SE2150407A1

SE2150407A1 - Device and system for level crossing saety, and method for using the same

Info

Publication number: SE2150407A1
Application number: SE2150407A
Authority: SE
Inventors: William Toma
Original assignee: Wr Gruppen Ab
Priority date: 2021-03-31
Filing date: 2021-03-31
Publication date: 2022-10-01

Abstract

The present invention relates to a detector station and a safety system for level crossings and a method for using the same. The method comprising the steps of obtaining traffic information (S1) from a detector station (100), the traffic information indicating the passage of a train (20) moving towards the level crossing (1), identifying (S2) if at least one user device (301, 302) is associated with the level crossing (1). In response to at least one user device (301, 302) being associated with the level crossing (1) warning information is sent (S3) to the at least one user device (301, 302) and issuing the user device (301, 302) issues a warning event (S41a).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a device and system for enhancing the safety of level crossings involving a railroad and a second path. The present invention further relates to a method employing said device and system for issuing a warning event at a level crossing.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION ln the field of traffic safety systems different forms of traffic signals are commonly employed to warn pedestrians, cyclist and motorists of crossing traffic. Traffic signals are especially important to reduce the risk of collisions and other accidents at in-level (level) crossings involving for example two roads or in-level crossings involving a road and a railroad. Easily perceived traffic signals are especially important for railroad and road level crossings as trains often travel at high speeds associated with a substantial stopping distance which makes it difficult for a train operator to stop the train in time to avoid an accident.

To this end, traffic warning systems employing signals or obstructions such as flashing lights, audio signals and boom barriers are commonly installed at railroad and road level crossings to warn motorists on the road of an oncoming train. However, considering the installation costs and maintenance costs associated with the traffic warning systems it is unfeasible to provide such warning systems for each level crossing involving a railroad and a road. As a result, especially in rural areas, many level crossings are left without traffic warning systems which inherently increases the risk of accidents occurring.

To enhance the safety of level crossings, with or without already installed traffic warning systems, the level crossings may be reconstructed such that e.g. the road crosses the railroad by means of a bridge or tunnel, thereby eliminating the risk for most types of accidents. However, such reconstruction projects are often too costly while also requiring the railroad and/or road to be closed for a potentially long period of time and contributing to the emission of greenhouse gases (by the associated rerouting of traffic and the construction of the new crossing itself).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION ln view of the shortcomings of the existing solutions there is a need for an improved method, device and system for increasing the safety of level crossings. According a first aspect of the invention there is provided a method for issuing a warning event at a level crossing of a railroad and a second path. The method comprising the steps of obtaining traffic information from a detector station wherein the traffic information indicates the passage of a train moving towards the level crossing and identifying if at least one user device is associated with the level crossing. ln response to at least one user device being associated with the level crossing warning information is sent to the at least one user device associated with the level crossing and the user device issues a warning event in response to receiving the warning information.

With a user device it is meant a connected electronic device (e.g. a smart device) such as a smartphone, a tablet, a smartwatch, a car communication or entertainment or navigation system, a bike computer or a laptop.

With a user device being associated with the level crossing its meant a user device which is at least one of: a user device located within a predetermined distance (predetermined area) from the level crossing and a user device which has been used to manually opt for being associated with the level crossing regardless of the distance to the level crossing. For instance, a person living near the level crossing or the railroad may opt (e.g. in an application on the user”s smartphone) to associate their user device with the level crossing to receive warning information and issue a warning event for each passing train. A user of the second path (e.g. a pedestrian, cyclist or driver of a vehicle), referred to as the path user, may be associated with the level Crossing due to being within the predetermined distance from the level crossing.

The traffic information may comprise or be the warning information, in some implementations, the warning information is extracted from the traffic information.

The warning event may be any suitable warning event issuing a physical warning signal or a digital warning event. The warning event may be one or more of an audio signal, a visual signal (e.g. flashing a light and/or the a portion of a screen of the user device), a vibration signal or a notification. The warning event issued by different user devices may be different depending on the type of user device. For instance, a smartphone may vibrate while a car navigation system may display a notification and/or playback a warning sound.

The invention is at least partially based on the understanding that by issuing a warning event with a user device as a train approaches the level crossing any path user in the vicinity of the level crossing will become aware of the oncoming train. Accordingly, any path user may refrain from approaching or crossing the level crossing when a warning event has been issued. Thus, the risk of accidents occurring at or in the vicinity of the level crossing decreases. Consequently, the number of times the train operator has to perform emergency braking decreases as path users will more seldom approach the level crossing when the train is approaching.

Fewer emergency braking occurrences is associated with numerus benefits, firstly the wear of the railroad track and the train wheels decreases as each emergency braking puts a large strain on both. ln some occurrences sudden braking deforms the train wheels which increases vibration and decreases the comfort level of the train passengers. Secondly, the number of health hazardous particles expelled by the train during emergency braking decreases. Thirdly, the risk of a passenger of the train falling over, getting injured or experiencing discomfort associated with a train performing emergency braking decreases.

Determining if at least one user device is associated with the level crossing may comprise obtaining a geofenced area surrounding the level Crossing, obtaining position data from at least one user device, and determining from the position data that the at least one user device is inside the geofenced area.

A geofenced area around the level crossing may be manually established. The geofenced area may be represented with at least one polygon on a map defining the geofenced area. The geofenced area may be defined by a radial distance from the level crossing and/or a set of boundary position points which define the border of geofenced area by interpolating a linear or polynomial curve between the boundary position points. The geofenced area may have any shape and e.g. be substantially circular, elliptical and/or elongated to also cover an area in the vicinity of railroad on either side of the level crossing. With a geofenced area determining whether or not a user device is associated with the level crossing comprises acquiring position data from a user device and determining whether or not the position indicated by the position data is inside the geofenced area (and/or within a geofencing distance from the level crossing). Accordingly, each user device close to the level crossing will issue a warning event in response to a train approaching which decreases the risk of accidents occurring.

Some implementations further comprise sending warning information to at least one fixed warning device of the level crossing and issuing, with the fixed warning device, a warning event in response to receiving the warning information.

By issuing a warning event with a fixed warning device of the level crossing in addition to issuing a warning event with the user device associated with the level crossing safety is enhanced further. For instance, a path user close to the level crossing may not carry a user device or not notice the warning event issued by the user device. ln such cases the fixed warning device may alert the path user of the oncoming train.

Some implementations further comprise determining with a fixed presence sensor of the level crossing if at least one path user of the second path is present. lf at least one path user is determined to be present the fixed warning device issues a warning event.

With a presence sensor it is meant a presence sensor and/or motion sensor configured to detect the presence of a path user. For instance, the presence sensor may be a video or image survei||ance system which performs image analysis to determine if a path user is present in an area surrounding the level crossing. lf a path user is present the fixed warning device issues the warning event. lf no path user is present the fixed warning device may refrain from issuing the warning event. ln accordance, the fixed warning device is used when needed which minimizes wear, power consumption and potential disturbance of the wi|d|ife. Preferably, the presence sensor (and/or image analysis) is calibrated to not issue false positives caused e.g. by shadows, vegetation moving in the wind and/or smaller animals moving close to the level crossing. lssuing a warning event with the fixed warning device may comprise projecting a visual warning on the second path of the level crossing.

The visual warning may be any image, symbol, shape, text and/or icon which may be used to warn a path user. The visual warning may be monochromatic or comprise a plurality of colours. By projecting a visible warning on the second path any path user is clearly warned of the oncoming train. The visual warning may be projected by a fixed projecting system of the level crossing integrated in the fixed warning device or provided externally. The projecting system may be a video or image projecting system and/or a laser projecting system. ln response to at least one user device being associated with the level crossing warning information may be sent to the train moving towards the level crossing.

The warning information intended for the train may comprise information indicating the number and type of user device(s) associated with the level crossing, the distance between the user device(s) and the level crossing and/or the speed of the user device(s). The warning information may be transmitted to a central train control facility and/or directly to the train approaching the level crossing. The warning information may be transmitted via the remote server and/or the detector station. The warning information may be displayed to the train operator as the train approaches the level Crossing. Depending on the contents of the warning information, e.g. the number of user devices, the train operator may decide to lower, increase or maintain the speed to facilitate safety, and/or whether or not to use an air horn of the train to warn any path users. ln some implementations, the traffic information further indicates a speed of the train moving towards the level crossing and the method further comprises sending warning information indicating the speed of the train to the at least one user device associated with the level crossing and issuing, with the user device, a warning event based on the speed of the train in response to receiving the warning information.

The speed of the train may be indicated by a speed measurement indicating a distance covered per unit of time and/or an estimated time of arrival at the level crossing for the train and/or an estimated time until the train has cleared the level crossing. To this end, the traffic information may comprise at least one of information regarding the current speed of the train, a length of the train and a current location of the train.

By basing the warning event on the speed of the train it is easy for a path user to understand when the train is expected to cross the level crossing. For example, the warning event may comprise displaying visually or playing back audio indicating a countdown until the train reaches the level crossing. l\/loreover, as the train is passing the level crossing the warning event may be altered and display or play back a countdown until the last wagon of the train has cleared the level crossing.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a detector station adapted to be placed in the vicinity of a railroad for obtaining traffic information indicating at least the passage of a train on the railroad. The detector station comprises a detection unit configured to detect the passage of a train on the railroad, a transmitter, configured to transmit the acquired traffic information, and a power source, configured to provide power to the detector station. Wherein the power source comprises a wind power source configured to be driven by the movement of air caused by the train passing the detector station.

The detection station is thus powered independently from any utility grid and may be placed at an arbitrary position along the railroad. With a wind power source configured to be driven by the movement of the air caused by the passage of a train the detector station may be powered at least when a train passes the detector station. Accordingly, power is at least provided when the detector should detect the passage of a train and the transmitter should transmit the traffic information. l\/loreover, the power source is renewable and does not cause any emission of greenhouse gases during operation.

The detection unit may be or comprise at least one of an optical detector, a RADAR detector, an acoustic detector, a wind speed detector, a wind direction detector and a signal detector configured to receive a signal actively transmitted by the train.

The rotor of the wind power source and the wind speed detector and/or wind direction detector may be the same. Accordingly, the detector detecting a spike in generated current (and/or angular speed of the rotor) or at least that a current is generated (and/or that the rotor is turning) may be indicative of a train passing the detector station. The number or moving parts in the detector station is thus minimized with the same rotor providing power and acting as a sensor device.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a safety system comprising the detector station as described in the above. The safety system comprises at least one of a user device and a fixed warning device of the level crossing, wherein the at least one of a user device and a fixed warning device of the level crossing is configured to receive the transmitted traffic information from the detector station and, in response to receiving the transmitted traffic information, issuing a warning event.

The communication between the detector station and at least one of a user device and a fixed warning device of the level crossing may be enabled using wireless and/or wired means and be direct or indirect (e.g. via a remote server). The detector station may communicate via a cellular network or other forms of radio frequency communication with the user device and/or fixed warning device of the level crossing.

The remote server may be in wireless or wired communication with the detector station and the user device to send and/or receive data therefrom. Optionally, the remote server is in wireless or wired communication with any fixed warning device and/or fixed presence sensor of the level crossing. The remote server may communicate via cellular network and perform data analysis of the data conveyed by the detector station, user device, fixed warning device and/or fixed presence sensor. For instance, the detector station may convey raw detection unit data to the remote server with the remote server determining from the detector data whether a train is passing the detector station. Aiternatively, the detector station analyses the detection unit data and determines whether or not a train is passing and transmits the results of its analysis to the remote server as traffic information or directly to the user device and/or fixed warning device of the plane crossing.

The invention according to the second aspect features the same or equivalent embodiments and benefits as the invention according to the first. Further, any structural features described in relation to a device or unit, may have the corresponding steps in a method and vice versa. lt is noted that the invention relates to all possible combinations of features recited in the claims, e.g. the information representing the presence of a path user as detected by the fixed presence sensor of the level crossing may be conveyed to the train as warning information.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS These and other aspects of the present invention will now be described in more detail, with reference to the appended drawings showing exemplary embodiments of the present invention, wherein: Fig. 1 illustrates a detector station according to some implementations.

Fig. 2 depicts a warning system comprising a detector station, a remote server and a user device according to some implementations.

Fig. 3a illustrates a level crossing for which the warning system issues warning events.

Fig. 3b illustrates a level Crossing for which an alternative warning system according some implementations of the present invention issues warning events.

Fig. 4 is a flow chart describing a method according to some implementations of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION ln the following detailed description, some implementations of the present invention will be described. However, it is to be understood that features of the different implementations are exchangeable between the implementations and may be combined in different ways, unless anything else is specifically indicated. Even though in the following description, numerous details are set forth to provide a more thorough understanding of the present invention, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these details. ln other instances, well known constructions or functions are not described in detail, so as not to obscure the present invention.

Fig. 1 illustrates a detector station 100 according to some implementations. The detector station 100 comprises a detection unit 110 configured to detect the passage of a train, a transmitter 120 and a power source 130.

The detection unit 110 may be any detector suitable for detecting the passage of a train. The detection unit 110 may receive an input signal Sin from a sensor device. The input signal Sin may be a signal actively conveyed by the train or a signal indicating a measured physical parameter (e.g. the wind speed and/or direction) of the environment of the detector station 100. The detection unit 110 may determine from the input signal Sin whether or not a train is passing the detector station 100 and convey information indicating that a train is approaching, passing and/or has passed the detector station 100 (and travels towards a level crossing) to the transmitter 120 and/or optionally to a controller 140.

For example, the detection unit 110 may be configured to receive an electromagnetic signal actively transmitted by the train. Accordingly, the detection unit 110 may be coupled to a receiving antenna and be configured to receive electromagnetic radiation in a predetermined frequency band equal to or comprising the frequency band of the actively conveyed signal by the train. When the received power in the predetermined frequency band exceeds a predetermined threshold level the detection unit 110 may determine that a train is passing the detector station 100. l\/loreover, by analyzing the rate of change of the received power in the predetermined frequency band the speed at which the train travels may be extracted. Additionally and/or alternatively the train may transmit coded information in the frequency band comprising at least one of: a train identification, an itinerary, the current speed of the train, the planned speed of the train in the future and/or the length of the train. The detection unit 110 and/or controller 140 may decode the input signal Sin to extract the coded information and convey at least a part of the information to the transmitter 120. ln some implementations, the detection unit 110 receives an input signal Sin from a sensor which measures a physical parameter of the environment indicative of the passage of a train. The physical parameter may be at least one of: a distance, a sound level, a wind speed, a wind direction, a vibration level and an air pressure. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor may be an image sensor and be configured to perform image analysis on one or more periodically acquired images to determine that a train is passing and/or a presence sensor configured to sense the movement and/or presence of a train passing the detector station 100. The detection unit may receive an input signal Sin indicative of one or more distance sensing devices (such as a laser distance measurement device, a RADAR device or an ultrasound device). The distance sensing device(s) may be oriented so as to measure a distance from the detector station 100 and a target point wherein the measurement line between the detector station 100 and the target point traverses a volume above railroad in which a train will pass when travelling on the railroad. Accordingly, when a train passes the measured distance will change (become shorter) which may be interpreted by the detection unit 110 as an indication that a train is passing which is conveyed to the transmitter 120. 11 Additionally or alternatively, the detection unit 110 may receive an input signal Sin indicative of measured vibration levels, sound levels or an air pressure. As a train passes the detector station 100 vibration and sound is generated and the local air pressure may be temporarily altered. By sensing an increase in vibration, sound and/or air pressure as measured by a sensor device the detection unit 110 may determine that a train is passing the detector station 100.

The sensed physical parameter may be or comprise a wind speed and/or wind direction measured by a sensor device (e.g. an anemometer). As a train passes the detector station 110 the air around the railroad is disturbed. A wind speed and/or wind speed measurement device will generate an input signal Sin for the detection unit 110 which is indicative of a train passing. For example, the wind speed and/or wind direction may increase or decrease suddenly or start to fluctuate periodically, intermittently and/or randomly. ln response to the detection unit 110 detecting a change in the wind speed and/or wind direction the detection unit 110 may determine that a train is passing.

To avoid false positives from the detection unit 110 the detection unit 110 may determine that a train is passing only in response to the input signal Sin fulfilling at least one criteria. For example, if the input signal Sin originates from a distance measurement device(s) a criteria may be that the input signal Sin is indicative of the shorter distance for a predetermined minimum duration of time or that at least two measurement devices oriented differently with respect to each other both measure the shorter distance at a respective predetermined time window. ln another example, the detection unit 110 employs moving average analysis of the input signal Sin. As no train is passing, the wind speed, wind direction, vibration level, sound level and/or air pressure may still naturally change in a long time perspective. The detection unit 110 may calculate a moving average value of the input signal Sin in some predetermined time interval. Accordingly, any change threshold which is associated with a train passing is modified accordingly. For instance, if the railroad and detector station 100 are under strong winds the relative change in windspeed and/or direction brough by a train passing the detector station 12 100 may be smaller compared to when the railroad and detector station 100 are not exposed to wind. With the moving average analysis, the detection unit 110 may still determine that a train is passing, even during windy conditions as the threshold for change is modified accordingly.

The detection unit 110 may additionally detect additional details of the train passing the detector station. For example, the detection unit 110 may determine the speed at which the train is passing the detector station 100 and/or the length of the train passing the detector station 100.

The transmitter 120 transmits traffic information Tinf comprising an indication of whether a train is passing the detector station 100. The transmitter 120 may be coupled to a wire or a fiber optic cable which carries data representing the traffic information Tinf. The transmitter 120 may be a wireless transmitter configured to convey the traffic information Tinf wirelessly. To this end, the transmitter 120 may utilize a satellite or cellular wireless network such as at least one of GSM, LTE, 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G to convey data representing the traffic information Tinf, e.g. to a remote server and/or a user device and/or a fixed warning device of the plane crossing. The traffic information Tinf indicates at least whether a train is passing the detector station 100 and may indicate further details determined by the detection unit 110 such as the speed at which the train is travelling, the length of the train, the type of train, an itinerary of the train and/or a planned speed of the train. ln some implementations, the transmitter 120 is a transceiver which is configured to both send and receive data from a remote server, the passing train, the user device and/or a fixed warning device of the level crossing.

The power source 130 comprises a wind power source 131. The power source 130 may further comprise one or more additional renewable power source(s) 132 such as solar panels. Additionally, as the power generation of the power source 130 may depend on weather conditions the power source 130 may comprise a rechargeable energy storage module 133, such as a rechargeable battery module, which stores excess power generated by the power source 130 and powers the other components of the detector station 100 even on occasions where the wind power source 131 and/or additional 13 renewable power source 132 generates no power or an insufficient amount of power to maintain operation of the detector station 100. ln one implementation, the detector station 100 comprises a wind speed and/or wind direction sensor device. The rotor of the wind speed and/or wind direction sensor device may be the same rotor as that of the wind power source 131. As a train passes the detector station 100 and disrupts the air the rotor of the wind speed and/or wind direction detection device and the wind power source 131 may turn to generate power and serve as an input signal Sin indicative of that a train is passing the detector station 100. For instance, the detection unit 110 may monitor the power generated by the wind power source 131 and/or angular speed of the rotor (or generator coup|ed thereto). ln response to a sudden increase in generated power or angular rotor speed the detection unit 110 may determine that a train is passing the detector station 100. ln accordance with the above, the detection unit 110 may emp|oy a moving average analysis of the generated power and angular rotor speed to determine whether or not a train is passing even during windy conditions.

The detector station 100 may optionally comprise a controller 140 configured to control at least one of the detection unit 110, the transmitter 120 and the power source 130. For instance, the controller 140 may control whether or not the rechargeable energy storage module 133 is charged or discharged depending on the power requirements of the controller 140 itself, the detection unit 110 and the transmitter 120. ln some implementations, the detection unit 110 conveys information indicating the input signal Sin to the controller 140 and the controller 140 performs the analysis to determine whether or not a train is passing based on the input signal Sin. ln some implementations, the transmitter 120 is a transceiver and capable of both transmitting and receiving data. For instance, the transceiver may receive data from a remote server indicating an updated set of criteria for the controller 140 and/or detection unit 110 to emp|oy in order to determine whether a train is passing the detector station 100. The detector station 100 may comprise a train communication module (not shown) which may be the same as the transceiver for communicating with the remote server, the user 14 device and/or the fixed warning device of the level Crossing. The train communication module may fon/vard warning information from the remote server, user device and/or fixed warning device of the level crossing to the train when the train is passing the detector station 100 as will be described in the below.

With reference to Fig. 2 there is depicted an exemplary level crossing safety system comprising a detector station 100, an optional remote server 200 and at least one user device 301, 302. As depicted, the detector station 100 is configured to convey warning information to the remote server 200 and/or directly to any device 300. The detector station 100 may in some implementations also be configured to receive data from the remote server 200 or device(s) 300 over a wired and/or wireless network connection. The remote server 200 may be in communication with one or more user devices 301, 302. A user device may for example be a smartphone 301, a tablet, a smartwatch and/or a navigation system of a car 302. ln some implementations, the remote server 200 is further in communication with a fixed warning device 303 of the level crossing. ln response to the detector station 100 transmitting traffic information to the remote server 200 the remote server 200 may transmit warning information to the user device(s) 301, 302 and optionally the fixed warning device 303 of the level crossing. The warning information indicating at least that a train is approaching the level crossing.

The warning information may comprise additional information such as a speed of the train approaching the level crossing, an estimated time until the train reaches the level crossing, a length of the train and/or an estimated time until the last wagon of the train has passed the level crossing.

Each user device 301, 302 receiving the warning information issues a warning event based on the warning information. For example, a user device 301, 302 such as a smartphone 301, tablet or smartwatch may issue a warning event such as issuing a notification, vibrating, playing a warning sound and/or enabling a warning light to notify the user that a train is approaching the level crossing. The fixed warning device 303 of the level crossing may receive the warning information and issue a warning event such as playing a warning sound, enabling a warning light or projecting a warning image on the second path as will be described in the below. ln some implementations, wherein the warning information comprises the speed of the train approaching the level crossing, an estimated time until the train reaches the level crossing, a length of the train and/or an estimated time until the last wagon of the train has passed the level crossing the user device 301, 302 and/or fixed warning device 303 of the level crossing may be configured to issue a dynamic warning event which changes in response to e.g. the estimated time of arrival of the train approaching. For example, any visual warning event issued by the user device and/or fixed warning device may strobe at an increased frequency, increase in intensity and/or display a countdown as the train approaches the level crossing to make it clear for any path user in the vicinity of the level crossing when the train arrives.

The remote server 200 and/or detector station 100 may be selective when transmitting the warning information to the user device(s) 301, 302. For example, the remote server 200 may determine which user device 301, 302 is within a predetermined distance from the level crossing and/or associated with the level crossing. For example, a person living in close proximity to the level crossing may opt for associating his/her user device 301 , 302 with the level crossing. Accordingly, the remote server 200 and/or detector station 100 may transmit warning information to each associated user device 301, 302 regardless of the position of the user device 301, 302. To this end, the remote server 200 and/or detector station 100 may store and (periodically) update a list of associated user devices 301, 302. Further, each user device 301, 302 present within a predetermined distance from the level crossing may be associated with the level crossing. For instance, the level crossing may feature a wireless beacon which prompts any nearby user devices 301, 302 to notify the remote server 200 that they are to be temporarily associated with the level crossing. Additionally or alternatively, the remote server 200 and/or detector station 100 acquires position information from the user devices 301, 302 and/or the user devices 301, 302 transmit position data to the remote server 200. The remote server 200 and/or detector station 100 determines 16 which user device(s) 301, 302 are within the predetermined distance from the level crossing.

Fig. 3a illustrates a level crossing 1 wherein a railroad 2 crosses a second path 3. The second path 3 may be a walking path, a bicycle path, a road or any path 3 allowing individuals to cross the railroad 2 by either walking or driving and/or riding in a vehicle. A train 20 approaches the level crossing 1 traveling with a velocity V. The train 20 passes the detector station 100 placed in the vicinity of the railroad 2 to detect the passage of the train and optionally the speed of the train 20, estimated time of arrival at the level crossing 1 for the train 20 and/or the length (number and/or type of wagons) of the train 20.

The detector station 100 may preferably be placed in close proximity to the railroad 2 to facilitate simpler and more reliable detection of the passage of the train 20. As the power source of the detector station 100 is renewable and configured to power all components of the detector station 100 without being connected to any utility grid the placement the detector station 100 is flexible. Depending on the type of measurement performed by the detector station 100 the preferable distance between the railroad 2 and the detector station 100 may differ. lf the detector station 100 comprises a vibration measurement device the detector station 100 may be placed closer to the railroad 2 compared to if the detector station 100 comprises an accurate laser distance measurement device oriented so as to be reflected of the train 20 on the railroad 2. ln some implementations, the detector station 100 is provided within 50 m from the railroad, or within 20 m from the railroad, such as 10 m or 5 m from the railroad. ln some implementations the detector station 100 is placed at least 5 m from the railroad. ln some implementations, the detector station 100 may be provided inside a housing which is placed on the ground and/or placed on a structural device (such as a mast or pole) to be place the detector station 100 substantially above or placed horizontally aligned with one side of the train 20 when the train 20 passes the detector station 100 on the railroad 2. ln response to the detector station 100 determining that a train 20 is approaching the level crossing 1 the detector station may transmit traffic 17 information indicating this to the remote server, user device or fixed warning device of the plane crossing. The remote server and/or detector station 100 may transmit warning information to each user device such as the navigation system of car 302 and a smartphone of the pedestrian 304 within a predetermined distance 10 from the level crossing 1 and to each fixed warning device 303a, 303b of the level crossing 1. ln some implementations, issuing the warning event with the fixed warning devices 303a, 303b is conditioned by a fixed presence sensor (e.g. integrated with the fixed warning devices 303a, 303b or provided externally) of the level crossing 1. Only if the fixed presence sensor detects the presence of e.g. a pedestrian 304, cyc|ist or car 302 the fixed warning device 303a, 303b issues the warning. For example, the pedestrian 304 may not carry a user device but as the presence detector of the level crossing detects the presence of the pedestrian 304 a warning event may still be issued by at least the fixed warning device 303a to warn the pedestrian 304 of the approaching train. The fixed warning device 303a, 303b may be an active warning sign provided with lights and/or speakers. The fixed warning device 303a, 303b may comprise a receiver for receiving warning information, a controller for controlling the issuing of the warning event and a power source. The power source may be a renewable power source (solar panels and/or a wind power source) in combination with a power storage module (such as a rechargeable battery). The power source of the fixed warning device 303a, 303b may be equivalent to that of the detector station 100. That is, the power source of the fixed warning device 303a, 303b may comprise a wind power source configured to generate power from the wind motion caused by a train 20 passing the fixed warning device 303a, 303b. ln some implementations, the determined user devices present within the predetermined distance 10 of the level crossing 1 and/or the presence of a pedestrian 304, cyc|ist or car 302 is received by the remote server and/or detector station 100 and forwarded directly or indirectly (e.g. via the detector station 100) to the oncoming train 20. As described in the above the detector station 100 may be configured to receive data to e.g. update the criterion for determining whether a train 20 is passing or to forward warning information to 18 the train 20 when passing the detector station 100. Accordingly, if it determined that a user device is present within the predetermined area 10 around the level Crossing 1 or the that the fixed presence sensor detects the presence of a path user 304 the remote server and/or detector station 100 may convey warning information to the train directly using a wireless network and/or indirectly via the detector station 100.

The predetermined distance 10 within which the present user devices receive warning information is depicted merely as an example. For instance, the predetermined distance 10 or area 10 within which present user devices receive warning information may have any suitable shape and size while also varying between the type of user devices. For example, a user device of a car 302 may be associated with a predetermined distance of 1 km from the level crossing 1 while a user device of a pedestrian (such as a smartwatch) is associated with a predetermined distance of 100 m from the level crossing due to the expected speed at which the different user devices may approach the level crossing differs. As some individuals may attempt to traverse the railroad 2 on either side of the level crossing 1 the predetermined (geofenced) area 10 may be elongated and extend along the railroad 2 for some distance on either side of the crossing 1.

Fig. 3b depicts an exemplary fixed warning device 303b which projects a visual warning image 31 on the second path 3 as an issued warning event. The visual warning image 31 may be any image such as text, a shape or a symbol which may change in response to the estimated time of arrival for the train 20 approaching. For instance, the projected visual warning image 31 may be a countdown for the arrival of the approaching train 20. The warning image 31 may simply be text “STOP” projected across the second path 3 so as to warn any path user (e.g. the driver of car 302) from approaching the level crossing. As the train 20 is passing the level crossing 1 the visual warning image may change into a countdown for when the train 20 has cleared the level crossing 1.

Also depicted in Fig. 3b is a second detector station 100b. ln some implementations, a plurality of detector stations 100, 100b cooperate to determine that a train 20 is approaching the level crossing 1. For instance, a 19 detector station 100, 100b may be placed on either side of the level Crossing 1 the determine if a train 20 is approaching and from which direction the train 20 the train is approaching. Accordingly, a plurality of detector stations 100, 100b may be provided with some separation on a same side of the level crossing 1 to enhance the measurement accuracy of the passing train 20. For instance, comparing the timings of when the train passes two detector stations 100, 100b on a same side of the level crossing 1 the speed of the train 20 may be established. For some railroads, two or more railroad tracks run in parallel across the second path 3. To this end, a plurality of detector stations 100, 100b may be distributed along each track to determine if a train 20 is approaching, from which direction the train is approaching, and on which track the train is approaching. Associated traffic information may be conveyed to the remote server or directly to the detector station 100 and included in the warning information. Accordingly, the warning event issued by the user devices associated with the level crossing 1 and the fixed warning devices 303a, 303b of the level crossing 1 may be further dependent on the travel direction of the approaching train 20 and the track of the approaching train 20. For instance, the notification issued by the user device as the warning event may specify that a train 20 is approaching from the right (relative the travel direction of the path user, such as the pedestrian 304) on the track closest to the user device.

Fig. 3b further illustrates a user device belonging to a user 304b which is not within the predetermined distance 10 of the level crossing 1 but has opted to receive all warning information for the level crossing 1. For example, the user 304b lives or spends much time in the vicinity of the level crossing 1 and may thus benefit from being notified by a warning event each time a train 20 approaches the level crossing 1 regardless of his/her position relative the level crossing 1.

With further reference to Fig. 4 there is depicted a method according to some implementations of the present invention. At S1 traffic information from a detector station 100, 100b indicating at least the passing of a train 20 approaching the level crossing 1 is obtained, e.g. by the remote server. Optionally, the remote server and/or detector station obtains a predetermined area 10, such as a geofenced area 10, of the level Crossing 1 and/or a list of user devices 301, 302 associated with the level crossing 1. The remote server and/or detector station identifies at least one user device 301, 302 associated with the level crossing at S2 and in response transmits warning information to the user device 301, 302 and optionally to a fixed warning device 303a, 303b of the level crossing 1 and/or the train 20 approaching the level crossing 1. At S41 a a user device 301, 302 issues a warning event in response to receiving the warning information. lssuing a warning event may comprise issuing a warning event depending on the speed of the train 20 indicated by the traffic information and the warning information as described in the above. Additionally, a fixed warning device 303a, 303b may receive the traffic information and issue a warning event. Optionally, prior to issuing a warning event with the fixed warning device 303a, 303b a fixed presence sensor of the level crossing detects whether or not a path user is present at S41 b, if a path user is present the fixed warning device 303a, 303b may issue a warning event. ln some implementations issuing a warning event with the fixed warning devices 303a, 303b comprises step S42b and projecting a visual warning on the second path 3.

The fixed presence sensor of the level crossing 1 may transmit warning information which in turn is conveyed directly and/or indirectly (e.g. via the detector station 100 and/or remote server) to the approaching train 20. ln some implementations, the presence sensor of the level crossing 1 may determine not only the presence of a path user 302, 304 but also the speed of the path user 302, 304 approaching the level crossing 1. To this end, the warning information that reaches the train 20 and/or the train operator may indicate that a path user 302, 304 is present in the vicinity of the level crossing 1 and the speed at which the path user approaches the level crossing 1. l\/loreover, the warning event issued by the fixed warning device 303a, 303b and/or user device associated with the level crossing may be based on the speed at which the path user 302, 304 approaches the level crossing or the distance between the presence sensor and the path user 302, 304 approaching the level crossing 1. For example, as a car 302 approaches the level crossing 1 the warning event (e.g. a countdown) issued by the fixed 21 warning device 303b may be changed depending on the distance to the car 302. For instance, the warning event may involve displaying a visual countdown and as the car 302 approaches the visual countdown flashes with increased frequency and/or is displayed with higher intensity to warn the driver of the car 302 of the oncoming train 20.

The person ski||ed in the art realizes that the present invention by no means is limited to the implementations described above. The features of the described implementations may be combined in different ways, and many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. ln the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting to the claim. The word “comprising” does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps than those listed in the claim. The word “a” or “an” preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

Claims

1. A method for issuing a warning event at a level Crossing (1) of a railroad (2) and a second path (3), the method comprising the steps of: obtaining traffic information (S1) from a detector station (100, 100b), the traffic information indicating the passage of a train (20) moving towards the level crossing (1); identifying (S2) if at least one user device (301, 302) is associated with said level crossing (1); in response to at least one user device (301, 302) being associated with the level crossing (1), sending warning information (S3) to the at least one user device (301, 302) associated with the level crossing (1 ); and issuing (S41a), with the user device (301, 302), a warning event in response to receiving the warning information.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein determining if at least one user device (301, 302) is associated with said level crossing (1) comprises: obtaining a geofenced area (10) surrounding the level crossing (1); obtaining position data from at least one user device (301, 302); and determining from the position data that the at least one user device (301, 302) is inside the geofenced area (10).

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising sending warning information to at least one fixed warning device (303a, 303b) of the level crossing (1 ); and issuing, with the fixed warning device (303a, 303b), a warning event in response to receiving the warning information.

4. The method according to claim 3, further comprising determining (S41 b), with a fixed presence sensor of the level crossing (1 ), if at least one path user (304) of the second path (3) is present; and if at least one path user (304) is determined to be present, issuing, with the fixed warning device (303a, 303b), the warning event.

5. The method according to any of claims 3 - 4, wherein issuing a warning event with the fixed warning device (303a, 303b) comprises projecting (S42b) a visual warning on the second path (3) of the level crossing (1)-

6. The method according to any of the preceding claims further comprising, in response to at least one user (301, 302) device being associated with the level crossing (1), sending warning information to the train (20) moving towards the level crossing (1 ).

7. The method according to any of preceding claims wherein said traffic information further indicates a speed of the train (20) moving towards the level crossing (1), wherein said method further comprises: sending warning information indicating the speed of the train (20) to the at least one user device (301, 302) associated with the level crossing (1); and issuing, with the user device (301, 302), a warning event based on the speed of the train (20) in response to receiving the warning information.

8. A detector station (100, 100b) adapted to be placed in the vicinity of a railroad (2) for obtaining traffic information indicating at least the passage of a train (20) on the railroad (2), wherein said detector station (100, 100b) comprises: a detection unit (110), configured to detect the passage of a train (20) on the railroad (2), a transmitter (120), configured to transmit the acquired traffic information, and a power source (130), configured to provide power to the detector station (100, 100b), wherein said power source (130) comprises a wind power source (131) configured to be driven by the movement of air caused by the train (20) passing the detector station (100, 100b).

9. The detector station (100, 100b) according to claim 8, wherein said detection unit (110) is at least one of an optical detector, an infrared detector, a distance detector, a RADAR detector, an acoustic detector, a wind speed detector, a wind direction detector and a signal detector configured to receive a signal actively transmitted by the train (20).

10. A safety system comprising the detector station (100, 100b) according to any of claims 7 - 9, wherein said safety system further comprises: at least one of a user device (301, 302) and a fixed warning device (303a, 303b) of the level crossing (1), wherein the at least one of a user device (301, 302) and a fixed warning device (303a, 303b) of the level crossing (1) is configured to receive the transmitted traffic information from the detector station (100, 100b) and, in response to receiving the transmitted traffic information, issuing a warning event.