Train proximity detector
First Claim
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1. A detector for detecting a proximity of a train, comprising:
- an amplifier tuned to a carrier frequency uniquely transmitted between a train head end and a train back end;
a demodulator circuit for demodulating signals transmitted on the carrier frequency by the train, and for converting the demodulated signals to corresponding digital signals; and
a processor programmed to process the digital signals and produce an indication used to provide a warning of the proximity of the train.
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Abstract
Disclosed is a train proximity detector for detecting an RF carrier transmitted by a train, for a predefined period of time. Further, the encoded FSK data is decoded to determine if a match with a predefined data signature exists. If a match exists, visual and audio indications are provided to the operator, indicating a close proximity of a train. Modifications to train equipment can be made to cause the transmission of the carrier and FSK data on the activation of the train whistle, which is about 1500 feet from every crossing.
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Citations
23 Claims
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1. A detector for detecting a proximity of a train, comprising:
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an amplifier tuned to a carrier frequency uniquely transmitted between a train head end and a train back end; a demodulator circuit for demodulating signals transmitted on the carrier frequency by the train, and for converting the demodulated signals to corresponding digital signals; and a processor programmed to process the digital signals and produce an indication used to provide a warning of the proximity of the train. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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11. A method of detecting a proximity of a train, comprising the steps of:
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transmitting signals by a train between a head end and a back end thereof to provide a data communication for operation of the train; detecting the signals by a receiver located remotely from the train; demodulating the signals to verify a predefined bit pattern transmitted according to a train transmission protocol; and providing an indication of the proximity of the train in response to the detection of the bit pattern. - View Dependent Claims (12, 13, 21, 22)
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14. A method of detecting a proximity of a train, by a mobile vehicle, comprising the steps of:
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transmitting by a rail vehicle a modulated carrier signal in a frequency band of about 450-460 megahertz allocated specifically to rail vehicles; decoding the signals by a train receiver located on the train, and controlling operation of the train therewith; receiving the carrier signal by a detector mounted in a vehicle that is remotely located from said train using a bandpass amplifier, and on detection of receipt thereof, decoding the signals to digital data and comparing a specified number of digital bits with a prestored pattern known to be transmitted by the train, and ignoring the remainder of the digital bits decoded from the rail vehicle transmission; and providing an indication of the proximity of the train and a sensory warning to prevent a collision with the train. - View Dependent Claims (15, 16, 17)
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18. A device for detecting a proximity of a train, comprising:
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a bandpass amplifier tuned to a carrier frequency allocated for transmission only by trains; a demodulator for demodulating FSK signals to digital bits, where said FSK signals are modulated on the carrier frequency by the train, and for providing a signal indicating a detection of the carrier frequency; and a processor programmed to receive the demodulated digital bits and the carrier detection signal, and programmed to verify whether the carrier detect signal is present for a predefined period of time, and programmed to compare a predefined portion of the digital bits with a prestored pattern, and if the carrier is present for a predefined period of time and a match is found between the portion of the digital bits and the prestored pattern, then causing an alarm to be activated to indicate the proximity of the train and to facilitate prevention of collisions with the train. - View Dependent Claims (19)
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20. A detector for detecting a proximity of a train, comprising:
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a bandpass amplifier tuned to a specific carrier frequency transmitted by a train; an FM demodulator circuit demodulating FSK signals modulated on the carrier by the train, said demodulator verifying a correct FSK analog frequency modulated on the carrier by the train, and for providing a carrier detect logic signal; a circuit for receiving the carrier detect logic signal and for verifying an existence of the carrier detect logic signal for a predefined period of time; whereby said detector accurately detects the proximity of a train by verifying a correct reception of an FSK analog frequency and the existence of the carrier detect logic signal for said predefined period of time. - View Dependent Claims (23)
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Specification