BNSF Railway Company (20240246586). SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VIRTUAL APPROACH SIGNAL RESTRICTION UPGRADE simplified abstract

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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 20240246586 titled 'SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VIRTUAL APPROACH SIGNAL RESTRICTION UPGRADE

Simplified Explanation: The patent application describes a system and method for upgrading virtual approach signal restrictions between physical signaling components in a train control operation.

Key Features and Innovation:

  • Use of virtual signals to split a block into sections for train acceleration based on signal upgrades.
  • Addition of audio frequency circuits for upgrading train indications while protecting against hazards.
  • Upgrade from a restricting indication to an approach or clear indication with an upgraded track line segment.

Potential Applications: This technology can be applied in railway signaling systems to enhance train control operations and improve safety measures.

Problems Solved: This technology addresses the need for efficient signal upgrades in train control operations while ensuring safety and protection against hazards.

Benefits: The system allows for smoother train acceleration based on signal upgrades, enhancing operational efficiency and safety in railway systems.

Commercial Applications: Title: Enhanced Railway Signal Upgrade System This technology can be utilized by railway companies to improve train control operations, increase efficiency, and enhance safety measures, potentially leading to cost savings and improved service reliability.

Prior Art: Readers can explore prior art related to railway signaling systems, train control operations, and signal upgrade technologies to gain a deeper understanding of the field.

Frequently Updated Research: Researchers may find updated studies on railway signaling technologies, train control systems, and safety measures relevant to this innovative signal upgrade system.

Questions about Railway Signal Upgrade System: 1. How does the virtual signal technology improve train acceleration in railway systems?

  - The virtual signal technology allows for the splitting of blocks into sections, enabling trains to accelerate based on signal upgrades.

2. What are the safety benefits of using audio frequency circuits in signal upgrades for trains?

  - The audio frequency circuits help protect against hazards and ensure safe train operations during signal upgrades.


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.