Train control system and method of controlling a train or trains
View Patent ↗A train control system includes positioning systems at the end of the train and at the front of the train, allowing the conductor or engineer to unambiguously determine that no cars of the train have become detached. The positioning system at the end of the train is also used to verify that the entire train has cleared a block. This information can be relayed to a dispatcher, thereby eliminating the need for trackside sensing equipment. A control unit prevents the train from moving without an authorization that includes the train's current position.
1. A method for authorizing movement of a plurality of trains, the method comprising the steps of:
setting an end point and a start point of a block of track dynamically;
authorizing a first train to occupy the block of track
receiving an indication from the first train that a global positioning sensor located at a rear of the first train has passed the end point; and
authorizing a second train to occupy the block of track.
2. A train comprising:
an end car;
a positioning system located on the end car;
a control unit in communication with the positioning system, the control unit being configured to accept a dynamically determined end point from a dispatcher of a block which the train has been authorized to occupy and to transmit a message to the dispatcher indicating that the positioning system has passed the end point.
3. The train of claim 2 , further comprising:
a storage device connected to the control unit, the storage device including a database, the database including a location of the end point.
4. The train of claim 3 , wherein the storage device is a non-volatile memory.