EP3587666B1 - Method and device for enhanced heating of track elements - Google Patents

Method and device for enhanced heating of track elements Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3587666B1
EP3587666B1 EP19020404.0A EP19020404A EP3587666B1 EP 3587666 B1 EP3587666 B1 EP 3587666B1 EP 19020404 A EP19020404 A EP 19020404A EP 3587666 B1 EP3587666 B1 EP 3587666B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
heating
heating element
track
switching
track element
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EP19020404.0A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3587666A1 (en
Inventor
Mario DÖGE
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EAN Elektroschaltanlagen Grimma GmbH
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EAN Elektroschaltanlagen Grimma GmbH
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    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
    • E01B—PERMANENT WAY; PERMANENT-WAY TOOLS; MACHINES FOR MAKING RAILWAYS OF ALL KINDS
    • E01B7/00—Switches; Crossings
    • E01B7/24—Heating of switches

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a method and a device for the increased heating of track elements, at least one main heating element being provided for regular heating on at least one track element.
  • Track elements, in particular points, of rail-bound vehicles such as railways (mainline, branch lines, narrow-gauge railways) or trams are heated as required, especially in winter, to prevent the moving parts from freezing or blocking due to snow and ice, and thus to ensure operational safety .
  • Known point heaters are based on systems with hot steam, gas heating or electrical energy.
  • Generic methods and devices are from the prior art, for example DE 198 32 535 C2 such as DE 198 49 637 C1 known in itself.
  • These well-known electric points heaters consist, among other things, of an electrical distribution with control and regulation devices for switching, controlling, regulating and monitoring each individual heating output, a weather-dependent control system that activates the heating in ice and snow, and electrical heating elements on the rails of the points, which are thereby heated and a Prevent the moving parts of the points from freezing.
  • Snow and ice are detected by recording and evaluating air temperature and precipitation. If the actual rail temperature also falls below a parameterizable target rail temperature, for example +4 °C, the entire points heating is switched on and all points are heated up with a delay caused by the mass of the rails.
  • the rail temperature is regulated to a specific target rail temperature via a rail temperature sensor on a guide switch.
  • an energy management system which is designed for the optimal use of energy with a maximum connected load per switch.
  • At least one active power ratio (La) is executed.
  • the power ratio (La) is the ratio or the quotient of the number of switched-on or switched-off heating outlets to the total number of heating outlets in the electric points heating system. This takes place activating or deactivating the heating outlets of the electric point heating during each cycle time according to a specific power ratio.
  • the specific active power ratio is adjusted depending on a comparison of the actual control deviation with a stored maximum control deviation.
  • the disadvantage of this system is that when a stored maximum control deviation (XWmax) is exceeded, the at least one active power ratio is adjusted to 100%. As a result, there is no solution for safely heating the points in extreme weather and thus in the event of larger control deviations.
  • zone heating to reduce the connected load which divides the switch into prioritized zones such as the tongue tip and non-prioritized zones such as the tongue root or the locking compartment.
  • the disadvantage of this system is that it is designed exclusively to reduce the connected load that is called up at the same time and not to increase the availability of the points in winter.
  • additional rail temperature sensors are required for controlling the individual zones. This is unfavorable for the maintenance of the systems, since additional sources of error result from additional temperature sensors and at the same time result in increased maintenance costs.
  • US 2013/0220991 A1 describes a generic method with an electrically load-sharing heating system.
  • the load sharing heating system and process is configured to allow for smooth electrical operation and energy savings.
  • the system is configured to group the heating elements based on the heating element load curves and turn the groups on and off sequentially, allowing for efficient and smooth operation.
  • the individual heating elements can be grouped in different compositions in order to achieve the goal of energy savings. This means that the heating elements are switched on and off one after the other in a group mode to save energy and are therefore permanently in operation. During this operation, the heating elements switch to an energy-saving mode in groups, depending on the recorded temperatures at the switches.
  • the present invention is therefore based on the object of specifying a method for increased heating of track elements, preferably electrically heated points, without increasing the connected load and providing a corresponding device, whereby the relevant functional parts of track elements can be heated in a balanced manner using simple means, even in extreme weather and can be implemented without additional sensors.
  • the invention advantageously leads to an optimal use of energy when heating track elements without having to increase the connected load, while at the same time balanced heating of the relevant functional parts while ensuring the function of all track elements.
  • the effort required for installation and maintenance is kept low, since there is at least one secondary heating element (14) no additional elements need to be provided.
  • no additional sensors are required for the control and regulation of the secondary heating elements (14), since the heating duration of the secondary heating elements (14) is determined on the basis of calculations.
  • no additional sensors are required for the maintenance and function monitoring of the secondary heating elements (14), since the sensors for maintenance and function monitoring of the main heating elements (13) can be used during the heating pauses of the main heating elements (13).
  • the present invention relates to a method for increased heating of track elements (12). At least one main heating element (13) for regular heating is provided on at least one track element (12) and at least one secondary heating element (14) on at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12).
  • “increased” means that a track element (12), or at least parts of it, is additionally heated compared to the regular heating operation known from the prior art.
  • guideway elements are understood to mean devices, in particular movable devices, which can assume different and predeterminable states in rail traffic for the targeted handling of the traffic.
  • Track elements include points, track closures, signals, special track sections or level crossing systems.
  • guideway elements (12) are understood to mean, in particular, points (all types of points such as single points, slip points, double slip points, three-way points, etc.).
  • Switches include a number of functional elements, above all the stock rails, the switch rails, the locking compartment linkage, the support lugs and the slide chairs including any existing roller devices.
  • “Functionally relevant components” of the guideway element (12) are understood to mean, in particular, the movable switch points (switch rails), sliding chairs, roller devices, linkages, etc.
  • the "main heating element” refers to a heating element which is attached to part of the guideway element (12) and can be switched ON and OFF regularly by means of a recorded control parameter (e.g. via a rail temperature sensor).
  • the main heating element (13) is used for regular heating of the track element (12) under normal weather conditions.
  • auxiliary heating element designates a heating element which is attached to another part of the guideway element (12) and can be switched ON and OFF depending on the main heating element (13) without its own control sensor.
  • the secondary heating element (14) is only used during the natural or possibly forced heating breaks of the main heating element (13), in particular only under extreme weather conditions.
  • an auxiliary heating element (14) does not have its own sensor. According to the invention, the sub-heater (14) can never be turned ON at the same time as the main heater (13).
  • the method according to the invention initially comprises, in step a), the regular heating of a track element (12) by means of the at least one main heating element (13).
  • This step a) aims to heat the at least one track element (12) in regular operation.
  • step b) the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) is then heated by means of the at least one auxiliary heating element (14) on the at least one track element (12).
  • This heating takes place either during heating breaks in the at least one main heating element (13) or after the guideway element (12) has reached a target temperature in the area of the at least one main heating element (13) or when power reserves are available.
  • this heating only takes place if the heat output required on the track element (12) is greater than the heat output of the at least one main heating element (13) installed on the track element (12).
  • the heating preferably takes place during heating pauses of the at least one main heating element (13), it being possible for these heating pauses to be natural or forced. This is discussed further below.
  • the heating can also take place if the regular heating of an area of the guideway element (12) has reached a target temperature of this guideway element (12). is reached in the area in which the at least one main heating element (13) is arranged. Furthermore, the heating can take place when power reserves are available in the system, for example because the at least one main heating element (13) is not being operated at full power, for example only to maintain a current temperature but not to increase it any further.
  • control device (3) is provided for controlling at least one switching device (5) and for regulating the rail temperature of the at least one main heating element (13) and the at least one secondary heating element (14).
  • step c1) a current absolute control deviation ⁇ abs is compared with a stored maximum control deviation ⁇ max. If the maximum control deviation ⁇ max is exceeded for at least one functionally relevant component of the guideway element (12), the heating of the at least one functionally relevant component of the guideway element (12) is then activated by means of at least one auxiliary heating element (14) on at least one of the guideway elements (12).
  • step c2) the activation of the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) by means of at least one auxiliary heating element (14) on at least one of the track elements (12) is activated by an additional switch (26) in the control device (3). This makes it possible to activate the heating manually or semi-automatically.
  • step c3) the heating of the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) is activated by means of at least one auxiliary heating element (14) on at least one of the track elements (12) when the ambient parameters that can be specified are not reached.
  • the ambient parameters of a route element (12) that can be specified are the ambient temperature (air temperature), the presence of precipitation and its type (snow, rain, ice), wind, wind direction, air pressure, solar radiation, existing snow (that has already fallen in the past Snow).
  • the specifiable environmental parameters can preferably by a Weather station or weather forecast come from. In this way, for example, the system reacts to rapidly changing environmental parameters, in particular a sharp drop in temperature, and activates the heating before the temperature of a functionally relevant component drops too much.
  • the at least one auxiliary heating element (14) is provided on at least one of the track elements (12) according to the invention.
  • This secondary heating element (14) is located in particular at a point on the track element (12) which is difficult to heat by the at least one main heating element (13).
  • the main heating element (13) and the secondary heating element (14) are preferably not operated in parallel, but in particular alternately, in that the secondary heating element (14) is only activated during the heating breaks of the main heating element (13). Alternatives to this alternating operation have already been mentioned above.
  • the heating pauses of the at least one main heating element (13) can be "natural” on the one hand, that is, the pauses that occur during regular operation.
  • the heating pauses of the at least one main heating element (13) can be "forced", i.e. the heating of the at least one main heating element (13) is deliberately and controlled interrupted in order to heat the at least one secondary heating element (14) during this forced heating pause.
  • the method according to the invention has the advantage that, when heating track elements (12), balanced heating of the relevant functional parts is made possible without having to increase the connected load, with optimal energy use also being achieved.
  • the process is completely independent of the energy supplied and can be used for all types of driveway heating. This can be, for example, geothermal point heaters, gas point heaters, electric point heaters, etc.
  • the calculated time is equal to 0. Furthermore, a possible undersupply of the track element (12) can be detected on the basis of the calculated time. This makes it possible to estimate the availability of the route element (12) under certain weather conditions on the basis of the calculated time.
  • the system can issue a warning message before the start of heating of the secondary heating element (14), since snow would certainly cover the track element (12) during this long period of time.
  • the above development can advantageously be supplemented such that after the on-time of the at least one auxiliary heating element (14) has elapsed, the activation of the heating is reassessed according to step c1) or step c2) or step c3).
  • the advantage of this constant reassessment lies in the constant recalculation of the heating conditions and thus in an optimization of the energy consumption, since if the heating condition for the secondary heating element (14) is no longer applicable, this is also switched off again and energy is not required unnecessarily.
  • the mass of the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) heated by the at least one main heating element (13) can be compared to the mass of the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element ( 12) or in relation to the current ambient parameters of the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) heated by the at least one auxiliary heating element (14).
  • This calculation of the duty cycle results in a necessary heating duration of the at least one secondary heating element (14), the duty cycle being less than or greater than or equal to the heating pause of the at least one main heating element (13).
  • parameters can also be set as to whether, in the case of calculating a longer required heating duration for the at least one secondary heating element (14) than the natural heating pause for the at least one main heating element (13), this heating pause is artificial, i.e. forced, and up to what maximum may and/or should be extended.
  • the heat output of the at least one secondary heating element (14) can be greater than, less than or equal to that of the at least one main heating element (13).
  • a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention provides for an emergency control to be activated in the event of a loss of communication between a switching control (8) and a communication module (6) and thus the control device (3), in that a switching device (11) assumes a predefined emergency position.
  • the advantage of this embodiment lies in the safety function due to the defined state that the switching device (11) assumes in the event of a fault.
  • a defined heating of the track element (12) is carried out and a basic functionality of the track element (12) can be guaranteed.
  • An alternative preferred embodiment to this embodiment provides that in the event of a fault within the switching control (8) an emergency control is activated (so-called watchdog) by the switching device (11) assuming a predefined emergency position.
  • an emergency control is activated (so-called watchdog) by the switching device (11) assuming a predefined emergency position.
  • the second aspect of the present invention relates to a first device for increased heating of track elements (12).
  • This first device initially comprises a switching distributor (1) which has a control device (3) on which a switching device (5) for at least one main heating element (13) on the at least one track element (12) is provided for at least one track element (12). , wherein each switching device (5) has at least one heating outlet (7) for at least one guideway element (12).
  • Switching distribution (1) in the sense of this document refers to an energy distribution with which the energy supply required for heating the main heating elements (13) and the secondary heating elements (14) is distributed to different heating outlets (7) and these are switched on or off accordingly.
  • This can be, for example, electrical energy or, in the case of geothermal points heating systems, switching on the circulation of the heat-carrying fluid or, in the case of gas point heating systems, the gas supply to the burners.
  • switching device (5) refers here to a device that can switch on and off the energy supply for heating the guideway elements (12). This can be, for example, control valves, load contactors, semiconductor switching devices or magnetic switches.
  • the first device comprises an environmental parameter device (2) which is connected to the control device (3).
  • This "Environmental Parameters Setup (2)" can be a weather station, which records the environmental parameters, but also additionally or alternatively a connection to a weather data provider or weather service.
  • the first device also includes at least one energy distribution box (4) for the at least one track element (12), which is connected to the corresponding heating outlet (7) for this at least one track element (12) and supplies it with energy, and at least one temperature sensor (9) for at least one track element (12) which is connected to the control device (3).
  • Energy distribution box (4) refers to a device for feeding in and distributing (electrical) energy to the at least one main heating element (13) and the at least one secondary heating element (14).
  • the first device is characterized in that at least one auxiliary heating element (14) is also provided on at least one guideway element (12), the energy distribution box (4) also having a switching control (8) and a switching device (11), by means of which the energy supply of the corresponding heating outlet (7) can be switched between the main heating element (13) and the secondary heating element (14).
  • Switching control (8) in the sense of the present invention denotes a device for controlling the switching device (11) including the monitoring of the respective switching positions.
  • switching device (11) means a device for switching over or switching on the energy supply of the at least one main heating element (13) and the at least one secondary heating element (14).
  • This switching device (11) can be, for example, a control valve, load contactor, semiconductor switching devices or magnetic switches.
  • the first device according to the invention basically has the same advantages as the method according to the invention described above. Furthermore, the first device according to the invention enables reduced installation and maintenance costs, since apart from the at least one auxiliary heating element (14), essentially no additional elements have to be provided in order to ensure balanced heating of track elements without increasing the connected load.
  • the third aspect of the present invention relates to a second device for increased heating of track elements (12), which is an alternative to the first device according to the invention.
  • This second device initially comprises a switching distributor (1) which has a control device (3) on which at least one switching device (5) is provided for at least one main heating element (13) on at least one guideway element (12), the switching device (5) is connected to at least one communication module (6).
  • the “communication module (6)” is a module for communication between the switching distribution (1) or the switching control (8) and the switching distribution and the energy distribution box (4) via a heating outlet/energy supply cable (7) of the guideway element (12). designated.
  • the second device comprises an environmental parameter device (2), which is connected to the control device (3), and at least one energy distribution box (4) for the at least one track element (12), which is equipped with a corresponding heating outlet (7) for this guideway element (12) is connected and supplies it with energy.
  • the second device comprises at least one temperature sensor (9) for at least one track element (12), which is connected to the control device (3).
  • the second device is characterized in that at least one secondary heating element (14) is also provided on at least one guideway element (12), the energy distribution box (4) also having a switching control (8) and a switching device (11), by means of which the energy supply of the corresponding heating outlet (7) can be switched between the main heating element (13) and the secondary heating element (14).
  • the second device according to the invention basically has the same advantages as the method according to the invention described above and the first device according to the invention described above.
  • the main difference between the first device and the second device is that several communication modules (6) and several heating outlets (7) can be attached to a switching device (5). Each of these heating outlets (7) then supplies one or more energy distribution boxes (4) that in turn supply one or more main heating elements (13) and secondary heating elements (14) on one or more track elements (12).
  • the first device also includes a communication module (6) for one or more heating outlets (7) for each guideway element (12), which is connected to the control device (3).
  • the switching device (11) can advantageously be designed as a switching element or as at least two switch-on elements.
  • first device according to the invention and the second device according to the invention can each further comprise a switch (26) for activating the increased heating.
  • This variant has the advantage that the increased heating can be activated by manual intervention by an operator in the control. This can be used, for example, as a precaution or to melt any snow/ice residue that has not been detected by the sensors.
  • the present invention is illustrated in particular with reference to an electrical points heating system.
  • the present invention is not limited to an electrical system and can also be applied to systems with hot water steam, gas heating or geothermal energy.
  • the present invention can also be applied to all the track elements 12 already mentioned above.
  • the present invention is first based on the Figures 1 to 8 described.
  • FIG 1 is a schematic representation of an electrical point heating system according to the prior art with three heating outlets 7, three points 12a and three heating elements 13 each. If the weather is appropriate, the heating request is generated by the weather station (environmental parameter device 2) in the control device 3 and all heating outlets 7 are switched on and off again at the same time.
  • the rail temperature is regulated via at least one rail temperature sensor 9 during the heating request between two parameterizable target values, for example between +4.degree. C. and +7.degree.
  • FIG 2 an arrangement for measuring points x1 to x9 for determining temporal temperature profiles on various components necessary for the availability of the switch 12a can be seen.
  • the measuring point x1 is the position of a standard rail temperature sensor for rail temperature control. Furthermore, the position of the standardized main heating element 13 is shown in this figure.
  • FIG 3 are corresponding for different measuring points figure 2 temporal temperature curves can be read.
  • This switch 12a is standard equipment with a heating element 17 at the base of the stock rail 15 (see Fig figure 2 ).
  • the temperature is regulated between + 3 °C and + 7 °C by means of a two-point control. It can be seen that the temperature at measuring point x6 does not rise above 0 °C for this example. This in turn means that snow deposits or freezing of rain at this point cannot be prevented with this type of heating.
  • figure 3 to recognize the natural heating breaks caused by the two-point control.
  • FIG 4 shows a schematic cross-section through a switch 12a comprising a stock rail 15 and a switch tongue 19 assigned to it and arranged to be displaceable on a slide chair 22.
  • a switch 12a it is a conventional structure of a switch 12a, so that the other elements do not need to be discussed in detail.
  • the stock rail 15 is equipped with heating elements 16, 24 such as heating rods on both sides of its web. Furthermore, heating elements 20, 26 can be attached on both sides of the tongue rail 19. Furthermore, for example, the slide chair 22, the stock rail head or the tongue rail head can be heated directly.
  • FIG 5 is a point heating control with so-called. "Power heating” shown schematically according to a first specific embodiment.
  • the switching control 8 and the switching device 5 are shown in the energy distribution box 4 .
  • the main heating elements 13 or the secondary heating elements 14 can be supplied with energy alternately.
  • the data transmission between the switching distributor 1 and the switching controller 8 is realized via a power supply cable of the respective heating outlet 7 .
  • At least one communication module 6 per switching distribution board 1 and/or per heating outlet/power supply cable 7 is required for this.
  • This communication module 6 ensures the data transmission between the switching distributor 1 and the switching controller 8 in the energy distribution box 4. This communication can take place offline (when the energy supply is switched off) or online (when the energy supply is switched on).
  • figure 6 shows a point heating control with so-called "power heating” according to a second specific embodiment.
  • a switching device 5 supplies several communication modules 6 and heating outlets/power supply cables 7 , which in turn supply several energy distribution boxes 4 .
  • FIG 7 a standard switch 12a of the type EW54-500 including a standard switch assembly with main heating elements 13 on the inside of the stock rail 15 is shown. Furthermore, the heating of the locking compartments 27, which ensure the heating of the sliding linkage of the switch blade 19, is shown.
  • auxiliary heating elements 14 shown for tongue rail heating, tongue tip heating, slide chair heating and support bracket heating.
  • FIG 8 a time course of a power heating process (process for increased heating of roadway elements 12) is shown as an example. This shows that the points heating is in normal control mode.
  • switch 26 for activating the power heating function is turned on. This can be done automatically, for example, by a parameterized weather condition (e.g. falling below the air temperature or exceeding a preset amount of precipitation or exceeding the maximum control deviation or manual activation).
  • a parameterized weather condition e.g. falling below the air temperature or exceeding a preset amount of precipitation or exceeding the maximum control deviation or manual activation.
  • the energy supply is switched over from the main heating elements 13 to the secondary heating elements 14, which are now heated for the time period t1 to t2.
  • This switchover of the energy supply can take place under load, i.e. in the switched-on state, or without load, i.e. in the switched-off state, of the energy supply.
  • the secondary heating elements 14 are heated for just as long as the main heating elements 13 and there is an additional heating pause in the time period t2 to t3, in which no heating is active. That is, the power supply is switched off by the switching device 5 in the switching distribution board 1.
  • the power supply is switched over from the auxiliary heating elements 14 to the main heating elements 13.
  • the main heating elements 13 are supplied with power.
  • the energy supply is switched over from the main heating elements 13 to the secondary heating elements 14, which are now heated for the time period t4 to t5. It can be seen here that the auxiliary heating elements 14 heat longer than the main heating elements 13 .
  • the energy supply is switched over from the secondary heating elements 14 to the main heating elements 13. In this case, there is no additional heating break.
  • the main heating elements 13 are supplied with energy.
  • the power supply is switched over from the main heating elements 13 to the secondary heating elements 14, which are now heated for the period t6 to t7. It can be seen here that the secondary heating elements 14 are heated for just as long as the main heating elements 13 in the previous heating period.
  • the energy supply is switched over from the auxiliary heating elements 14 to the main heating elements 13. In this case, there is no additional heating pause.
  • the main heating elements 13 are supplied with energy.
  • the energy supply is switched over from the main heating elements 13 to the secondary heating elements 14, which are now heated for the time period t8 to t9. It can be seen here that the secondary heating elements 14 are heated for a shorter time than the main heating elements 13 in the previous heating period. In this case, too, there is no additional heating break.
  • the power supply is switched over from the secondary heating elements 14 to the main heating elements 13. In this case, there is no additional heating break.
  • the main heating elements 13 are supplied with energy.
  • the energy supply is switched over from the main heating elements 13 to the secondary heating elements 14, which are now heated for the period t10 to t11. It can be seen here that the secondary heating elements 14 are heated for a shorter time than the main heating elements 13 in the previous heating period. In this case, too, there is no additional heating break.
  • the energy supply is switched over from the auxiliary heating elements 14 to the main heating elements 13. In this case, there is no additional heating pause. In the period t11 to t13, the main heating elements 13 are supplied with energy.
  • the switch for activating the power heating function is switched off. This can be done automatically, e.g. due to parameterized weather conditions (e.g. exceeding an air temperature or falling below a preset amount of precipitation or falling below the maximum control deviation or manual switch-off).
  • This figure shows an environment parameter device 2 in the form of a weather station for detecting the current weather data. Additionally or alternatively, this current weather data can be provided by a weather forecast service. It is also possible to integrate future weather data into the device.
  • control device 3 for evaluating the weather data, which activates or deactivates at least one switching device 5 .
  • This at least one switching device 5 switches the power supply of the heating outlets/power supply cable 7 on or off to control the temperature of the standard switch 12a.
  • the temperature is controlled using the values measured by the rail temperature sensor 9 .
  • FIG. 5 the energy distribution box 4, the switching control 8 and the switching device 5 are shown. By means of these devices, either the main heating elements 13 or the secondary heating elements 14 can be supplied with energy alternately.
  • the data transmission between the control device 3 in the switching distribution board 1 and the communication module 6 can be binary or bus-bound.
  • the data transmission between the communication module 6 in the switching distributor 1 and the switching controller 8 in the energy distribution box 4 is realized via the heating outlet/energy supply cable 7 .
  • At least one communication module 6 per switching distribution board 1 and/or per heating outlet/power supply cable 7 is required for this.
  • This communication can be offline (when the power supply is off) or online (when the power supply is on). Furthermore, this communication can be binary or bus-bound.
  • the control deviation is defined as the difference in the target temperature Tset for a specific measuring point or heating point (e.g. X6 in figure 2 ) and the current value of the temperature T0 at this measuring point or heating point as a function of the maximum heating-up time until the target temperature Tsoll is reached at this measuring point or heating point under the current and/or future environmental conditions.
  • the maximum control deviation ⁇ max represents the maximum temperature difference for the current and/or future weather conditions, which can be bridged by the main heating elements 13 at the corresponding measuring point or heating point in the specified period of time
  • Control deviation ⁇ max can be defined, for example, by means of comparison values and/or a referencing measurement run as part of the parameterization of the system.
  • step a) and step b) of the above-described method according to the invention a maximum control deviation ⁇ max between a temperature T0 of track element 12 and a parameterizable setpoint temperature Tsoll of track element 12 is first determined, as well as the maximum control deviation in the Control device 3 are stored.
  • the goal is thus pursued of sufficiently heating all components relevant to the function of a roadway element 12 by the at least one main heating element 13 in a parameterizable period of time.
  • a referencing run can be carried out or references from comparable route elements can be used.
  • the "temperature T0" designates the temperature of the respective route element at the time of the respective switching on of the main heating element.
  • “configurable desired temperature Tsoll” is understood to mean that this temperature can be set to a specific value automatically or manually.
  • a current temperature setpoint Ta for each track element 12 is then determined. This can be parameterized manually or calculated using mathematical equations as a function of parameters that can be specified and/or the current environmental parameters.
  • the main difference between the parameterizable setpoint temperature Tsoll and the current temperature setpoint Ta is that the parameterized busbar temperature Tsoll is fixed and the current busbar temperature Ta is recalculated at each point in time.
  • the current busbar temperature Ta calculated using any offsets or using mathematical equations can possibly correspond to the configured target temperature.
  • the current temperature setpoint Ta can be determined in particular as a function of set parameters and/or of current and future weather conditions.
  • a current absolute control deviation ⁇ abs between a current temperature T0a of the track element 12 and the parameterizable target temperature Tsoll of the guideway element 12 for at least one functionally relevant component of the guideway element 12 is provided.
  • the current temperature T0a of the guideway element 12 is the temperature of a specific part, for example a rail, measured by means of a sensor or on site.

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  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Control Of Resistance Heating (AREA)
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Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung bezieht sich auf ein Verfahren und eine Einrichtung zum verstärkten Beheizen von Fahrwegelementen, wobei an zumindest einem Fahrwegelement zumindest ein Hauptheizelement zum regulären Beheizen vorgesehen ist.The present invention relates to a method and a device for the increased heating of track elements, at least one main heating element being provided for regular heating on at least one track element.

Fahrwegelemente, insbesondere Weichen, von schienengebundenen Fahrzeugen wie Eisenbahnen (Vollbahnen, Nebenbahnen, Schmalspurbahnen) oder Straßenbahnen werden bedarfsabhängig beheizt, um vor allem im Winter ein Einfrieren der beweglichen Teile bzw. deren Blockieren durch eingedrungenen Schnee und Eis zu verhindern und damit die Betriebssicherheit zu gewährleisten. Bekannte Weichenheizungen beruhen auf Systemen mit Heißwasserdampf, Gasbeheizung oder elektrischer Energie.Track elements, in particular points, of rail-bound vehicles such as railways (mainline, branch lines, narrow-gauge railways) or trams are heated as required, especially in winter, to prevent the moving parts from freezing or blocking due to snow and ice, and thus to ensure operational safety . Known point heaters are based on systems with hot steam, gas heating or electrical energy.

Klimaforscher warnen schon seit vielen Jahren vor dem weltweiten Klimawandel, der in Deutschland vor allem zu weniger Schnee im Winter und ganzjährig zu höheren Durchschnittstemperaturen führen wird. Die Niederschlagsmenge wird nach diesen Prognosen im Winter um bis zu 30 % steigen, jedoch sinken die Tage mit mehr oder weniger geschlossener Schneedecke deutlich. Allerdings bedeutet dies nicht, dass Weichenheizungen zukünftig nicht mehr benötigt werden, denn obwohl die Winter im Allgemeinen milder und schneeärmer werden, sind gleichzeitig Wetterextreme wahrscheinlicher.Climate researchers have been warning for many years about global climate change, which in Germany will primarily lead to less snow in winter and higher average temperatures all year round. According to these forecasts, the amount of precipitation will increase by up to 30% in winter, but the days with more or less complete snow cover are decreasing significantly. However, this does not mean that point heaters will no longer be needed in the future, because although winters are generally milder and less snowy, extreme weather events are more likely at the same time.

Laut dem Deutschen Wetterdienst sind Hagelereignisse öfter zu erwarten, ebenso steigen Temperaturextreme im Winter um das bis zu 20-fache an. Das heißt, dass in Zukunft die meiste Zeit der Heizperiode Energie gespart werden kann, in Extremfällen aber auch die notwendige Leistung abrufbar sein muss, um den störungsfreien Betrieb aufrechtzuerhalten. Aus diesen Gründen werden in neuen Weichenheizungssteuerungen die Funktionen für ein verstärktes Beheizen der Weichen (auch als "Powerheizen" bezeichnet) notwendig.According to the German Weather Service, hail events are to be expected more often, and extreme temperatures in winter are up to 20 times higher. This means that in future energy can be saved for most of the heating period, but in extreme cases the necessary power must also be available in order to maintain trouble-free operation. For these reasons, the functions for increased heating of the points (also referred to as "power heating") are required in new point heating controls.

Gattungsgemäße Verfahren und Einrichtungen sind aus dem Stand der Technik, beispielsweise aus DE 198 32 535 C2 sowie DE 198 49 637 C1 an sich bekannt. Diese bekannten elektrischen Weichenheizungen bestehen unter anderem aus einer elektrischen Verteilung mit Steuer- und Regeleinrichtungen zum Schalten, Steuern, Regeln und Überwachen jedes einzelnen Heizabganges, einer witterungsabhängigen Steuerung, die bei Eis und Schnee die Heizung aktiviert, und elektrischen Heizelementen an den Schienen der Weichen, die dadurch erwärmt werden und ein Festfrieren der beweglichen Teile der Weichen verhindern. Die Detektion von Schnee und Eis erfolgt über die Erfassung und Auswertung von Lufttemperatur und Niederschlag. Bei zusätzlichem Unterschreiten der Schienen-Isttemperatur unter eine parametrierbare Schienen-Solltemperatur, zum Beispiel + 4 °C, wird die gesamte Weichenheizung eingeschaltet und dadurch werden alle Weichen mit einer durch die Masse der Schienen bedingten Verzögerung erwärmt. Über einen Schienentemperatursensor an einer Führungsweiche erfolgt die Regelung der Schienentemperatur auf eine bestimmte Schienensolltemperatur.Generic methods and devices are from the prior art, for example DE 198 32 535 C2 such as DE 198 49 637 C1 known in itself. These well-known electric points heaters consist, among other things, of an electrical distribution with control and regulation devices for switching, controlling, regulating and monitoring each individual heating output, a weather-dependent control system that activates the heating in ice and snow, and electrical heating elements on the rails of the points, which are thereby heated and a Prevent the moving parts of the points from freezing. Snow and ice are detected by recording and evaluating air temperature and precipitation. If the actual rail temperature also falls below a parameterizable target rail temperature, for example +4 °C, the entire points heating is switched on and all points are heated up with a delay caused by the mass of the rails. The rail temperature is regulated to a specific target rail temperature via a rail temperature sensor on a guide switch.

Aus dem Untersuchungsbericht 06-P-3408-TZF92-UN-0780 der DB AG vom 12.12.2006 sind Versuche zum Heizverhalten von herkömmlichen elektrischen Weichenheizungen bekannt. Bei diesen Untersuchungen wurden an den Weichen wie im standardgemäßen Gebrauch Heizstäbe mit einer Heizleistung von 330 W/m mit Hilfe von Klemmbügeln am Fuß der Backenschienen befestigt. Die Temperaturregelung erfolgte wie in der Praxis üblich mittels eines Temperaturfühlers an der Unterseite der Backenschiene. Im Ergebnis dieser Untersuchungen war ein Temperaturabfall zwischen beheizter Backenschiene und abliegender unbeheizter Zungenschiene zu erkennen. Im Detail geht aus dieser Untersuchung hervor, dass für bestimmte Umgebungsbedingungen, z.B. - 5 °C, eine alleinige Beheizung der Backenschiene (Messpunkt X1) auf eine Schienen-Solltemperatur von z.B. + 7 °C die abliegende Zungenschiene (z.B. Messpunkt X6) nicht ausreichend beheizt wird, um Schnee an diesen Bereichen zu tauen. Des Weiteren geht aus diesen Untersuchungen hervor, dass bei handelsüblichen Weichenheizungen mit einer Zweipunktregelung durch das Abkühlen auf den unteren Schienentemperatursollwert Heizpausen entstehen, in denen keine elektrische Energie für das Beheizen der Backenschiene benötigt wird.From the investigation report 06-P-3408-TZF92-UN-0780 of the DB AG from December 12th, 2006 tests on the heating behavior of conventional electrical points heating systems are known. During these investigations, heating rods with a heat output of 330 W/m were fastened to the base of the stock rails with the aid of clamping brackets, as in standard use. As is usual in practice, the temperature was controlled by means of a temperature sensor on the underside of the stock rail. The results of these investigations revealed a drop in temperature between the heated stock rail and the unheated tongue rail that was lying off. In detail, this investigation shows that for certain ambient conditions, e.g. - 5 °C, only heating the stock rail (measuring point X1) to a target rail temperature of e.g. + 7 °C does not sufficiently heat the off-lying switch rail (e.g. measuring point X6). used to thaw snow at these areas. Furthermore, these investigations show that in the case of commercially available point heaters with a two-point control, cooling down to the lower rail temperature setpoint results in heating pauses during which no electrical energy is required to heat the stock rails.

Aus dem Patent DE 195 02 125 C2 sind zusätzlich zu der handelsüblichen Heizstabbestückung am Fuß der Backenschiene verschiedene Anordnungen von Heizelementen an der Backenschiene, der beweglichen Zungenschiene und am Gleitstuhl bekannt. Durch diese zusätzlichen Bestückungen können offensichtlich gleichmäßigere Erwärmungen der für eine Funktion der Weiche notwendigen Weichenbestandteile erreicht werden.From the patent DE 195 02 125 C2 Various arrangements of heating elements on the stock rail, the movable tongue rail and on the slide chair are known in addition to the standard heating element fittings at the foot of the stock rail. These additional configurations can obviously result in more even heating of the switch components required for the function of the switch.

Aus DE 10 2016011 117A1 ist ein Energiemanagementsystem bekannt, welches auf den optimalen Energieeinsatz bei einer maximalen Anschlussleistung je Weiche ausgelegt ist. Dabei wird zumindest ein aktives Leistungsverhältnis (La) ausgeführt. Mit Leistungsverhältnis (La) wird das Verhältnis bzw. der Quotient aus der Anzahl eingeschalteter bzw. ausgeschalteter Heizabgänge zur gesamten Anzahl an Heizabgängen der elektrischen Weichenheizungsanlage bezeichnet. Dabei erfolgt während jeder Taktzeit entsprechend eines spezifischen Leistungsverhältnisses das Aktivieren bzw. Deaktivieren der Heizabgänge der elektrischen Weichenheizung. Die Anpassung des spezifischen aktiven Leistungsverhältnisses erfolgt in Abhängigkeit eines Vergleichs der tatsächlichen Regelabweichung mit einer gespeicherten maximalen Regelabweichung. Nachteilig ist in diesem System, dass bei Überschreiten einer gespeicherten maximalen Regelabweichung (XWmax) die Anpassung des zumindest einen aktiven Leistungsverhältnisses auf 100 % erfolgt. Dadurch ist keine Lösung zur sicheren Erwärmung der Weichen bei Wetterextremen und damit bei größeren Regelabweichungen vorhanden.Out of DE 10 2016011 117A1 an energy management system is known, which is designed for the optimal use of energy with a maximum connected load per switch. At least one active power ratio (La) is executed. The power ratio (La) is the ratio or the quotient of the number of switched-on or switched-off heating outlets to the total number of heating outlets in the electric points heating system. This takes place activating or deactivating the heating outlets of the electric point heating during each cycle time according to a specific power ratio. The specific active power ratio is adjusted depending on a comparison of the actual control deviation with a stored maximum control deviation. The disadvantage of this system is that when a stored maximum control deviation (XWmax) is exceeded, the at least one active power ratio is adjusted to 100%. As a result, there is no solution for safely heating the points in extreme weather and thus in the event of larger control deviations.

Aus den Fachartikeln "Energieeinsparung bei Weichenheizungen" aus der Zeitschrift "Signal + Draht", Ausgabe 12 aus dem Jahr 2017, und "Moderne Reglung für maximale Energieeffizienz bei elektrischer Weichenheizung" aus der Zeitschrift "Signal + Draht", Ausgabe 7+8 aus dem Jahr 2012, ist eine Zonenheizung zur Reduzierung der Anschlussleistung bekannt, welche die Weiche in priorisierte Zonen wie die Zungenspitze und nicht priorisierte Zonen wie die Zungenwurzel oder das Verschlussfach einteilt. Nachteilig an diesem System ist, dass es ausschließlich auf die Reduzierung der gleichzeitig abgerufenen Anschlussleistung und nicht auf eine Erhöhung der Verfügbarkeit der Weiche im Winter ausgelegt ist. Des Weiteren werden zum Beheizen der einzelnen Zonen zusätzliche Schienentemperaturfühler für die Regelung der einzelnen Zonen benötigt. Dies ist für die Instandhaltung der Anlagen ungünstig, da sich durch zusätzliche Temperatursensoren zusätzliche Fehlerquellen ergeben und gleichzeitig einen erhöhten Instandhaltungsaufwand hervorrufen.From the specialist articles "Energy saving with point heating" from the "Signal + Wire" magazine, issue 12 from 2017, and "Modern control for maximum energy efficiency with electric point heating" from the "Signal + Wire" magazine, issue 7+8 from the 2012, zone heating to reduce the connected load is known, which divides the switch into prioritized zones such as the tongue tip and non-prioritized zones such as the tongue root or the locking compartment. The disadvantage of this system is that it is designed exclusively to reduce the connected load that is called up at the same time and not to increase the availability of the points in winter. Furthermore, to heat the individual zones, additional rail temperature sensors are required for controlling the individual zones. This is unfavorable for the maintenance of the systems, since additional sources of error result from additional temperature sensors and at the same time result in increased maintenance costs.

US 2013/0220991 A1 beschreibt ein gattungsgemäßes Verfahren mit einem elektrisch lastverteilenden Heizsystem. Das lastverteilende Heizsystem und das entsprechende Verfahren sind so konfiguriert, dass ein reibungsloser elektrischer Betrieb und Energieeinsparungen ermöglicht werden. Das System ist konfiguriert, um die Heizelemente basierend auf den Lastkurven der Heizelemente zu gruppieren und die Gruppen nacheinander ein- und auszuschalten, was einen effizienten und reibungslosen Betrieb ermöglicht. Wie aus den Figuren 5 und 6 deutlich wird, können die einzelnen Heizelemente in unterschiedlicher Zusammensetzung gruppiert werden, um so das Ziel der Energieeinsparungen zu erreichen. Das heißt, die Heizelemente werden zum Energiesparen über einen Gruppenmodus nacheinander ein- und ausgeschaltet und sind so dauerhaft in Betrieb. Während dieses Betriebes wechseln die Heizelemente gruppenweise in Abhängigkeit von erfassten Temperaturen an den Weichen in einen Energiesparmodus. US 2013/0220991 A1 describes a generic method with an electrically load-sharing heating system. The load sharing heating system and process is configured to allow for smooth electrical operation and energy savings. The system is configured to group the heating elements based on the heating element load curves and turn the groups on and off sequentially, allowing for efficient and smooth operation. How from the figures 5 and 6 As becomes clear, the individual heating elements can be grouped in different compositions in order to achieve the goal of energy savings. This means that the heating elements are switched on and off one after the other in a group mode to save energy and are therefore permanently in operation. During this operation, the heating elements switch to an energy-saving mode in groups, depending on the recorded temperatures at the switches.

Die aus dem Stand der Technik bekannten Verfahren und Einrichtungen haben folglich teilweise einen sehr hohen technischen Installations- und Wartungs-Aufwand bei gleichzeitig ungleichmäßiger und/oder unzureichender Beheizung wesentlicher funktioneller Teile von Fahrwegelementen. Es besteht daher die Notwendigkeit, für die zukünftig vermehrt auftretenden Wetterextreme mehr Heizleistung sowie gleichzeitig eine ausgeglichenere Beheizung an den für die Funktion der Weiche relevanten Weichenbestandteilen zu erreichen, ohne den technischen Aufwand weiter zu erhöhen.The methods and devices known from the state of the art consequently sometimes have a very high technical installation and maintenance effort with at the same time uneven and/or insufficient heating of essential functional parts of track elements. There is therefore a need to achieve more heat output and, at the same time, more balanced heating of the switch components relevant to the function of the switch for the weather extremes that will occur more frequently in the future, without further increasing the technical complexity.

Der vorliegenden Erfindung liegt daher die Aufgabe zugrunde, ein Verfahren zum verstärkten Beheizen von Fahrwegelementen, vorzugsweise von elektrisch beheizten Weichen, ohne Erhöhung der Anschlussleistung anzugeben und eine entsprechende Einrichtung bereitzustellen, wodurch mit einfachen Mitteln eine ausgeglichene Beheizung der relevanten funktionellen Teile von Fahrwegelementen auch bei Wetterextremen und ohne zusätzliche Sensoren realisiert werden kann.The present invention is therefore based on the object of specifying a method for increased heating of track elements, preferably electrically heated points, without increasing the connected load and providing a corresponding device, whereby the relevant functional parts of track elements can be heated in a balanced manner using simple means, even in extreme weather and can be implemented without additional sensors.

Diese Aufgabe wird in einem ersten Aspekt der vorliegenden Erfindung durch ein Verfahren zum verstärkten Beheizen von Fahrwegelementen (12) gelöst, wobei an zumindest einem Fahrwegelement (12) zumindest ein Hauptheizelement (13) zum regulären Beheizen und an mindestens einer funktionsrelevanten Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12) zumindest ein Nebenheizelement (14) vorgesehen ist, wobei das Hauptheizelement (13) an einem Teil des Fahrwegelements (12) angebracht ist und regulär mittels eines erfassten Regelparameters, z.B. über einen Schienentemperaturfühler, EIN als auch AUS schaltbar ist, und wobei das Nebenheizelement (14) an einem anderen Teil des Fahrwegelements (12) angebracht ist und in Abhängigkeit des Hauptheizelements (13) ohne eigenen Regelungssensor EIN als auch AUS schaltbar ist, umfassend die Schritte

  1. a) reguläres Beheizen eines Fahrwegelements (12) mittels des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13),
  2. b) Beheizen der mindestens einen funktionsrelevanten Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12) mittels des zumindest einen Nebenheizelements (14) an dem zumindest einen Fahrwegelement (12) in Heizpausen des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) oder nach Erreichen einer Solltemperatur des Fahrwegelements (12) im Bereich des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) oder bei vorhandenen Leistungsreserven, wenn die an dem Fahrwegelement (12) erforderliche Heizleistung größer ist als die Heizleistung des zumindest einen an dem Fahrwegelement (12) installierten Hauptheizelements (13),
    • wobei das Nebenheizelement (14) nie gleichzeitig mit dem Hauptheizelement (13) auf EIN geschaltet sein kann,
    • wobei das Beheizen mittels des zumindest einen Nebenheizelements (14) aktiviert wird
      • c1) bei Überschreiten einer maximalen Regelabweichung Δmax für die mindestens eine funktionsrelevante Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12), oder
      • c2) mittels eines zusätzlichen Schalters (26) in einer Steuerungseinrichtung (3) oder
      • c3) bei Unterschreiten eines vorgebbaren Umgebungsparameters.
In a first aspect of the present invention, this object is achieved by a method for the increased heating of track elements (12), in which at least one main heating element (13) for regular heating is provided on at least one track element (12) and on at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12 ) at least one secondary heating element (14) is provided, with the main heating element (13) being attached to part of the guideway element (12) and being able to be switched ON and OFF regularly by means of a recorded control parameter, e.g. via a rail temperature sensor, and with the secondary heating element ( 14) is attached to another part of the guideway element (12) and can be switched ON and OFF depending on the main heating element (13) without its own control sensor, comprising the steps
  1. a) regular heating of a track element (12) by means of the at least one main heating element (13),
  2. b) heating of the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) by means of the at least one auxiliary heating element (14) on the at least one track element (12) during heating breaks of the at least one main heating element (13) or after a target temperature of the track element (12) has been reached in the area of the at least one main heating element (13) or if power reserves are available, if the heat output required on the track element (12) is greater than the heat output of the at least one main heating element (13) installed on the track element (12),
    • whereby the sub-heating element (14) can never be switched ON at the same time as the main heating element (13),
    • wherein the heating is activated by means of the at least one auxiliary heating element (14).
      • c1) if a maximum control deviation Δmax is exceeded for the at least one function-relevant component of the track element (12), or
      • c2) by means of an additional switch (26) in a control device (3) or
      • c3) when a predefinable environmental parameter is not reached.

Die vorstehend genannte Aufgabe wird in einem zweiten Aspekt der vorliegenden Erfindung durch eine erste Einrichtung zum verstärkten Beheizen von Fahrwegelementen (12) gelöst, umfassend

  • eine Schaltverteilung (1), die eine Steuerungseinrichtung (3) aufweist, an der für zumindest ein Fahrwegelement (12) ein Schaltgerät (5) für zumindest ein Hauptheizelement (13) an dem zumindest einen Fahrwegelement (12) vorgesehen ist, wobei jedes Schaltgerät (5) zumindest einen Heizabgang (7) für zumindest ein Fahrwegelement (12) aufweist,
    wobei das Hauptheizelement (13) an einem Teil des Fahrwegelements (12) angebracht ist und regulär mittels eines erfassten Regelparameters (z.B. über einen Schienentemperaturfühler) EIN als auch AUS schaltbar ist,
  • eine Umgebungsparameter-Einrichtung (2), die mit der Steuerungseinrichtung (3) verbunden ist,
  • zumindest einen Energie-Verteilkasten (4) für das zumindest eine Fahrwegelement (12), der mit dem entsprechenden Heizabgang (7) für dieses zumindest eine Fahrwegelement (12) verbunden ist und dieses mit Energie versorgt, und
  • zumindest einen Temperatursensor (9) für mindestens ein Fahrwegelement (12), der mit der Steuerungseinrichtung (3) verbunden ist,
    • dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
    • an zumindest einem Fahrwegelement (12) ferner zumindest ein Nebenheizelement (14) vorgesehen ist, wobei der Energie-Verteilkasten (4) ferner eine Schaltsteuerung (8) und eine Schalteinrichtung (11) aufweist, mittels derer die Energieversorgung des entsprechenden Heizabgangs (7) zwischen dem Hauptheizelement (13) und dem Nebenheizelement (14) umschaltbar ist,
    • wobei das Nebenheizelement (14) an einem anderen Teil des Fahrwegelements (12) angebracht ist und in Abhängigkeit des Hauptheizelements (13) ohne eigenen Regelungssensor EIN als auch AUS schaltbar ist,
    • wobei das Nebenheizelement (14) nur in Heizpausen des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) beheizbar ist und wobei die Heizdauer der Nebenheizelemente (14) auf Basis von Berechnungen ermittelt wird.
The above-mentioned object is achieved in a second aspect of the present invention by a first device for increased heating of track elements (12), comprising
  • a switching distributor (1) which has a control device (3) on which a switching device (5) for at least one main heating element (13) is provided for at least one track element (12) on the at least one track element (12), each switching device ( 5) has at least one heating outlet (7) for at least one guideway element (12),
    wherein the main heating element (13) is attached to a part of the guideway element (12) and can be switched ON and OFF regularly by means of a recorded control parameter (e.g. via a rail temperature sensor),
  • an environmental parameter device (2) which is connected to the control device (3),
  • at least one energy distribution box (4) for the at least one track element (12), which is connected to the corresponding heating outlet (7) for this at least one track element (12) and supplies it with energy, and
  • at least one temperature sensor (9) for at least one track element (12), which is connected to the control device (3),
    • characterized in that
    • at least one auxiliary heating element (14) is also provided on at least one guideway element (12), the energy distribution box (4) also having a switching control (8) and a switching device (11), by means of which the energy supply of the corresponding heating outlet (7) is switched between the main heating element (13) and the secondary heating element (14) can be switched over,
    • wherein the secondary heating element (14) is attached to another part of the guideway element (12) and can be switched ON and OFF depending on the main heating element (13) without its own control sensor,
    • wherein the secondary heating element (14) can only be heated during heating pauses of the at least one main heating element (13) and wherein the heating duration of the secondary heating elements (14) is determined on the basis of calculations.

Die vorstehend genannte Aufgabe wird in einem dritten Aspekt der vorliegenden Erfindung durch eine zweite Einrichtung zum verstärkten Beheizen Fahrwegelementen (12) gelöst, umfassend

  • eine Schaltverteilung (1), die eine Steuerungseinrichtung (3) aufweist, an der zumindest ein Schaltgerät (5) für zumindest ein Hauptheizelement (13) an zumindest einem Fahrwegelement (12) vorgesehen ist, wobei das Schaltgerät (5) mit zumindest einem Kommunikationsmodul (6) verbunden ist,
    • wobei mit Kommunikationsmodul (6) ein Modul zu Kommunikation zwischen der Schaltverteilung (1) bzw. der Schaltsteuerung (8) und dem Energie-Verteilkasten (4) über einen Heizabgang/ Energieversorgungskabel (7) des Fahrwegelements (12) bezeichnet wird,
    • wobei das Hauptheizelement (13) an einem Teil des Fahrwegelements (12) angebracht ist und regulär mittels eines erfassten Regelparameters (z.B. über einen Schienentemperaturfühler) EIN als auch AUS schaltbar ist,
  • eine Umgebungsparameter-Einrichtung (2), die mit der Steuerungseinrichtung (3) verbunden ist,
  • zumindest einen Energie-Verteilkasten (4) für das zumindest eine Fahrwegelement (12), der mit einem entsprechenden Heizabgang (7) für dieses Fahrwegelement (12) verbunden ist und dieses mit Energie versorgt, und
  • zumindest einen Temperatursensor (9) für mindestens ein Fahrwegelement (12), der mit der Steuerungseinrichtung (3) verbunden ist,
    • dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
    • an zumindest einem Fahrwegelement (12) ferner zumindest ein Nebenheizelement (14) vorgesehen ist, wobei der Energie-Verteilkasten (4) ferner eine Schaltsteuerung (8) und eine Schalteinrichtung (11) aufweist, mittels derer die Energieversorgung des entsprechenden Heizabgangs (7) zwischen dem Hauptheizelement (13) und dem Nebenheizelement (14) umschaltbar ist,
    • wobei das Nebenheizelement (14) an einem anderen Teil des Fahrwegelements (12) angebracht ist und in Abhängigkeit des Hauptheizelements (13) ohne eigenen Regelungssensor EIN als auch AUS schaltbar ist,
    • wobei das Nebenheizelement (14) nur in Heizpausen des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) beheizbar ist und wobei die Heizdauer der Nebenheizelemente (14) auf Basis von Berechnungen ermittelt wird.
The above-mentioned object is achieved in a third aspect of the present invention by a second device for increased heating of roadway elements (12), comprising
  • a switching distribution board (1) which has a control device (3) on which at least one switching device (5) for at least one main heating element (13) is provided on at least one guideway element (12), the switching device (5) having at least one communication module ( 6) connected,
    • wherein the communication module (6) designates a module for communication between the switching distributor (1) or the switching controller (8) and the power distribution box (4) via a heating outlet/power supply cable (7) of the guideway element (12),
    • wherein the main heating element (13) is attached to a part of the guideway element (12) and can be switched ON and OFF regularly by means of a recorded control parameter (e.g. via a rail temperature sensor),
  • an environmental parameter device (2) which is connected to the control device (3),
  • at least one energy distribution box (4) for the at least one track element (12), which is connected to a corresponding heating outlet (7) for this track element (12) and supplies it with energy, and
  • at least one temperature sensor (9) for at least one track element (12), which is connected to the control device (3),
    • characterized in that
    • at least one auxiliary heating element (14) is also provided on at least one guideway element (12), the energy distribution box (4) also having a switching control (8) and a switching device (11), by means of which the energy supply of the corresponding heating outlet (7) is switched between the main heating element (13) and the secondary heating element (14) can be switched over,
    • wherein the secondary heating element (14) is attached to another part of the guideway element (12) and can be switched ON and OFF depending on the main heating element (13) without its own control sensor,
    • wherein the secondary heating element (14) can only be heated during heating pauses of the at least one main heating element (13) and wherein the heating duration of the secondary heating elements (14) is determined on the basis of calculations.

Die Erfindung führt in vorteilhafter Weise zu einem optimalen Energieeinsatz bei der Beheizung von Fahrwegelementen, ohne die Anschlussleistung erhöhen zu müssen, bei gleichzeitig ausgeglichener Beheizung der relevanten funktionellen Teile mit Sicherstellung der Funktion aller Fahrwegelemente. Zudem wird der Installations- und Wartungs-Aufwand gering gehalten, da außer dem zumindest einen Nebenheizelement (14) keine zusätzlichen Elemente vorgesehen werden müssen. Weiterhin werden keine zusätzlichen Sensoren für die Steuerung und Reglung der Nebenheizelemente (14) benötigt, da die Heizdauer der Nebenheizelemente (14) auf Basis von Berechnungen ermittelt wird. Des Weiteren wird für die Wartungs- und Funktionsüberwachung der Nebenheizelemente (14) keine zusätzliche Sensorik benötig, da in den Heizpausen der Hauptheizelemente (13) die Sensoren der Wartungs- und Funktionsüberwachung der Hauptheizelemente (13) verwendet werden kann.The invention advantageously leads to an optimal use of energy when heating track elements without having to increase the connected load, while at the same time balanced heating of the relevant functional parts while ensuring the function of all track elements. In addition, the effort required for installation and maintenance is kept low, since there is at least one secondary heating element (14) no additional elements need to be provided. Furthermore, no additional sensors are required for the control and regulation of the secondary heating elements (14), since the heating duration of the secondary heating elements (14) is determined on the basis of calculations. Furthermore, no additional sensors are required for the maintenance and function monitoring of the secondary heating elements (14), since the sensors for maintenance and function monitoring of the main heating elements (13) can be used during the heating pauses of the main heating elements (13).

Nachstehend wird die Erfindung im Detail beschrieben. Wenn in der Beschreibung des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens gegenständliche Merkmale genannt werden, so beziehen sich diese insbesondere auf die erfindungsgemäße Einrichtung. Ebenso beziehen sich Verfahrensmerkmale, die in der Beschreibung der erfindungsgemäßen Einrichtung angeführt werden, auf das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren.The invention will be described in detail below. If specific features are mentioned in the description of the method according to the invention, these relate in particular to the device according to the invention. The method features that are mentioned in the description of the device according to the invention also relate to the method according to the invention.

Im ersten Aspekt betrifft die vorliegende Erfindung ein Verfahren zum verstärkten Beheizen von Fahrwegelementen (12). Dabei ist an zumindest einem Fahrwegelement (12) zumindest ein Hauptheizelement (13) zum regulären Beheizen und an mindestens einer funktionsrelevanten Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12) zumindest ein Nebenheizelement (14) vorgesehen.In the first aspect, the present invention relates to a method for increased heating of track elements (12). At least one main heating element (13) for regular heating is provided on at least one track element (12) and at least one secondary heating element (14) on at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12).

"Verstärkt" bedeutet in diesem Zusammenhang, dass ein Fahrwegelement (12), zumindest aber Teile davon, gegenüber dem aus dem Stand der Technik bekannten regulären Heizbetrieb zusätzlich beheizt wird.In this context, "increased" means that a track element (12), or at least parts of it, is additionally heated compared to the regular heating operation known from the prior art.

Unter "Fahrwegelementen" werden im Sinne der vorliegenden Erfindung Einrichtungen, insbesondere bewegliche Einrichtungen, verstanden, die im Schienenverkehr zur gezielten Abwicklung des Verkehrs unterschiedliche und vorgebbare Zustände einnehmen können. Zu den Fahrwegelementen werden Weichen, Gleissperren, Signale, spezielle Gleisabschnitte oder Bahnübergangsanlagen gezählt. Als "Fahrwegelemente (12)" werden im Sinne der vorliegenden Erfindung insbesondere Weichen verstanden (alle Arten von Weichen wie einfache Weichen, Kreuzungsweichen, Doppelkreuzungsweichen, Dreiwegeweichen etc.). Weichen umfassen dabei eine Reihe von funktionellen Elementen, vor allem die Backenschienen, die Zungenschienen, das Verschlussfachgestänge, die Stützknaggen und die Gleitstühle inkl. ggf. vorhandener Rolleneinrichtungen.In the context of the present invention, “guideway elements” are understood to mean devices, in particular movable devices, which can assume different and predeterminable states in rail traffic for the targeted handling of the traffic. Track elements include points, track closures, signals, special track sections or level crossing systems. In the context of the present invention, “guideway elements (12)” are understood to mean, in particular, points (all types of points such as single points, slip points, double slip points, three-way points, etc.). Switches include a number of functional elements, above all the stock rails, the switch rails, the locking compartment linkage, the support lugs and the slide chairs including any existing roller devices.

Unter "funktionsrelevante Komponente" des Fahrwegelements (12) werden insbesondere die beweglichen Weichenzungen (Zungenschiene), Gleitstühle, Rolleneinrichtungen, Gestänge usw. verstanden."Functionally relevant components" of the guideway element (12) are understood to mean, in particular, the movable switch points (switch rails), sliding chairs, roller devices, linkages, etc.

Mit "Hauptheizelement" wird erfindungsgemäß ein Heizelement bezeichnet, welches an einem Teil des Fahrwegelements (12) angebracht ist und regulär mittels eines erfassten Regelparameters (z.B. über einen Schienentemperaturfühler) EIN als auch AUS schaltbar ist. Das Hauptheizelement (13) dient der regulären Beheizung des Fahrwegelements (12) bei normalen Wetterbedingungen.According to the invention, the "main heating element" refers to a heating element which is attached to part of the guideway element (12) and can be switched ON and OFF regularly by means of a recorded control parameter (e.g. via a rail temperature sensor). The main heating element (13) is used for regular heating of the track element (12) under normal weather conditions.

Demgegenüber wird mit "Nebenheizelement" erfindungsgemäß ein Heizelement bezeichnet, welches an einem anderen Teil des Fahrwegelements (12) angebracht ist und in Abhängigkeit des Hauptheizelements (13) ohne eigenen Regelungssensor EIN als auch AUS schaltbar ist. Dabei kommt das Nebenheizelement (14) ausschließlich in den natürlichen bzw. ggf. erzwungenen Heizpausen des Hauptheizelements (13) zum Einsatz, insbesondere nur bei extremen Witterungsbedingungen.In contrast, the term "auxiliary heating element" according to the invention designates a heating element which is attached to another part of the guideway element (12) and can be switched ON and OFF depending on the main heating element (13) without its own control sensor. The secondary heating element (14) is only used during the natural or possibly forced heating breaks of the main heating element (13), in particular only under extreme weather conditions.

Im Gegensatz zum bekannten Stand der Technik weist ein Nebenheizelement (14) keinen eigenen Sensor auf. Erfindungsgemäß kann das Nebenheizelement (14) nie gleichzeitig mit dem Hauptheizelement (13) auf EIN geschaltet sein.In contrast to the known prior art, an auxiliary heating element (14) does not have its own sensor. According to the invention, the sub-heater (14) can never be turned ON at the same time as the main heater (13).

Das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren umfasst zunächst in Schritt a) das reguläre Beheizen eines Fahrwegelements (12) mittels des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13). Mit diesem Schritt a) wird das Ziel verfolgt, das zumindest eine Fahrwegelements (12) in einem regulären Betrieb zu beheizen.The method according to the invention initially comprises, in step a), the regular heating of a track element (12) by means of the at least one main heating element (13). This step a) aims to heat the at least one track element (12) in regular operation.

In Schritt b) wird dann die mindestens eine funktionsrelevante Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12) mittels des zumindest einen Nebenheizelements (14) an dem zumindest einen Fahrwegelement (12) beheizt. Dieses Beheizen erfolgt entweder in Heizpausen des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) oder nach Erreichen einer Solltemperatur des Fahrwegelements (12) im Bereich des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) oder bei vorhandenen Leistungsreserven. Dieses Beheizen erfolgt zudem nur, wenn die an dem Fahrwegelement (12) erforderliche Heizleistung größer ist als die Heizleistung des zumindest einen an dem Fahrwegelement (12) installierten Hauptheizelements (13).In step b), the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) is then heated by means of the at least one auxiliary heating element (14) on the at least one track element (12). This heating takes place either during heating breaks in the at least one main heating element (13) or after the guideway element (12) has reached a target temperature in the area of the at least one main heating element (13) or when power reserves are available. Moreover, this heating only takes place if the heat output required on the track element (12) is greater than the heat output of the at least one main heating element (13) installed on the track element (12).

Erfindungsgemäß bevorzugt erfolgt das Beheizen in Heizpausen des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13), wobei diese Heizpausen natürlich oder erzwungen sein können. Darauf wird nachstehend noch eingegangen.According to the invention, the heating preferably takes place during heating pauses of the at least one main heating element (13), it being possible for these heating pauses to be natural or forced. This is discussed further below.

Das Beheizen kann aber auch erfolgen, wenn durch das reguläre Beheizen eines Bereichs des Fahrwegelements (12) eine Solltemperatur dieses Fahrwegelements (12) in dem Bereich erreicht ist, in dem das zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) angeordnet ist. Ferner kann das Beheizen erfolgen, wenn Leistungsreserven im System vorhanden sind, beispielsweise weil das zumindest eine Hauptheizelement (13) nicht mit voller Leistung betrieben wird, um zum Beispiel eine aktuelle Temperatur nur zu halten, aber nicht weiter zu erhöhen.However, the heating can also take place if the regular heating of an area of the guideway element (12) has reached a target temperature of this guideway element (12). is reached in the area in which the at least one main heating element (13) is arranged. Furthermore, the heating can take place when power reserves are available in the system, for example because the at least one main heating element (13) is not being operated at full power, for example only to maintain a current temperature but not to increase it any further.

Das Beheizen mittels des zumindest einen Nebenheizelements (14) wird aktiviert

  • c1) bei Überschreiten einer maximalen Regelabweichung Δmax für die mindestens eine funktionsrelevante Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12), oder
  • c2) mittels eines zusätzlichen Schalters (26) in einer Steuerungseinrichtung (3) oder
  • c3) bei Unterschreiten eines vorgebbaren Umgebungsparameters.
Heating by means of the at least one secondary heating element (14) is activated
  • c1) if a maximum control deviation Δmax is exceeded for the at least one function-relevant component of the track element (12), or
  • c2) by means of an additional switch (26) in a control device (3) or
  • c3) when a predefinable environmental parameter is not reached.

Die "Steuerungseinrichtung (3)" ist dabei zum Steuern von zumindest einem Schaltgerät (5) und zum Regeln der Schienentemperatur des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) und des zumindest einen Nebenheizelements (14) vorgesehen.The "control device (3)" is provided for controlling at least one switching device (5) and for regulating the rail temperature of the at least one main heating element (13) and the at least one secondary heating element (14).

In Schritt c1) wird insbesondere eine aktuelle absolute Regelabweichungen Δabs mit einer gespeicherten maximalen Regelabweichung Δmax verglichen. Bei Überschreiten der maximalen Regelabweichung Δmax für mindestens eine funktionsrelevante Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12) wird dann das Beheizen der mindestens einen funktionsrelevanten Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12) mittels zumindest eines Nebenheizelements (14) an zumindest einem der Fahrwegelemente (12) aktiviert.In step c1), a current absolute control deviation Δabs is compared with a stored maximum control deviation Δmax. If the maximum control deviation Δmax is exceeded for at least one functionally relevant component of the guideway element (12), the heating of the at least one functionally relevant component of the guideway element (12) is then activated by means of at least one auxiliary heating element (14) on at least one of the guideway elements (12).

Alternativ erfolgt in Schritt c2) insbesondere das Aktivieren des Beheizens der mindestens einen funktionsrelevanten Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12) mittels zumindest eines Nebenheizelements (14) an zumindest einem der Fahrwegelemente (12) durch einen zusätzlichen Schalter (26) in der Steuerungseinrichtung (3). Hiermit besteht die Möglichkeit, auch manuell oder halbautomatisch das Beheizen zu aktivieren.Alternatively, in step c2), the activation of the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) by means of at least one auxiliary heating element (14) on at least one of the track elements (12) is activated by an additional switch (26) in the control device (3). This makes it possible to activate the heating manually or semi-automatically.

Ebenfalls alternativ wird in Schritt c3) insbesondere das Beheizen der mindestens einen funktionsrelevanten Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12) mittels zumindest eines Nebenheizelements (14) an zumindest einem der Fahrwegelemente (12) durch Unterschreiten der vorgebbaren Umgebungsparameter aktiviert.Also alternatively, in step c3), the heating of the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) is activated by means of at least one auxiliary heating element (14) on at least one of the track elements (12) when the ambient parameters that can be specified are not reached.

Bei den vorgebbaren Umgebungsparametern eines Fahrwegelements (12) handelt es sich um die Umgebungstemperatur (Lufttemperatur), das Vorhandensein von Niederschlag und dessen Art (Schnee, Regen, Eis), Wind, Windrichtung, Luftdruck, Sonneneinstrahlung, vorhandener Schnee (bereits in der Vergangenheit gefallener Schnee). Die vorgebbaren Umgebungsparameter können dabei bevorzugt von einer Wetterstation oder Wettervorhersage stammen. Damit wird beispielsweise auf sich schnell ändernde Umgebungsparameter, insbesondere einen starken Temperaturabfall, reagiert und das Beheizen aktiviert, bevor die Temperatur einer funktionsrelevanten Komponente zu stark abfällt.The ambient parameters of a route element (12) that can be specified are the ambient temperature (air temperature), the presence of precipitation and its type (snow, rain, ice), wind, wind direction, air pressure, solar radiation, existing snow (that has already fallen in the past Snow). The specifiable environmental parameters can preferably by a Weather station or weather forecast come from. In this way, for example, the system reacts to rapidly changing environmental parameters, in particular a sharp drop in temperature, and activates the heating before the temperature of a functionally relevant component drops too much.

Um die Fahrwegelemente ohne Erhöhung der Anschlussleistung optimal und ausgeglichen beheizen zu können, wird erfindungsgemäß zunächst das zumindest eine Nebenheizelement (14) an zumindest einem der Fahrwegelemente (12) vorgesehen. Dieses Nebenheizelement (14) befindet sich insbesondere an einer Stelle des Fahrwegelements (12), die von dem zumindest einen Hauptheizelement (13) nur schwer beheizt werden kann. Zudem werden Hauptheizelement (13) und Nebenheizelement (14) vorzugsweise nicht parallel zueinander betrieben, sondern insbesondere abwechselnd, indem das Nebenheizelement (14) nur in den Heizpausen des Hauptheizelements (13) aktiviert wird. Alternativen zu diesem abwechselnden Betrieb wurden vorstehend schon genannt.In order to be able to heat the track elements optimally and in a balanced manner without increasing the connected load, the at least one auxiliary heating element (14) is provided on at least one of the track elements (12) according to the invention. This secondary heating element (14) is located in particular at a point on the track element (12) which is difficult to heat by the at least one main heating element (13). In addition, the main heating element (13) and the secondary heating element (14) are preferably not operated in parallel, but in particular alternately, in that the secondary heating element (14) is only activated during the heating breaks of the main heating element (13). Alternatives to this alternating operation have already been mentioned above.

Die Heizpausen des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) können dabei einerseits "natürlich" sein, das heißt, die Pausen, die während des regulären Betriebs entstehen. Andererseits können die Heizpausen des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) "erzwungen" sein, das heißt, das Beheizen des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) wird bewusst und gesteuert unterbrochen, um in dieser erzwungenen Heizpause das zumindest eine Nebenheizelement (14) zu beheizen.The heating pauses of the at least one main heating element (13) can be "natural" on the one hand, that is, the pauses that occur during regular operation. On the other hand, the heating pauses of the at least one main heating element (13) can be "forced", i.e. the heating of the at least one main heating element (13) is deliberately and controlled interrupted in order to heat the at least one secondary heating element (14) during this forced heating pause.

Das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren hat den Vorteil, dass bei der Beheizung von Fahrwegelementen (12), ohne die Anschlussleistung erhöhen zu müssen, eine ausgeglichene Beheizung der relevanten funktionellen Teile ermöglicht wird, wobei zudem ein optimaler Energieeinsatz erreicht wird. Dabei ist das Verfahren von der zugeführten Energie vollkommen unabhängig und kann für alle Arten von Fahrwegbeheizungen eingesetzt werden. Dies können beispielsweise geothermische Weichenheizungen, Gasweichenheizungen, elektrische Weichenheizungen usw. sein.The method according to the invention has the advantage that, when heating track elements (12), balanced heating of the relevant functional parts is made possible without having to increase the connected load, with optimal energy use also being achieved. The process is completely independent of the energy supplied and can be used for all types of driveway heating. This can be, for example, geothermal point heaters, gas point heaters, electric point heaters, etc.

In einer Weiterbildung des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens umfasst dieses parallel zu Schritt b) und/oder zu den Schritten c1) oder c2) oder c3) das Berechnen der Einschaltdauer des zumindest einen Nebenheizelements (14). Dabei erfolgt das Berechnen der Einschaltdauer des zumindest einen Nebenheizelements (14)

  • in Abhängigkeit der jeweiligen aktuellen absoluten Regelabweichungen Δabs an der mindestens einen funktionsrelevanten Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12) und/oder
  • auf Basis der Heizdauer des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) und/oder
  • auf Basis von aktuellen Umgebungsparametern und/oder
  • auf Basis eines in der Steuerungseinrichtung (3) vorgegebenen parametrierbaren Verhältnisses der Heizdauer des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) zu dem zumindest einen Nebenheizelement (14).
In a further development of the method according to the invention, this includes, parallel to step b) and/or to steps c1) or c2) or c3), calculating the duty cycle of the at least one auxiliary heating element (14). The duty cycle of the at least one secondary heating element (14) is calculated
  • depending on the respective current absolute control deviations Δabs at the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) and/or
  • based on the heating duration of the at least one main heating element (13) and/or
  • based on current environmental parameters and/or
  • on the basis of a parameterizable ratio of the heating duration of the at least one main heating element (13) to the at least one secondary heating element (14), which is predetermined in the control device (3).

Mit dieser Maßnahme erfolgt vorteilhafterweise eine doppelte Überwachung und ein unverhältnismäßiges Beheizen wird vermieden. Wenn keine thermische Unterversorgung der funktionsrelevanten Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12) vorhanden ist, ist die berechnete Zeit gleich 0. Weiterhin kann auf Basis der berechneten Zeit eine eventuelle Unterversorgung des Fahrwegelements (12) erkannt werden. Dadurch ist auf Basis der berechneten Zeit eine Abschätzung der Verfügbarkeit des Fahrwegelements (12) bei bestimmten Wetterbedingungen möglich.With this measure, double monitoring is advantageously carried out and disproportionate heating is avoided. If there is no thermal undersupply of the function-relevant component of the track element (12), the calculated time is equal to 0. Furthermore, a possible undersupply of the track element (12) can be detected on the basis of the calculated time. This makes it possible to estimate the availability of the route element (12) under certain weather conditions on the basis of the calculated time.

Sollte beispielsweise auf Grund der Berechnungen eine Heizzeit von mehreren Stunden ermittelt werden, kann die Anlage bereits vor Beginn des Heizens des Nebenheizelementes (14) eine Warnmeldung abgeben, da bei Schneefall das Fahrwegelement (12) in dieser langen Zeit sicherlich einschneien würde.If, for example, a heating time of several hours is determined on the basis of the calculations, the system can issue a warning message before the start of heating of the secondary heating element (14), since snow would certainly cover the track element (12) during this long period of time.

Die vorstehende Weiterbildung kann vorteilhafterweise dahingehend ergänzt werden, dass nach Ablauf der Einschaltdauer des zumindest einen Nebenheizelements (14) das Aktivieren des Beheizens nach Schritt c1) oder Schritt c2) oder Schritt c3) neu bewertet wird. Der Vorteil dieser ständigen Neubewertung liegt in der ständigen Neuberechnung der Heizbedingungen und somit in einer Optimierung des Energieverbrauchs, da bei Wegfall der Heizbedingung für das Nebenheizelement (14) dieses auch wieder ausgeschaltet wird und nicht unnötig Energie benötigt wird.The above development can advantageously be supplemented such that after the on-time of the at least one auxiliary heating element (14) has elapsed, the activation of the heating is reassessed according to step c1) or step c2) or step c3). The advantage of this constant reassessment lies in the constant recalculation of the heating conditions and thus in an optimization of the energy consumption, since if the heating condition for the secondary heating element (14) is no longer applicable, this is also switched off again and energy is not required unnecessarily.

Ferner kann bei dem Berechnen der Einschaltdauer die Masse der durch das zumindest eine Hauptheizelement (13) erwärmten zumindest einen funktionsrelevanten Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12) in Relation zu der Masse der durch das zumindest eine Nebenheizelement (14) erwärmten zumindest einen funktionsrelevanten Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12) oder in Relation zu den aktuellen Umgebungsparametern der durch das zumindest eine Nebenheizelement (14) erwärmten zumindest einen funktionsrelevanten Komponente des Fahrwegelements (12) gesetzt werden.Furthermore, when calculating the duty cycle, the mass of the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) heated by the at least one main heating element (13) can be compared to the mass of the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element ( 12) or in relation to the current ambient parameters of the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) heated by the at least one auxiliary heating element (14).

Aus diesem Berechnen der Einschaltdauer ergibt sich eine notwendige Heizdauer des zumindest einen Nebenheizelements (14), wobei die Einschaltdauer kleiner oder größer oder gleich der Heizpause des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) ist.This calculation of the duty cycle results in a necessary heating duration of the at least one secondary heating element (14), the duty cycle being less than or greater than or equal to the heating pause of the at least one main heating element (13).

In diesem Zusammenhang kann zudem parametriert werden, ob im Falle des Berechnens einer längeren benötigten Heizdauer des zumindest einen Nebenheizelements (14) als die natürliche Heizpause des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) ist, diese Heizpause künstlich, das heißt erzwungen, und bis zu welchem Maximum verlängert werden darf und/oder soll.In this context, parameters can also be set as to whether, in the case of calculating a longer required heating duration for the at least one secondary heating element (14) than the natural heating pause for the at least one main heating element (13), this heating pause is artificial, i.e. forced, and up to what maximum may and/or should be extended.

Weiterhin kann in Abhängigkeit einer entsprechenden Parametrierung im Falle eines ungeregelten Beheizens des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) eine berechnete und/oder parametrierte Zwangspause für die Beheizung des zumindest einen Nebenheizelements (14). Dabei kann die Heizleistung des zumindest einen Nebenheizelements (14) größer oder kleiner oder gleich jener des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) sein.Furthermore, depending on a corresponding parameterization, in the case of unregulated heating of the at least one main heating element (13), a calculated and/or parameterized forced break for the heating of the at least one secondary heating element (14). The heat output of the at least one secondary heating element (14) can be greater than, less than or equal to that of the at least one main heating element (13).

Eine bevorzugte Ausführungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens sieht vor, für den Fall eines Kommunikationsverlustes zwischen einer Schaltsteuerung (8) und einem Kommunikationsmodul (6) und somit der Steuerungseinrichtung (3) eine Notfallsteuerung zu aktivieren, indem eine Schalteinrichtung (11) eine vordefinierte Notstellung einnimmt.A preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention provides for an emergency control to be activated in the event of a loss of communication between a switching control (8) and a communication module (6) and thus the control device (3), in that a switching device (11) assumes a predefined emergency position.

Der Vorteil dieser Ausführungsform liegt in der Sicherungsfunktion durch den definierten Zustand, den die Schalteinrichtung (11) im Fehlerfall einnimmt. Somit wird im Fehlerfall ein definiertes Beheizen des Fahrwegelements (12) durchgeführt und eine Grundfunktionalität des Fahrwegelementes (12) kann gewährleistet werden.The advantage of this embodiment lies in the safety function due to the defined state that the switching device (11) assumes in the event of a fault. Thus, in the event of a fault, a defined heating of the track element (12) is carried out and a basic functionality of the track element (12) can be guaranteed.

Ein zu dieser Ausführungsform alternative bevorzugte Ausführungsform sieht vor, für den Fall einer Störung innerhalb der Schaltsteuerung (8) eine Notfallsteuerung zu aktivieren wird (sog. Watchdog), indem die Schalteinrichtung (11) eine vordefinierte Notstellung einnimmt. Die Vorteile dieser Ausführungsform sind im Wesentlichen gleich den Vorteilen der vorangegangenen Ausführungsform.An alternative preferred embodiment to this embodiment provides that in the event of a fault within the switching control (8) an emergency control is activated (so-called watchdog) by the switching device (11) assuming a predefined emergency position. The advantages of this embodiment are essentially the same as the advantages of the previous embodiment.

Insbesondere kann bei den vorstehenden alternativen Ausführungsformen die vordefinierte Notstellung umfassen

  • alleiniges Beheizen des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) und/oder
  • zyklisches Umschalten des Beheizens des zumindest einen Hauptheizelements (13) und des zumindest einen Nebenheizelements (14) in vorgebbaren Zeitintervallen (z.B. alle 2 Minuten).
In particular, in the above alternative embodiments, the predefined emergency position can include
  • sole heating of the at least one main heating element (13) and/or
  • cyclic switching of the heating of the at least one main heating element (13) and the at least one secondary heating element (14) at predeterminable time intervals (e.g. every 2 minutes).

Der Vorteil dieses Systems liegt darin, dass folgende beiden Varianten je nach Anlagenzustand zum Tragen kommen.

  • Variante 1: Für den Fall eines Ausfalls eines Hauptheizelements (13) oder eines Nebenheizelements (14) kann auf das Umschalten verzichtet werden und das noch funktionstüchtige Heizelement zu 100 % mit Energie versorgt werden. Dies stellt eine Notversorgung im doppelten Sinne dar. Fällt beispielsweise das Hauptheizelement (13) aus, kann dauerhaft auf das Nebenheizelement (14) umgeschaltet und die Beheizung des Fahrwegelements (12) bei normalen Wetterbedingungen trotz des Ausfalls weiter betrieben werden.
  • Variante 2: Im Regelfall werden Hautheizelement (13) und Nebenheizelement (14) zu je 50 % mit Energie versorgt. Dies führt zu einer ausgeglichenen Beizung zwischen den beheizten Fahrwegelementen (12).
The advantage of this system is that the following two variants come into play depending on the system status.
  • Variant 1: In the event of a failure of a main heating element (13) or an auxiliary heating element (14), switching can be dispensed with and the heating element that is still functional can be supplied with 100% energy. This represents an emergency supply in two senses. If, for example, the main heating element (13) fails, the auxiliary heating element (14) can be permanently switched over and the track element (12) can continue to be heated under normal weather conditions despite the failure.
  • Variant 2: As a rule, the main heating element (13) and auxiliary heating element (14) are each supplied with 50% energy. This leads to a balanced pickling between the heated track elements (12).

Der zweite Aspekt der vorliegenden Erfindung betrifft eine erste Einrichtung zum verstärkten Beheizen von Fahrwegelementen (12). Diese erste Einrichtung umfasst zunächst eine Schaltverteilung (1), die eine Steuerungseinrichtung (3) aufweist, an der für zumindest ein Fahrwegelement (12) ein Schaltgerät (5) für zumindest ein Hauptheizelement (13) an dem zumindest einen Fahrwegelement (12) vorgesehen ist, wobei jedes Schaltgerät (5) zumindest einen Heizabgang (7) für zumindest ein Fahrwegelement (12) aufweist.The second aspect of the present invention relates to a first device for increased heating of track elements (12). This first device initially comprises a switching distributor (1) which has a control device (3) on which a switching device (5) for at least one main heating element (13) on the at least one track element (12) is provided for at least one track element (12). , wherein each switching device (5) has at least one heating outlet (7) for at least one guideway element (12).

"Schaltverteilung (1)" bezeichnet im Sinne der vorliegenden eine Energieverteilung, mit der die für die Beheizung notwendige Energieversorgung der Hauptheizelemente (13) und der Nebenheizelemente (14) auf verschiedene Heizabgänge (7) verteilt und diese entsprechend zugeschaltet bzw. abgeschaltet werden."Switching distribution (1)" in the sense of this document refers to an energy distribution with which the energy supply required for heating the main heating elements (13) and the secondary heating elements (14) is distributed to different heating outlets (7) and these are switched on or off accordingly.

Dies kann zum Beispiel elektrische Energie oder bei geothermischen Weichenheizungen das Zuschalten der Zirkulation des wärmetragenden Fluids oder bei Gasweichenheizungen die Gasversorgung der Brenner sein.This can be, for example, electrical energy or, in the case of geothermal points heating systems, switching on the circulation of the heat-carrying fluid or, in the case of gas point heating systems, the gas supply to the burners.

Mit "Schaltgerät (5)" wird vorliegend ein Gerät bezeichnet, welches die Energieversorgung der Beheizung der Fahrwegelemente (12) zuschalten und abschalten kann. Dies können beispielsweise Stellventile, Lastschütze, Halbleiterschaltgeräte oder Magnetschalter sein.The term "switching device (5)" refers here to a device that can switch on and off the energy supply for heating the guideway elements (12). This can be, for example, control valves, load contactors, semiconductor switching devices or magnetic switches.

Ferner umfasst die erste Einrichtung eine Umgebungsparameter-Einrichtung (2), die mit der Steuerungseinrichtung (3) verbunden ist. Diese "Umgebungsparameter-Einrichtung (2)" kann einerseits Wetterstation sein, welche die Umgebungsparameter erfasst, aber auch zusätzlich oder alternativ eine Anbindung an einen Wetterdaten-Anbieter bzw. Wetterdienst.Furthermore, the first device comprises an environmental parameter device (2) which is connected to the control device (3). This "Environmental Parameters Setup (2)" can be a weather station, which records the environmental parameters, but also additionally or alternatively a connection to a weather data provider or weather service.

Weiter umfasst die erste Einrichtung zumindest einen Energie-Verteilkasten (4) für das zumindest eine Fahrwegelement (12), der mit dem entsprechenden Heizabgang (7) für dieses zumindest eine Fahrwegelement (12) verbunden ist und dieses mit Energie versorgt, sowie zumindest einen Temperatursensor (9) für mindestens ein Fahrwegelement (12), der mit der Steuerungseinrichtung (3) verbunden ist.The first device also includes at least one energy distribution box (4) for the at least one track element (12), which is connected to the corresponding heating outlet (7) for this at least one track element (12) and supplies it with energy, and at least one temperature sensor (9) for at least one track element (12) which is connected to the control device (3).

Mit "Energie-Verteilkasten (4)" wird vorliegend eine Einrichtung zur Einspeisung und Verteilung der (elektrischen) Energie auf das zumindest eine Hauptheizelement (13) und das zumindest eine Nebenheizelement (14) bezeichnet."Energy distribution box (4)" refers to a device for feeding in and distributing (electrical) energy to the at least one main heating element (13) and the at least one secondary heating element (14).

Die erste Einrichtung zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass an zumindest einem Fahrwegelement (12) ferner zumindest ein Nebenheizelement (14) vorgesehen ist, wobei der Energie-Verteilkasten (4) ferner eine Schaltsteuerung (8) und eine Schalteinrichtung (11) aufweist, mittels derer die Energieversorgung des entsprechenden Heizabgangs (7) zwischen dem Hauptheizelement (13) und dem Nebenheizelement (14) umschaltbar ist.The first device is characterized in that at least one auxiliary heating element (14) is also provided on at least one guideway element (12), the energy distribution box (4) also having a switching control (8) and a switching device (11), by means of which the energy supply of the corresponding heating outlet (7) can be switched between the main heating element (13) and the secondary heating element (14).

"Schaltsteuerung (8)" bezeichnet im Sinne der vorliegenden Erfindung eine Einrichtung zum Steuern der Schalteinrichtung (11) einschließlich der Überwachung der jeweiligen Schaltstellungen."Switching control (8)" in the sense of the present invention denotes a device for controlling the switching device (11) including the monitoring of the respective switching positions.

Unter "Schalteinrichtung (11)" wird vorliegend eine Einrichtung zum Umschalten oder Einschalten der Energieversorgung des zumindest ein Hauptheizelements (13) und des zumindest einen Nebenheizelements (14) verstanden. Diese Schalteinrichtung (11) kann beispielsweise ein Stellventil, Lastschütz, Halbleiterschaltgeräte oder Magnetschalter sein.In the present context, "switching device (11)" means a device for switching over or switching on the energy supply of the at least one main heating element (13) and the at least one secondary heating element (14). This switching device (11) can be, for example, a control valve, load contactor, semiconductor switching devices or magnetic switches.

Die erfindungsgemäße erste Einrichtung weist grundsätzlich die gleichen Vorteile wie das vorstehend beschrieben erfindungsgemäße Verfahren auf. Ferner ermöglicht die erfindungsgemäße erste Einrichtung einen verringerten Installations- und Wartungs-Aufwand, da außer dem zumindest einen Nebenheizelement (14) im Wesentlichen keine zusätzlichen Elemente vorgesehen werden müssen, um eine ausgeglichene Beheizung von Fahrwegelementen ohne Erhöhung der Anschlussleistung zu gewährleisten.The first device according to the invention basically has the same advantages as the method according to the invention described above. Furthermore, the first device according to the invention enables reduced installation and maintenance costs, since apart from the at least one auxiliary heating element (14), essentially no additional elements have to be provided in order to ensure balanced heating of track elements without increasing the connected load.

Der dritte Aspekt der vorliegenden Erfindung betrifft eine zweite Einrichtung zum verstärkten Beheizen von Fahrwegelementen (12), welche eine Alternative der ersten Einrichtung gemäß der Erfindung ist. Diese zweite Einrichtung umfasst zunächst eine Schaltverteilung (1), die eine Steuerungseinrichtung (3) aufweist, an der zumindest ein Schaltgerät (5) für zumindest ein Hauptheizelement (13) an zumindest einem Fahrwegelement (12) vorgesehen ist, wobei das Schaltgerät (5) mit zumindest einem Kommunikationsmodul (6) verbunden istThe third aspect of the present invention relates to a second device for increased heating of track elements (12), which is an alternative to the first device according to the invention. This second device initially comprises a switching distributor (1) which has a control device (3) on which at least one switching device (5) is provided for at least one main heating element (13) on at least one guideway element (12), the switching device (5) is connected to at least one communication module (6).

Mit "Kommunikationsmodul (6)" wird vorliegend ein Modul zu Kommunikation zwischen der Schaltverteilung (1) bzw. der Schaltsteuerung (8) und dem Schaltverteilung und dem Energie-Verteilkasten (4) über einen Heizabgang/Energieversorgungskabel (7) des Fahrwegelements (12) bezeichnet.The "communication module (6)" is a module for communication between the switching distribution (1) or the switching control (8) and the switching distribution and the energy distribution box (4) via a heating outlet/energy supply cable (7) of the guideway element (12). designated.

Ferner umfasst die zweite Einrichtung eine Umgebungsparameter-Einrichtung (2), die mit der Steuerungseinrichtung (3) verbunden ist, und zumindest einen Energie-Verteilkasten (4) für das zumindest eine Fahrwegelement (12), der mit einem entsprechenden Heizabgang (7) für dieses Fahrwegelement (12) verbunden ist und dieses mit Energie versorgt.Furthermore, the second device comprises an environmental parameter device (2), which is connected to the control device (3), and at least one energy distribution box (4) for the at least one track element (12), which is equipped with a corresponding heating outlet (7) for this guideway element (12) is connected and supplies it with energy.

Darüber hinaus umfasst die zweite Einrichtung zumindest einen Temperatursensor (9) für mindestens ein Fahrwegelement (12), der mit der Steuerungseinrichtung (3) verbunden ist.In addition, the second device comprises at least one temperature sensor (9) for at least one track element (12), which is connected to the control device (3).

Die zweite Einrichtung zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass an zumindest einem Fahrwegelement (12) ferner zumindest ein Nebenheizelement (14) vorgesehen ist, wobei der Energie-Verteilkasten (4) ferner eine Schaltsteuerung (8) und eine Schalteinrichtung (11) aufweist, mittels derer die Energieversorgung des entsprechenden Heizabgangs (7) zwischen dem Hauptheizelement (13) und dem Nebenheizelement (14) umschaltbar ist.The second device is characterized in that at least one secondary heating element (14) is also provided on at least one guideway element (12), the energy distribution box (4) also having a switching control (8) and a switching device (11), by means of which the energy supply of the corresponding heating outlet (7) can be switched between the main heating element (13) and the secondary heating element (14).

Die erfindungsgemäße zweite Einrichtung weist grundsätzlich die gleichen Vorteile wie das vorstehend beschriebene erfindungsgemäße Verfahren und die vorstehend beschriebene erfindungsgemäße erste Einrichtung auf.The second device according to the invention basically has the same advantages as the method according to the invention described above and the first device according to the invention described above.

Der Unterschied zwischen der ersten Einrichtung und der zweiten Einrichtung besteht im Wesentlichen darin, dass an einem Schaltgerät (5) mehrere Kommunikationsmodule (6) als auch mehrere Heizabgänge (7) angebracht sein können. Jeder dieser Heizabgänge (7) versorgt dann jeweils ein oder mehrere Energie-Verteilkästen (4), die wiederum ein oder mehrere Hauptheizelemente (13) und Nebenheizelemente (14) an einem oder mehreren Fahrwegelementen (12) versorgen.The main difference between the first device and the second device is that several communication modules (6) and several heating outlets (7) can be attached to a switching device (5). Each of these heating outlets (7) then supplies one or more energy distribution boxes (4) that in turn supply one or more main heating elements (13) and secondary heating elements (14) on one or more track elements (12).

In einer Weiterbildung der ersten Einrichtung umfasst diese ferner ein Kommunikationsmodul (6) für einen oder mehrere Heizabgänge (7) für jedes Fahrwegelement (12), das mit der Steuerungseinrichtung (3) verbunden ist.In a development of the first device, it also includes a communication module (6) for one or more heating outlets (7) for each guideway element (12), which is connected to the control device (3).

Bei der erfindungsgemäßen ersten Einrichtung sowie der erfindungsgemäßen zweiten Einrichtung kann vorteilhafterweise die Schalteinrichtung (11) als ein Umschaltelement oder als zumindest zwei Einschaltelemente ausgeführt sein.In the first device according to the invention and the second device according to the invention, the switching device (11) can advantageously be designed as a switching element or as at least two switch-on elements.

Ferner können die erfindungsgemäße erste Einrichtung sowie die erfindungsgemäße zweite Einrichtung jeweils ferner einen Schalter (26) zum Aktivieren des verstärkten Beheizens umfassen. Diese Variante hat den Vorteil, dass das verstärkte Beheizen durch ein manuelles Eingreifen durch einen Bediener in die Steuerung aktiviert werden kann. Dies kann beispielsweise vorsorglich oder um eventuelle Schnee-/Eis-Reste, welche nicht von der Sensorik erfasst wurden, zu schmelzen, verwendet werden.Furthermore, the first device according to the invention and the second device according to the invention can each further comprise a switch (26) for activating the increased heating. This variant has the advantage that the increased heating can be activated by manual intervention by an operator in the control. This can be used, for example, as a precaution or to melt any snow/ice residue that has not been detected by the sensors.

Weitere Ziele, Merkmale, Vorteile und Anwendungsmöglichkeiten ergeben sich aus der nachfolgenden Beschreibung von die Erfindung nicht einschränkenden Ausführungsbeispielen anhand der Figuren. Dabei bilden alle beschriebenen und/oder bildlich dargestellten Merkmale für sich oder in beliebiger Kombination den Gegenstand der Erfindung, auch unabhängig von ihrer Zusammenfassung in den Ansprüchen oder deren Rückbeziehung. Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine schematische Darstellung einer elektrischen Weichenheizungsanlage nach dem Stand der Technik,
Fig. 2
eine schematische Darstellung einer Temperatur-Messpunktanordnung einer Weiche 12a mit abliegender Zungenschiene 19,
Fig. 3
ein Diagramm mit zeitlichen Temperaturverläufen bei einer Zweipunktreglung einer Weiche 12a mit abliegender Zungenschiene 19 bei einer Umgebungstemperatur von - 5 °C,
Fig. 4
eine schematische Schnittdarstellung einer Weiche 12a mit abliegender Zungenschiene 19,
Fig. 5
eine schematische Darstellung einer erfindergemäßen elektrischen Weichenheizungsanlage einschließlich der Funktion des verstärkten Beheizens von Fahrwegelementen 12 nach einer ersten speziellen Ausführungsform,
Fig. 6
eine schematische Darstellung einer erfindergemäßen elektrischen Weichenheizungsanlage einschließlich der Funktion des verstärkten Beheizens von Fahrwegelementen 12 nach einer zweiten speziellen Ausführungsform,
Fig. 7
eine schematische Darstellung eines Bestückungsbeispiels für Hauptheizelemente 13 und Nebenheizelemente 14 an einer Weiche 12a vom Typ EW54-500 und
Fig. 8
ein Diagramm eines Beispiels für einen zeitlichen Verlauf eines Vorgangs zum verstärkten Beheizen von Fahrwegelementen 12 (Powerheizen).
Further goals, features, advantages and possible applications result from the following description of exemplary embodiments, which do not limit the invention, with reference to the figures. All of the features described and/or illustrated form the subject matter of the invention, either alone or in any combination, even independently of their summary in the claims or their back-reference. Show it:
1
a schematic representation of an electrical point heating system according to the prior art,
2
a schematic representation of a temperature measuring point arrangement of a switch 12a with a remote tongue rail 19,
3
a diagram with temperature curves over time for a two-point control of a switch 12a with a remote tongue rail 19 at an ambient temperature of -5 °C,
4
a schematic sectional view of a switch 12a with a remote tongue rail 19,
figure 5
a schematic representation of an inventive electrical points heating system including the function of increased heating of track elements 12 according to a first specific embodiment,
6
a schematic representation of an inventive electrical points heating system including the function of increased heating of track elements 12 according to a second specific embodiment,
7
a schematic representation of an assembly example for main heating elements 13 and secondary heating elements 14 on a switch 12a of type EW54-500 and
8
a diagram of an example of a time course of a process for increased heating of track elements 12 (power heating).

In der nachstehenden Beschreibung wird die vorliegende Erfindung insbesondere anhand einer elektrischen Weichenheizungsanlage dargestellt. Die vorliegende Erfindung ist jedoch nicht auf ein elektrisches System begrenzt und lässt sich ebenso auf Systeme mit Heißwasserdampf, Gasbeheizung oder Geothermie anwenden. Zudem kann die vorliegende Erfindung neben den nachstehend beispielhaft dargestellten Weichen 12a auf alle vorstehend bereits genannten Fahrwegelemente 12 angewendet werden.In the following description, the present invention is illustrated in particular with reference to an electrical points heating system. However, the present invention is not limited to an electrical system and can also be applied to systems with hot water steam, gas heating or geothermal energy. In addition to the switches 12a illustrated below as an example, the present invention can also be applied to all the track elements 12 already mentioned above.

Die vorliegende Erfindung wird zunächst anhand der Figuren 1 bis 8 beschrieben.The present invention is first based on the Figures 1 to 8 described.

In Figur 1 ist schematisch eine elektrische Weichenheizungsanlage entsprechend dem Stand der Technik mit drei Heizabgängen 7, drei Weichen 12a und jeweils drei Heizelementen 13 darstellt. Bei entsprechender Witterung wird von der Wetterstation (Umgebungsparameter-Einrichtung 2) in der Steuerungseinrichtung 3 die Heizanforderung erzeugt und alle Heizabgänge 7 werden gleichzeitig eingeschaltet und wieder ausgeschaltet. Über mindestens einen Schienentemperatursensor 9 erfolgt die Regelung der Schienentemperatur während der Heizanforderung zwischen zwei parametrierbaren Sollwerten, z.B. zwischen + 4 °C und + 7 °C.In figure 1 is a schematic representation of an electrical point heating system according to the prior art with three heating outlets 7, three points 12a and three heating elements 13 each. If the weather is appropriate, the heating request is generated by the weather station (environmental parameter device 2) in the control device 3 and all heating outlets 7 are switched on and off again at the same time. The rail temperature is regulated via at least one rail temperature sensor 9 during the heating request between two parameterizable target values, for example between +4.degree. C. and +7.degree.

In Figur 2 ist eine Anordnung für Messpunkte x1 bis x9 zur Ermittlung von zeitlichen Temperaturverläufen an verschiedenen für die Verfügbarkeit der Weiche 12a notwendigen Bestandteilen zu sehen. Dabei ist der Messpunkt x1 die Position eines standardmäßigen Schienentemperaturfühlers für die Regelung der Schienentemperatur. Des Weiteren wird in dieser Figur die Position des standardisierten Hauptheizelements 13 dargestellt.In figure 2 an arrangement for measuring points x1 to x9 for determining temporal temperature profiles on various components necessary for the availability of the switch 12a can be seen. The measuring point x1 is the position of a standard rail temperature sensor for rail temperature control. Furthermore, the position of the standardized main heating element 13 is shown in this figure.

In Figur 3 sind für verschiedene Messpunkte entsprechend Figur 2 zeitliche Temperaturverläufe ablesbar. Bei dieser Weiche 12a handelt es sich um eine Standardbestückung mit einem Heizelement 17 am Fuß der Backenschiene 15 (siehe Figur 2). Die Temperatur wird mittels Zweipunktregelung zwischen + 3 °C und + 7 °C geregelt. Dabei ist erkennbar, dass für dieses Beispiel die Temperatur am Messpunkt x6 nicht über 0 °C ansteigt. Dies bedeutet wiederum, dass Schneeablagerungen bzw. ein Gefrieren von Regen an dieser Stelle mit dieser Art der Beheizung nicht verhindert werden kann. Weiterhin sind in Figur 3 die natürlichen Heizpausen, welche durch die Zweipunktreglung entstehen, zu erkennen.In figure 3 are corresponding for different measuring points figure 2 temporal temperature curves can be read. This switch 12a is standard equipment with a heating element 17 at the base of the stock rail 15 (see Fig figure 2 ). The temperature is regulated between + 3 °C and + 7 °C by means of a two-point control. It can be seen that the temperature at measuring point x6 does not rise above 0 °C for this example. This in turn means that snow deposits or freezing of rain at this point cannot be prevented with this type of heating. Furthermore are in figure 3 to recognize the natural heating breaks caused by the two-point control.

Figur 4 zeigt schematisch einen Querschnitt durch eine Weiche 12a umfassend eine Backenschiene 15 sowie eine dieser zugeordnet und auf einem Gleitstuhl 22 verschiebbar angeordnete Weichenzunge 19. Insoweit handelt es sich um einen üblichen Aufbau einer Weiche 12a, so dass auf die weiteren Elemente nicht weiter einzugehen ist. figure 4 shows a schematic cross-section through a switch 12a comprising a stock rail 15 and a switch tongue 19 assigned to it and arranged to be displaceable on a slide chair 22. In this respect, it is a conventional structure of a switch 12a, so that the other elements do not need to be discussed in detail.

Die Backenschiene 15 ist zu beiden Seiten ihres Steges mit Heizelementen 16, 24 wie beispielsweise Heizstäben ausgestattet. Weiterhin können beidseitig an der Zungenschiene 19 Heizelemente 20, 26 angebracht werden. Weiterhin kann zum Beispiel der Gleitstuhl 22, der Backenschienenkopf oder der Zungenschienenkopf direkt beheizt werden.The stock rail 15 is equipped with heating elements 16, 24 such as heating rods on both sides of its web. Furthermore, heating elements 20, 26 can be attached on both sides of the tongue rail 19. Furthermore, for example, the slide chair 22, the stock rail head or the tongue rail head can be heated directly.

In Figur 5 ist schematisch eine Weichenheizungssteuerung mit sog. "Powerheizung" nach einer ersten speziellen Ausführungsform dargestellt. In dieser Figur ist im Energie-Verteilkasten 4 die Schaltsteuerung 8 sowie das Schaltgerät 5 dargestellt. Durch diese Einrichtungen können wechselseitig entweder die Hauptheizelemente 13 oder die Nebenheizelemente 14 mit Energie versorgt werden. Die Datenübertragung zwischen der Schaltverteilung 1 und der Schaltsteuerung 8 wird über ein Energieversorgungskabel des jeweiligen Heizabganges 7 realisiert. Hierzu ist mindestens ein Kommunikationsmodul 6 pro Schaltverteilung 1 und/oder pro Heizabgang/Energieversorgungskabel 7 notwendig.In figure 5 is a point heating control with so-called. "Power heating" shown schematically according to a first specific embodiment. In this figure, the switching control 8 and the switching device 5 are shown in the energy distribution box 4 . By means of these devices, either the main heating elements 13 or the secondary heating elements 14 can be supplied with energy alternately. The data transmission between the switching distributor 1 and the switching controller 8 is realized via a power supply cable of the respective heating outlet 7 . At least one communication module 6 per switching distribution board 1 and/or per heating outlet/power supply cable 7 is required for this.

Dieses Kommunikationsmodul 6 gewährleistet die Datenübertragung zwischen der Schaltverteilung 1 und der Schaltsteuerung 8 im Energie-Verteilkasten 4. Diese Kommunikation kann offline (im ausgeschalteten Zustand der Energieversorgung) oder online (im eingeschalteten Zustand der Energieversorgung) erfolgen.This communication module 6 ensures the data transmission between the switching distributor 1 and the switching controller 8 in the energy distribution box 4. This communication can take place offline (when the energy supply is switched off) or online (when the energy supply is switched on).

In Figur 6 ist schematisch eine Weichenheizungssteuerung mit sog. "Powerheizung" nach einer zweiten speziellen Ausführungsform dargestellt. In dieser Variante werden beispielsweise von einem Schaltgerät 5 mehrere Kommunikationsmodule 6 sowie Heizabgänge/Energieversorgungskabel 7 versorgt, welche wiederum mehrere Energie-Verteilkästen 4 versorgen.In figure 6 shows a point heating control with so-called "power heating" according to a second specific embodiment. In this variant, for example, a switching device 5 supplies several communication modules 6 and heating outlets/power supply cables 7 , which in turn supply several energy distribution boxes 4 .

In Figur 7 ist eine Standard-Weiche 12a vom Typ EW54-500 inkl. einer Standardweichenbestückung mit Hauptheizelementen 13 an den Innenseiten der Backenschiene 15 dargestellt. Des Weiteren ist die Beheizung der Verschlussfächer 27, welche die Beheizung der Schiebegestänge der Weichenzunge 19 sicherstellen, dargestellt.In figure 7 a standard switch 12a of the type EW54-500 including a standard switch assembly with main heating elements 13 on the inside of the stock rail 15 is shown. Furthermore, the heating of the locking compartments 27, which ensure the heating of the sliding linkage of the switch blade 19, is shown.

Zusätzlich zu diesen Standard-Heizelementen sind in dieser Figur 7 zusätzliche Nebenheizelemente 14 für Zungenschienenheizung, Zungenspitzen-Heizung, Gleitstuhl-Heizung und Stützknaggen-Heizung dargestellt.In addition to these standard heating elements are in this figure 7 additional auxiliary heating elements 14 shown for tongue rail heating, tongue tip heating, slide chair heating and support bracket heating.

In Figur 8 ist exemplarisch ein zeitlicher Verlauf eines Powerheizvorgangs (Vorgang zum verstärkten Beheizen von Fahrwegelementen 12) dargestellt. In diesem ist erkennbar, dass sich die Weichenheizung im normalen Regelbetrieb befindet. Zum Zeitpunkt t0 wird der Schalter 26 für das Aktiveren der Powerheizfunktion eingeschaltet. Dies kann automatisch z.B. durch eine parametrierte Wetterbedingung (bspw. Unterschreiten Lufttemperatur oder Überschreiten einer voreingestellten Niederschlagsmenge oder Überschreiten der maximalen Regelabweichung oder Handeinschaltung) erfolgen.In figure 8 a time course of a power heating process (process for increased heating of roadway elements 12) is shown as an example. This shows that the points heating is in normal control mode. At time t0, switch 26 for activating the power heating function is turned on. This can be done automatically, for example, by a parameterized weather condition (e.g. falling below the air temperature or exceeding a preset amount of precipitation or exceeding the maximum control deviation or manual activation).

Zum Zeitpunkt t1 erfolgt das Umschalten der Energieversorgung von den Hauptheizelementen 13 auf die Nebenheizelemente 14, welche nun für den Zeitraum t1 bis t2 beheizt werden. Diese Umschaltung der Energieversorgung kann unter Last, d.h. im zugeschalteten Zustand, oder lastfrei, d.h. im abgeschalteten Zustand, der Energieversorgung erfolgen. In diesem Fall sind die Nebenheizelement 14 genauso lange beheizt wie die Hauptheizelemente 13 und es existiert eine zusätzliche Heizpause im Zeitraum t2 bis t3, in der keine Heizung aktiv ist. D.h., die Energieversorgung ist durch das Schaltgerät 5 in der Schaltverteilung 1 abgeschaltet.At time t1, the energy supply is switched over from the main heating elements 13 to the secondary heating elements 14, which are now heated for the time period t1 to t2. This switchover of the energy supply can take place under load, i.e. in the switched-on state, or without load, i.e. in the switched-off state, of the energy supply. In this case, the secondary heating elements 14 are heated for just as long as the main heating elements 13 and there is an additional heating pause in the time period t2 to t3, in which no heating is active. That is, the power supply is switched off by the switching device 5 in the switching distribution board 1.

Im Zeitpunkt t3 erfolgt die Umschaltung der Energieversorgung von den Nebenheizelementen 14 auf die Hauptheizelemente 13. Im Zeitraum t3 bis t4 werden die Hauptheizelemente 13 mit Energie versorgt. Zum Zeitpunkt t4 erfolgt das Umschalten der Energieversorgung von den Hauptheizelementen 13 auf die Nebenheizelemente 14, welche nun für den Zeitraum t4 bis t5 beheizt werden. Dabei ist zu erkennen, dass die Nebenheizelemente 14 länger als die Hauptheizelemente 13 heizen.At time t3, the power supply is switched over from the auxiliary heating elements 14 to the main heating elements 13. In the time period t3 to t4, the main heating elements 13 are supplied with power. At time t4, the energy supply is switched over from the main heating elements 13 to the secondary heating elements 14, which are now heated for the time period t4 to t5. It can be seen here that the auxiliary heating elements 14 heat longer than the main heating elements 13 .

Zum Zeitpunkt t5 erfolgt die Umschaltung der Energieversorgung von den Nebenheizelementen 14 auf die Hauptheizelemente 13. In diesem Fall ist keine zusätzliche Heizpause vorhanden. Im Zeitraum t5 bis t6 werden die Hauptheizelemente 13 mit Energie versorgt. Zum Zeitpunkt t6 erfolgt das Umschalten der Energieversorgung von den Hauptheizelementen 13 auf die Nebenheizelemente 14, welche nun für den Zeitraum t6 bis t7 beheizt werden. Dabei ist zu erkennen, dass die Nebenheizelemente 14 genau so lang beheizt werden wie die Hauptheizelemente 13 in der vorangegangenen Heizperiode.At time t5, the energy supply is switched over from the secondary heating elements 14 to the main heating elements 13. In this case, there is no additional heating break. In the period t5 to t6, the main heating elements 13 are supplied with energy. At time t6, the power supply is switched over from the main heating elements 13 to the secondary heating elements 14, which are now heated for the period t6 to t7. It can be seen here that the secondary heating elements 14 are heated for just as long as the main heating elements 13 in the previous heating period.

Zum Zeitpunkt t7 erfolgt die Umschaltung der Energieversorgung von den Nebenheizelementen 14 auf die Hauptheizelemente 13. In diesem Fall ist keine zusätzliche Heizpause vorhanden. Im Zeitraum t7 bis t8 werden die Hauptheizelemente 13 mit Energie versorgt. Zum Zeitpunkt t8 erfolgt das Umschalten der Energieversorgung von den Hauptheizelementen 13 auf die Nebenheizelemente 14, welche nun für den Zeitraum t8 bis t9 beheizt werden. Dabei ist zu erkennen, dass die Nebenheizelemente 14 kürzer beheizt werden als die Hauptheizelemente 13 in der vorangegangenen Heizperiode. Auch in diesem Fall existiert keine zusätzliche Heizpause.At time t7, the energy supply is switched over from the auxiliary heating elements 14 to the main heating elements 13. In this case, there is no additional heating pause. In the period t7 to t8, the main heating elements 13 are supplied with energy. At time t8, the energy supply is switched over from the main heating elements 13 to the secondary heating elements 14, which are now heated for the time period t8 to t9. It can be seen here that the secondary heating elements 14 are heated for a shorter time than the main heating elements 13 in the previous heating period. In this case, too, there is no additional heating break.

Zum Zeitpunkt t9 erfolgt die Umschaltung der Energieversorgung von den Nebenheizelementen 14 auf die Hauptheizelemente 13. In diesem Fall ist keine zusätzliche Heizpause vorhanden. Im Zeitraum t9 bis t10 werden die Hauptheizelemente 13 mit Energie versorgt. Zum Zeitpunkt t10 erfolgt beispielsweise eine Zwangsheizpause der Hauptheizelemente 13 und gleichzeitig das Umschalten der Energieversorgung von den Hauptheizelementen 13 auf die Nebenheizelemente 14, welche nun für den Zeitraum t10 bis t11 beheizt werden. Dabei ist zu erkennen, dass die Nebenheizelemente 14 kürzer beheizt werden als die Hauptheizelemente 13 in der vorangegangenen Heizperiode. Auch in diesem Fall existiert keine zusätzliche Heizpause.At time t9, the power supply is switched over from the secondary heating elements 14 to the main heating elements 13. In this case, there is no additional heating break. In the period t9 to t10, the main heating elements 13 are supplied with energy. At time t10, for example, there is a compulsory break in heating of the main heating elements 13 and, at the same time, the energy supply is switched over from the main heating elements 13 to the secondary heating elements 14, which are now heated for the period t10 to t11. It can be seen here that the secondary heating elements 14 are heated for a shorter time than the main heating elements 13 in the previous heating period. In this case, too, there is no additional heating break.

Zum Zeitpunkt t11 erfolgt die Umschaltung der Energieversorgung von den Nebenheizelementen 14 auf die Hauptheizelemente 13. In diesem Fall ist keine zusätzliche Heizpause vorhanden. Im Zeitraum t11 bis t13 werden die Hauptheizelemente 13 mit Energie versorgt. Im Zeitpunkt t12 wird der Schalter für das aktiveren der Powerheizfunktion ausgeschaltet. Dies kann automatisch z.B. durch parametrierte Wetterbedingung (bspw. Überschreiten einer Lufttemperatur oder Unterschreiten einer voreingestellten Niederschlagsmenge oder Unterschreiten der maximalen Regelabweichung oder Handausschaltung) erfolgen.At time t11, the energy supply is switched over from the auxiliary heating elements 14 to the main heating elements 13. In this case, there is no additional heating pause. In the period t11 to t13, the main heating elements 13 are supplied with energy. At time t12, the switch for activating the power heating function is switched off. This can be done automatically, e.g. due to parameterized weather conditions (e.g. exceeding an air temperature or falling below a preset amount of precipitation or falling below the maximum control deviation or manual switch-off).

Die vorliegende Erfindung wird nun anhand der Figur 5 näher erläutert, welche exemplarisch eine erfindungsgemäße Einrichtung, d.h. eine elektrische Weichenheizungsanlage mit einer sog. "Powerheizung" nach einer ersten speziellen Ausführungsform dargestellt.The present invention will now be based on the figure 5 explained in more detail, which is an example of a device according to the invention, ie an electric point heating system with a so-called. "Power heating" shown according to a first special embodiment.

In dieser Figur ist eine Umgebungsparameter-Einrichtung 2 in Form einer Wetterstation zum Erfassen der aktuellen Wetterdaten dargestellt. Zusätzlich oder auch alternativ können diese aktuellen Wetterdaten durch einen Wetterprognosedienst bereitgestellt werden. Ferner ist die Einbindung von zukünftigen Wetterdaten in die Einrichtung möglich.This figure shows an environment parameter device 2 in the form of a weather station for detecting the current weather data. Additionally or alternatively, this current weather data can be provided by a weather forecast service. It is also possible to integrate future weather data into the device.

Weiterhin ist eine Steuerungseinrichtung 3 zur Auswertung der Wetterdaten vorhanden, welche zumindest ein Schaltgerät 5 aktiviert bzw. deaktiviert. Dieses zumindest eine Schaltgerät 5 schaltet die Energieversorgung der Heizabgänge/ Energieversorgungskabel 7 zum Regeln der Temperatur der Standard-Weiche 12a ein bzw. aus. Die Temperaturregelung erfolgt anhand der durch den Schienentemperatursensor 9 gemessenen Werte.There is also a control device 3 for evaluating the weather data, which activates or deactivates at least one switching device 5 . This at least one switching device 5 switches the power supply of the heating outlets/power supply cable 7 on or off to control the temperature of the standard switch 12a. The temperature is controlled using the values measured by the rail temperature sensor 9 .

Weiterhin sind in Figur 5 der Energie-Verteilkasten 4, die Schaltsteuerung 8 sowie das Schaltgerät 5 dargestellt. Durch diese Einrichtungen können wechselseitig entweder die Hauptheizelemente 13 oder die Nebenheizelemente 14 mit Energie versorgt werden.Furthermore are in figure 5 the energy distribution box 4, the switching control 8 and the switching device 5 are shown. By means of these devices, either the main heating elements 13 or the secondary heating elements 14 can be supplied with energy alternately.

Die Datenübertragung zwischen der Steuerungseinrichtung 3 in der Schaltverteilung 1 und dem Kommunikationsmodul 6 kann binär oder busgebunden erfolgen.The data transmission between the control device 3 in the switching distribution board 1 and the communication module 6 can be binary or bus-bound.

Die Datenübertragung zwischen dem Kommunikationsmodul 6 in der Schaltverteilung 1 und der Schaltsteuerung 8 im Energie-Verteilkasten 4 wird über den Heizabgang/Energieversorgungskabel 7 realisiert. Hierzu ist mindestens ein Kommunikationsmodul 6 pro Schaltverteilung 1 und/oder pro Heizabgang/Energieversorgungskabel 7 notwendig. Diese Kommunikation kann offline (im ausgeschalteten Zustand der Energieversorgung) oder online (im eingeschalteten Zustand der Energieversorgung) erfolgen. Weiterhin kann diese Kommunikation binär oder busgebunden erfolgen.The data transmission between the communication module 6 in the switching distributor 1 and the switching controller 8 in the energy distribution box 4 is realized via the heating outlet/energy supply cable 7 . At least one communication module 6 per switching distribution board 1 and/or per heating outlet/power supply cable 7 is required for this. This communication can be offline (when the power supply is off) or online (when the power supply is on). Furthermore, this communication can be binary or bus-bound.

Die Regelabweichung definiert sich aus der Differenz der Solltemperatur Tsoll für einen spezifischen Messpunkt bzw. Heizpunkt (z.B. X6 in Figur 2) und dem aktuellen Wert der Temperatur T0 an diesem Messpunkt bzw. Heizpunkt in Abhängigkeit der maximalen Aufheizdauer bis zum Erreichen der Solltemperatur Tsoll an diesem Messpunkt bzw. Heizpunkt bei den aktuellen und oder zukünftigen Umgebungsbedingen.The control deviation is defined as the difference in the target temperature Tset for a specific measuring point or heating point (e.g. X6 in figure 2 ) and the current value of the temperature T0 at this measuring point or heating point as a function of the maximum heating-up time until the target temperature Tsoll is reached at this measuring point or heating point under the current and/or future environmental conditions.

Dabei stellt die maximale Regelabweichung Δmax die für die aktuellen und/oder zukünftigen Wetterbedingungen maximale Temperaturdifferenz dar, welche in der vorgegebenen Zeitspanne durch die Hauptheizelemente 13 an dem entsprechenden Messpunkt bzw. Heizpunkt überbrückt werden kann, dar. Diese maximale Regelabweichung Δmax kann beispielsweise durch Vergleichswerte und/oder eine Referenzierungsmessfahrt im Rahmen der Parametrierung der Anlage definiert werden.The maximum control deviation Δmax represents the maximum temperature difference for the current and/or future weather conditions, which can be bridged by the main heating elements 13 at the corresponding measuring point or heating point in the specified period of time Control deviation Δmax can be defined, for example, by means of comparison values and/or a referencing measurement run as part of the parameterization of the system.

Nachstehend wird eine besonders bevorzugte Ausführungsform dargestellt, bei welcher zwischen Schritt a) und Schritt b) des vorstehend beschriebenen erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens zunächst eine maximalen Regelabweichung Δmax zwischen einer Temperatur T0 des Fahrwegelements 12 und einer parametrierbaren Solltemperatur Tsoll des Fahrwegelements 12 ermittelt sowie die maximale Regelabweichung in der Steuerungseinrichtung 3 gespeichert werden.A particularly preferred embodiment is presented below, in which, between step a) and step b) of the above-described method according to the invention, a maximum control deviation Δmax between a temperature T0 of track element 12 and a parameterizable setpoint temperature Tsoll of track element 12 is first determined, as well as the maximum control deviation in the Control device 3 are stored.

Damit wird das Ziel verfolgt, alle für die Funktion eines Fahrwegelements 12 relevanten Bestandteile in einer parametrierbaren Zeitspanne ausreichend durch das zumindest eine Hauptheizelement 13 zu erwärmen. Hierzu kann beispielsweise eine Referenzierungsfahrt durchgeführt oder Referenzen aus vergleichbaren Fahrwegelements herangezogen werden.The goal is thus pursued of sufficiently heating all components relevant to the function of a roadway element 12 by the at least one main heating element 13 in a parameterizable period of time. For this purpose, for example, a referencing run can be carried out or references from comparable route elements can be used.

Die "Temperatur T0" bezeichnet dabei die Temperatur des jeweiligen Fahrwegeelementes zum Zeitpunkt des jeweiligen einschalten des Hauptheizelementes. Unter "parametrierbarer Solltemperatur Tsoll" wird erfindungsgemäß verstanden, dass diese Temperatur automatisch oder manuell auf einen bestimmten Wert festgesetzt werden kann.The "temperature T0" designates the temperature of the respective route element at the time of the respective switching on of the main heating element. According to the invention, “configurable desired temperature Tsoll” is understood to mean that this temperature can be set to a specific value automatically or manually.

Anschließend wird ein aktueller Temperatursollwert Ta für jedes Fahrwegelement 12 ermittelt. Dieser kann manuell parametriert oder mittels mathematischen Gleichungen in Abhängigkeit von vorgebbaren Parametern und/oder den aktuellen Umgebungsparametern berechnet werden. Der Hauptunterschied zwischen dem parametrierbaren Solltemperatur Tsoll und dem aktuellen Temperatursollwert Ta besteht in darin, dass die parametrierte Schienentemperatur Tsoll fest eingestellt ist und die aktuelle Schienentemperatur Ta zu jedem Zeitpunkt neu berechnet wird. Dabei kann die durch eventuelle Offsets oder durch mathematische Gleichungen berechnete aktuellen Schienentemperatur Ta der parametrierten Solltemperatur unter Umständen entsprechen.A current temperature setpoint Ta for each track element 12 is then determined. This can be parameterized manually or calculated using mathematical equations as a function of parameters that can be specified and/or the current environmental parameters. The main difference between the parameterizable setpoint temperature Tsoll and the current temperature setpoint Ta is that the parameterized busbar temperature Tsoll is fixed and the current busbar temperature Ta is recalculated at each point in time. The current busbar temperature Ta calculated using any offsets or using mathematical equations can possibly correspond to the configured target temperature.

Das Ermitteln des aktuellen Temperatursollwert Ta kann insbesondere in Abhängigkeit von eingestellten Parametern und/oder von aktuellen sowie zukünftigen Wetterbedingungen erfolgen.The current temperature setpoint Ta can be determined in particular as a function of set parameters and/or of current and future weather conditions.

Abschließend ist das Ermitteln einer aktuellen absoluten Regelabweichungen Δabs zwischen einer aktuellen Temperatur T0a des Fahrwegelements 12 und der parametrierbaren Solltemperatur Tsoll des Fahrwegelements 12 für mindestens eine funktionsrelevante Komponente des Fahrwegelements 12 vorgesehen. Die aktuelle Temperatur T0a des Fahrwegelements 12 ist dabei die mittels eines Sensors or Ort gemessene Temperatur eines bestimmten Teils, beispielsweise einer Schiene.Finally, a current absolute control deviation Δabs between a current temperature T0a of the track element 12 and the parameterizable target temperature Tsoll of the guideway element 12 for at least one functionally relevant component of the guideway element 12 is provided. The current temperature T0a of the guideway element 12 is the temperature of a specific part, for example a rail, measured by means of a sensor or on site.

BezugszeichenReference sign

11
Schaltverteilungswitching distribution
22
Umgebungsparameter-EinrichtungEnvironment Parameter Setup
33
Steuerungseinrichtungcontrol device
44
Energie-Verteilkastenpower distribution box
55
Schaltgerätswitching device
66
Kommunikationsmodulcommunication module
77
Heizabgang/EnergieversorgungskabelHeater outlet/power supply cable
88th
Schaltsteuerungshift control
99
Schienentemperatursensorrail temperature sensor
1010
Stromnetzpower grid
1111
Schalteinrichtungswitching device
1212
Fahrwegelementtrack element
12a12a
Weichesoft
1313
Hauptheizelementmain heating element
1414
Nebenheizelementauxiliary heating element
1515
Backenschienestock rail
1616
Heizelement Backenschiene Steg innenHeating element stock rail web inside
1717
Heizelement Backenschiene Fuß innenHeating element stock rail foot inside
1818
Heizelement Zungenschiene außenOutside tongue rail heating element
1919
verschiebbar angeordnete Weichenzungeslidably arranged point tongue
2020
Heizelement Zungenschiene innenHeating element tongue rail inside
2121
Fuß Zungenschienenfoot tongue splints
2222
Gleitstuhlslide chair
2323
Backenschienenstegstock rail web
2424
Heizelement Backenschiene Steg außenHeating element stock rail Web outside
2525
Fuß Backenschienefoot stock rail
2626
SchalterSwitch
2727
Verschlussfachlock compartment
X1X1
Messpunkt 1 Backenschiene Fuß untenMeasuring point 1 stock rail foot below
X2X2
Messpunkt 2 Backenschiene Fuß oben außenMeasuring point 2 stock rail foot top outside
X3X3
Messpunkt 3 Backenschiene Steg außenMeasuring point 3 stock rail Web outside
X4X4
Messpunkt 4 Backenschiene KopfMeasuring point 4 stock rail head
X5X5
Messpunkt 5 bei abliegender ZungenschieneMeasuring point 5 when the tongue rail is off
X6X6
Messpunkt 6 bei abliegender ZungenschieneMeasuring point 6 when the tongue rail is off
X7X7
Messpunkt 7 Zungenschiene FußMeasuring point 7 tongue rail foot
X8X8
Messpunkt 8 Zungenschiene StegMeasuring point 8 tongue rail Web
X9X9
Messpunkt 9 Zungenschiene KopfMeasuring point 9 tongue rail head
Lala
Leistungsverhältnisperformance ratio
XWmaxXWmax
maximalen Regelabweichungmaximum control deviation

Claims (12)

  1. Method for intensified heating of track elements (12), wherein, at at least one track element (12), provision is made of at least one primary heating element (13) for regular heating and, at at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12), provision is made of at least one secondary heating element (14),
    wherein the primary heating element (13) is attached to a part of the track element (12) and can be switched ON as well as OFF in a regular manner by means of a control parameter detected, for example via a rail-temperature sensor, and wherein the secondary heating element (14) is attached to another part of the track element (12) and can be switched ON as well as OFF without its own control sensor in a manner dependent on the primary heating element (13), comprising the steps of
    a) heating a track element (12) in a regular manner by means of the at least one primary heating element (13),
    b) heating the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) by means of the at least one secondary heating element (14) at the at least one track element (12) during heating pauses of the at least one primary heating element (13), or after attainment of a target temperature of the track element (12) in the region of the at least one primary heating element (13), or in the case of power reserves being available, if the heating power required at the track element (12) is higher than the heating power of the at least one primary heating element (13) installed at the track element (12),
    wherein the secondary heating element (14) can never be in the state switched to ON at the same time as the primary heating element (13),
    wherein the heating by means of the at least one secondary heating element (14) is activated
    c1) if a maximum control deviation Δmax for the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) is exceeded, or
    c2) by means of an additional switch (26) in a control device (3), or
    c3) if a predefinable environmental parameter is fallen below.
  2. Method according to Claim 1, furthermore comprising, parallel to step b) and/or to step c1) or c2) or c3), calculating the switch-on duration of the at least one secondary heating element (14),
    wherein the calculation of the switch-on duration of the at least one secondary heating element (14) is realized
    - in a manner dependent on an in each case current absolute control deviation Δabs at the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12), and/or
    - on the basis of the heating duration of the at least one primary heating element (13), and/or
    - on the basis of current environmental parameters, and/or
    - on the basis of a parameterizable ratio, predefined in the control device (3), of the heating duration of the at least one primary heating element (13) and the at least one secondary heating element (14).
  3. Method according to Claim 2, wherein, after the switch-on duration of the at least one secondary heating element (14) has elapsed, the activation of the heating according to step c1) or step c2) or step c3) is re-evaluated.
  4. Method according to Claim 2 or 3, wherein, with the calculation of the switch-on duration, the mass of the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) that is heated by the at least one primary heating element (13) is set in relation to the mass of the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) that is heated by the at least one secondary heating element (14) or in relation to the current environmental parameters of the at least one functionally relevant component of the track element (12) that is heated by the at least one secondary heating element (14).
  5. Method according to one of Claims 1 to 4, wherein, for the case of a loss of communication between a switching controller (8) and a communication module (6) and thus the control device (3), an emergency controller is activated in that a switching device (11) assumes a predefined emergency function.
  6. Method according to one of Claims 1 to 4, wherein, for the case of a fault within the switching controller (8), an emergency controller is activated in that the switching device (11) assumes a predefined emergency function.
  7. Method according to Claim 5 or 6, wherein the predefined emergency function comprises
    - solely heating the at least one primary heating element (13), and/or
    - cyclically switching over the heating of the at least one primary heating element (13) and the at least one secondary heating element (14) at predefinable time intervals.
  8. Device for intensified heating of track elements (12), comprising
    - a switching distributor (1) which has a control device (3) at which, for at least one track element (12), provision is made of a switching unit (5) for at least one primary heating element (13) at the at least one track element (12), wherein each switching unit (5) has at least one heating outgoing line (7) for at least one track element (12),
    wherein the primary heating element (13) is attached to a part of the track element (12) and can be switched ON as well as OFF in a regular manner by means of a control parameter detected, for example via a rail-temperature sensor,
    - an environmental-parameter device (2) which is connected to the control device (3),
    - at least one energy distribution box (4) for the at least one track element (12), which is connected to the corresponding heating outgoing line (7) for said at least one track element (12) and supplies the latter with energy, and
    - at least one temperature sensor (9) for at least one track element (12), which is connected to the control device (3),
    characterized in that
    provision is furthermore made of at least one secondary heating element (14) at at least one track element (12), wherein the energy distribution box (4) furthermore has a switching controller (8) and a switching device (11) by means of which the energy supply of the corresponding heating outgoing line (7) can be switched over between the primary heating element (13) and the secondary heating element (14),
    wherein the secondary heating element (14) is attached to another part of the track element (12) and can be switched ON as well as OFF without its own control sensor in a manner dependent on the primary heating element (13), wherein the secondary heating element (14) can be heated only during heating pauses of the at least one primary heating element (13), and wherein the heating duration of the secondary heating elements (14) is ascertained on the basis of calculations.
  9. Device for intensified heating of track elements (12), comprising
    - a switching distributor (1) which has a control device (3) at which provision is made of at least one switching unit (5) for at least one primary heating element (13) at at least one track element (12), wherein the switching unit (5) is connected to at least one communication module (6),
    wherein communication module (6) refers to a module for communication between the switching distributor (1) or the switching controller (8) and the energy distribution box (4) via a heating outgoing line/energy supply cable (7) of the track element (12),
    wherein the primary heating element (13) is attached to a part of the track element (12) and can be switched ON as well as OFF in a regular manner by means of a control parameter detected, for example via a rail-temperature sensor,
    - an environmental-parameter device (2) which is connected to the control device (3),
    - at least one energy distribution box (4) for the at least one track element (12), which is connected to a corresponding heating outgoing line (7) for said track element (12) and supplies the latter with energy, and
    - at least one temperature sensor (9) for at least one track element (12), which is connected to the control device (3),
    characterized in that
    provision is furthermore made of at least one secondary heating element (14) at at least one track element (12), wherein the energy distribution box (4) furthermore has a switching controller (8) and a switching device (11) by means of which the energy supply of the corresponding heating outgoing line (7) can be switched over between the primary heating element (13) and the secondary heating element (14),
    wherein the secondary heating element (14) is attached to another part of the track element (12) and can be switched ON as well as OFF without its own control sensor in a manner dependent on the primary heating element (13), wherein the secondary heating element (14) can be heated only during heating pauses of the at least one primary heating element (13), and wherein the heating duration of the secondary heating elements (14) is ascertained on the basis of calculations.
  10. Device according to Claim 8, furthermore comprising a communication module (6) for one or more heating outgoing lines (7) for each track element (12), which is connected to the control device (3), wherein communication module (6) refers to a module for communication between the switching distributor (1) or the switching controller (8) and the energy distribution box (4) via a heating outgoing line/energy supply cable (7) of the track element (12).
  11. Device according to one of Claims 8 to 10, wherein the switching device (11) is designed as a switchover element or as at least two switch-on elements.
  12. Device according to one of Claims 8 to 11, furthermore comprising a switch (26) for activating the intensified heating.
EP19020404.0A 2018-06-26 2019-06-25 Method and device for enhanced heating of track elements Active EP3587666B1 (en)

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DE102018005033.6A DE102018005033A1 (en) 2018-06-26 2018-06-26 Method and device for increased heating of track elements

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EP3587666B1 true EP3587666B1 (en) 2022-08-31

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EP19020404.0A Active EP3587666B1 (en) 2018-06-26 2019-06-25 Method and device for enhanced heating of track elements

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EP (1) EP3587666B1 (en)
DE (1) DE102018005033A1 (en)
DK (1) DK3587666T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2928816T3 (en)
PL (1) PL3587666T3 (en)

Family Cites Families (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE1036889B (en) * 1956-10-27 1958-08-21 Siemens Ag Electric point heating
DE4325002A1 (en) * 1993-07-26 1995-02-02 Butzbacher Weichenbau Gmbh Arrangement for heating track sections
DE19502125C2 (en) 1995-01-24 2000-03-23 Butzbacher Weichenbau Gmbh Heating element arrangement
DE19832535C2 (en) 1998-07-20 2002-10-10 Ean Elektroschaltanlagen Gmbh Device for regulating and monitoring point heaters
DE19849637C1 (en) 1998-10-28 2000-10-05 Esa Elektroschaltanlagen Grimm Central control, monitoring and diagnosis device for railway points heating has distributor device for each track section provided with measuring module and program-controlled device connected to bus system
WO2010115436A1 (en) * 2009-04-07 2010-10-14 Ean Elektroschaltanlagen Gmbh Method and device for energy management for electrical point heating
US9353486B2 (en) * 2011-08-16 2016-05-31 Railway Equipment Company, Inc. Load balanced track switch heating
DE102016011117A1 (en) 2016-09-17 2018-03-22 Ean Elektroschaltanlagen Gmbh Method and device for energy management of an electrical point heating system

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ES2928816T3 (en) 2022-11-23
DE102018005033A1 (en) 2020-01-02
EP3587666A1 (en) 2020-01-01
PL3587666T3 (en) 2023-01-02
DK3587666T3 (en) 2022-10-24

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