Train control system and method of controlling a train or trains
CAFCFirst Claim
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1. A system for controlling a train, the system comprising:
- a control unit;
a first positioning system connected to the control unit; and
a communications module connected to the control unit;
wherein the control unit is configured to perform the steps ofaccepting at least one authorization from a dispatcher, the authorization defining a boundary within which a train is authorized to move;
preventing the train from moving from a current location if the current location is not within a boundary for an accepted authorization;
monitoring a position of the train reported by the positioning system; and
stopping the train before the train moves outside the boundary unless authorization to move outside the boundary is received.
6 Assignments
1 Petition
Accused Products
Abstract
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.
132 Citations
21 Claims
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1. A system for controlling a train, the system comprising:
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a control unit; a first positioning system connected to the control unit; and a communications module connected to the control unit; wherein the control unit is configured to perform the steps of accepting at least one authorization from a dispatcher, the authorization defining a boundary within which a train is authorized to move; preventing the train from moving from a current location if the current location is not within a boundary for an accepted authorization; monitoring a position of the train reported by the positioning system; and stopping the train before the train moves outside the boundary unless authorization to move outside the boundary is received. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19)
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20. A method for controlling a train comprising the steps of:
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accepting at least one authorization from a dispatcher, the authorization defining a boundary within which a train is authorized to move; preventing the train from moving from a current location if the current location is not within a boundary for an accepted authorization; monitoring a position of the train reported by the positioning system; and stopping the train before the train moves outside the boundary unless authorization to move outside the boundary is received. - View Dependent Claims (21)
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Specification