EP4077097A1

EP4077097A1 - Signal-controlled crew warning system

Info

Publication number: EP4077097A1
Application number: EP20811566.7A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Wolfgang Schuster; Gottfried Schuster
Original assignee: Plasser und Theurer Export Von Bahnbaumaschinen GmbH
Current assignee: Prodes GmbH
Priority date: 2019-12-16
Filing date: 2020-11-20
Publication date: 2022-10-26
Also published as: JP2023506871A; WO2021121853A1; AT17200U1; US20230356762A1

Abstract

The invention relates a signal-controlled crew warning system (9) for warning people (8) of approaching rail vehicles (6) on an operational track (5) located in a warning sector (14) of a work track (2), comprising a track-building machine (1) for working on the work track (2), a positioning system for determining the position of the track-building machine (1), a computer-aided monitoring system (10) for generating warning information, warning means (26, 27) for generating acoustic or optical or haptic warning signals, and a radio system for wireless data transfer. The computer-aided monitoring system (10) is designed to set boundaries (16) of the warning sector (14) on the basis of the current position of the track-building machine (1) and to automatically generate warning information for the warning sector (14), wherein the track-building machine (1) comprises a central control unit (18) for processing the warning information, which control unit is coupled to the computer-aided monitoring system (10) via the radio system. The warning sector (14) thus moves along with the track-building machine (1) as it travels.

Description

description

Signal box-bound gang warning system

Technical area

The invention relates to a signal box-bound rotten warning system for

Warning of people of approaching rail vehicles on an operating track that is located in a warning sector of a work track, comprising a track construction machine for processing the work track, a location system for determining the position of the track construction machine, a computer-aided monitoring system for generating warning information, warning means for generating acoustic, optical or haptic Warning signals and a radio system for wireless data transmission. The invention also relates to a method for operating the rotten warning system.

State of the art

During the construction and maintenance of track sections usually come

Track construction machines are used. Often people (crews) are on the track to control machine assemblies or to monitor work processes. So-called rotten warning systems are used to ensure personal safety. This means that people in the danger area are warned acoustically, visually and, if necessary, haptically (e.g. by vibrating a warning vest) of approaching trains. Operational tracks that are still used usually run next to a working track.

[03] A modern train control system (e.g. European Train Control

System, ETCS) and a digital mobile radio system for railway operations (e.g. Global System for Mobile Communications - Railway, GSM-R) form important components of a higher-level management system for railway operations (e.g. European Rail Traffic Management System, ERTMS). Such technical solutions offer possibilities for the automation of warning systems. Well-known signal box-bound Rottenwarnsysteme (Signal Controlled Warning Systems, SCWS) use signal box information to generate warning information for the rotten by means of a computer-aided monitoring system.

According to the state of the art, rotten warning systems consist of stationary and mobile devices. The stationary facilities are set up next to the working track when a track construction site is built and divide a track section into several warning sectors (warning areas). The mobile devices are carried by security guards or are attached to a track-laying machine on the work track. Such a system is known, for example, from EP 2085286 A2. The mobile devices installed on a track construction machine are set up for the automatic detection of various warning sectors. In this way, warning devices of the track-laying machine are activated in relation to the respective warning sector.

Presentation of the invention

The invention is based on the object of a signal box-bound

To improve the rotten warning system of the type mentioned at the outset in such a way that the effort for setting up a track construction site is minimized. In addition, the safety of people on the construction site should be increased. Another task consists in specifying an optimized method for operating the rotten warning system.

[06] According to the invention, these objects are achieved by the features of the independent claims 1 and 12. Dependent claims specify advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[07] The computer-aided monitoring system is set up to define the limits of the warning sector based on a current position of the track-laying machine and to automatically generate warning information for the warning sector computerized monitoring system is coupled. It is essential to use the position data from the track-laying machine to determine the Warning sector. In this way, the warning sector moves with the track-laying machine in motion. A handover from warning sector to warning sector is therefore no longer necessary. In addition, the central control unit for the automatic processing of warning information is integrated into the track construction machine. The track construction machine thus serves as a mobile automated warning system (mobile AWS). No additional warning devices are required on the track.

In an advantageous development, the location system is integrated in a higher-level train control system, the computer-aided monitoring system being set up to process information from the train control system in order to generate warning information for the warning sector. Position data generated by the train control system are used to automatically recognize dangerous situations. The train control system thus serves as an additional source of information for generating the warning information by means of the computer-aided monitoring system.

[09] The radio system advantageously comprises mobile radio modules of a secured mobile radio network. For example, GSM-R (Global System for Mobile Communications-Railway) or FRMCS (Future Railway Mobile Communication System) based on LTE (Long Term Evolution) and 5G (fifth generation) are used. Both the computer-aided monitoring system and the central control unit are coupled to their own cellular module.

In order to be able to use the warning functions particularly efficiently, it makes sense if the central control unit is connected to warning means arranged on the track-laying machine via a data network. In this way, warning devices can be easily supplemented and coordinated with one another. The central control unit includes a network module, in particular with a TCP / IP connection.

[11] Another improvement provides that the central control unit is connected via the data network to an operating device arranged on the track-laying machine for configuring the central control unit. Several operating devices can also be provided. In this case, the operating devices are set up in such a way that when one operating device is used, all other operating devices are deactivated for the duration of use.

[12] In order to trigger a post-warning by an operator, the central control unit is advantageously connected via the data network to a trigger unit for a warning signal arranged on the track-laying machine.

[13] Further improvements result from the arrangement of mobile devices. It makes sense here if the central control unit is coupled via the radio system to a mobile operating device for configuring the central control unit. This control device is also configured in such a way that it causes other control devices to be temporarily blocked when used.

[14] A mobile release unit that is coupled to the central control unit via the radio system to activate a warning signal is also useful. In this way, a follow-up warning from security guards on the track is possible at any time.

[15] An advantageous development of the invention relates to a personal warning. The central control unit is coupled to at least one so-called personal warning device. A person working on the track carries such a warning device with him. It includes a warning transmitter that sends out an optical, acoustic and / or a haptic warning signal. In particular, the warning device comprises a radio module in order to receive warning messages from the central control unit via the radio system. Wired warning devices can also be used for activities to be carried out in the immediate vicinity of the machine. These are, for example, coupled to the central control unit via a TCP / IP interface.

[16] In order to integrate various warning system components, it makes sense if the central control unit includes a so-called ERRI interface. This means that components of common Fierel actuators can be coupled with the central control unit and used. The ERRI interface also provides a supply voltage for such components. A further improvement of the invention provides that the track construction machine comprises a GNSS receiving device and that the GNSS receiving device is coupled to the central control unit. With this satellite positioning system, the position of the track-laying machine is continuously recorded. The position data is transmitted to the computer-aided monitoring system via the central control unit. There the data is either used directly to determine the warning sector or is initially compared with data from another location system.

In the method according to the invention for operating the rotten warning system described, before generating warning information by means of the computer-aided monitoring system on the basis of a current position of the track-laying machine, limits of a warning sector are set, with generated warning information being sent via a radio system to a central controller of the track-laying machine and with warning means can be activated by means of the central control. In this way, the track construction machine is used as a mobile automatic warning system.

[19] Position data of the track-laying machine and position data of approaching rail vehicles are advantageously derived from information from a train control system. The information from the train control system is available in an interlocking and is evaluated by means of the computer-aided monitoring system to generate the warning information.

[20] Another improvement provides that the approach of the rail vehicle is recorded as an entry into an approach route defined before and after the warning sector. In particular, limits of corresponding proximity sectors are determined on the basis of the current position of the track construction machine. This means that different warning scenarios can be implemented.

[21] The function of the positioning system is advantageously expanded in that current position data of the track-laying machine are determined by means of a GNSS receiving device arranged on the track-laying machine, the position data being transmitted to the computer-aided monitoring system. In addition, the use of terrestrial radio systems is along of the track makes sense. Specifically, reference antennas of a differential GNSS system (DGNSS) are used to achieve a highly precise localization of the track construction machine.

Brief description of the drawings

[22] The invention is explained below by way of example with reference to the accompanying figures. It shows in a schematic representation:

Fig. 1 track construction machine on a track system

Fig. 2 block diagram of the rotten warning system

Description of the embodiments

The track construction machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 carries out work on a work track 2 of a track system 3. This is, for example, a tamping machine, a cleaning machine, a track stabilizer, a renovation train or the like with various work units 4. While the work is being carried out, the work track 2 is closed to other rail vehicles 6. On the other hand, train traffic continues on operating track 5. An interlocking 7 is assigned to the track system 3 to control and monitor the railway operations.

[24] In an area around the track-laying machine 1 there are people 8 who are referred to as gang. These persons 8 are among the operating personnel of the track construction machine 1, are active as security guards or are involved in the work process in some other way. In any case, there is a need to warn these persons 8 of approaching rail vehicles 6 on the operating track 5. For this purpose, an interlocking-bound rotten warning system 9 is set up. The structure of the rotten warning system 9 is shown in FIG. Such a system 9 is also referred to as an automatic warning system (AWS) or an automatic train warning system (ATWS).

Stationary components of the rotten warning system 9 are preferably arranged in the building of the signal box 7. This includes a computer-aided one Monitoring system 10 for generating warning information. This computer-aided monitoring system 10 functions as an AWS center and processes position data from the track-laying machine 1 and from approaching rail vehicles 6. The computer-aided monitoring system 10 is coupled to a railway safety system 11 (central electronic interlocking system). All switches, signals, axle counters, track vacancy detection systems and the like are integrated in the railway safety system 11 in order to control and monitor train, shunting and secondary journeys.

[26] The signal box 7 is advantageously incorporated into a higher-level train control system 12, the railway safety system 11 forming an element of this train control system 12. One example is the European Train Control System (ETCS). A locating system is integrated into the train control system 12, via which the track-laying machine 1 and the other rail vehicles 6 continuously report their current positions. The position data is transmitted via a radio system, for example via the digital mobile radio system for railway operations (e.g. Global System for Mobile Communications - Railway, GSM-R). The interlocking 7 is connected to the radio system by means of a mobile radio module 13.

According to the invention, the position data of the track construction machine 1 are used to define a warning sector 14 of the gang warning system 9 by means of the computer-aided monitoring system 10. As soon as another rail vehicle enters the warning sector 14 or approaches it, warning information is generated. The warning sector 14 moves automatically with the track-laying machine 1 moving on the work track.

[28] To define the warning sector 14, it is assumed, for example, that a workstation 15 of the track construction machine 1 is present. This is known from the position data and the type of track-laying machine 1. For example, the work station 15 is defined by tamping units of a tamping machine. Limits 16 of the warning sector 14 result at predetermined distances from the work station 15. These distances can be variable if the Speed of an approaching rail vehicle 6 is also taken into account. Higher speeds require an expansion of the warning sector 14, so that there is always a constant approach time from the sector boundary 16 to the work station 15. It is also sensible to define approach routes 17 before and after the warning sector 14. Driving on approach routes 17 triggers an advance warning stage with corresponding warning information. Furthermore, the length of the track construction machine 1 is taken into account when defining the warning sector 14. There is also the possibility of defining a group of several machines located on the working track 2 as a coupled track construction machine 1.

[29] The generated warning information is transmitted to the track-laying machine 1 via the radio network. For this purpose, the track-laying machine 1 comprises a mobile radio module 13. The information is processed in a central control unit 18, which is advantageously coupled to a machine control of the track-laying machine 1. In addition, the central control unit 18 has network interfaces (TCP / IP interface) and a power supply 19.

[30] At least one operating device 20 is arranged on the track construction machine 1 and is directly connected to the central control unit 18 via a network interface. Fixed operating devices 20 of this type are installed where a system operator (security guard, SiPo) carries out security activities within the track construction machine 1. A mobile operating device 21 is provided for securing work outside the track construction machine 1. This includes a mobile radio module 13. To connect the mobile operating device 21, the central control unit 18 is connected to the mobile radio module 13 of the track construction machine 1 via an interface module 22.

As soon as one of the operating devices 20, 21 is used, the other operating devices 20, 21 are deactivated for the duration of use. The central control unit can also be configured with the operating devices 20, 21. For example, country-specific warning signals (R01, R02, R03) are set.

A fixed triggering unit 23 (for example hand alarm button) for triggering a warning signal is connected to the central control unit 18. A mobile Trigger unit 24 is coupled to central control unit 18 via mobile radio modules 13 and a further interface module 25. The trigger units 23, 24 are provided for post-warnings in the event of danger. A warning signal is usually triggered by other security guards inside and outside the track-laying machine 1.

[33] To generate acoustic warning signals, acoustic warning means 26 (AWM) including power supply are arranged on the track construction machine 1 and are connected to the central control unit 18 via a respective network connection. Specifically, the acoustic warning means 26 are installed in the audible area of the people 8 working on track 2, 5. A targeted activation of the acoustic warning means 26 is useful in order to reduce the noise emissions. In this way, specific warnings are given where work is being carried out. Noise sources from the track construction machine 1 are also taken into account. The acoustic warning means 26 are set so that they are 3 dB (A) louder than the machine 1 and can be safely perceived.

[34] To emit optical warning signals, optical warning means 27 (OWM) including power supply are arranged and connected to the central control unit 18 via a network connection. The optical warning means are mounted on the track construction machine 1 in the field of vision of the people 8 working on the track 2, 5.

In addition, it makes sense to equip every person 8 working on track 2, 5 with a personal warning device 28. Separate interface modules 29 are provided for connecting such personal warning devices 28 to the central control unit 18. Each personal warning device 28 comprises at least one warning means 26, 27. Wired personal warning devices 28 can be arranged at fixed workplaces in the track construction machine 1. Mobile personal warning devices 28 include a cellular radio module 13 for connection to the radio system.

In a useful development, the functions of the personal warning device 28, the mobile control device 21 and the mobile trigger unit 24 are integrated in a mobile device. [37] To integrate components of an existing warning system, an ERRI interface box 30 including a power supply is advantageously arranged.

[38] A further useful addition is a GNSS receiving device 31 arranged on the track-laying machine 1. With this, current GNSS position data of the track-laying machine 1 are recorded and transmitted to the central control unit 18. A transmission to the signal box 7 takes place via the radio system, where the data are processed by means of the computer-aided monitoring system 10. Specifically, the GNSS position data can be used to define the warning sector or to check the plausibility of existing position data.

The rotten warning system 9 described has various operating modes. In a “secure” operating mode, the central control unit 18 triggers a stopping function of another track vehicle 6 via the interlocking 7 if there is no acknowledgment by a security guard in the event of a warning signal. For example, after a warning signal has been triggered, there is still 30 seconds to clear a danger zone and to carry out an acknowledgment by means of the operating device 20, 21. To emit a warning signal, the optical warning means 24 of the track construction machine 1 are activated, for example. The warning means 24 are deactivated again when the rail vehicle 6 has completely passed the work station 15.

[40] In a “warning” operating mode, a predetermined duration (e.g. 30 seconds) before a rail vehicle 6 enters the warning sector 14, a warning signal is output. The predefined approaches 17 are adapted to the speed of the rail vehicle 1.

[41] The coupling and execution of the central controller 18 with the machine controller of the track construction machine 1 ensures that in the event of a fault, a safe state is brought about in accordance with the “fail-safe” function, safety integrity level 3. Every malfunction of a safety-relevant component of the warning system 9 is recognized by the central controller 18. As a result, a fault alarm (RQ3) is automatically triggered and machine 1 is in a safe state brought. This includes stopping the machine 1 and the working units 14.

Claims

1. Signal box-bound rotten warning system (9) for warning people (8) of approaching rail vehicles (6) on an operating track (5) which is located in a warning sector (14) of a working track (2), comprising

- a track laying machine (1) for processing the working track (2),

- a positioning system for determining the position of the track-laying machine (1),

- a computer-aided monitoring system (10) for generating warning information,

- Warning means (26, 27) for generating acoustic or optical or haptic warning signals, and

- A radio system for wireless data transmission, characterized in that the computer-aided monitoring system (10) for establishing limits (16) of the warning sector (14) on the basis of a current position of the track-laying machine (1) and for the automated generation of warning information for the warning sector (14 ) is set up, and that the track-laying machine (1) comprises a central control unit (18) for processing the warning information, which is coupled to the computer-aided monitoring system (10) via the radio system.

2. Rottenwarning system (9) according to claim 1, characterized in that the positioning system is integrated in a higher-level train control system (12) and that the computer-aided monitoring system (10) is set up to process information from the train control system (12) to provide warning information for the warning sector (14) to generate.

3. Rottenwarning system (9) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the radio system comprises cellular modules (13) of a secured cellular network.

4. Rotten warning system (9) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the central control unit (18) is connected via a data network with warning means (26, 27) arranged on the track-laying machine (1).

5. Rotten warning system (9) according to claim 4, characterized in that the central control unit (18) is connected via the data network to an operating device (20) arranged on the track-laying machine (1) for configuring the central control unit (18).

6. Rotten warning system (9) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the central control unit (18) is connected via the data network to a trigger unit (23) arranged on the track-laying machine (1) for a warning signal.

7. Rottenwarning system (9) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the central control unit (18) is coupled via the radio system with a mobile operating device (21) for the configuration of the central control unit (18).

8. Rotten warning system (9) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the central control unit (18) is coupled via the radio system to a mobile trigger unit (24) for a warning signal.

9. Rotten warning system (9) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the central control unit (18) is coupled to at least one so-called personal warning device (28).

10. Rotten warning system (9) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the central control unit (18) comprises a so-called ERRI interface (30).

11. Rotten warning system (9) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the track construction machine (1) comprises a GNSS receiving device (31) and that the GNSS receiving device (31) is coupled to the central control unit (18).

12. The method for operating a rotten warning system (9) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein track work is carried out on a work track (2) by means of a track construction machine (1) and where a computer-aided monitoring system (10) when a rail vehicle (6 ) warning information is generated on an operating track (4), characterized in that before warning information is generated by means of the computer-aided monitoring system (10) on the basis of a current position of the track-laying machine (1), limits (16) of a warning sector (14) are established that generated warning information is sent via a radio system to a central controller (18) of the track construction machine (1), and that warning means (27, 28) are activated by means of the central controller (18).

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that position data of the track construction machine (1) and position data of approaching rail vehicles (6) are derived from information from a train control system (12).

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the approach of the rail vehicle (6) is detected as an entry into an approach path (17) defined before and after the warning sector.

15. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that by means of a GNSS receiving device (31) arranged on the track-laying machine (1), current position data of the track-laying machine (1) are determined and that the position data is sent to the computer-aided monitoring system (10) be transmitted.