal communication system 100 of a roadside device 102 and a vehicle system 104, according to one example. The vehicle system may travel along one or more routes 106, 108. As shown in fig. 1, these routes may intersect at one or more points. Roadside devices may be placed near the intersection of the routes. Roadside devices may include bulbs 110 and 112 of one or more lights. The color of the bulb of the light may communicate the status of the route to the oncoming vehicle. In one example, the bulb of one light (e.g., 112) may be a bulb of a green light indicating that the route may be appropriate for the vehicle system to travel. The bulb (e.g., 110) of the other light may be a bulb of a red light indicating that the route may not be suitable for vehicle systems to travel. The bulb of one light may be a bulb of a yellow light and may indicate that the route may be suitable for vehicle systems to travel in limited situations, e.g. slowing down. The bulbs of the lamps may be of different colors or possibly change colors.

The bulb of the lamp may be sized to be inserted into the recess 120 or receptacle of the roadside device. Roadside devices may be placed adjacent to the route traveled by the vehicle. The wayside device may receive an activation signal indicating that the one or more routes may be suitable for travel by the oncoming vehicle. One or more routes may be suitable for travel by an oncoming vehicle when the route may not be occupied at the moment by an obstacle (e.g., a different vehicle or vehicle system, a pedestrian, a maintenance worker, etc.). Moreover, when an oncoming vehicle may be expected to occupy or travel along one or more routes, the one or more routes may be suitable for the oncoming vehicle to travel if the one or more routes may be expected not to be occupied by an obstacle. The activation signal may be provided by an off-board control center, a controller, an operator, one or more sensors, and the like.

The roadside device may then illuminate the bulb of the light to produce light indicative of the status of the roadside device. The illuminated light bulb may provide an indication to an operator of the oncoming vehicle that the route may be suitable for vehicle travel, e.g., a green light bulb may be illuminated to indicate that the route may be suitable for travel. In another example, a bulb of a red light may be illuminated to provide an operator of an oncoming vehicle with an indication that the route may not be suitable for vehicle travel. The bulb of the yellow light may be illuminated to provide an indication to an operator of the oncoming vehicle that the route may be suitable for vehicle travel in limited circumstances, such as for example, deceleration.

The roadside apparatus may receive a signal indicating whether the route is applicable to travel depending on the vision of the operator. Thus, the usefulness of roadside equipment may be limited to the range of vision of the operator. It may be further limited if environmental conditions reduce visibility such as rain, snow, fog, debris, etc. Additionally, responsibility for identifying the status of the roadside device may fall primarily on the operator, and any on-board control system may not be able to effectively receive visual signals from the roadside device.

To transmit roadside equipment signals to the vehicle control system, communication devices may be used. A suitable communication device may be, for example, a radio. A suitable radio frequency may be, for example, about 220MHZ. The roadside interface unit may be used to transmit signals directly to the vehicle control system. Alternatively or additionally, roadside device signals may be communicated to a background control system using a roadside status relay service (WSRS). The background may then communicate roadside equipment signals to the vehicle control system. In one embodiment, the communication device is collocated with the light device and draws power from the same source-thus, in this embodiment, the light and communication functions may be simply replaced to the original bulb location. In one embodiment, the communication device communicates with the vehicle system, and may be used in a wireless intersection system in addition to the visual indication function.

Fig. 2 illustrates one example of a signal communication system 200 that may include a wayside device 202 having a signal light assembly 204. The signal light assembly may include a light 210, a receiver 230, and a communication device 240. The communication device may communicate with the vehicle control system 270 or an operator of the vehicle or vehicle system. The signal light assembly may be sized to be inserted into a recess 220 or receptacle of a roadside device. In one example, in response to receiving the activation signal, the light may generate light of a specified color to indicate a status of the wayside device as a light signal. The activation signal may indicate whether one or more routes are suitable for travel by an oncoming vehicle. The light may produce a single color, such as red, green, or yellow, to indicate the status of the roadside device. The green light may indicate an explicit flag of permissibility indicating that the route may be suitable for a vehicle to travel on. The red light may indicate that the route may not be suitable for the vehicle to travel on. The yellow light may indicate that the route may be suitable for the vehicle to travel on in limited circumstances. Light indicative of the route status may be transmitted to the vehicle control system.

The vehicle control system may include a controller, microcontroller, processor, microprocessor, or other logic device whose operation is based on instructions stored on a tangible and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, such as a software application stored on memory. If a system, apparatus, component, device, etc. (e.g., vehicle control system, controller, control device, control unit, etc.) includes multiple processors, then the processors may be located in the same housing or enclosure (e.g., in the same device), or may be distributed among or between two or more housings or enclosures (e.g., in different devices). Each of the multiple processors in the same or different devices may perform the same functions described herein, or the multiple processors in the same or different devices may share the performance of the functions described herein. For example, different processors may perform different sets or groups of functions described herein.

As used herein, the term "receiver" includes electronic circuitry capable of receiving a radio signal input, separating the desired radio signal from all other picked-up radio signals, amplifying the signal to a level suitable for processing, and converting the signal into a usable form by demodulation and decoding. In one example, the receiver device may include a navigation system receiver or a positioning system receiver, such as a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver. The GNSS receiver may provide a geographic location of the roadside device. It should also be understood that a combined "transceiver" of a transmitter and receiver is also contemplated for use with the receiver of the present application.

The communication device may include or represent an antenna (along with associated transceiver hardware circuitry and/or software applications) for wireless communication with other vehicles and/or remote sites. Alternatively, the communication devices may communicate via one or more wired connections, such as a Multiple Unit (MU) cable, a trainline, an electro-pneumatic (ECP) brake line, or the like. The communication device may comprise a radio transmitter. In one example, the radio transmitter may be a low power radio and an integrated antenna. The communication device may communicate with one or more other vehicle systems and/or other remote locations that may be external to the vehicle.

In one example, the status of the wayside device may be determined by one or more sensors that indicate one or more route characteristics. The sensor may comprise an electrical sensor and/or a mechanical sensor. The electrical sensor may measure a switch arranged at the intersection between two or more routes. Switches may be placed throughout the route to divert traffic from the main route to side routes (siding), allowing vehicles to pass each other or change the route of the vehicle. At the switch, the route may be mechanically moved to successfully divert the vehicle to a new route. The operator may visually monitor wayside equipment to determine the status of the switch and obtain authority to enter a particular route segment and take action, such as adjusting the speed of the vehicle when the signal indicates that the vehicle may be diverted to the sidetrack due to the switch position indicated by the one or more sensors.

The electrical sensor may comprise an ohmmeter that measures the resistance indicative of the switch open or closed position. Other electrical sensors may include voltmeters that measure electrical potential in volts, impedance analyzers that measure impedance, ammeter that measure current, databases or memory, input devices (e.g., control panels, switches, keyboards, microphones, etc.), and so forth. The mechanical sensor may measure a physical characteristic of the route. The mechanical sensor may include an optical sensor (e.g., infrared sensor, camera, proximity detector) that may scan, read, or recognize the identification mark. The identifying mark may be a sign, printed on a vehicle, roadside equipment, a partial route, or the like. In one example, the identifying indicia may be associated with an obstacle along the route. In another example, the identifying indicia may be associated with a portion of the route and may be associated with no obstruction of the route, as the identifying indicia may be read without being obstructed. Other mechanical sensors may include acoustic sensors (e.g., ultrasonic sensors), capacitive sensors, photoelectric sensors, inductive sensors, laser distance sensors (e.g., laser detection and ranging "LIDAR"), and the like.

Based on input from one or more sensors, an activation signal indicating a status of the wayside device may be sent to the light. The activation signal may indicate that a portion of the route may or may not be suitable for an oncoming vehicle. Whether a route may be suitable for an oncoming vehicle may be based on traffic flow along the route, route characteristics, vehicle characteristics, weather conditions, and other factors.

In one example, the activation signal may be power to power a signal lamp. The signal lamp assembly may be powered by the same infrastructure that powers the bulbs of the roadside device lamp shown in fig. 1. By using existing infrastructure to power the signal lamp assembly, the number of components, cost and installation difficulty may be significantly reduced. The powering of the signal light assembly may be based on the same indication of the bulb powering the lamp of the roadside device as previously described. Alternatively, the activation signal that determines the illumination of the bulb of the lamp to indicate the status of the wayside device of fig. 1 may be the same activation signal that determines the status of the wayside device of fig. 2. In response to receiving the activation signal, the light of the signal light assembly may only generate light indicative of the status of the wayside device. If the lamp does not receive an activation signal, the lamp may not generate light.

The receiver and the communication device may be activated when the lamp receives the activation signal. Alternatively, the receiver and communication device may be powered only when the lamp receives power to power the lamp and receives an activation signal. This may prevent the receiver and the communication device from sending an error message when the lamp does not receive an activation signal. The signal light assembly may communicate the status of the roadside device when there may be an active change or a status update by activating a light.

In addition to the lights visually indicating the status of the roadside device, the receiver and communication device may also communicate the status of the roadside device to the approaching vehicle. The receiver and communication device may communicate the status of the roadside device to an on-board operator of the oncoming vehicle, an on-board vehicle control system, an off-board operator of the oncoming vehicle, an off-board controller, and the like. In one example, the receiver and communication device are capable of communicating the status of the roadside device to a distance greater than the visible range from which the light can be seen by the vehicle. For example, before a vehicle can be set to reach a roadside device, the receiver and communication device may communicate the status of the roadside device to the vehicle that is several miles away. The advance notice of the status of the roadside apparatus may allow an operator or a vehicle control system to make adjustments to the travel of the vehicle early on in advance of the roadside apparatus to increase the efficiency and safety of the travel of the vehicle. Moreover, if the on-board operator or vehicle control system does not receive an explicit signal from the wayside equipment that the route may be appropriate for travel, the on-board operator and/or vehicle control system can take responsive action prior to reaching the wayside equipment. Responsive actions may include an onboard operator and/or vehicle control system slowing or stopping the vehicle, communicating with an off-board operator or control system, changing the route of the vehicle before reaching the wayside equipment, and the like.

The receiver and the communication device may be deactivated when the lamp does not receive the activation signal. By disabling the receiver and the communication device when the lamp does not receive an activation signal, the signal light assembly can reduce the burden on the communication channel by reducing the overall radio frequency being transmitted. Additionally, disabling may reduce the likelihood of the communication device transmitting an error message in response to not receiving the activation signal. The receiver and the communication device may be arranged to be activated only when the lamp may receive the activation signal.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 2, the receiver and the communication device may be placed within a lamp. In another example, the receiver and communication device may be placed elsewhere, such as in a housing shaped to fit within a recess of a roadside device. When the receiver and the communication device are placed within a lamp or within a roadside device, the overall footprint required to have the communication device may be reduced, and the additional infrastructure required overall may also be reduced. The receiver and communication device may be located outside the lights, for example in an off-board control center or in a roadside device separate from the signal light assembly.

The receiver may receive signals from one or more remote signal sources 260. In one example, the remote signal source may be a satellite, a signal from an off-board control center, an off-board work member, or the like. In one example, the signal may be a timing signal. The timing signal may be a time component of the activation signal. Alternatively, the timing signal may be the time at which the activation signal was received. The timing signal may be the time the security code was received by the remote signal source. The timing signal may confirm the timeliness of the received signal to ensure that the received signal may be current or within a threshold time range of the signal being transmitted. The timing signal may allow the receiver to output a time indication to the vehicle control system. The time indication may be output by the receiver in response to the lamp receiving the activation signal. The receiver device may determine the geographic location of the wayside device by using a navigation system or a positioning system, such as a GNSS receiver, another wireless triangulation system, or the like. The geographic location may be based on a timing signal received by the receiver from the wayside device. The receiver may use a known location of the roadside device as the geographic location. In one example, the receiver device may include a GNSS receiver. The GNSS receiver may provide a geographic location of the roadside device.

In response to the lamp receiving the activation signal, the communication device may transmit a status signal. The status signal may be emitted from a light to indicate the status of the wayside device and from a receiver to indicate a time indication. The status signal may be sent to a vehicle control system or an operator of the vehicle. Because the status signal may represent whether the lamp has received a "yes" or "no" of the activation signal, the status signal may be a brief message that does not require a significant amount of bandwidth to communicate. This may reserve bandwidth for other communication needs of the vehicle system or roadside equipment.

In one example, the vehicle control system may be an on-board Positive Vehicle Control (PVC) system. The PVC system may be a control system in which the vehicle system may be permitted to move only in response to receipt or continued receipt of one or more signals (e.g., received from outside the vehicle) and which meet specified criteria, e.g., signals having specified characteristics (e.g., specified waveforms and/or content), and/or received at specified times (or according to other specified time criteria) and/or under specified conditions, and/or may be permitted to move outside specified limits (e.g., exceeding specified penalty limits). The PVC system may include information about the route or vehicle system, such as planned trip plans, route databases, route lengths, route curvatures, number of vehicles in the vehicle system, speed of the vehicle system, etc. In one example, the vehicle control system may include a Negative Vehicle Control (NVC) system. NVC may allow a vehicle to move unless a signal (movement restricted) may be received.

Status signals may be sent to the on-board PVC assembly of the vehicle. The status signal may provide a predictive enforcement means for the non-permissive signal to the PVC system before the vehicle reaches the wayside equipment. Stated another way, the status signal may give the PVC system an advance notice of the status of the wayside device and may allow the PVC system to make decisions regarding vehicle movement prior to the vehicle reaching the wayside device. PVC may include integrated command, control, communication and information systems for safely, precisely and efficiently controlling vehicle movement. The PVC system may perform travel restrictions including movement rights that may prevent the vehicle from moving illegally. Based on the travel information generated by the vehicle and/or received via the communication device, the PVC system may determine from the travel limit the location of the vehicle, whether the vehicle may travel and how fast the vehicle may travel, and may determine whether movement enforcement may be performed to adjust the speed of the vehicle (including commanding a complete stop).

The time indication portion of the status signal may allow the vehicle control system to verify: the status signal may be current and applicable to a given time and route. The status signal may include additional information. For example, the status signal may include an identification number unique to the communication device or vehicle. The vehicle control system may be programmed with knowledge of the various roadside devices and a unique identification number associated with each roadside device. The identification number may allow the vehicle control system to identify the communication device that sent the status signal. The identification of the communication device may allow the vehicle control system to verify the location of the communication device along the route. In one example, the vehicle control device may require the use of an authentication code for security purposes. The authentication code may include an identification number and a non-repeating number, such as a time indication. Once the verification code is verified, the vehicle control system may read the status signal.

The communication device may wirelessly transmit a status signal to one or more vehicles, such as an oncoming vehicle approaching a wayside device. The wireless communication may be satellite communication, infrared communication, radio communication, wi-Fi communication, bluetooth communication, mobile communication, etc. The communication device may wirelessly transmit the status signal to the vehicle when the signal light assembly may be invisible to the one or more vehicles. As discussed, this may allow the vehicle to make decisions about traveling along the drive-thru lane before the vehicle can see the drive-thru lane.

The communication device may send status signals of the wayside device to indicate the condition of a switch disposed at an intersection between two or more routes. The communication device may receive the status of the switch from the vehicle control system based on the output of one or more sensors associated with the switch. The status of a switch disposed at an intersection may indicate whether another vehicle may be approaching the intersection, which may indicate that the route may not be safe for the oncoming vehicle to travel at the current speed. The status signal may prevent conflicting vehicle movements.

In one example, the signal lamp assembly may include one or more lamps. Each of the one or more lamps may include a receiver and a communication device. Each lamp may generate light in response to a different input. For example, the first light may generate light in response to a status of roadside signal devices that are suitable for driving. The second lamp may generate light in response to a status of the roadside signal device not suitable for traveling. The third light may generate light in response to a status of the wayside signal device suitable for deceleration driving. Each light and corresponding receiver and communication device may independently communicate with a vehicle control system. This may allow the PVC system of the vehicle to receive a signal indicating that the route may be suitable for driving and/or suitable for decelerating. The NVC system may receive a signal indicating that the route may not be suitable for traveling.

Fig. 3 illustrates a method 300 of roadside device-to-vehicle signal communication, according to one example. The roadside apparatus-to-vehicle signal communication may provide vehicle information related to the status of the roadside apparatus and the adjacent or nearby route that the vehicle may be set to travel.

At step 302, the method may include: in response to receiving the activation signal, a lamp using the signal lamp assembly generates light. The light may indicate a status of the roadside device. The status of the wayside device may indicate that the route may be suitable for the oncoming vehicle to travel at the current speed, or at a reduced speed, or that the route may not be suitable for the oncoming vehicle to travel. In one example, the generated light may be a designated color to indicate the status of the wayside device as a light signal. For example, when the route may be suitable for driving, the light may be green; when the route may not be suitable for driving, the light may be red; or the light may be yellow when the route may be suitable for deceleration driving.

At step 304, the method may include: a timing signal is received at a receiver of the signal lamp assembly from a remote signal source. In one example, the remote signal source may be a satellite. In one example, the receiver may include a GNSS receiver to indicate a geographic location of the wayside device.

At step 306, the method may include: a time indication is output based on the timing signals that the receiver may receive. The time indication output may be in response to the lamp receiving an activation signal. In one example, the timing signal may be received only when the lamp receives an activation signal. When the lamp does not receive the activation signal, the timing signal may not be received.

At step 308, the method may include: in response to the lamp receiving the activation signal, the communication device using the signal lamp assembly communicates a status signal. The status signal may indicate a status of the roadside device and a time indication. In one example, a communication device may include a radio and an antenna. The status signal may be communicated as a radio signal. The status signal may be transmitted or broadcast wirelessly to one or more vehicles. The status signal may be transmitted to the vehicle when the signal light is not visible to the vehicle. In one example, a status signal may be transmitted to indicate the condition of a switch disposed at an intersection between two or more routes.

Fig. 4 illustrates a method 400 of roadside device-to-vehicle signal communication, according to one example. The roadside apparatus-to-vehicle signal communication may provide vehicle information related to the status of the roadside apparatus and the adjacent or nearby route that the vehicle may be set to travel. The signal communication may be used as part of a wireless intersection system that may provide information to one or more controllers or control systems of the vehicle regarding the status of the wayside equipment.

At step 402, the method may include: in response to receiving the activation signal, a first signal is generated using the signal component. The signal may be indicative of a status of the wayside device. The status of the wayside device may indicate that the route may be suitable for the oncoming vehicle to travel at the current speed, or at a reduced speed, or that the route may not be suitable for the oncoming vehicle to travel. In one example, the generated signal may be a designated symbol, noise, message, etc. to indicate the status of the signal component as a wayside device. For example, the signal may be an arrow or a check mark when the route may be suitable for traveling, the light may be an "X" or a stop sign when the route may not be suitable for traveling, or the light may be a flashing triangle when the route may be suitable for decelerating traveling.

At step 404, the method may include: a timing signal is received at a receiver of the signal assembly from a remote signal source. In one example, the remote signal source may be a satellite. In one example, the receiver may include a GNSS receiver to indicate a geographic location of the wayside device.

At step 406, the method may include: a time indication is output based on the timing signals that the receiver may receive. The time indication output may be in response to the signal component receiving an activation signal. In one example, the timing signal may be received only when the signal component receives an activation signal. When the signal component does not receive the activation signal, the timing signal may not be received.

At step 408, the method may include: in response to the signal component receiving the activation signal, the communication device using the signal component transmits a status signal. Status signals may be sent to an operator of the vehicle, an on-board control system, an off-board control system, a PVC system, etc. The status signal may indicate a status of the roadside device and a time indication. In one example, a communication device may include a radio and an antenna. The status signal may be transmitted as a radio signal. As part of a wireless intersection system, status signals may be transmitted or broadcast wirelessly to one or more vehicles. The status signal may be transmitted to the vehicle when the signal assembly is not visible to the vehicle. In one example, a status signal may be transmitted to indicate a condition of one or more switches disposed at an intersection between two or more routes. A status signal may be sent each time the track direction (alignment) of the switch changes. The track orientation of one or more switches may indicate whether the route is suitable for travel by an oncoming vehicle. A status signal may be sent in response to the vehicle approaching signal assembly.

In one embodiment, a communication system may be deployed with a local data collection system that may use machine learning to enable deriving based learning results. The controller, by making data-driven predictions and adapting from the data set, can learn from and make decisions on a set of data, including the data provided by the various sensors. In an embodiment, machine learning may include performing a plurality of machine learning tasks, such as supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning, by a machine learning system. Supervised learning may include submitting a set of example inputs and desired outputs to a machine learning system. Unsupervised learning may include a learning algorithm that structures its input by methods such as pattern detection and/or feature learning. Reinforcement learning may include a machine learning system that executes in a dynamic environment and then provides feedback regarding correct and erroneous decisions. In an example, machine learning may include a number of other tasks based on the output of the machine learning system. In an example, the task may be a machine learning problem such as classification, regression, clustering, density estimation, dimension reduction, anomaly detection, and the like. In an example, machine learning may include a number of mathematical and statistical techniques. In examples, many types of machine learning algorithms may include decision tree-based learning, association rule learning, deep learning, artificial neural networks, genetic learning algorithms, inductive logic programming, support Vector Machines (SVMs), bayesian networks, reinforcement learning, token learning, rule-based machine learning, sparse dictionary learning, similarity and metric learning, learning Classifier Systems (LCS), logistic regression, random forests, K-means, gradient boosting, K-nearest neighbor (KNN), a priori algorithms, and the like. In embodiments, certain machine learning algorithms may be used (e.g., to solve constrained and unconstrained optimization problems that may be based on natural choices). In an example, the algorithm may be used to solve the problem of mixed integer programming, where certain components are limited to integer values. Algorithms, machine learning techniques and systems may be used in computing intelligent systems, computer vision, natural Language Processing (NLP), recommendation systems, reinforcement learning, building graphical models, and the like. In an example, machine learning may be used for vehicle performance and behavior analysis, and the like.

In one embodiment, a communication system may include a policy engine that may apply one or more policies. These policies may be based at least in part on characteristics of a given device or environment. For communication strategies, neural networks are capable of receiving input of many environmental and task-related parameters. These parameters may include an identification of the determined trip plan of the vehicle group, data from various sensors, and location and/or position data. Based on these inputs, the neural network can be trained to produce an output that represents the actions or sequence of actions that the vehicle group should take to complete the trip plan and avoid interference/collisions with other vehicles or groups of vehicles. During operation of one embodiment, a decision can occur by processing the input through parameters of the neural network to generate a value at the output node that designates the action as the desired action. This action may be converted into a signal that causes the vehicle to operate. This may be accomplished by means of back propagation, feed forward flow, closed loop feedback, or open loop feedback. Alternatively, rather than using back propagation, the machine learning system of the controller may use evolutionary strategy techniques to adjust various parameters of the artificial neural network. The controller may use a neural network architecture whose function may not always be solvable using back propagation, e.g., a non-convex function. In one embodiment, the neural network has a set of parameters that represent the weights of its node connections. Many copies of the network are made and then different adjustments are made to the parameters and simulations are performed. Once the outputs of the various models are obtained, their performance may be evaluated using the determined success indicators. The best model is selected and the control system executes the plan to obtain the desired input data to reflect the predicted best result scenario. Additionally, the success indicator may be a combination of optimization results, which may be weighted against each other.

The communication system can use such artificial intelligence or machine learning to receive input (e.g., the status of the roadside device), use a model that correlates the status of the roadside device to different modes of operation to select the mode of operation of one or more functional devices of the vehicle or vehicle system, and then provide output (e.g., the mode of operation selected using the model). The control system may receive additional inputs of the selected operating mode change, such as noise or interference analysis in the communication signal (or lack thereof), operator inputs, etc., indicating whether the machine selected operating mode provides a desirable result. Based on this additional input, the controller may change the model, such as by changing which mode of operation is selected when a similar or identical roadside device state is received next time or iteratively. The controller may then select an operational mode from the changed or updated models, receive feedback on the selected operational mode, change or update the models again, etc., and in yet further iterations, repeatedly change or update the models using artificial intelligence or machine learning.

According to one example or aspect, a signal communication system is provided that may include a signal light assembly, a receiver device, and a communication device. The signal lamp assembly may include a lamp that may generate light indicative of a status of the roadside apparatus. In response to receiving the activation signal, the lamp may generate light. The receiver device may receive timing signals from one or more remote sources and output a time indication based on the received timing signals. The receiver may output a time indication in response to the lamp receiving the activation signal. In response to the lamp receiving the activation signal, the communication device may transmit a status signal. The status signal may indicate status of the roadside device and a time indication.

The light, receiver device, and communication device may be disposed within a housing shaped to fit entirely within a recess of a roadside device. The receiver device and the communication device may be activated when the lamp receives the activation signal. The receiver device and the communication device may be deactivated when the lamp does not receive the activation signal. The light may generate light of a specified color or pattern as a light signal to indicate the status of the roadside device. The receiver device may comprise a positioning device, such as a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver. The communication device may comprise a radio transmitter. The communication device may send a status signal to indicate the condition of a switch arranged at the intersection between two or more routes.

The receiver device may determine the geographic location based on the timing signal and the communication device may transmit the geographic location in the status signal. The communication device may transmit a unique identification in the status signal. The communication device may wirelessly transmit a status signal to one or more vehicles. The communication device may wirelessly transmit the status signal to the one or more vehicles when the signal light assembly may be invisible to the one or more vehicles.

According to one example or aspect, a method is provided that may include: in response to receiving the activation signal, a lamp using the signal lamp assembly generates light. The light may indicate a status of the roadside device. The method may include receiving timing signals from one or more remote signal sources at a receiver of the signal light assembly. The method may include outputting a time indication based on a timing signal that may be received by the receiver. The time indication output may be in response to the lamp receiving an activation signal. The method may include: in response to the lamp receiving the activation signal, the communication device using the signal lamp assembly communicates a status signal. The status signal may indicate status of the roadside device and a time indication.

When the lamp receives the activation signal, a time indication and a status signal may be generated. When the lamp does not receive an activation signal, no time indication and no status signal may be generated. The light may be generated as a designated color to indicate the status of the roadside device as a light signal. The status signal may be communicated as a radio signal. Status signals may be transmitted to indicate the condition of switches disposed at intersections between two or more routes.

The method may include: a geographic location is determined based on the timing signal and is transmitted in the status signal. The status signals may be transmitted or broadcast wirelessly to one or more vehicles. The status signal may be wirelessly transmitted to the one or more vehicles when the signal light assembly may be invisible to the one or more vehicles.

According to one example or aspect, there is provided a method, which may include: in response to receiving the activation signal, a signal is generated using the signal component. The signal may be indicative of a status of the wayside device. The method may include receiving, at a receiver of a signal assembly, timing signals from one or more remote signal sources. The method may include outputting a time indication based on a timing signal that may be received by the receiver. The time indication output may be in response to the signal component receiving an activation signal. The method may include: in response to the signal component receiving the activation signal, the communication device using the signal component transmits a status signal. The status signal may indicate status of the roadside device and a time indication.

In one example, the method may include: wirelessly transmitting or broadcasting status signals to one or more vehicles.

According to one example or aspect, a signal lamp assembly is provided that may include a lamp, a receiver device, and a communication device. The light may generate light that indicates a status of the wayside signal device. The lamp may generate light in response to receiving power to power the lamp. The receiver device may receive timing signals from one or more satellites and output a time indication based on the received timing signals. In response to the lamp receiving power, the receiver may output a time indication. In response to the lamp receiving power, the communication device may send a status signal to an onboard PVC assembly of the vehicle. The status signal may indicate status of the roadside device and a time indication.

The lamp, receiver device, and communication device may have a portion sized and shaped to be disposed within the housing. It may be shaped to fit at least partially within a recess of a roadside apparatus in which another lamp was previously placed. In one example, it fits entirely within an existing housing. In another embodiment, it has a portion that extends into the housing to be electrically coupled and mechanically supported and has a display portion that is external to the housing and can be a display area (in one example) that is much larger than the diameter of the housing. Thus, an oversized display can be used in the kit to replace the original bulb design.

According to one example or aspect, a signal lamp assembly is provided that includes a lamp, a receiver device, and a communication device. The light may generate light that indicates a status of the wayside signal device. The lamp may generate light in response to receiving power to power the lamp. The receiver device may receive timing signals from one or more satellites and output a time indication based on the received timing signals. In response to the lamp receiving power, the receiver may output a time indication. In response to the lamp receiving power, the communication device may send a status signal to an onboard PVC assembly of the vehicle. The status signal may indicate status of the roadside device and a time indication.

Use of, for example, one or more of ", or one or more of", and at least one of ", and", or at least one of ", is intended to cover a composition comprising: a single one of the plurality of items used in connection with the phrase, at least one of each item used in connection with the phrase, or a plurality of items in any or each item used in connection with the phrase. For example, "one or more of A, B and C", "one or more of A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one of A, B or C" can each represent: (1) at least one a, (2) at least one B, (3) at least one C, (4) at least one a and at least one B, (5) at least one a, at least one B and at least one C, (6) at least one B and at least one C, or (7) at least one a and at least one C.

As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word "a" or "an" does not exclude the plural of said elements or operations, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" of the present invention do not exclude the presence of additional embodiments comprising the described features. Furthermore, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments "comprising" or "having" an element or elements having a particular property may include additional such elements not having that property. In the appended claims, the words "include" and "in …" are used as plain english equivalents to their respective corresponding words "include" and "wherein (whoein)". Furthermore, in the following claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc. are used merely as labels, and do not impose numerical requirements on their objects. Moreover, the limitations of the following claims are not to be written in a means-plus-function format, nor are they intended to be interpreted based on 35U.S. c. ≡112 (f), unless and until the limitations of such claims explicitly use the phrase "means for" and are followed by a functional statement without further structure.

The above description is illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the subject matter without departing from its scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein define the parameters of the subject matter, they are exemplary embodiments. The scope of the subject matter should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

This written description uses examples to disclose several embodiments of the subject matter, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the embodiments of the subject matter, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the subject matter is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to one of ordinary skill in the art. These other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims (10)

1. A signal communication system, comprising:

a signal light assembly including a light configured to generate light for indicating a status of roadside equipment, the light configured to generate the light in response to receiving an activation signal;

A receiver device configured to receive timing signals from one or more remote signal sources and to output a time indication based on the received timing signals, the receiver device configured to output the time indication in response to the lamp receiving the activation signal; and

A communication device configured to transmit a status signal in response to the lamp receiving the activation signal, the status signal being indicative of the status of the wayside device and the time indication.

2. The signal communication system of claim 1, wherein the light, the receiver device, and the communication device are configured to be disposed within a housing shaped to fit entirely within a recess of the roadside device.

3. The signal communication system of claim 1, wherein,

The receiver device and the communication device are configured to activate when the lamp receives the activation signal; and

The receiver device and the communication device are configured to deactivate when the lamp does not receive the activation signal.

4. The signal communication system of claim 1, wherein the light is configured to generate the light in a specified color or pattern as an optical signal indicative of the status of the roadside device.

5. The signal communication system of claim 1, wherein the receiver device comprises a positioning device.

6. The signal communication system of claim 1, wherein the communication device comprises a radio transmitter.

7. The signal communication system of claim 1, wherein the communication device is configured to transmit the status signal to indicate a condition of a switch disposed at an intersection between two or more routes.

8. The signal communication system of claim 1, wherein,

The receiver device is configured to determine a geographic location based on the timing signal, and

The communication device is configured to transmit the geographic location in the status signal.

9. The signal communication system of claim 1, wherein the communication device is configured to transmit a unique identification in the status signal.

10. The signal communication system of claim 1, wherein the communication device is configured to wirelessly transmit the status signal to one or more vehicles.