18515608. SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VIRTUAL APPROACH SIGNAL RESTRICTION UPGRADE simplified abstract (BNSF Railway Company)

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SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VIRTUAL APPROACH SIGNAL RESTRICTION UPGRADE

Organization Name

BNSF Railway Company

Inventor(s)

Scott D. Sapp of Smithville MO (US)

Mitchell W. Beard of Shawnee KS (US)

Michael E. Ramolt of Shawnee KS (US)

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VIRTUAL APPROACH SIGNAL RESTRICTION UPGRADE - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18515608 titled 'SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VIRTUAL APPROACH SIGNAL RESTRICTION UPGRADE

The invention presented in the abstract is a system and method for upgrading virtual approach signal restrictions between physical signaling components in a train control system.

  • Virtual signal with signal type functionality used to split a block into two or more sections
  • Allows a train to accelerate on a clear indication if the advance signal indication upgrades
  • Addition of audio frequency circuits with advance signal indication for upgrading from a restricting indication to an approach or clear indication
  • Protects against open HT switches, broken rail, hazards, and follow-up moves
  • System allows trains to upgrade from a "restricting" indication to an "approach" or "clear and accelerate" indication with an upgraded PTC track line for the segment

Potential Applications: - Railway signaling systems - Train control systems - Transportation safety systems

Problems Solved: - Enhances train control efficiency - Improves safety measures for trains - Allows for smoother and faster train operations

Benefits: - Faster acceleration for trains - Enhanced safety features - Improved overall efficiency of train operations

Commercial Applications: Title: Virtual Approach Signal Restriction Upgrade System for Train Control This technology can be utilized by railway companies, transportation authorities, and train control system manufacturers to enhance the efficiency and safety of train operations. It can also be integrated into existing train control systems to improve overall performance and safety measures.

Prior Art: Readers can start their search for prior art related to this technology by looking into patents or publications related to railway signaling systems, train control systems, and virtual signal upgrades in transportation systems.

Frequently Updated Research: Researchers in the field of transportation safety and railway signaling systems may be conducting studies on the implementation of virtual signals in train control systems, advancements in audio frequency circuits for signaling, and the integration of PTC track lines for improved train operations.

Questions about Virtual Approach Signal Restriction Upgrade System for Train Control: 1. How does the virtual approach signal restriction upgrade system improve train control efficiency? - The system allows trains to accelerate faster and upgrade signal indications, leading to smoother and more efficient train operations.

2. What are the potential safety benefits of implementing this technology in train control systems? - By upgrading signal indications and protecting against hazards, the system enhances safety measures for trains and reduces the risk of accidents.


Original Abstract Submitted

A system and method for providing a virtual approach signal restriction upgrade between physical signaling components is presented. In one embodiment, in a CTC type of operation, the use of a virtual signal with signal type functionality to split a block into two or more sections can allow a train currently governed by an approach indication to accelerate on a clear indication if the advance signal indication upgrades. The addition of audio frequency type circuits with the advance signal indication can allow a train to upgrade from a restricting indication to an approach or clear indication, while protecting open HT switches, broken rail, hazards, and follow up moves. The present invention provides a system for allowing trains to upgrade from a “restricting” indication to an “approach” or “clear and accelerate” indication with an upgraded PTC track line for the segment.