EP3900999A1 - Migration of an existing technical railway installation to a new technical railway installation - Google Patents

Abstract

In a method for migrating from an existing railway system to a new railway system, a switch (40) is provided. In a stable first operating state, the changeover switch connects a field element (10) to a field element control device (20) of the existing railway system. In a second operating state, however, the changeover switch connects the field element to a field element control device (30) of the new railway system. By providing the switch, a comprehensive compliance check need only be performed once.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to a method for migrating from an existing railway installation to a new railway installation and to a railway installation which is designed for use in such a method.

STATE OF THE ART

An interlocking usually controls a large number of field elements. The term "field element" is a generic term for railway equipment such as signals, switches, buttons and balises, which are usually located on the railway line. Each field element is controlled by an assigned field element control unit.

The migration from an existing interlocking system to a new one during operation is a major challenge. The new system will be set up parallel to the existing system. A conversion and commissioning of the new system in a single break in operation (typically a single night) is usually not possible in terms of acceptance. Usually, different subsystems are therefore individually checked and approved during several breaks in operation. At the end of the operational stoppages, the system is returned to its original state ("conversion and dismantling"). This procedure is very time-consuming, as a comprehensive compliance check of all subsystems concerned is required for every conversion and dismantling.

From the prior art, it is known, before the migration to a new system, the First test the field element control units of the new system by equipping them with simulation circuits ("operational replacement plugs") that simulate the behavior of the relevant field element. The replacement plug are plugged directly onto the field element control units. The cabling is therefore not simulated. The trial operation with these simulation circuits is useful for checking functional processes and for testing the operating software, but cannot replace a test operation with the real field elements. For tests with the real field elements, reconstruction and dismantling are still necessary. In the case of switches in particular, this can usually not be avoided.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for migrating from an existing railway system (specifically an existing interlocking) to a new system that allows the new system to be tested in detail without having to carry out a reconstruction.

This object is achieved by a method according to claim 1. Further embodiments are given in the dependent claims.

1. (a) Bereitstellen eines Umschalters, der zwischen einem ersten Betriebszustand und einem zweiten Betriebszustand umschaltbar ist; und
2. (b) Verbinden des Umschalters mit dem Feldelement, der bestehenden Feldelement-Steuereinrichtung und der neuen Feldelement-Steuereinrichtung derart, dass der Umschalter das Feldelement im ersten Betriebszustand mit der bestehenden Feldelement-Steuereinrichtung und im zweiten Betriebszustand mit der neuen Feldelement-Steuereinrichtung elektrisch verbindet.

A method for migrating from an existing railway system to a new railway system is specified. The existing railway system has an existing field element control device for controlling a field element. The new railway system has a new field element control device for controlling the same field element. The new field element control device can, in particular, be arranged in a decentralized manner and can be controlled from a central interlocking via a data connection. The proposed procedure includes the following steps:

1. (a) providing a changeover switch which can be switched between a first operating state and a second operating state; and
2. (b) Connecting the changeover switch to the field element, the existing field element control device and the new field element control device in such a way that the changeover switch electrically connects the field element to the existing field element control device in the first operating state and to the new field element control device in the second operating state.

The invention thereby makes it possible to alternately connect the field element with the existing system and the new system without having to be dismantled. Switching back and forth between the existing system and the new system can, for example, take place several times and in several breaks in operation. A compliance test is only required once when the changeover switch is put into operation for the first time, i.e. after step (b). In this conformity test, the cabling of the field element and the existing and new field element control devices with the changeover switch is checked in both positions, that is to say in the first and in the second operating state. The conformity check can be very time-consuming in practice. However, it only needs to be carried out once because the wiring does not need to be changed afterwards, even when switching back and forth between the existing system and the new system.

In the present context, the term “new” is to be understood as synonymous with the expression “intended to replace something that already exists”. The term "new" does not necessarily imply that the item in question is unused.

The first operating state of the changeover switch is preferably a stable operating state. An operating state of the changeover switch is referred to as "stable" if it is assumed by the changeover switch even when the changeover switch is not actively controlled. The fact that the first operating state of the changeover switch is a stable operating state prevents the changeover switch from entering the second operating state unintentionally, e.g. due to an unintentional voltage drop. The second operating state can also be a stable operating state. In this case, the changeover switch is referred to as bistable. However, the changeover switch can also be monostable, i.e. it can be designed in such a way that it only assumes the second operating state as long as it receives a corresponding signal.

• (c) Ansteuern des Feldelements durch die bestehende Feldelement-Steuereinrichtung, während sich der Umschalter im ersten Betriebszustand befindet;
• (d) Umschalten des Umschalters vom ersten Betriebszustand in den zweiten Betriebszustand; und
• (e) Ansteuern des Feldelements durch die neue Feldelement-Steuereinrichtung,

As already stated, the method can include switching once or several times between the existing installation and the new installation. The method can thus have the following steps:

• (c) controlling the field element by the existing field element control device while the changeover switch is in the first operating state;
• (d) switching the changeover switch from the first operating state to the second operating state; and
• (e) controlling the field element by the new field element control device,

while the changeover switch is in the second operating state.

If necessary, the method can furthermore comprise the following steps: switching the changeover switch from the second operating state to the first operating state; and repeating steps (c) through (e).

• manuelles Umschalten; oder
• gesteuertes Umschalten aufgrund eines analogen oder digitalen elektrischen Signals.

The switch can be configured to be switched in one of the following ways:

• manual switching; or
• controlled switching based on an analog or digital electrical signal.

The method preferably finally has the following step:
(f) Replacing the changeover switch with a bridge device which permanently connects the field element to the new field element control device. The wiring and the coding of the bridge device are approved in advance with the entire procedure by the competent authority. "Coding" is to be understood here as an embodiment which is intended to ensure that the bridge device is used exactly in the intended manner instead of the changeover switch. The coding can be done in terms of color or in some other way, for example mechanically by designing elements that are complementary to one another and which prevent a connection in a manner that is not intended.

In this way, a secure, highly available connection between the field element and the new field element control device is ensured after the tests of the new field element control device have been completed. Even after this step, no further comprehensive compliance check is necessary because the rest of the wiring no longer needs to be changed.

As a rule, the field element is controlled via a multi-pole interface. A widespread multipole interface is, in particular, the standardized four-wire interface, which makes it possible both to control the field element and to monitor its status. The changeover switch preferably connects the field element alternately with the existing field element control device or the new field element control device via a multi-wire interface, in particular a four-wire interface.

• (b1) Bereitstellen eines Kabelendverschlusses, der dem Feldelement zugeordnet ist;
• (b2) Anschliessen eines ersten mehradrigen Kabels an den Kabelendverschluss zur Verbindung mit der bestehenden Feldelement-Steuereinrichtung;
• (b3) Anschliessen eines zweiten mehradrigen Kabels an den Kabelendverschluss zur Verbindung mit dem Feldelement;
• (b4) Anschliessen mindestens eines dritten mehradrigen Kabels an den Kabelendverschluss zur Verbindung mit dem Umschalter; und
• (b5) Verbinden des ersten, zweiten und dritten Kabels im Kabelendverschluss derart, dass der Umschalter im ersten Betriebszustand das Feldelement mit der bestehenden Feldelement-Steuereinrichtung elektrisch verbindet.

In order to connect the field element to the changeover switch, a cable termination can be assigned to the field element. The procedure in this case may include:

• (b1) providing a cable termination which is assigned to the field element;
• (b2) connecting a first multi-core cable to the cable termination for connection to the existing field element control device;
• (b3) connecting a second multi-core cable to the cable termination for connection to the field element;
• (b4) connecting at least a third multi-core cable to the cable termination for connection to the switch; and
• (b5) connecting the first, second and third cables in the cable termination in such a way that the changeover switch electrically connects the field element to the existing field element control device in the first operating state.

In this case, the cable termination serves to connect the various cables to one another in such a way that the field element can continue to be controlled by the existing system via the detour of the switch.

In addition, a device for migrating from an existing railway system with an existing field element control device to a new railway system with a new field element control device is proposed. In addition to the new field element control device, the device has the aforementioned switch, which can be switched between a first operating state and a second operating state and which is designed to electrically connect the field element to the existing field element control device in the stable first operating state and in the second operating state to electrically connect the field element to the new field element control device.

As has already been explained, the changeover switch can be designed to electrically connect the field element alternately to the existing field element control device or new field element control device via a multi-wire interface, in particular a four-wire interface.

For this purpose, the changeover switch can have at least one relay with a plurality of positively driven switching contacts. The relay has two switching states. The first switching state is assigned to the first operating state of the changeover switch, the second switching state is assigned to the second operating state of the switch. The relay is preferably bistable, but can also be monostable. In the case of a monostable relay, the first switching state is preferably the stable state. In general terms, the first switching state is the relay's initial state. The relay has a plurality of switching contacts. The switching contacts are referred to as "normally closed" (NC) when they are closed in the first switching state. They are called "normally open" (NO) when they are open in the first switching state.

Under certain circumstances, a relay with a sufficient number of positively driven switching contacts is not available to switch all connections of the field element together and at the same time to monitor the switching status of the relay. Therefore, instead of a single relay, the changeover switch can have a first and a second relay with positively driven switching contacts. The first relay can have a plurality of first switching contacts in order to alternately connect a first part of the connections of the field element to the existing field element control device or to the new field element control device. In particular, the first relay can have a plurality of first make contacts to connect a first part of the connections of the field element to the new field element control device, and a plurality of first break contacts to connect the first part of the connections of the field element to the existing field element control device to separate. Correspondingly, the second relay can have a plurality of second switching contacts in order to alternately connect a second part of the connections of the field element to the existing field element control device or to the new field element control device. Specifically, the second relay can have a plurality of second make contacts to connect a second part of the connections of the field element to the new field element control device, and a plurality of second break contacts to connect the second part of the connections of the field element to the existing field element control device to separate. The first relay can also have third switching contacts and the second relay can have fourth switching contacts. The third switching contacts can be connected in series with the second switching contacts, and the fourth switching contacts can be connected in series with the first switching contacts in such a way that, in each switching state of the first and second relay, a galvanic separation between the existing field element control device and the new one Field element control device is guaranteed. Specifically, a fourth make contact of the second relay can be connected in series with every first make contact of the first relay, and a third make contact of the first relay can be connected in series with every second make contact of the second relay be switched. Alternatively or additionally, a fourth or third break contact of the respective other relay can be connected in series with each of the first or second break contacts. Mixed forms are also possible. Selected switching contacts of the two relays are always cross-connected in series with one another in such a way that the galvanic separation between the existing and the new field element control device is guaranteed in all switching states of the two relays. As a result, the mechanical forced operation of the two relays is continued, so to speak, in the form of an electrical interlock.

The device can also comprise a monitoring device which is designed to monitor the changeover switch with regard to its first and second operating states. Additional switching contacts of the relay or the two relays can be used for this purpose. If the changeover switch has a first and a second relay, the first relay being designed to connect part of the wires of the connecting cable alternately to the existing field element control device or the new field element control device, and the second relay being designed to connect another To connect part of the wires of the connecting cable alternately to the existing field element control device or the new field element control device, the monitoring device can be designed to monitor switching states of at least one switching contact of the first and second relay used for monitoring. This can be done with the help of a suitable logic circuit that emits an output signal based on the switching states of the switching contacts used for monitoring, the output signal preferably indicating whether the switch is in the first operating state, in the second operating state or in an error state. In particular, the monitoring device can be designed to monitor the switching states of a closer of the first and second relay used for monitoring and of an opener of the first and second relay used for monitoring. The monitored NO contacts of the first and second relay are preferably connected in series and the monitored NC contacts of the first and second relay are connected in series.

The device can have a plurality of new field element control devices and associated changeover switches. The changeover switches can be linked to one another in the manner of a "daisy chain". In this case, a global monitoring device can be provided for the changeover switches, the global monitoring device having a logic circuit which is designed to output a first global monitoring signal when all the changeover switches assume the first operating state, and a output second global monitoring signal when all changeover switches assume the second operating state.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1

eine bestehende bahntechnische Anlage zusammen mit einer neuen bahntechnischen Anlage in einer ersten Umbauphase;

Fig. 2

die beiden bahntechnischen Anlagen der Fig. 1 in einer zweiten Umbauphase;

Fig. 3

die beiden bahntechnischen Anlagen der Fig. 1 in einer dritten Umbauphase;

Fig. 4

die beiden bahntechnischen Anlagen der Fig. 1 in einer vierten Umbauphase;

Fig. 5

einen schematischen Schaltplan einer Vierdrahtschnittstelle mit einem zugehörigen Weichenantrieb in der linken Endlage;

Fig. 6

einen schematischen Schaltplan einer Vierdrahtschnittstelle mit dem zugehörigen Weichenantrieb in der rechten Endlage;

Fig. 7

eine Funktionsskizze eines Umschalters gemäss einer ersten Ausführungsform;

Fig. 8

eine Funktionsskizze eines Umschalters gemäss einer zweiten Ausführungsform;

Fig. 9

eine Funktionsskizze der Aktoren des Umschalters der Fig. 8;

Fig. 10

eine Funktionsskizze einer Mehrzahl von Umschaltern mit zugeordneter Überwachungseinrichtung;

Fig. 11

einen Umschalter gemäss einer ersten Ausführungsvariante in einer schematischen Seitenansicht;

Fig. 12

den Umschalter der Fig. 11 in einer schematischen Draufsicht;

Fig. 13

einen Umschalter gemäss einer zweiten Ausführungsvariante in einer schematischen Seitenansicht; und

Fig. 14

den Umschalter der Fig. 13 in einer schematischen Draufsicht.

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the drawings, which are only used for explanation and are not to be interpreted as restrictive. In the drawings show:

Fig. 1

an existing railway system together with a new railway system in a first phase of renovation;

Fig. 2

the two railway systems of Fig. 1 in a second renovation phase;

Fig. 3

the two railway systems of Fig. 1 in a third renovation phase;

Fig. 4

the two railway systems of Fig. 1 in a fourth renovation phase;

Fig. 5

a schematic circuit diagram of a four-wire interface with an associated point drive in the left end position;

Fig. 6

a schematic circuit diagram of a four-wire interface with the associated switch machine in the right end position;

Fig. 7

a functional sketch of a changeover switch according to a first embodiment;

Fig. 8

a functional sketch of a changeover switch according to a second embodiment;

Fig. 9

a functional sketch of the actuators of the switch of the Fig. 8 ;

Fig. 10

a functional sketch of a plurality of changeover switches with an associated monitoring device;

Fig. 11

a changeover switch according to a first embodiment variant in a schematic side view;

Fig. 12

the switch of the Fig. 11 in a schematic plan view;

Fig. 13

a changeover switch according to a second embodiment variant in a schematic side view; and

Fig. 14

the switch of the Fig. 13 in a schematic plan view.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Migration from an existing railway system to a new railway system

the Figures 1 to 4 illustrate the various conversion phases during the migration from an existing railway system to a new railway system using a method according to the present invention.

In the present example, the existing system is a conventional signal box 20 in which there are a large number of existing field element control devices for field elements such as switches, signals and balises. In the present example, one of the existing field element control devices controls a field element in the form of a switch 10.

In the present example, the new system is a modern "Smart Rail" system with a decentralized control unit 50 which communicates with a central interlocking 60 via a wired or wireless digital data connection 62, e.g. using the IP protocol. In particular, the control unit 50 can be a so-called “Distributed Power Object Controller” (DP-OC). The control unit 50 comprises a plurality of individual field element control devices 30, i.e. individual "object controllers". In the present example, one of these field element control devices 30 is provided to control the switch 10 after the migration. The control unit 50 further comprises several changeover switches 40, the function of which will be explained in more detail below. A changeover switch 40 is assigned to each field element control device 30. The relevant changeover switch 40 is connected to the field element control device 30 via a multi-pole line 32, for example in the form of a cable or, in the case of a high integration density, in the form of a printed circuit.

The switch 10 has a drive 12. The drive 12 is controlled via a connection cable 14, and the operating status of the switch is read out via the same cable. In the present example, the switch 10 is operated via the so-called four-wire interface. For this purpose, the connection cable 14 has four wires. The four-wire interface is explained in more detail below. Instead, the switch could also be controlled and read out via another multi-wire interface, e.g. the well-known seven-wire interface. Correspondingly, cables with a different number of cores would be used.

First conversion phase

A first phase of renovation is in the Figure 1 illustrated. The existing system is described below. The four-wire connection cable 14 of the switch 10 is connected to an existing four-pole cable termination (KEV) 24. A four-wire connecting cable 22 connects the cable termination 24 to the existing signal box 20. The cable termination 24 serves to electrically connect the wires of the two cables 14, 22 to one another in pairs. In this way, the existing signal box 20 controls the switch 10 via the connecting cable 22 and the connecting cable 14.

In this first conversion phase, in addition to the existing cable termination 24, a new, eight-pole cable termination 70 is provided in the vicinity. The assigned changeover switch 40 is connected to the new cable termination 70 via two four-core connecting cables 72, 74 or one eight-core connecting cable. The new cable termination 70 is not yet connected to the switch 10.

Second renovation phase

The second conversion phase is in the Figure 2 illustrated. In the second conversion phase, the connection cable 14 of the switch 10 is connected to the connection cable 74 in the new cable termination 70. On the other hand, the connecting cable 22 from the existing signal box 20 is connected to the connecting cable 72 in the new cable termination 70. The changeover switch 40 is in a stable first operating state. In this operating state, it connects the connecting cables 72 and 74 to one another.

Overall, after this conversion phase, the existing signal box 20 still controls the switch 10, but now via the connecting cables 22 and 72, the switch 40, the connecting cable 74 and the connecting cable 14. The new field element control devices 30 are therefore not yet active. They can still be modified without restrictions. The same applies to other parts of the new interlocking architecture.

After this conversion phase, a detailed conformity check is carried out according to a specified protocol. This is used to check whether all wires of all cables have been correctly connected to one another. In practice, this test is usually very time-consuming and requires several people to work. However, it only needs to be carried out once.

Third phase of renovation

The third conversion phase is in the Fig. 3 illustrated. In this phase a test run of the new system takes place. For this purpose, the changeover switch 40 is brought into a second operating state. In this state, it connects the switch 10 via the cables 14, 74 and the line 32 to the new field element control device 30. The switch 10 is now controlled by the new field element control device 30. If necessary, however, you can switch back to the previous state at any time.

• Lokale Bedienung mit einem Bedienschalter innerhalb der Steuereinheit (DP-OC) 50;
• Ansteuerung mit elektrischen Signalen, die innerhalb der Steuereinheit 50 erzeugt werden;
• direkte Ansteuerung mittels digitaler Signale ab dem neuen Stellwerk 60 über ein temporäres Kabel 64;
• direkte Ansteuerung über einen Funknetzkanal ab dem neuen Stellwerk 60; oder
• direkte Ansteuerung ab einer weiteren Lokalität, z.B. auch ab dem bestehenden Stellwerk 20.

The switch can be controlled in different ways:

• Local operation with an operating switch within the control unit (DP-OC) 50;
• Control with electrical signals that are generated within the control unit 50;
• direct control by means of digital signals from the new interlocking 60 via a temporary cable 64;
• direct control via a radio network channel from the new interlocking 60; or
• direct control from a further location, e.g. also from the existing signal box 20.

In this test operating phase, there is a switch back and forth between the existing system and the new system. There is no need to make any changes to the physical wiring. This is very important because otherwise a new, complex conformity check would have to be carried out. The present invention makes it possible, however, to carry out this test only once, namely after the second conversion phase, and to dispense with further compliance tests.

Fourth conversion phase

The fourth conversion phase is in the Fig. 4 illustrated. After successful commissioning of the new system, the existing interlocking 20 together with the connecting cable 22 and the previous cable termination 24 can be dismantled. The changeover switch 40 is now replaced by a bridge device 80 which ensures a permanent, stable and highly available connection between the new field element control device 30 and the switch 10.

Background: four-wire interface

For several decades there has been a standardized electrical interface for railway field elements, in particular switches, in the form of the so-called four-wire interface. This interface is widespread in German-speaking countries. The interface has four connections. If the field element is a switch, both the drive energy for the switch drive and currents for monitoring the position of the switch in the idle state are transmitted via the four connections. Modern field element control devices for turnouts also detect wire shorts, i.e. short circuits between the individual wires in the cable.

the Figures 5 and 6 illustrate an example of a point machine with a four-wire interface. The four-wire interface has four connections X1, X2, X3 and X4. In practice, the wires of a connection cable for the point machine are connected to it, in the example of Figures 1 to 4 the cores of the cable 14. These cores are also referred to in the following as X1 to X4.

The point machine has a three-phase drive motor with motor windings L1, L2 and L3. A first end of the motor winding L1 is connected to the connection X1 of the four-wire interface, a first end of the motor winding L2 is connected to the connection X2, and a first end of the motor winding L3 is connected to the connection X3. The second end of the motor winding L1 is alternately connected to the terminal X4 or to the second end of the motor winding L3 via a first end position contact m1 acting as a changeover contact. The second end of the motor winding L2 is also alternately connected to the terminal X4 or to the second end of the motor winding L3 via a second end position contact m2, which also acts as a changeover contact.

In the Figure 5 the end position contacts are in a position that corresponds to the left end position of the switch. In this position, connection X1 of the four-wire interface is connected to connection X3 via motor winding L1, the first end position contact m1 and motor winding L3, and connection X2 is connected to connection X4 via motor winding L2 and the second end position contact m2.

In changeover mode, a three-phase current with a suitable phase position is applied to connections X1 to X4. This leads to the fact that the drive motor a The switch is switched from the left to the right end position.

In traditional monitoring mode, a DC monitoring voltage is applied to terminals X2 and X3 to monitor the left end position, and the resulting current through terminal X3 and the voltage between terminals X1 and X4 are measured. When the switch is in the left end position, the measured voltage between terminals X1 and X4 essentially corresponds to the monitoring voltage and the measured current is very low. If the left end position was not reached or the switch was opened, the second end position contact m2 is in a different position. In this case, the measured voltage between terminals X1 and X4 is zero and the measured current is greatly increased.

In the Figure 6 the end position contacts are in a position that corresponds to the right end position of the switch. In this position, connection X1 of the four-wire interface is connected to connection X4 via motor winding L1 and the first end position contact m1, and connection X2 is connected to connection X3 via motor winding L2, the second end position contact m2 and motor winding L3.

In traditional monitoring mode, a DC monitoring voltage is applied to terminals X1 and X3 to monitor the right end position, and the resulting current through terminal X3 and the voltage between terminals X2 and X4 are measured. When the switch is in the right end position, the voltage measured between terminals X2 and X4 essentially corresponds to the monitoring voltage and the measured current is very low. If the right end position was not reached or the switch was opened, the first end position contact m1 is in a different position. In this case, the measured voltage between terminals X2 and X4 is zero and the measured current is greatly increased. In this way, the operating state of the switch can be reliably determined.

However, the four-wire interface is symmetrical with regard to the connections X1 and X2, ie an interchanging of these connections cannot easily be recognized. Such an exchange can have fatal consequences. During the compliance test, special attention must therefore be paid to the correct wiring of the four-wire interface.

First embodiment of a changeover switch

In the Figure 7 a functional sketch of a changeover switch 40 according to a first embodiment is illustrated by way of example. The changeover switch has a relay 90, the contacts of which are positively guided for safety reasons. The aim of the priority control is to ensure that NO contacts can never be in the same state as NC contacts.

Reference is made to the following standards: DIN EN 50205: 2003-01 or the replacing standard DIN EN 61810-3: 2016-01 "Electromechanical elementary relays - Part 3: Relays with (mechanically) positively driven contacts"; DIN EN 61810-1: 2015-10 "Electromechanical elementary relays - Part 1: General and safety requirements" and DIN EN 61810-2: 2018-06 "Electromechanical elementary relays - Part 2: Functionality (reliability)" and DIN EN 60664-1: 2008 -01 "Insulation coordination for electrical equipment in low-voltage systems - Part 1: Principles, requirements and tests".

In the present example, the relay 90 has five changeover contacts, i.e. five break contacts and five make contacts, which have been connected in pairs to changeover contacts. These switching contacts are coupled via a mechanical positive guide 91, which is only indicated schematically. Four of the changeover contacts are used to alternately connect the wires X1 to X4 of the cable 74 with the corresponding wires of the cable 72 (first switching state, connection of the field element with the existing system) or line 32 (second switching state, connection of the field element with the new system) . The fifth changeover contact 101 is used to monitor the switching state of the relay 90. It is connected to a monitoring device 100, which is only shown schematically. On the basis of the position of the changeover contact 101, the monitoring device can determine whether the relay 90 is in its first or its second switching state, i.e. whether the changeover switch 40 is in its first or second operating state.

Second embodiment of a changeover switch

The first embodiment of the changeover switch requires a relay with five break contacts and five make contacts. Unfortunately, relays with a total of ten positively driven switching contacts are rarely available in practice because the mechanical effort required for a large number of positively driven switching contacts is very great. In practice, therefore, often multiple relays can be used to achieve the same functionality. However, this requires additional effort to ensure that even in the event of a malfunction of one of the relays no galvanic connection can be made between the existing field element control device and the new field element control device, and to monitor the switching states of both relays.

In the Figure 8 a functional sketch of a changeover switch 40 according to a second embodiment is illustrated by way of example, in which two relays 90a, 90b are used, these relays being interconnected ("electrically locked") in such a way that the above-mentioned requirements are met.

The first relay 90a has two break contacts and two make contacts, which have been connected to two changeover contacts 92a, 93a. These changers 92a, 93a serve to alternately connect the wires X1 and X4 of the cable 74 with the corresponding wires of the cable 72 (first switching state) or the line 32 (second switching state). Another break contact 101a and make contact 102a are used to monitor the switching state of this relay. Two further closer 94a, 95a are used to selectively connect the wires X2 and X3 of the line 32 with changeover contacts of the second relay 90b. A positive guide 91a guides all of the aforementioned contacts of the first relay 90a.

The second relay 90b has an analog structure and is interconnected. This relay also has two break contacts and two make contacts, which are connected to two changeover contacts 92b, 93b. These changers 92b, 93b serve to alternately connect the wires X2 and X3 of the cable 74 with the corresponding wires of the cable 72 (first switching state) or the line 32 (second switching state). Another break contact 101b and make contact 102b are used to monitor the switching state of this relay. Two further closer 94b, 95b are used to specifically connect the wires X1 and X4 of the line 32 with the changeover contacts of the first relay 90a. A positive guide 91b guides all of the aforementioned contacts of the second relay 90b.

Each relay 90a, 90b now only has eight switching contacts: five make contacts and three break contacts. Such relays with forcibly guided contacts are readily available commercially, e.g. as a contact fitting variant of the OB 5623 model from E. Dold & Söhne KG, Furtwangen, Germany.

In the Fig. 8 both relays 90a, 90b are shown in their first switching state. this corresponds to the first operating state of the changeover switch 40. All wires X1 to X4 of the cable 74 are connected to the corresponding wires of the cable 72. The field element is thereby connected to the existing field element control device.

When the changeover switch assumes its second operating state, both relays 90a, 90b are in their second switching state. In this state, all wires X1 to X4 of the cable 74 are connected to the corresponding wires of the line 32. The field element is thereby connected to the new field element control device.

If, due to a defect, only the first relay 90a should switch to the second switching state while the second relay 90b remains in the first switching state, the following situation occurs: the changeover contacts 92a, 93a of the first relay are now switched over; however, the closer 94b, 95b are still open. As a result, the wires X1, X4 of the line 32 are connected neither to the corresponding wires of the cable 72 nor to the corresponding wires of the cable 74. The changeover contacts 92b, 93b of the second relay are still in the state of Fig. 8 . As a result, the wires X2, X3 of the line 32 are neither connected to the corresponding wires of the cable 72 nor to the corresponding wires of the cable 74. Overall, there is still a galvanic separation between the old field element control device and the new field element control device. This also applies analogously if only the second relay 90b should switch to the second switching state while the first relay 90a remains in the first switching state.

In this way, an electrical interlock is achieved, which electrically supplements the mechanical positive control of the two relays. Galvanic isolation between the old field element control device and the new field element control device is ensured in every switching state, even if it is faulty.

The switching contacts 101a, 101b of the two relays 90a, 90b used for monitoring are connected in series. As a result, the monitoring device 100 can determine whether both relays assume the first switching state. The switching contacts 102a, 102b of both relays are also connected in series. In this way, the monitoring device 100 can determine whether both relays assume the second switching state. In a normal operating state, either both switching contacts 101a, 101b or both switching contacts 102a, 102b are closed. This makes it possible to monitor whether the changeover switch is in its first or second operating state. If in both branches at the same time at least one contact is open, it can be concluded that there is a malfunction. Of course, the monitoring can also be done in another way, e.g. with the help of a logic circuit that monitors a switching contact (NC or NO) of each relay and whose output signal depends on the positions of these switching contacts (e.g. with NC contacts: both NC contacts closed means the first operating state , both NC contacts open means second operating status, one NC contact open and one closed means error).

the Figure 9 illustrates a possible interconnection of the actuators (windings) of the two relays 90a, 90b. Both relays are bistable in this embodiment. The first relay 90a has a first actuator 96a to bring the relay into the first switching state and a second actuator 97a to bring the relay into the second switching state. Correspondingly, the second relay 90b also has a first actuator 96b and a second actuator 97b. The first actuators 96a, 96b of the two relays are connected in series. An actuating element 121 in the form of a mechanical or electrical switch connects the two actuators 96a, 96b to a supply voltage in order to bring both relays into the first switching state. If the circuit should be interrupted somewhere, because of the series connection, neither of the two relays 90a, 90b can switch. The second actuators 97a, 97b of the two relays are also connected in series. An actuating element 122 connects the two actuators 97a, 97b to a supply voltage in order to bring both relays into the second switching state. If the circuit should be interrupted somewhere, neither of the two relays 90a, 90b can switch because of the series connection. In this way, incorrect switching can be avoided. The switches or actuating elements 121, 122 are each operated only briefly, ie the voltage is applied as a switching pulse.

Chaining several changeover switches

Several changeover switches, e.g. all the changeover switches of a control unit (DP-OC) 50, can be linked to one another in the manner of a "daisy chain" so that they can be operated and monitored jointly.

This is in the Fig. 10 illustrated. In this example, three changeover switches 40 are linked to one another, with six wires connecting the successive changeover switches to one another. The actuators 96a, 96b of the two relays 90a, 90b of each changeover switch 40 are each corresponding to Fig. 9 connected in series in pairs. The pairs 96a, 96b from various changeover switches are connected in parallel to one another and are all activated jointly by an actuating element 121. Similarly, the actuators 97a, 97b are also connected in pairs in series, and these pairs of different changeover switches are connected in parallel to one another and are all activated jointly by an actuating element 122. In this way, all changeover switches can be switched back and forth between the first and second operating states simultaneously.

Each changeover switch 40 has an individual monitoring device. In the present case, this is exemplified by two lights or LEDs 103, 104, to which a supply voltage of e.g. +48 VDC to ground (0 VDC) is applied when the contacts are closed. When the contacts 101a, 101b are both closed, the lamp 103 lights up and thus indicates that the changeover switch is in the first operating state. When the contacts 102a, 102b are both closed, the lamp 104 lights up and thus indicates that the changeover switch is in the second operating state.

The changeover switches also have a common global monitoring device 110. This includes a first logic gate 111 for each changeover switch (in the present example an AND gate), which receives a monitoring signal for the first operating state from the individual monitoring device of the respective changeover switch and links it to the output of the corresponding logic gate of the previous changeover switch. In addition, the global monitoring device 110 includes a second logic gate 112 for each changeover switch (also an AND gate in the present example), which links the monitoring signal for the second operating state of the respective changeover switch with the output of the corresponding logic gate of the previous changeover switch.

The logic circuit comprising the logic gates 111, 112 outputs a total of a first global monitoring signal when all changeover switches 40 assume the first operating state. This is indicated by a first lamp 113. The logic circuit outputs a second global monitoring signal when all changeover switches 40 assume the second operating state. This is indicated by a second lamp 114. The global monitoring signals can also be read from a remote location. If none of these monitoring signals is active, this indicates a malfunction in at least one of the changeover switches. In this case, the operating states of the individual changeover switches can be checked with the help of the individual Monitoring devices 100 are checked on site in order to determine the source of the error.

First variant for the construction of a changeover switch

In the Figures 11 and 12 a first embodiment of a changeover switch 40 is illustrated.

The changeover switch 40 has a base plate 41. The base plate 41 is mounted on a guide rail 52.

On this base plate, three connection groups 42, 43, 44 of the terminal or plug type are mounted. The connection group 42 connects the changeover switch with the cable 72 to the existing field element control device. The connection group 43 connects the changeover switch to the line 32 to the new field element control device. The cable 74 to the field element (here to the switch 10) is connected to the connection group 44. These connection groups are connected according to the procedure proposed here in the second conversion phase, and the correctness of the cabling is checked with several people. The wiring of these connection groups is subsequently never changed and remains in place until the existing system is completely decommissioned.

At a further connection 48, the changeover switch receives its commands for switching between the existing system and the new system during the third conversion phase. In the fourth conversion phase, this switchover is no longer required, and connection 48 is taken out of service.

Sockets 45 for the relays 90a, 90b are attached to the base plate 41. The relays 90a, 90b are plugged into these sockets. Further components 49 can also be present on the base plate 41.

In the fourth conversion phase 4, which concludes the migration, the relays 90a, 90b are exchanged for hard-wired bridging plugs 81. As a result, the changeover switch 40 is transformed into a bridge device. The fixed wiring of these bridging plugs 81 is shown symbolically as wires 83, but is mostly in the form of printed lines on a circuit board 82. The remaining components 49 remain on the base plate.

Second variant for the construction of a changeover switch

In the Figures 13 and 14 a second embodiment of a changeover switch 40 is illustrated. Elements with the same effect are given the same reference symbols as in Figures 11 and 12 designated.

In this embodiment variant, too, the base plate 41 carries the three connection groups 42, 43, 44 described above. However, the sockets 45 now do not directly accommodate the relays 90a, 90b. Instead, the relays 90a, 90b are mounted on an attachment plate 46 which is inserted as a whole into the base 45. The top plate also carries the connection 48 for the switchover commands and optionally other components 49. The plug connection of the top plate 46 in the sockets 45 is mechanically designed ("coded") in such a way that no incorrect connection is possible.

In the fourth conversion phase 4, which concludes the migration, the entire top plate 46 is now exchanged for a hard-wired jumper plug plate 84. As a result, the changeover switch 40 is in turn transformed into a bridge device. Again, the fixed wiring of this jumper plug plate 84 is symbolically shown as wires 83, but is mostly in the form of printed lines on a circuit board 82. The connection 48 that is no longer required for the switchover commands and the other components 49 are removed together with the top plate 46. The top plates 46 can thus be used for further renovation projects.

Modifications

It goes without saying that a large number of modifications of the exemplary embodiments described above are possible without departing from the scope of the invention defined in the claims. So in the Figures 1 to 4 the existing system and the new system can also be constructed differently than described above. Instead of a switch, another type of field element can also be controlled. The interface to the field element does not have to be a four-wire interface. The wiring of the relays can also be done in a different way than shown above; however, mechanical positive guidance and / or electrical locking is preferably ensured. The relays can be designed bistable or monostable, with a monostable design of the stable operating state preferably for the connection to existing system is used. The monitoring of the operating states can also take place in a different way than shown above. In particular, other types of logic circuits are also possible for global monitoring, as are known per se to the person skilled in the art. The operating states can of course also be recorded in ways other than simple lamps or LEDs. From a structural point of view, the changeover switches can also be constructed differently than shown above.

REFERENCE LIST

10

Soft

12th

Point machine

14th

Connection cable

20th

existing signal box

22nd

connection cable

24

Cable termination

30th

Control device

32

management

40

Toggle switch

41

Base plate

42

Connection group

43

Connection group

44

Connection group

45

base

46

Top plate

48

connection

49

component

50

Control unit

60

new signal box

62

Data Connection

64

temporary cable

70

Cable termination

72

connection cable

74

connection cable

80

Bridge element

81

Jumper plug

82

Circuit board

83

Wires

84

Jumper plate

90

relay

90a, 90b

relay

91

Forced guidance

91a, 91b

Forced guidance

92a, 92b

Changer

93a, 93b

Changer

94a, 94b

Closer

95a, 95b

Closer

96a, 96b

Actuator

97a, 97b

Actuator

100

Monitoring device

101

Changer

101a, 101b

opener

102a, 102b

Closer

103

Lamp

104

Lamp

110

Global monitoring facility

111

Logic gate

112

Logic gate

113

Lamp

114

Lamp

121

Actuator

122

Actuator

X1, X2, X3, X4

Connection / wire

+48 VDC

Supply voltage

0 VDC

Dimensions

Claims (15)

Procedure for migration from an existing railway system to a new railway system,
wherein the existing railway system has an existing field element control device (20) for controlling a field element (10), and
wherein the new railway system has a new field element control device (30) for controlling the same field element (10),
characterized in that the method comprises: (a) providing a changeover switch (40) which can be switched between a preferably stable first operating state and a second operating state; and (b) connecting the changeover switch (40) to the field element (10), the existing field element control device (20) and the new field element control device (30) in such a way that the changeover switch (40) with the field element (10) in the first operating state electrically connects the existing field element control device (20) and, in the second operating state, with the new field element control device (30). Method according to claim 1, wherein after step (b) a compliance check is carried out in which the connection between the field element (10), the changeover switch (40), the existing field element control device (20) and the new field element control device (30 ) is checked in the first and in the second operating state. Method according to claim 1 or 2, comprising the following steps: (c) controlling the field element (10) by the existing field element control device (20) while the changeover switch (40) is in the first operating state; (d) switching the changeover switch (40) into the second operating state; and (e) Activation of the field element (10) by the new field element control device (30) while the changeover switch (40) is in the second operating state. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the changeover switch (40) is designed to be changed over in one of the following ways: manual switching; or controlled switching based on an analog or digital electrical signal. Method according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising:
(f) Replacing the changeover switch (40) with a bridge device (80) which permanently connects the field element (10) to the new field element control device (30). Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the changeover switch (40) electrically connects the field element (10) alternately to the existing field element control device (20) or the new field element control device (30) via a multi-wire interface, in particular a four-wire interface. The method of claim 6, wherein step (b) comprises: (b1) providing a cable termination (70) which is assigned to the field element (10); (b2) connecting a first multi-core cable (22) to the cable termination (70) for connection to the existing field element control device (20); (b3) connecting a second multi-core cable (14) to the cable termination for connection to the field element (10); (b4) connecting at least one third multi-core cable (72, 74) to the cable termination for connection to the changeover switch (40); and (b5) connecting the wires of the first, second and third cables in the cable termination (70) in such a way that the changeover switch (40) electrically connects the field element (10) to the existing field element control device (20) in the first operating state. Device for migrating from an existing railway system with an existing field element control device (20) to a new railway system with a new field element control device (30),
characterized in that the device comprises: the new array element controller (30); and a changeover switch (40) which can be switched between a preferably stable first operating state and a second operating state and which is designed to connect the field element (10) with the existing one in the first operating state To electrically connect the field element control device (20) and, in the second operating state, to electrically connect the field element (10) to the new field element control device (30). Device according to claim 8, wherein the changeover switch (40) is designed to electrically supply the field element (10) alternately with the existing field element control device (20) or the new field element control device (30) via a multi-wire interface, in particular a four-wire interface associate. Apparatus according to Claim 9, the changeover switch (40) having at least one relay (90; 90a, 90b) with a plurality of positively driven switching contacts, the relay (90; 90a, 90b) preferably being bistable. Device according to claim 10,
wherein the field element (10) has a plurality of connections (X1-X4), the changeover switch (40) having a first and a second relay (90a, 90b) with positively driven switching contacts,
wherein the first relay (90a) has a plurality of first switching contacts (92a, 93a) to connect a first part of the connections (X1, X4) of the field element (10) alternately with the existing field element control device (20) or the new field element To connect control device (30),
wherein the second relay (90b) has a plurality of second switching contacts (92b, 93b) to connect a second part of the connections (X2, X3) of the field element (10) alternately with the existing field element control device (20) or the new field element To connect control device (30),
wherein the first relay (90a) has third switching contacts (94a, 95a) and the second relay has fourth switching contacts (94b, 95b), and
wherein the third switch contacts (94a, 95a) are connected in series with the second switch contacts (92b, 93b) and the fourth switch contacts (94b, 95b) with the first switch contacts (92a, 92b) in such a way that in each switching state of the first and second relay (90a, 90b) a galvanic separation between the existing field element control device (20) and the new field element control device (30) is guaranteed. Device according to one of Claims 8 to 11, having a monitoring device (100) which is designed to monitor the changeover switch (40) with regard to its first and second operating states. Device according to claim 12,
wherein the field element (10) has a plurality of connections (X1-X4),
wherein the changeover switch (40) has a first and second relay (90a, 90b),
wherein the first relay (90a) is designed to connect a first part of the connections (X1, X4) of the field element (10) alternately with the existing field element control device (20) or the new field element control device (30),
wherein the second relay (90b) is designed to connect a second part of the connections (X2, X3) of the field element (10) alternately with the existing field element control device (20) or the new field element control device (30), and
wherein the monitoring device (100) is designed to monitor the switching states of at least one switching contact of the first and second relays (90a, 90b) used for monitoring. Device according to claim 13,
wherein the first and second relays (90a, 90b) each comprise an opener (101a, 101b) serving for monitoring and a closer (102a, 102b) serving for monitoring,
wherein the opening contacts (101a, 101b) of the first and second relays (90a, 90b) serving for monitoring are connected in series, and
the closer (102a, 102b) of the first and second relays (90a, 90b) serving for monitoring are connected in series. Device according to one of Claims 12 to 14, having a plurality of new field element control devices (30) and assigned changeover switches (40) as well as a global monitoring device (110) for the changeover switches (40),
wherein the global monitoring device (110) has a logic circuit (111, 112) which is designed to output a first global monitoring signal (113) when all changeover switches (40) assume the first operating state and to output a second global monitoring signal (114), when all changeover switches (40) assume the second operating state.

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