U.S. patent application number 16/168447 was filed with the patent office on 2020-04-23 for controlling an indicator at a rear car of a train based on a control signal from a lead car.
The applicant listed for this patent is Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation. Invention is credited to Igor Abrosimov, Brian Kurz.
Application Number | 20200122757 16/168447 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 70279323 |
Filed Date | 2020-04-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200122757 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Abrosimov; Igor ; et
al. |
April 23, 2020 |
Controlling an Indicator at a Rear Car of a Train Based on a
Control Signal from a Lead Car
Abstract
A device for attachment to a train having a lead locomotive or
control car and a rear car may include an indicator disposed with
the rear car. A communication interface may receive at least one
control signal from an interface onboard the lead locomotive or
control car, and the control signal(s) may be generated based on at
least one of an environmental condition, a hazardous condition, a
type of cargo associated with the train, a time and location of the
train, a positive train control (PTC), an electronic train
management system (ETMS), an authorized trigger, or a manual input.
A controller may be coupled to the indicator and the communication
interface and may change a state of the indicator based on the
control signal(s). Systems and methods for controlling an indicator
are also disclosed.
Inventors: |
Abrosimov; Igor; (N.
Potomac, MD) ; Kurz; Brian; (Frederick, MD) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation |
Wilmerding |
PA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
70279323 |
Appl. No.: |
16/168447 |
Filed: |
October 23, 2018 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B61L 15/0072 20130101;
B61L 15/0063 20130101; B61L 15/0018 20130101; B61L 15/02 20130101;
B61L 15/0054 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B61L 15/00 20060101
B61L015/00; B61L 15/02 20060101 B61L015/02 |
Claims
1. A device for attachment to a train having a lead locomotive or
control car and a rear car, comprising: a light source disposed
with the rear car; a communication interface configured to receive
at least one control signal from an interface onboard the lead
locomotive or control car, wherein the at least one control signal
is generated based on at least one of an environmental condition, a
hazardous condition, a type of cargo associated with the train, a
time and location of the train, a positive train control (PTC), an
electronic train management system (ETMS), an authorized trigger,
or a manual input; and a controller coupled to the light source and
the communication interface, the controller configured to change a
state of the light source based on the at least one control
signal.
2. (canceled)
3. The device of claim 1, wherein the light source comprises at
least one of an illumination fixture, a light emitting assembly, a
light bulb, a light emitting diode, a laser, an infrared light
source, an ultraviolet light source, or a visible light source.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the light source comprises a high
visibility marker (HVM) of an end of train (EOT) device.
5. The device of claim 1, wherein the light source is separate from
a high visibility marker (HVM) of an end of train (EOT) device
coupled to a trailing coupler of the rear car.
6. The device of claim 5, wherein the light source is removably
connected to the EOT device.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein the light source is disposed
proximate to a trailing end of the rear car.
8. The device of claim 1, wherein the interface onboard the lead
locomotive or control car comprises at least one of an operator
interface, a head of train (HOT) device, a PTC device, or an ETMS
device.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein the interface onboard the lead
locomotive or control car is configured to receive the at least one
control signal from a remote server.
10. The device of claim 1, wherein the interface onboard the lead
locomotive or control car is configured to generate the at least
one control signal based on at least one sensor signal from at
least one sensor.
11. The device of claim 10, wherein the at least one sensor
comprises at least one of a speed sensor, a location sensor, or a
clock.
12. The device of claim 10, wherein the at least one control signal
comprises at least one first control signal from the at least one
sensor and at least one second signal from at least one of an
operator interface, a head of train (HOT) device, a PTC device, or
an ETMS device, wherein the controller is configured to override
the at least one first control signal in response to the at least
one second control signal.
13. The device of claim 1, wherein the interface onboard the lead
locomotive or control car is configured to display an indication of
the state of the light source.
14. The device of claim 1, wherein the at least one control signal
comprises an interruption in an electrical signal.
15. The device of claim 1, wherein the at least one control signal
comprises at least one of a digital signal or an analog signal.
16. The device of claim 1, wherein the communication interface
comprises at least one of a wired interface or a wireless
interface.
17. The device of claim 1, wherein the state comprises at least one
of an off state or an on state.
18. The device of claim 1, wherein the state of the light source
comprises one of a plurality of possible states, each of the
plurality of possible states associated with at least one of the
environmental condition, the hazardous condition, the type of cargo
associated with the train, the time and location of the train, the
PTC, the ETMS, the authorized trigger, or the manual input.
19. The device of claim 1, further comprising a camera disposed
proximate to the light source, wherein the state is changed to an
enhanced brightness state to illuminate at least part of a viewing
area of the camera.
20. A light source control system for a train having a lead
locomotive or control car and a rear car, comprising: an interface
onboard the at least one locomotive or control car, the interface
configured to transmit at least one control signal based on at
least one of an environmental condition, a hazardous condition, a
type of cargo associated with the train, a time and location of the
train, a positive train control (PTC), an electronic train
management system (ETMS), an authorized trigger, or a manual input;
a device for attachment to the train, the device comprising: a
light source disposed with the rear car; and a controller coupled
to the light source, the controller configured to receive the at
least one control signal from the interface and to change a state
of the light source based on the at least one control signal.
21. A method for light source control for a train having a lead
locomotive or control car and a rear car, comprising: transmitting
at least one control signal based on at least one of an
environmental condition, a hazardous condition, a type of cargo
associated with the train, a time and location of the train, a
positive train control (PTC), an electronic train management system
(ETMS), an authorized trigger, or a manual input; receiving the at
least one control signal at a device attached to the train, wherein
the device comprises a light source disposed with the rear car; and
changing a state of the light source of the device based on the at
least one control signal.
Description
BACKGROUND
1. Field
[0001] This disclosure relates generally to systems, devices,
products, apparatuses, and methods that are used for controlling an
indicator at a rear car of a rail vehicle and, in some particular
embodiments, to a system, product, and method for controlling an
indicator at a rear car of a rail vehicle based on a control signal
from a lead car.
2. Technical Considerations
[0002] Certain rail vehicles (e.g., trains, locomotives, railroad
cars, passenger cars, coaches, freight cars, wagons, and/or the
like) may include an end of train (EOT) device, e.g., on the
trailing coupler of a last car of the rail vehicle. An EOT device
may include with a high visibility marker (HVM), e.g., a light. The
HVM may visually indicate the rear of the rail vehicle. For
example, the HVM may be constantly on or continuously flashing.
Additionally or alternatively, the EOT may include a light sensor
to sense ambient light and may switch the HVM on if ambient light
drops below a threshold (e.g., remains below the threshold for a
period of time). As such, the HVM may be autonomous, e.g.,
independent of external control.
[0003] However, it may be difficult to control the HVM. For
example, the operator of a rail vehicle (e.g., at the front of a
train), crew members, or other individuals or computer systems
directly or indirectly controlling the rail vehicle may be unable
to control the HVM. Additionally, such lack of control may reduce
flexibility in using the HVM in certain conditions. For example,
the HVM may not be able to be controlled in response to
environmental conditions, hazardous conditions, type of cargo
(e.g., hazardous cargo), time and location of the train, triggers
from control systems, or input from the operator. Additionally,
applicable laws and/or regulations may require an HVM to be on in
certain circumstances and/or flashing in a particular pattern with
a particular color of light. Such laws/regulations may further
reduce flexibility in using the HVM in certain conditions.
SUMMARY
[0004] Accordingly, systems, devices, products, apparatuses, and/or
methods for controlling an indicator at a rear car of a rail
vehicle are disclosed that overcome some or all of the
aforementioned deficiencies.
[0005] According to non-limiting embodiments, provided is a device
for attachment to a train having a lead locomotive or control car
and a rear car. The device may include an indicator disposed with
the rear car. A communication interface may be configured to
receive at least one control signal from an interface onboard the
lead locomotive or control car. For example, the control signal(s)
may be generated based on at least one of an environmental
condition, a hazardous condition, a type of cargo associated with
the train, a time and location of the train, a positive train
control (PTC), an electronic train management system (ETMS), an
authorized trigger, or a manual input. A controller may be coupled
to the indicator and the communication interface. The controller
may be configured to change a state of the indicator based on the
at least one control signal.
[0006] In some non-limiting embodiments, the indicator may include
a light source. For example, the light source may include at least
one of an illumination fixture, a light emitting assembly, a light
bulb, a light emitting diode, a laser, an infrared light source, an
ultraviolet light source, a visible light source, any combination
thereof, and/or the like. In some non-limiting embodiments, the
indicator may include a high visibility marker (HVM) of an end of
train (EOT) device (e.g., coupled to a trailing coupler of the rear
car). Additionally or alternatively, the indicator may include a
light source separate from the HVM of the EOT device, which may be
coupled to the trailing coupler of the rear car. For example, the
indicator may be removably connected to the EOT device. In some
non-limiting embodiments, an indicator may be disposed proximate to
a trailing end of the rear car.
[0007] In some non-limiting embodiments, the interface may include
at least one of an operator interface, a head of train (HOT)
device, a PTC device, or an ETMS device. In some non-limiting
embodiments, the interface may be configured to receive the control
signal(s) from a remote server. Additionally or alternatively, the
interface may be configured to generate the control signal(s) based
on at least one sensor signal from at least one sensor. For
example, the sensor(s) may include at least one of a speed sensor,
a location sensor, or a clock. In some non-limiting embodiments,
the control signal(s) may include at least one first control signal
from the sensor(s) and at least one second signal from at least one
of an operator interface, a HOT device, a PTC device, or an ETMS
device. Additionally or alternatively, the controller may be
configured to override the first control signal(s) in response to
the second control signal(s).
[0008] In some non-limiting embodiments, the interface may be
configured to display an indication of the state of the indicator.
In some non-limiting embodiments, the state may include at least
one of an off state or an on state. Additionally or alternatively,
the state of the indicator may include one of a plurality of
possible states, and each of the plurality of possible states may
be associated with at least one of an environmental condition, a
hazardous condition, a type of cargo associated with the train, a
time and location of the train, a PTC, an ETMS, an authorized
trigger, or a manual input.
[0009] In some non-limiting embodiments, the control signal(s) may
include at least one of a digital signal or an analog signal.
Additionally or alternatively, the control signal(s) may include an
interruption in an electrical signal (e.g., a digital or analog
signal).
[0010] In some non-limiting embodiments, the communication
interfaces may include at least one of a wired interface or a
wireless interface.
[0011] In some non-limiting embodiments, a camera may be disposed
proximate to the indicator. Additionally or alternatively, the
state of the indicator may be changed to an enhanced brightness
state to illuminate at least part of a viewing area of the
camera.
[0012] According to non-limiting embodiments, provided is an
indicator control system for a train having a lead locomotive or
control car and a rear car. The indicator control system may
include an interface onboard the at least one locomotive or control
car. The interface may be configured to transmit at least one
control signal based on at least one of an environmental condition,
a hazardous condition, a type of cargo associated with the train, a
time and location of the train, a PTC, an ETMS, an authorized
trigger, a manual input, any combination thereof, and/or the like.
A device for attachment to the train may include an indicator
disposed with the rear car. A controller may be coupled to the
indicator. The controller may be configured to receive the control
signal(s) from the interface and to change a state of the indicator
based on the control signal(s).
[0013] According to non-limiting embodiments, provided is a method
for indicator control for a train having a lead locomotive or
control car and a rear car. The method may include transmitting at
least one control signal, which may be based on at least one of an
environmental condition, a hazardous condition, a type of cargo
associated with the train, a time and location of the train, a PTC,
an ETMS, an authorized trigger, a manual input, any combination
thereof, and/or the like. The control signal(s) may be received at
a device attached to the train. The device may include an indicator
disposed with the rear car. A state of the indicator of the device
may be changed based on the control signal(s).
[0014] Further embodiments or aspects are set forth in the
following numbered clauses:
[0015] Clause 1: A device for attachment to a train having a lead
locomotive or control car and a rear car, comprising: an indicator
disposed with the rear car; a communication interface configured to
receive at least one control signal from an interface onboard the
lead locomotive or control car, wherein the at least one control
signal is generated based on at least one of an environmental
condition, a hazardous condition, a type of cargo associated with
the train, a time and location of the train, a positive train
control (PTC), an electronic train management system (ETMS), an
authorized trigger, or a manual input; and a controller coupled to
the indicator and the communication interface, the controller
configured to change a state of the indicator based on the at least
one control signal.
[0016] Clause 2: The device of clause 1, wherein the indicator
comprises a light source.
[0017] Clause 3: The device of one of clauses 1 or 2, wherein the
light source comprises at least one of an illumination fixture, a
light emitting assembly, a light bulb, a light emitting diode, a
laser, an infrared light source, an ultraviolet light source, or a
visible light source.
[0018] Clause 4: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the indicator comprises a high visibility marker (HVM) of
an end of train (EOT) device.
[0019] Clause 5: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the indicator comprises a light source separate from the
HVM of the EOT device coupled to a trailing coupler of the rear
car.
[0020] Clause 6: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the indicator is removably connected to the EOT device.
[0021] Clause 7: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the indicator is disposed proximate to a trailing end of
the rear car.
[0022] Clause 8: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the interface comprises at least one of an operator
interface, a head of train (HOT) device, a PTC device, or an ETMS
device.
[0023] Clause 9: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the interface is configured to receive the at least one
control signal from a remote server.
[0024] Clause 10: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the interface is configured to generate the at least one
control signal based on at least one sensor signal from at least
one sensor.
[0025] Clause 11: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the at least one sensor comprises at least one of a speed
sensor, a location sensor, or a clock.
[0026] Clause 12: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the at least one control signal comprises at least one
first control signal from the at least one sensor and at least one
second signal from at least one of an operator interface, the HOT
device, the PTC device, or the ETMS device, wherein the controller
is configured to override the at least one first control signal in
response to the at least one second control signal.
[0027] Clause 13: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the interface is configured to display an indication of the
state of the indicator.
[0028] Clause 14: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the at least one control signal comprises an interruption
in an electrical signal.
[0029] Clause 15: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the at least one control signal comprises at least one of a
digital signal or an analog signal.
[0030] Clause 16: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the communication interfaces comprises at least one of a
wired interface or a wireless interface.
[0031] Clause 17: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the state comprises at least one of an off state or an on
state.
[0032] Clause 18: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
wherein the state of the indicator comprises one of a plurality of
possible states, each of the plurality of possible states
associated with at least one of an environmental condition, a
hazardous condition, a type of cargo associated with the train, a
time and location of the train, a positive train control (PTC), an
electronic train management system (ETMS), an authorized trigger,
or a manual input.
[0033] Clause 19: The device of any one of the preceding clauses,
further comprising a camera disposed proximate to the indicator,
wherein the state is changed to an enhanced brightness state to
illuminate at least part of a viewing area of the camera.
[0034] Clause 20: An indicator control system for a train having a
lead locomotive or control car and a rear car, comprising: an
interface onboard the at least one locomotive or control car, the
interface configured to transmit at least one control signal based
on at least one of an environmental condition, a hazardous
condition, a type of cargo associated with the train, a time and
location of the train, a positive train control (PTC), an
electronic train management system (ETMS), an authorized trigger,
or a manual input; a device for attachment to the train, the device
comprising: an indicator disposed with the rear car; and a
controller coupled to the indicator, the controller configured to
receive the at least one control signal from the interface and to
change a state of the indicator based on the at least one control
signal.
[0035] Clause 21: The indicator control system of clause 20,
wherein the indicator comprises a light source.
[0036] Clause 22: The indicator control system of one of clauses 20
or 21, wherein the light source comprises at least one of an
illumination fixture, a light emitting assembly, a light bulb, a
light emitting diode, a laser, an infrared light source, an
ultraviolet light source, or a visible light source.
[0037] Clause 23: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-22, wherein the indicator comprises a high visibility
marker (HVM) of an end of train (EOT) device.
[0038] Clause 24: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-23, wherein the indicator comprises a light source
separate from the HVM of the EOT device coupled to a trailing
coupler of the rear car.
[0039] Clause 25: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-24, wherein the indicator is removably connected to the
EOT device.
[0040] Clause 26: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-25, wherein the indicator is disposed proximate to a
trailing end of the rear car.
[0041] Clause 27: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-26, wherein the interface comprises at least one of an
operator interface, a head of train (HOT) device, a PTC device, or
an ETMS device.
[0042] Clause 28: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-27, wherein the interface is configured to receive the
at least one control signal from a remote server.
[0043] Clause 29: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-28, wherein the interface is configured to generate the
at least one control signal based on at least one sensor signal
from at least one sensor.
[0044] Clause 30: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-29, wherein the at least one sensor comprises at least
one of a speed sensor, a location sensor, or a clock.
[0045] Clause 31: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-30, wherein the at least one control signal comprises at
least one first control signal from the at least one sensor and at
least one second signal from at least one of an operator interface,
a HOT device, a PTC device, or an ETMS device, wherein the
controller is configured to override the at least one first control
signal in response to the at least one second control signal.
[0046] Clause 32: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-31, wherein the interface is configured to display an
indication of the state of the indicator.
[0047] Clause 33: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-32, wherein the at least one control signal comprises an
interruption in an electrical signal.
[0048] Clause 34: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-33, wherein the at least one control signal comprises at
least one of a digital signal or an analog signal.
[0049] Clause 35: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-34, wherein the communication interfaces comprises at
least one of a wired interface or a wireless interface.
[0050] Clause 36: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-35, wherein the state comprises at least one of an off
state or an on state.
[0051] Clause 37: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-36, wherein the state of the indicator comprises one of
a plurality of possible states, each of the plurality of possible
states associated with at least one of an environmental condition,
a hazardous condition, a type of cargo associated with the train, a
time and location of the train, a PTC, an ETMS, an authorized
trigger, or a manual input.
[0052] Clause 38: The indicator control system of any one of
clauses 20-37, further comprising a camera disposed proximate to
the indicator, wherein the state is changed to an enhanced
brightness state to illuminate at least part of a viewing area of
the camera.
[0053] Clause 39: A method for indicator control for a train having
a lead locomotive or control car and a rear car, comprising:
transmitting at least one control signal based on at least one of
an environmental condition, a hazardous condition, a type of cargo
associated with the train, a time and location of the train, a
positive train control (PTC), an electronic train management system
(ETMS), an authorized trigger, or a manual input; receiving the at
least one control signal at a device attached to the train, wherein
the device comprises an indicator disposed with the rear car; and
changing a state of the indicator of the device based on the at
least one control signal.
[0054] Clause 40: The method of clause 39, wherein the indicator
comprises a light source.
[0055] Clause 41: The method of one of clauses 39 or 40, wherein
the light source comprises at least one of an illumination fixture,
a light emitting assembly, a light bulb, a light emitting diode, a
laser, an infrared light source, an ultraviolet light source, or a
visible light source.
[0056] Clause 42: The method of any one of clauses 39-41, wherein
the indicator comprises a high visibility marker (HVM) of an end of
train (EOT) device.
[0057] Clause 43: The method of any one of clauses 39-42, wherein
the indicator comprises a light source separate from the HVM of the
EOT device coupled to a trailing coupler of the rear car.
[0058] Clause 44: The method of any one of clauses 39-43, wherein
the indicator is removably connected to the EOT device.
[0059] Clause 45: The method of any one of clauses 39-44, wherein
the indicator is disposed proximate a trailing end of the rear
car.
[0060] Clause 46: The method of any one of clauses 39-45, wherein
transmitting the at least one control signal comprises transmitting
the at least one control signal from an interface onboard the lead
locomotive or control car, and wherein the interface comprises at
least one of an operator interface, a head of train (HOT) device, a
PTC device, or an ETMS device.
[0061] Clause 47: The method of any one of clauses 39-46, wherein
the interface is configured to receive the at least one control
signal from a remote server.
[0062] Clause 48: The method of any one of clauses 39-47, wherein
the interface is configured to generate the at least one control
signal based on at least one sensor signal from at least one
sensor.
[0063] Clause 49: The method of any one of clauses 39-48, wherein
the at least one sensor comprises at least one of a speed sensor, a
location sensor, or a clock.
[0064] Clause 50: The method of any one of clauses 39-49, wherein
the at least one control signal comprises at least one first
control signal from the at least one sensor and at least one second
signal from at least one of an operator interface, a HOT device, a
PTC device, or an ETMS device, wherein changing the state of the
indicator comprises overriding the at least one first control
signal in response to the at least one second control signal.
[0065] Clause 51: The method of any one of clauses 39-50, wherein
the interface is configured to display an indication of the state
of the indicator.
[0066] Clause 52: The method of any one of clauses 39-51, wherein
the at least one control signal comprises an interruption in an
electrical signal.
[0067] Clause 53: The method of any one of clauses 39-52, wherein
the at least one control signal comprises at least one of a digital
signal or an analog signal.
[0068] Clause 54: The method of any one of clauses 39-53, wherein
the communication interface comprises at least one of a wired
interface or a wireless interface.
[0069] Clause 55: The method of any one of clauses 39-54, wherein
the state comprises at least one of an off state or an on
state.
[0070] Clause 56: The method of any one of clauses 39-55, wherein
the state of the indicator comprises one of a plurality of possible
states, each of the plurality of possible states associated with at
least one of an environmental condition, a hazardous condition, a
type of cargo associated with the train, a time and location of the
train, a positive train control (PTC), an electronic train
management system (ETMS), an authorized trigger, or a manual
input.
[0071] Clause 57: The method of any one of clauses 39-56, further
comprising a camera disposed proximate to the indicator, wherein
the state is changed to an enhanced brightness state to illuminate
at least part of a viewing area of the camera.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0072] Additional advantages and details of the disclosed subject
matter are explained in greater detail below with reference to the
exemplary embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying
schematic figures, in which:
[0073] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a non-limiting embodiment of an
environment in which systems, devices, products, apparatuses,
and/or methods, described herein, may be implemented according to
the principles of the presently disclosed subject matter;
[0074] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a non-limiting embodiment of a rail
vehicle system according to the principles of the presently
disclosed subject matter;
[0075] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a non-limiting embodiment of
components of one or more devices of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 according to
the principles of the presently disclosed subject matter; and
[0076] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment of a
process for controlling an indicator on a rail vehicle according to
the principles of the presently disclosed subject matter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0077] The following detailed description of non-limiting
embodiments refers to the accompanying drawings. The same reference
numbers in different drawings may identify the same or similar
elements.
[0078] For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms
"end," "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "vertical," "horizontal,"
"top," "bottom," "lateral," "longitudinal," and derivatives thereof
shall relate to the disclose subject matter as it is oriented in
the drawing figures. However, it is to be understood that the
disclosed subject matter may assume various alternative variations
and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the
contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and
processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in
the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments or
aspects of the disclosed subject matter. Hence, specific dimensions
and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments or
aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be
considered as limiting unless otherwise indicated.
[0079] No aspect, component, element, structure, act, step,
function, instruction, and/or the like used herein should be
construed as critical or essential unless explicitly described as
such. Also, as used herein, the articles "a" and "an" are intended
to include one or more items, and may be used interchangeably with
"one or more" and "at least one." Furthermore, as used herein, the
term "set" is intended to include one or more items (e.g., related
items, unrelated items, a combination of related and unrelated
items, etc.) and may be used interchangeably with "one or more" or
"at least one." Where only one item is intended, the term "one" or
similar language is used. Also, as used herein, the terms "has,"
"have," "having," or the like are intended to be open-ended terms.
Further, the phrase "based on" is intended to mean "based at least
partially on" unless explicitly stated otherwise.
[0080] As used herein, the terms "communication" and "communicate"
may refer to the reception, receipt, transmission, transfer,
provision, and/or the like of information (e.g., data, signals,
messages, instructions, commands, and/or the like). For one unit
(e.g., a device, a system, a component of a device or system,
combinations thereof, and/or the like) to be in communication with
another unit means that the one unit is able to directly or
indirectly receive information from and/or transmit information to
the other unit. This may refer to a direct or indirect connection
that is wired and/or wireless in nature. Additionally, two units
may be in communication with each other even though the information
transmitted may be modified, processed, relayed, and/or routed
between the first and second unit. For example, a first unit may be
in communication with a second unit even though the first unit
passively receives information and does not actively transmit
information to the second unit. As another example, a first unit
may be in communication with a second unit if at least one
intermediary unit (e.g., a third unit located between the first
unit and the second unit) processes information received from the
first unit and communicates the processed information to the second
unit. In some non-limiting embodiments, a message may refer to a
network packet (e.g., a data packet and/or the like) that includes
data. It will be appreciated that numerous other arrangements are
possible. It will be appreciated that numerous other arrangements
are possible.
[0081] Non-limiting embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are
directed to systems, devices, products, apparatuses, and/or methods
for controlling an indicator at a rear car of a rail vehicle,
including, but not limited to, controlling an indicator at a rear
car of a rail vehicle based on a control signal from a lead car.
For example, non-limiting embodiments of the disclosed subject
matter provide an indicator (e.g., visual indicator such as a light
source and/or the like) disposed with a rear car of a train,
interfaces to communicate control signal(s), and a controller to
control the indicator based on the control signal(s). Such
embodiments provide techniques and systems for controlling an
indicator (e.g., visual indicator) at the rear of the train. For
example the operator of the train (e.g., at the front of the
train), crew members, or other individuals or computer systems may
directly or indirectly control the indicator. Additionally, such
control may improve flexibility in using the indicator in certain
conditions. For example, the indicator may be controlled in
response to environmental conditions, hazardous conditions, type of
cargo (e.g., hazardous cargo), time and location of the train,
triggers from control systems, input from the operator, and/or the
like. Additionally or alternatively, non-limiting embodiments of
the disclosed subject matter provide an indicator (e.g., visual
indicator such as a light source and/or the like) separate from a
high visibility marker (HVM) of an end of train (EOT) device. Such
embodiments provide techniques and systems which may further
improve flexibility in using the indicator in certain conditions to
make certain indication without modification of the HVM in
contravention of applicable laws and/or regulations.
[0082] Referring now to FIG. 1, FIG. 1 is a diagram of a
non-limiting embodiment of an environment 100 in which systems,
devices, products, apparatuses, and/or methods, described herein,
may be implemented. As shown in FIG. 1, environment 100 may include
at least one input component 110a, 110b, 110c; (front of train)
interface 120; (rear of train) interface 130; high visibility
marker (HVM) 135; an external indicator 140; and/or image capture
device 145. Systems and/or devices of environment 100 may
interconnect via wired connections, wireless connections, or a
combination of wired and wireless connections. For example, systems
and/or devices of environment 100 may interconnect via one or more
wired and/or wireless networks, where the one or more wired and/or
wireless networks may include a cellular network (e.g., a long-term
evolution (LTE) network, a third generation (3G) network, a fourth
generation (4G) network, a code division multiple access (CDMA)
network, etc.), a public land mobile network (PLMN), a local area
network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a metropolitan area
network (MAN), a telephone network (e.g., the public switched
telephone network (PSTN)), a private network, an ad hoc network, an
intranet, the Internet, a fiber optic-based network, a cloud
computing network, an Association of American Railroads (AAR)
wireless communication system (e.g., AAR Wireless Communications
Committee (WCC) standard and/or the like), and/or the like, and/or
a combination of these or other types of networks.
[0083] As shown in FIG. 1, in some non-limiting embodiments, at
least one indicator (e.g., HVM 135, external indicator 140, and/or
the like) may be disposed with a rail vehicle. For example, the
rail vehicle may be a train having at least one car. In some
non-limiting embodiments, the indicator (e.g., HVM 135, external
indicator 140, and/or the like) may be disposed with a rear car of
the train. In some non-limiting embodiments, the indicator (e.g.,
HVM 135, external indicator 140, and/or the like) may include a
visual indicator, e.g., a light source. For example, the light
source may include at least one of an illumination fixture, a light
emitting assembly, a light bulb, a light emitting diode, a laser,
an infrared light source, an ultraviolet light source, a visible
light source, and/or the like.
[0084] In some non-limiting embodiments, the indicator may include
HVM 135. For example, HVM 135 may be integrated with and/or coupled
to interface 130. Additionally or alternatively, interface 130 may
include an end of train (EOT) device. In some non-limiting
embodiments, interface 130 (e.g., EOT device) may be coupled to a
trailing coupler of the rear car of a train. In some non-limiting
embodiments, the indicator may include external indicator 140. For
example, external indicator 140 may include a visual indicator
(e.g., a light source) separate from HVM 135 of interface 130
(e.g., EOT device). In some non-limiting embodiments, external
indicator 140 may be disposed proximate to a trailing end of the
rear car. Additionally or alternatively, the external indicator 140
may be removably connected to interface 130 (e.g., EOT device).
[0085] In some non-limiting embodiments, interface 120 may be
located at a first location (e.g., at a front of a rail vehicle,
such as a lead locomotive or control car and/or the like).
Additionally or alternatively, interface 130 may be located at a
second location (e.g., at a rear of a rail vehicle, such as a rear
car and/or the like) that is different than the first location. For
example, interface 120 may be located within an operator
compartment of a rail vehicle (e.g., at the front of the rail
vehicle). Additionally or alternatively, interface 130 may be
mounted on a different rail vehicle (e.g., a rear car of the rail
vehicle and/or the like). In some non-limiting embodiments,
interface 120 may be mounted on a rail vehicle and interface 130
may be mounted on the same rail vehicle. For example, interface 120
may be located in an operator compartment of a lead locomotive or
control car and interface 130 may be on a trailing coupler of such
lead locomotive or control car.
[0086] In some non-limiting embodiments, interface 120 may include
an operator interface. Additionally or alternatively, interface 120
may include at least one of a head of train (HOT) device, a
positive train control (PTC) device, or an electronic train
management system (ETMS) device. In some non-limiting embodiments,
interface 120 may be configured to receive inputs and/or control
signals from a remote server (e.g., PTC server or ETMS server).
[0087] In some non-limiting embodiments, interface 120 may include
and/or receive inputs from at least one input component 110a, 110b,
110c, . . . , 110n (not shown). For example, first input component
110a may include one or more input components for user input (e.g.,
a touch screen display, a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, a button, a
switch, a microphone, etc.), such as from an operator and/or crew
member of a rail vehicle. For example, interface 120 may receive at
least one control signal from and/or generate at least one control
signal based on first input component 110a (e.g., PTC or ETMS).
[0088] As further shown in FIG. 1, in some non-limiting
embodiments, environment 100 may include one or more additional
input components/interfaces, such as second input component 110b
(e.g., PTC or ETMS), third input component 110c (e.g., sensors,
other authorized triggers, and/or the like), through nth input
component 110n (not shown). For example, interface 120 may receive
at least one control signal from and/or generate at least one
control signal based on second input component 110b (e.g., PTC or
ETMS). Additionally or alternatively, interface 120 may receive at
least one control signal from and/or generate at least one control
signal based on third input component 110c (e.g., e.g., a sensor,
an authorized trigger, and/or the like). In some non-limiting
embodiments, third input component 110c (e.g., a sensor) may
include at least one of a speed sensor, a location sensor, a clock,
any combination thereof, and/or the like.
[0089] In some non-limiting embodiments, interface 120 may receive
at least one control signal from and/or generate at least one
control signal based on conditions related to the rail vehicle. For
example, interface 120 may receive at least one control signal from
and/or generate at least one control signal based on at least one
of an environmental condition, a hazardous condition, a type of
cargo associated with the train, a time and location of the train,
a PTC, an ETMS, an authorized trigger, a sensor, a manual input,
and/or the like.
[0090] In some non-limiting embodiments, interface 120 may display
an indication of the state of the indicator (e.g., HVM 135,
external indicator 140, and/or the like). For example, interface
120 may include a display screen, and a status of the indicator may
be indicated by text and/or graphics in at least a portion of the
display screen. Additionally or alternatively, interface 120 may
include a visual indication of the status of the indicator (e.g.,
one or more lights, dials, and/or the like). Additionally or
alternatively, interface 120 may indicate the state of the
indicator in a non-visual manner, e.g., an audible indication
(e.g., a noise, a tone, a chime, and/or the like from a speaker, a
bell, and/or the like).
[0091] In some non-limiting embodiments, interface 120 may include
a communication interface (e.g., wired or wireless communication
interface). Additionally or alternatively, interface 130 may
include a communication interface (e.g., wired or wireless
communication interface). In some non-limiting embodiments,
interface 120 may communicate with interface 130 via respective
communication interfaces thereof. In some non-limiting embodiments,
interface 120 (e.g., a communication interface of interface 120)
may communicate directly with external indicator 140 (e.g., a
communication interface of external indicator 140), image capture
device 145 (e.g., a communication interface of image capture device
145), other components, devices, and/or systems of environment 100,
and/or the like independent of interface 130.
[0092] In some non-limiting embodiments, the control signal(s) may
include at least one first control signal from third input
component 110c (e.g., at least one sensor and/or the like) and at
least one second signal from at least one of first input component
110a (e.g., an operator interface, an HOT device, and/or the like)
and/or second input component 110b (e.g., a PTC device, an ETMS
device, and/or the like). Additionally or alternatively, such first
control signal(s) may be overridden in response to the second
control signal(s).
[0093] In some non-limiting embodiments, the control signal(s) may
include at least one digital signal. For example, a digital signal
may include at least one of a message (e.g., packet, frame, and/or
the like of data, information, and/or the like), a code word, a
bit, a sequence of bits, a bit stream, and/or the like.
Additionally or alternatively, the control signal(s) may include an
analog signal (e.g., an electrical signal, an electromagnetic
signal, and/or the like). In some non-limiting embodiments, the
control signal(s) may include an interruption in a digital or
analog signal (e.g., a temporary or permanent disconnection, a
modulation, and/or the like).
[0094] In some non-limiting embodiments, an indicator (e.g., HVM
135, external indicator 140, and/or the like) may be controlled by
a controller. For example, the controller may be integrated with
interface 130 (e.g., an EOT device, and/or the like). Additionally
or alternatively, the controller may be integrated with interface
120 (e.g., an HOT device, an operator interface, a PTC, an ETMS,
and/or the like). Additionally or alternatively, the controller may
be at least partially separate from and independent of interface
120 and interface 130. In some non-limiting embodiments, the
controller may be configured to change a state of the indicator
based on control signals (e.g., from interface 120, interface 130,
remote servers (such as PTC or ETMS servers), and/or the like).
Additionally or alternatively, if multiple control signals are
received at the controller, the controller may be configured to
override at least one first control signal (e.g., from third input
component 110c) in response to at least one second control signal
(e.g., from first input component 110a and/or second input
component 110b), as described herein.
[0095] In some non-limiting embodiments, the state of the indicator
(e.g., HVM 135, external indicator 140, and/or the like) may
include at least one of an off state or an on state. For example,
the indicator (e.g., HVM 135, external indicator 140, and/or the
like) may be a light source, and an off state may be associated
with the light source not radiating any light. Additionally or
alternatively, an on state may be associated with the light source
radiating light. In some non-limiting embodiments, the state of the
indicator (e.g., HVM 135, external indicator 140, and/or the like)
may include a brightness level. For example, the indicator (e.g.,
HVM 135, external indicator 140, and/or the like) may have multiple
possible levels of brightness (e.g., when in the on state). In some
non-limiting embodiments, the brightness levels may include a first
(e.g., lowest, default, and/or the like) brightness state and at
least one second (e.g., enhanced) brightness state brighter than
the first brightness state. In some non-limiting embodiments, the
indicator (e.g., HVM 135, external indicator 140, and/or the like)
may include a plurality of possible states, each of the plurality
of possible states associated with at least one condition
associated with the rail vehicle (e.g., an environmental condition,
a hazardous condition, a type of cargo associated with the train, a
time and location of the train, a positive train control (PTC), an
electronic train management system (ETMS), an authorized trigger,
or a manual input). For example, each of the possible states may
include a different number of lights on the indicator (e.g., HVM
135, external indicator 140, and/or the like), a different color or
combination of colors of lights on the indicator, a different
pattern of flashing of the lights of the indicator, and/or the
like.
[0096] In some non-limiting embodiments, environment 100 may
include image capture device 145. For example, illumination for
image capture device 145 may be provided by the indicator (e.g., at
least one of HVM 135 or external indicator 140), e.g., by turning
on the indicator and/or changing a state of the indicator to an
enhanced brightness state sufficient to illuminate at least part of
a view area of image capture device 145. In some non-limiting
embodiments, image capture device 145 may be interconnected with
interface 130 (e.g., at a rear of a train). Additionally or
alternatively, image capture device 145 may be interconnected,
directly or indirectly (e.g., via interface 130), to interface 120
(e.g., at a front of a train). In some non-limiting embodiments,
image capture device 145 includes one or more devices capable of
detecting an image (e.g., image data associated with an image of
one or more tracks, image data associated with an image of a set of
parallel tracks, etc.), capturing image data associated with the
image, and/or communicating the image data that is captured (e.g.,
communicating the image data to interface 120 and/or interface
130). For example, image capture device 145 may include an image
sensor, a device that includes an image sensor, a camera (e.g., a
digital camera, an infrared camera, an ultraviolet camera, etc.), a
video recorder, a video camera, and/or the like.
[0097] In some non-limiting embodiments, interface 120 may display
an image and/or video captured by image capture device 145. For
example, interface 120 may include a display screen, and the image
and/or video captured by image capture device 145 may be displayed
in at least a portion of the display screen.
[0098] The number and arrangement of systems shown in FIG. 1 are
provided as an example. There may be additional systems, devices
and/or networks, fewer systems, devices, and/or networks, different
systems, devices and/or networks, or differently arranged systems,
devices, and/or networks than those shown in FIG. 1. Furthermore,
two or more systems or devices shown in FIG. 1 may be implemented
within a single system or a single device, or a single system or a
single device shown in FIG. 1 may be implemented as multiple,
distributed systems or devices. Additionally or alternatively, a
set of systems or a set of devices (e.g., one or more systems, one
or more devices) of environment 100 perform one or more functions
described as being performed by another set of systems or another
set of devices of environment 100.
[0099] Referring now to FIG. 2, FIG. 2 is a diagram of a
non-limiting embodiment of a rail vehicle system 200 for
controlling an indicator. As shown in FIG. 2, a first rail vehicle
201 (e.g., front car of a rail vehicle, such as a locomotive or
control car) may include first interface 220 (e.g., HOT, PTC, ETMS,
operator interface, and/or the like). In some non-limiting
embodiments, first interface 220 may be the same as, or similar to,
interface 120. First interface 220 may include at least one input
component, e.g., first input component 210a (e.g., operator input
and/or the like), second input component 210b (e.g., PTC input,
ETMS input, and/or the like), third input component 210c (e.g.,
sensors, other authorized triggers, and/or the like), and/or the
like. In some non-limiting embodiments, first input component 210a,
second input component 210b, and third input component 210c may be
the same as, or similar to, first input component 110a, second
input component 110b, and third input component 110c, respectively.
Additionally or alternatively, interface 220 may include memory 226
and control system 224. In some non-limiting embodiments, control
system 224 and/or memory 226 may be the same as, or similar to, at
least part of a controller of an indicator (e.g., HVM 235, external
indicator 240, and/or the like), as described herein. In some
non-limiting embodiments, first interface 220 may further include
first communication interface 222 (e.g., a wired or wireless
transceiver). In some non-limiting embodiments, first communication
interface 222 may be the same as, or similar to, the communication
interface of interface 120.
[0100] As further shown in FIG. 2, a second rail vehicle 202 (e.g.,
rear car of a rail vehicle) may include second interface 230 (e.g.,
EOT device and/or the like). In some non-limiting embodiments,
second interface 230 may be the same as or similar to interface
130. In some non-limiting embodiments, second interface 230 (e.g.,
EOT device and/or the like) may include HVM 235. In some
non-limiting embodiments, HVM 235 may be the same as or similar to
HVM 135. Additionally or alternatively, second rail vehicle 202 may
include external indicator 240. In some non-limiting embodiments,
external indicator 240 may be the same as or similar to external
indicator 140. In some non-limiting embodiments, external indicator
may be coupled to, in communication with, and/or removably
connected to second interface 230 (e.g., EOT device and/or the
like).
[0101] In some non-limiting embodiments, second rail vehicle 202
may include image capture device 245. In some non-limiting
embodiments, image capture device 245 may be the same as or similar
to image capture device 145. Additionally or alternatively,
interface 220 may include memory 236 and control system 234. In
some non-limiting embodiments, control system 234 and/or memory 236
may be the same as, or similar to, at least part of a controller of
an indicator (e.g., HVM 235, external indicator 240, and/or the
like), as described herein. In some non-limiting embodiments,
second interface 230 may further include second communication
interface 232 (e.g., a wired or wireless transceiver). In some
non-limiting embodiments, second communication interface 232 may be
the same as or similar to the communication interface of interface
130.
[0102] In some non-limiting embodiments, second interface 230 may
be mounted on a trailing coupler of the last rail vehicle in a rail
vehicle system (e.g., a plurality of rail vehicles connected
together, a train, a train of cars, etc.) and second interface 230
may be equipped with at least one device (e.g., sensor) for
monitoring the pressure of a brake system of the rail vehicle
system and/or a telemetry device. For example, second interface 230
may include pressure transducer 238 that is connected to air brake
coupling 239 and control system 234.
[0103] In some non-limiting embodiments, control system 234 and/or
control system 224 may receive telemetry information (e.g.,
position information, GPS position information, etc.). For example,
such telemetry information may be received via second input
component 210b (e.g., PTC device, ETMS device, and/or the like) or
third input component 210 (e.g., sensors, other authorized
triggers, and/or the like). Additionally or alternatively, such
telemetry information may be associated with a rail vehicle (e.g.,
a train). In some non-limiting embodiments, control system 234
and/or control system 224 may affect the operation of the rail
vehicle based on the telemetry information. For example, control
system 234 and/or control system 224 may cause a brake system of
the rail vehicle to be activated based on the telemetry
information.
[0104] In some non-limiting embodiments, air brake coupling 239 may
mechanically couple a rail vehicle that includes first interface
220 to second interface 230. In some non-limiting embodiments, air
brake coupling 239 may be used by first interface 220 and/or second
interface 230 to verify (e.g., based on a physical connection) that
first interface 220 and/or second interface 230 is properly linked
for communication between first interface 220 and/or second
interface 230. In some non-limiting embodiments, an operator (e.g.,
a locomotive engineer) may control the air brakes of a rail vehicle
(e.g., a rail vehicle of a rail vehicle system, such as a train)
via engineer air brake control 231 and air brake coupling 239,
which may extend the length of a rail vehicle system. In some
non-limiting embodiments, control system 234 may control the air
brakes of a rail vehicle in an emergency situation via emergency
brake control unit 237.
[0105] In some non-limiting embodiments, second interface 230 may
communicate with (e.g., send information to and receive information
from) first interface 220 and vice versa via a communication link
(e.g., a short range communication link) between first
communication interface 222 (e.g., first transceiver) and second
communication interface 232 (e.g., second transceiver). For
example, second interface 230 may communicate position information
relating to a position of a rail vehicle (e.g., position
information relating to a position of a rail vehicle derived from a
Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver of the rail vehicle) to
first interface 220 via the communication link between first
communication interface 222 (e.g., first transceiver) and second
communication interface 232 (e.g., second transceiver). In some
non-limiting embodiments, the communication link may operate with a
bandwidth of 450 Mhz. The way in which second interface 230 may
communicate with first interface 220 and vice versa, as well as
control systems described above, are described in more detail in
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/313,877, filed Feb. 23, 1989,
which is assigned to the same assignee as this application and is
incorporated herein by reference.
[0106] In some non-limiting embodiments, control system 234 and/or
control system 224 may receive control signals associated with at
least one input component 210a, 210b, 210c, as described herein.
For example, control system 234 may receive at least one input
and/or control signal associated with at least one input component
210a, 210b, 210c. Additionally or alternatively, control system 234
may generate at least one control signal(s) based on the input(s).
In some non-limiting embodiments, control system 234 may
communicate the control signal(s) via first communication interface
222 to second communication interface 232. Additionally or
alternatively, second communication interface 232 may receive the
control signal(s). In some non-limiting embodiments, the control
signal(s) may be generated based on at least one of an
environmental condition, a hazardous condition, a type of cargo
associated with the train, a time and location of the train, a PTC,
an ETMS, an authorized trigger, a manual input, and/or the like, as
described herein.
[0107] In some non-limiting embodiments, control system 234 and/or
control system 224 may change the state of an indicator (e.g., HVM
235, external indicator 240, and/or the like) based on the control
signal(s), as described herein. For example, control system 234 may
receive the control signals via the second communication interface
234 coupled thereto. Additionally or alternatively, control system
234 may be coupled to the indicator (e.g., HVM 235, external
indicator 240, and/or the like). Additionally or alternatively,
control system 234 may change a state (e.g., on, off, first
brightness, second/enhanced brightness, one of a plurality of
different states, and/or the like) of the indicator (e.g., HVM 235,
external indicator 240, and/or the like), as described herein.
[0108] Referring now to FIG. 3, FIG. 3 is a diagram of example
components of a device 300. Device 300 corresponds to one or more
devices of environment 100 (e.g., input components 110a, 110b,
110c, interface 120, interface 130, HVM 135, external indicator
140, and/or image capture device 145) and/or one or more devices of
system 200 (e.g., first interface 220, input components 210a, 210b,
210c, control system 224, memory 226, first communication interface
222, second interface 230, control system 234, memory 236,
emergency brake control unit 237, pressure transducer 238, air
brake coupling 239, engineer air brake control 231, HVM 235,
external indicator 240, image capture device 245, and/or second
communication interface 232). In some non-limiting embodiments, one
or more devices of environment 100 and/or system 200 may include at
least one device 300 and/or at least one component of device 300.
As shown in FIG. 3, device 300 may include bus 302, processor 304,
memory 306, storage component 308, input component 310, output
component 312, and communication interface 314.
[0109] Bus 302 may include a component that permits communication
among the components of device 300. In some non-limiting
embodiments, processor 304 may be implemented in hardware,
firmware, software, or any combination thereof. For example,
processor 304 may include a processor (e.g., a central processing
unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated
processing unit (APU), etc.), a microprocessor, a digital signal
processor (DSP), and/or any processing component (e.g., a
field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific
integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.) that can be programmed to perform
a function. Memory 306 may include a random access memory (RAM), a
read-only memory (ROM), and/or another type of dynamic or static
storage device (e.g., flash memory, magnetic memory, optical
memory, etc.) that stores information and/or instructions for use
by processor 304.
[0110] Storage component 308 may store information and/or software
related to the operation and use of device 300. For example,
storage component 308 may include a hard disk (e.g., a magnetic
disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optic disk, a solid state disk,
etc.), a flash memory, a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile
disc (DVD), a floppy disk, a cartridge, a magnetic tape, and/or
another type of computer-readable medium, along with a
corresponding drive.
[0111] Input component 310 may include a component that permits
device 300 to receive information, such as via user input (e.g., a
touch screen display, a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, a button, a
switch, a microphone, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, input
component 310 may include a sensor for sensing information (e.g., a
GPS component, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, an actuator, a light
sensor, a barometer, a thermometer, a speed sensor (e.g.,
speedometer), a clock, etc.). Output component 312 may include a
component that provides output information from device 300 (e.g., a
display, a speaker, one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs),
etc.).
[0112] Communication interface 314 includes a transceiver-like
component (e.g., a transceiver, a separate receiver and
transmitter, etc.) that enables device 300 to communicate with
other devices, such as via a wired connection, a wireless
connection, or a combination of wired and wireless connections.
Communication interface 314 permits device 300 to receive
information from another device and/or provide information to
another device. For example, communication interface 314 may
include an Ethernet interface, an optical interface, a coaxial
interface, an infrared interface, a radio frequency (RF) interface,
a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a Wi-Fi interface, a
cellular network interface, and/or the like.
[0113] In some non-limiting embodiments, device 300 performs one or
more processes described herein. In some non-limiting embodiments,
device 300 performs these processes based on processor 304
executing software instructions stored by a computer-readable
medium, such as memory 306 and/or storage component 308. A
computer-readable medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable
medium) is defined herein as a non-transitory memory device. A
memory device includes memory space located inside of a single
physical storage device or memory space spread across multiple
physical storage devices.
[0114] Software instructions are read into memory 306 and/or
storage component 308 from another computer-readable medium or from
another device via communication interface 314. When executed,
software instructions stored in memory 306 and/or storage component
308 cause processor 304 to perform one or more processes described
herein. Additionally or alternatively, hardwired circuitry may be
used in place of or in combination with software instructions to
perform one or more processes described herein. Thus, embodiments
described herein are not limited to any specific combination of
hardware circuitry and software.
[0115] The number and arrangement of components shown in FIG. 3 are
provided as an example. In some non-limiting embodiments, device
300 includes additional components, fewer components, different
components, or differently arranged components than those shown in
FIG. 3. Additionally or alternatively, a set of components (e.g.,
one or more components) of device 300 performs one or more
functions described as being performed by another set of components
of device 300.
[0116] Referring now to FIG. 4, FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a
non-limiting embodiment of a process 400 for controlling an
indicator. In some non-limiting embodiments, one or more of the
steps of process 400 may be performed (e.g., completely, partially,
etc.) by interface 130 and/or second interface 230 (e.g., one or
more components or devices of interface 130 and/or second interface
230). In some non-limiting embodiments, one or more of the steps of
process 400 may be performed (e.g., completely, partially, etc.) by
another device or a group of devices separate from or including
interface 130 and/or second interface 230, such as interface 120
and/or first interface 220, (e.g., one or more components or
devices of interface 120 and/or first interface 220), HVM 135
and/or HVM 235, external indicator 140 and/or external indicator
240, one or more components or devices of environment 100, one or
more components or devices of system 200, and/or the like.
[0117] As shown in FIG. 4, at step 402, process 400 may include
providing at least one control signal. For example, an interface
proximate to a front of a rail vehicle (e.g., interface 120 and/or
first interface 220) may receive the control signal(s) from and/or
generate the control signal(s) based on inputs (e.g., input
components 110a, 110b, 110c, input components 210a, 210b, 210c,
and/or a remote server (e.g., PTC server, ETMS server, and/or the
like)), as described herein. In some non-limiting embodiments, the
control signal(s) may be based on at least one of an environmental
condition, a hazardous condition, a type of cargo associated with
the train, a time and location of the train, a PTC, an ETMS, an
authorized trigger, a manual input, and/or the like, as described
herein. Additionally or alternatively, an interface proximate to a
rear of the rail vehicle (e.g., interface 130 and/or second
interface 220) may receive the control signal(s) from and/or
generate the control signal(s) based on inputs (e.g., input
components 110a, 110b, 110c, input components 210a, 210b, 210c,
and/or a remote server (e.g., PTC server, ETMS server, and/or the
like)), as described herein.
[0118] In some non-limiting embodiments, the interface proximate to
the front of the rail vehicle (e.g., interface 120 and/or first
interface 220) may include at least one of an operator interface, a
HOT device, a PTC device, an ETMS device, and/or the like, as
described herein. Additionally or alternatively, inputs (e.g.,
input components 110a, 110b, 110c and/or input components 210a,
210b, 210c) may be at least one of operator input, PTC input, ETMS
input, sensor input, other authorized triggers, and/or the like, as
described herein.
[0119] In some non-limiting embodiments, the control signal(s) may
include at least one of a digital signal, an analog signal, and/or
the like, as described herein. Additionally or alternatively, the
control signal(s) may include an interruption in an electrical
signal, as described herein.
[0120] As further shown in FIG. 4, at step 404, process 400 may
include transmitting the control signal(s). For example, the
interface proximate to the front of the rail vehicle (e.g.,
interface 120 and/or first interface 220) may transmit the control
signal(s) via a communication interface (e.g., first communication
interface 222), as described herein. Additionally or alternatively,
inputs (e.g., input components 110a, 110b, 110c, input components
210a, 210b, 210c, and/or a remote server (e.g., PTC server, ETMS
server, and/or the like)) may transmit the control signals directly
to the interface proximate to the rear of the rail vehicle (e.g.,
interface 130 and/or second interface 230), as described
herein.
[0121] As further shown in FIG. 4, at step 406, process 400 may
include receiving the control signal(s). For example, the interface
proximate to the rear of the rail vehicle (e.g., interface 130
and/or second interface 230) may receive via a communication
interface (e.g., second communication interface 232) the control
signal(s) transmitted from a communication interface (e.g., first
communication interface 222) of the interface proximate to the
front of the rail vehicle (e.g., interface 120 and/or first
interface 220), as described herein. Additionally or alternatively,
the interface proximate to the rear of the rail vehicle (e.g.,
interface 130 and/or second interface 230) may receive the control
signal(s) from inputs (e.g., input components 110a, 110b, 110c,
input components 210a, 210b, 210c, and/or a remote server (e.g.,
PTC server, ETMS server, and/or the like)), as described
herein.
[0122] As further shown in FIG. 4, at step 408, process 400 may
include changing a state of the indicator based on the control
signal(s). For example, a state of the indicator (e.g., HVM 135,
HVM 235, external indicator 140, and/or external indicator 240) may
be changed by a controller (e.g., interface 130, second interface
230, control system 234, and/or the like) based on the control
signal(s), as described herein.
[0123] In some non-limiting embodiments, the indicator (e.g., HVM
135, HVM 235, external indicator 140, and/or external indicator
240) may include a light source, as described herein. For example,
the light source may include at least one of an illumination
fixture, a light emitting assembly, a light bulb, a light emitting
diode, a laser, an infrared light source, an ultraviolet light
source, a visible light source, and/or the like, as described
herein.
[0124] In some non-limiting embodiments, the indicator may include
an HVM (e.g., HVM 135 and/or HVM 235) of the interface proximate to
the rear of the rail vehicle (e.g., interface 130 (e.g., an EOT
device) and/or second interface 230 (e.g., an EOT device),
respectively), as described herein. In some non-limiting
embodiments, the indicator may include an indicator/light source
(e.g., external indicator 140 and/or external indicator 240)
separate from the HVM (e.g., HVM 135 and/or HVM 235), as described
herein. In some non-limiting embodiments, an indicator (e.g.,
external indicator 140 and/or external indicator 240) may be
removably connected to the interface proximate to the rear of the
rail vehicle (e.g., interface 130 and/or second interface 230,
respectively), as described herein.
[0125] In some non-limiting embodiments, the indicator (e.g., HVM
135, HVM 235, external indicator 140, and/or external indicator
240) may be disposed proximate to a trailing end of the rear
car.
[0126] In some non-limiting embodiments, at least one first control
signal (e.g., a sensor or other authorized trigger control signal
from third input component 110c and/or third input component 210c)
may be overridden in response to at least one second control signal
(e.g., an operator control signal from first input component 110a
and/or first input component 210a, a PTC/ETMS control signal from
second input component 110b and/or second input component 210b,
and/or the like), as described herein.
[0127] In some non-limiting embodiments, the state of the indicator
(e.g., HVM 135, HVM 235, external indicator 140, and/or external
indicator 240) may be one of on, off, first/default brightness,
second/enhanced brightness, one of a plurality of different states,
and/or the like, as described herein. In some non-limiting
embodiments, the interface proximate to the front of the rail
vehicle (e.g., interface 120 and/or first interface 220) may
display an indication of the state of the indicator (e.g., HVM 135,
HVM 235, external indicator 140, and/or external indicator 240), as
described herein. In some non-limiting embodiments, an image
capture device (e.g., image capture device 145 and/or image capture
device 245) may be disposed proximate to the indicator (e.g., HVM
135, HVM 235, external indicator 140, and/or external indicator
240), and the state of the indicator may be changed to an on state
and/or an enhanced brightness state to illuminate at least part of
a viewing area of the image capture device (e.g., image capture
device 145 and/or image capture device 245), as described herein.
Additionally or alternatively, the interface proximate to the front
of the rail vehicle (e.g., interface 120 and/or first interface
220) may display an image and/or video captured by the image
capture device (e.g., image capture device 145 and/or image capture
device 245), as described herein.
[0128] In some non-limiting embodiments, an EOT device may turn on
an HVM when light conditions reach a certain threshold for a
certain amount of time, and such functionality may be autonomous to
the EOT device. Allowing an HOT device to command/control the HVM
and/or other lights/indicators (e.g., external indictor) may
increase control over the EOT device/HVM and add flexibility to the
system for future applications. For example, a light/indicator may
be either built into the EOT device (e.g., the same as or separate
from the HVM) and/or coupled to/removably plugged into the EOT
device. Additionally or alternatively, such a light/indicator may
have its own set of functions, including various patterns and/or
apertures (e.g., brightness levels). In some non-limiting
embodiments, an indicator (e.g., HVM or external indicator) may be
turned on/off and/or change state based on time of day and location
(e.g., to the HOT device), based on when a light sensor fails
(e.g., because the rail vehicle stopped in location where
overwhelming light is pointed at the EOT device and HVM is
extinguished or because the light sensor breaks/fails for other
reasons, which may be known to the HOT device). Additionally or
alternatively, an indicator (e.g., HVM or external indicator) may
be turned on/off and/or change state when required by local
regulations (e.g., which may change over time), even if light
conditions exceed the threshold (e.g., harsh weather conditions
during daylight, cargo type, and/or the like). Additionally or
alternatively, an indicator (e.g, HVM or external indicator) may be
turned on/off and/or change state based on emergency situations
and/or to provide/increase illuminating light in any light
condition. Additionally or alternatively, an indicator (e.g., HVM
or external indicator) may be used as a light source for
image/video capture. Additionally or alternatively, timing of a
flash of an indicator (e.g., HVM or external indicator) may be
synchronized/shifted to coordinate with image/video capture, e.g.,
to reduce artifacts created by the indicator (e.g., HVM or external
indicator) flashing out of sync with the image/video capture
device. Additionally or alternatively, PTC input for indication of
conditions related to a rail vehicle (e.g., the rail vehicle
slowing down, going into emergency conditions, entering risky
conditions within a certain distance (e.g., a number of miles, such
as 2 miles), and/or the like) may be relayed to the indicator
(e.g., HVM or external indicator). Additionally or alternatively,
laser pointer control may be enabled.
[0129] The foregoing disclosure provides illustration and
description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the
implementations to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and
variations are possible in light of the above disclosure or may be
acquired from practice of the implementations.
[0130] It will be apparent that systems and/or methods, described
herein, may be implemented in different forms of hardware,
firmware, software, or any combination thereof. The actual
specialized control hardware or software code used to implement
these systems and/or methods is not limiting of the
implementations. Thus, the operation and behavior of the systems
and/or methods were described herein without reference to specific
software code--it being understood that software and hardware can
be designed to implement the systems and/or methods based on the
description herein.
[0131] Even though particular combinations of features are recited
in the claims and/or disclosed in the specification, these
combinations are not intended to limit the disclosure of possible
implementations. In fact, many of these features may be combined in
ways not specifically recited in the claims and/or disclosed in the
specification. Although each dependent claim listed below may
directly depend on only one claim, the disclosure of possible
implementations includes each dependent claim in combination with
every other claim in the claim set.
* * * * *