U.S. patent application number 16/233623 was filed with the patent office on 2020-07-02 for selective operational modes of end-of-train unit based on gps information.
The applicant listed for this patent is Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation. Invention is credited to Igor Abrosimov, Dae Kim.
Application Number | 20200207387 16/233623 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 71122568 |
Filed Date | 2020-07-02 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200207387 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Abrosimov; Igor ; et
al. |
July 2, 2020 |
Selective Operational Modes of End-of-Train Unit Based on GPS
Information
Abstract
In a method of controlling operation of an end-of-train unit
(EOTU) of a train during travel of the train on a path, a GPS
receiver of the EOTU receives first GPS data and a controller,
based on the received first GPS data, sets an electrical/electronic
device or system of the EOTU to a first mode of operation. After
travel of the train on the path following setting the
electrical/electronic device or system to the first mode of
operation, the GPS receiver receives second GPS data. The
controller, based on the received second GPS data, sets the
electrical/electronic device or system of the EOTU to a second,
different mode of operation.
Inventors: |
Abrosimov; Igor; (N.
Potomac, MD) ; Kim; Dae; (Germantown, MD) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation |
Wilmerding |
PA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
71122568 |
Appl. No.: |
16/233623 |
Filed: |
December 27, 2018 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B61L 15/0054 20130101;
B61L 15/0072 20130101; B61L 25/025 20130101; B61L 2205/04 20130101;
B61L 15/0063 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B61L 15/00 20060101
B61L015/00; B61L 25/02 20060101 B61L025/02 |
Claims
1. A method of controlling operation of an end-of-train unit (EOTU)
of a train during travel of the train on a path, the method
comprising: (a) determining, by a controller, comprising one or
more processors, from first GPS data received by a GPS receiver of
the EOTU, a first geographical location of the EOTU; (b) causing,
by the controller, an electrical/electronic device or system of the
EOTU to operate in a first mode of operation on the basis of the
first geographical location of the EOTU determined in step (a); (c)
following travel of the train on the path after step (b),
determining, by the controller, from second GPS data received by
the GPS receiver of the EOTU, a second geographical location of the
EOTU; (d) causing, by the controller, the electrical/electronic
device or system of the EOTU to operate in a second mode of
operation that is different than the first mode of operation on the
basis of the second geographical location of the EOTU determined in
step (c).
2. The method of claim 1, wherein: the electrical/electronic device
or system comprises an EOTU communication device that is operative
for communicating with a head-of-train unit (HOTU) via a
communication channel; the first mode of operation includes the
EOTU communication device communicating with the HOTU at a first
data transmission rate; and the second mode of operation includes
the EOTU communication device communicating with the HOTU at a
second, different data transmission rate, wherein the communication
channel is a wired communication channel, a wireless (radio)
communication channel, or a combination of a wired and wireless
(radio) communication channel.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein the EOTU communication device
comprises a transmitter or a transceiver and the HOTU comprises a
HOTU communication device comprising a receiver or a
transceiver.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein: the electrical/electronic device
or system comprises an EOTU communication device that is operative
for communicating with a head-of-train unit (HOTU) via a
communication channel; the first mode of operation includes the
EOTU communication device operating at a first transmission power
level; and the second mode of operation includes the EOTU
communication device operating at a second, different transmission
power level, wherein the communication channel is a wired
communication channel, a wireless (radio) communication channel, or
a combination of a wired and wireless (radio) communication
channel.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein: the electrical/electronic device
or system comprises an EOTU communication device that is operative
for communicating with head-of-train unit (HOTU) via a
communication channel; the first mode of operation includes a first
handshake period between the EOTU communication device and the
HOTU; and the second mode of operation includes a second, different
handshake period between the EOTU communication device and the
HOTU.
6. The method of claim 1, further including: the controller
determining from the first and second GPS data, respective, first
and second times of day, wherein: the electrical/electronic device
or system is a lamp; the lamp is operated in the first mode of
operation based on the first geographical location of the EOTU, the
first time of day, or both; and the lamp is operated in the second
mode of operation based on the second geographical location of the
EOTU, the second time of day, or both, wherein: the first and
second modes of operation are the lamp are on and off, or vice
versa.
7. The method of claim 6, further including: the controller
determining that a light sensor for controlling the first and
second modes of operation of the lamp based on ambient light is not
functioning; and the controller determining with reference to data
stored in a memory regarding the lamp being in the first or second
mode of operation for each geographical location, time or day, or
both and bypassing the light sensor and controlling the lamp to be
in the first or second mode of operation based on said referenced
data.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein: the electrical/electronic device
or system comprises the controller and an EOTU communication device
that are operative for communicating via a communication channel
with a head-of-train unit (HOTU); the second mode of operation
comprises the controller, via the EOTU communication device,
communicating to the HOTU via the communication channel a first
signal (request) for the HOTU to transmit to the controller a
second signal to change a state of a lamp of the EOTU from on to
off, or vice versa; and the first mode of operation comprises the
controller, via the EOTU communication device, not communicating
the first signal (request) to the HOTU, wherein the communication
channel is a wired communication channel, a wireless (radio)
communication channel, or a combination of a wired and wireless
(radio) communication channel.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein: the electrical/electronic device
or system comprises the controller and an EOTU communication device
that are operative for communicating via a communication channel
with a back office; the first mode of operation comprises the
controller, via the EOTU communication device, periodically or
aperiodically communicating first sequential sets of train
information to the back office via the communication channel at or
within a first interval of time; and the second mode of operation
comprises the controller, via the EOTU communication device,
periodically or aperiodically communicating second sequential sets
of train information to the back office via the communication
channel at or within a second, different interval of time, wherein:
the communication channel is a wired communication channel, a
wireless (radio) communication channel, or a combination of a wired
and wireless (radio) communication channel.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein: the electrical/electronic
device or system comprises the controller; the first mode of
operation comprises the controller periodically or aperiodically
acquiring data from or about one or more train devices at or within
a first interval of time; and the second mode of operation
comprises the controller periodically or aperiodically acquiring
data from or about the one or more train devices at or within a
second, different interval of time, wherein: the second interval of
time is greater than or less than the first interval of time.
11. The method of claim 1, wherein: the electrical/electronic
device or system comprises an EOTU camera; the first mode of
operation comprises a first set of images acquired by the EOTU
camera to be transmitted to or not transmitted to a head-of-train
unit (HOTU) via a communication channel; and the second mode of
operation comprises a second set of images acquired by the EOTU
camera to be the other of transmitted to or not transmitted to the
HOTU via the communication channel, wherein the communication
channel is a wired communication channel, a wireless (radio)
communication channel, or a combination of a wired and wireless
(radio) communication channel.
12. The method of claim 1, further including the controller
determining from the first and second GPS data, respective, first
and second times of day, wherein: the electrical/electronic device
or system comprises the controller and an EOTU communication device
that are operative for: in the first mode of operation acquiring or
not acquiring data from a remote data source via a communication
channel based on a the first geographical location of the EOTU, the
first time of day, or both and; in the second mode of operation the
other of acquiring data or not acquiring data from the remote data
source via the communication channel based on a the second
geographical location of the EOTU, the second time of day, or both,
wherein the communication channel is a wired communication channel,
a wireless (radio) communication channel, or a combination of a
wired and wireless (radio) communication channel.
13. The method of claim 1, wherein: the electrical/electronic
device or system comprises a cellular telephone transceiver; the
first mode of operation comprises the controller, via a EOTU
communication device, communicating with a back office via a first
wireless communication channel; and the second mode of operation
comprises the controller, via the EOTU communication device,
communicating with the back office via a second wireless
communication channel, wherein when the first communication channel
uses the cellular telephone transceiver the second communication
channel does not use the cellular telephone transceiver, or vice
versa.
14. A method of controlling operation of an end-of-train unit
(EOTU) of a train during travel of the train on a path, the EOTU
device comprising one or more processors, the method comprising:
(a) receiving, by a GPS receiver of the EOTU, first GPS data; (b)
setting, by a controller, based on the first GPS data received in
step (a), a first mode of operation of an electrical/electronic
device or system of the EOTU; (c) after travel of the train on the
path following step (b), receiving, by the GPS receiver of the
EOTU, second GPS data; and (d) setting, by the controller, based on
the second GPS data received in step (c), a second, different mode
of operation of the electrical/electronic device or system of the
EOTU that is different than the first mode of operation.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein each GPS data includes a
timestamp, data from which the GPS receiver can determine its
geographical location, or both.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the first and second modes of
operation of the EOTU are based on the geographic location, or
timestamp, or both determined from each GPS data and include at
least one of the following: first and second data transmission
rates of an EOTU communication device; first and second power
levels of data transmission of the EOTU communication device; first
and second handshake periods of the EOTU communication device with
another communication device; a lamp of the EOTU changing state
from off to on, or vice versa; transmitting or withholding a
request to the other communication device to output a command for
the EOTU to change the state of the lamp off to on, or vice versa;
the EOTU periodically or aperiodically transmitting data, wherein
the interval between sequential data transmissions is changed
between a first interval of time and a second interval of time; the
EOTU periodically or aperiodically acquiring data, wherein the
interval between sequential data acquisitions is changed between
the first interval of time and the second interval of time; the
EOTU transmitting and not transmitting images acquired by a camera;
the EOTU acquiring and not acquiring data from a remote data
source; and the EOTU communication device's use and non-use of a
cellular telephone transceiver at part of a communication
channel.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the communication channel is a
wired communication channel, a wireless (radio) communication
channel, or a combination of a wired and wireless (radio)
communication channel.
18. A method of controlling operation of an end-of-train unit
(EOTU) of a train during travel of the train on a path, the EOTU
device comprising a controller including one or more processors,
the method comprising: (a) in response to travel of the train by a
first geographical location, the controller setting a function of
the EOTU to a first mode of operation in response to a first signal
received by the EOTU; and (b) in response to travel of the train by
a second geographical location, the controller setting the function
of the EOTU to a second, different mode of operation in response to
a second signal received by the EOTU.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein each signal is received by a
receiver of the EOTU.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the receiver is at least one of
the following: a GPS receiver and/or a radio receiver.
21. The method of claim 18, wherein the first and second modes of
operation include one of the following: first and second data
transmission rates of an EOTU communication device; first and
second power levels of data transmission of the EOTU communication
device; first and second handshake periods of the EOTU
communication device with another communication device; a lamp of
the EOTU changing state from off to on, or vice versa; the EOTU
transmitting or withholding a request to the other communication
device to output a command for the EOTU to change the state of the
lamp off to on, or vice versa; an interval between sequential data
transmissions changing from a first interval of time to a second
interval of time; an interval between sequential data acquisitions
changing from a first interval of time to a second interval of
time; the EOTU transmitting and not transmitting images acquired by
a camera; the EOTU acquiring and not acquiring data from a remote
data source; and the EOTU communication device's use and non-use of
a cellular telephone transceiver at part of a communication
channel.
22. The method of claim 18, wherein the first signal is received
from one or more GPS transmitters or a head-of-train unit (HOTU) of
the train
23. The method of claim 18, wherein the second signal is received
from the one or more GPS transmitters or the head-of-train unit
(HOTU) of the train.
24. The method of claim 18, wherein at least one of the first and
second signals is received from a source remote from the EOTU via a
wired connection, or a wireless connection, or the combination of a
wired connection and a wireless connection.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[0001] The present invention relates to dynamically changing one or
more modes of operation of an end-of-train unit (EOTU) based on a
geographical location of the EOTU, a time of day at said
geographical location, or both.
Description of Related Art
[0002] Existing EOTUs are limited to a single configuration profile
or mode of operation defined for an entire cycle of train
operation. It is only between cycles of train operation that a new
configuration profile may be uploaded to or programmed in the EOTU
for a subsequent cycle of train operation. In some non-limiting
embodiments or examples, a cycle of train operation can include
travel of the train between a starting location and a destination
location, with or without stops along the way between the starting
location and the destination location.
[0003] A drawback to an EOTU operating in a single mode for the
entire cycle of train operation is that one or more conditions
during travel of the train on the track while the EOTU is operating
in the single mode of operation may change based on location and/or
time of day (and optionally a date associated with said time of
day) whereupon one or more different aspects, features, or
parameters of the mode of operation could benefit from a change in
the mode of operation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Generally, provided, in some preferred and non-limiting
embodiments or examples, is a method of selecting a mode of
operation of an end-of-train unit (EOTU) based on positions of the
train and, more particularly, positions of the EOTU and/or times of
day.
[0005] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the method may
be executed in software by a controller that includes one or more
processors and a memory.
[0006] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the positions
of the EOTU can be determined from GPS data included (modulated) in
or on one or more GPS signals. In an example, the GPS signals can
be received by a GPS receiver that is part of or in communication
with the EOTU.
[0007] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the GPS
signals can be received by a GPS receiver that is part of or in
communication with a head-of-train unit (HOTU) of the train. In an
example, the HOTU can be (and typically is) part of a locomotive of
the train. The HOTU can include one or more processors and a
memory.
[0008] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the position
of the EOTU can be determined from data included in the GPS signals
received by the GPS receiver of the HOTU with reference to
information in a track database stored in a memory accessible to
the controller regarding a section of track being traversed by the
train and/or an estimate of the length of the train.
[0009] Herein, the controller can comprise one or more of the
processors of HOTU and EOTU coupled to one or more memories of HOTU
and EOTU.
[0010] In an example, the length of the train can be determined or
estimated from the number of cars of the train. The track database
can include information regarding at least a section of track being
traversed by the train, such as, without limitation, the geography,
the topography and/or one or more distances between one or more
locations of the section of track. Using the estimated length of
the train and the distance information stored in the track
database, the geographical location of the EOTU at or about the
time the GPS data was received by the GPS receiver that is part of
or in communication with the HOTU can be determined (taking into
account the time to process the received GPS data and to calculate
the geographical location of the EOTU from the track database
information).
[0011] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the EOTU can
dynamically switch between one or more configuration profiles or
modes of operation based on information in GPS signals that can be
received occasionally, periodically, or aperiodically. In some
non-limiting embodiments or examples, information included in
received GPS signals can be used with the information stored in the
track database to determine when the train and/or EOTU is at or is
approaching a geographical location where it would be desirable to
switch from at least one configuration profile or mode of operation
to another. In this way, the EOTU can operate according to
predefined sets of parameters and switch from one configuration
profile or mode of operation to another based on geographical
location.
[0012] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the
information included in received GPS signals can include time(s) of
day which can be used by the EOTU to switch from one configuration
profile or mode of operation to another. The time(s) of day can be
used in combination with or independent of the geographical
location of the EOTU to switch from one configuration profile or
mode of operation to another. Herein, "configuration profile" and
"mode of operation" may sometimes be used interchangeably.
[0013] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the EOTU
switching from one or more configuration profiles or modes of
operation to another can be performed by the EOTU autonomously with
or without input from external systems, such as, a head-of-train
unit (HOTU).
[0014] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, an EOTU in
accordance with the principles described herein can operate in a
first mode of operation, acting in similar fashion as an existing
EOTU, and can switch to a second mode of operation when a first
particular geographical location and/or time is reached.
Thereafter, the EOTU in accordance with principles described herein
can switch from the second mode of operation to another mode of
operation, including the first mode of operation, when a second
particular geographical location and/or time is reached.
[0015] In an example, in the software running on the EOTU, a
configuration profile may include a first set of parameters that
includes at least one flag or bit that can be set in a first state,
e.g., "0", or a second state, e.g., "1", to change a function of
the EOTU between first and second modes of operation. However, this
is not to be construed in a limiting sense since it is envisioned
that the first and second modes of operation can be set in software
in any suitable and/or desirable manner.
[0016] Examples of such EOTU functions that can be changed can
include, for example, without limitation: first and second data
transmission rates of an EOTU communication device; first and
second power levels of data transmission of the EOTU communication
device; first and second handshake periods of the EOTU
communication device with another communication device; a lamp of
the EOTU changing state from off to on, or vice versa; transmitting
or withholding a request to the other communication device to
output a command for the EOTU to change the state of the lamp off
to on, or vice versa; the EOTU periodically or aperiodically
transmitting data, wherein the interval between sequential data
transmissions is changed between a first interval of time and a
second interval of time; the EOTU periodically or aperiodically
acquiring data, wherein the interval between sequential data
acquisitions is changed between the first interval of time and the
second interval of time; the EOTU transmitting and not transmitting
images acquired by a camera; the EOTU acquiring and not acquiring
data from a remote data source; and the EOTU communication device's
use and non-use of a cellular telephone transceiver at part of a
communication channel. In some non-limiting embodiments or
examples, an EOTU can include at least two configuration profiles.
In an example, the first configuration profile, e.g., corresponding
to a first state, can include a communication device of the EOTU,
e.g., a wireless radio transceiver, operating at a first output
power level, e.g., 2 watts. The second configuration profile, e.g.,
corresponding to a second state, can include the communication
device of the EOTU operating at a second output power level, e.g.,
8 watts.
[0017] In an example, a first configuration profile can include a
first data transmission rate from the EOTU to the HOTU, or vice
versa, while a second configuration profile can include a second,
faster or slower, data transmission rate from the EOTU to the HOTU,
or vice versa. In an example, the same frequency can be used with
the first and second data transmission rates.
[0018] In an example, a first configuration profile can include a
first data logging rate and/or log content of the EOTU that is
based on the received GPS data while a second configuration profile
can include a second data logging rate and/or log content. Examples
of first and second log rates and/or log content may include,
without limitation: changing the frequency of logs generated for
self-diagnosis or data gathering; enable/disable selected logs from
being created to gather data, or save disk space and computing
power; change the level of event logging to gather more or less
data; and/or change the location of data logging from saving
internally to EOTU to sending data out to a Back Office.
[0019] Examples of one or more events that may be logged can
include, without limitation: the EOTU receives a communications
test message from the HOTU and the EOTU responds; the EOTU receives
an Emergency message from the HOTU and the EOTU triggers the brakes
and responds to the HOTU with the results; the EOTU sends and
ARMing request to the HOTU and waits for the response from the
HOTU; the EOTU senses motion and sends a motion status to the HOTU;
the EOTU senses change in level of lumens (brightness) of an EOTU
lamp and sends a status to the HOTU; the EOTU detects a change in
its configuration; the EOTU detects a low level of a battery of the
EOTU; the EOTU detects an the EOTU operator button being pressed;
the EOTU detects a change in the air pressure in a brake pipe and
changes mode of operation; and/or the EOTU detects connection to an
external power source and changes mode of operation.
[0020] In an example, the choice between first and a second
configuration profiles may be based on a geography or features of a
segment of the track on which the train is travelling or about to
travel. For example, if, based on the received GPS data, it is
determined with reference to the track database (which may include,
for geographical sections or locations along the length of the
track the train is travelling, one or more relations between each
said geographical section or location and one or more configuration
profiles e.g., the data transmission rate and/or power level, that
the EOTU is in or approaching an area where switching from first to
second data transmission rates and/or from first to second power
levels is desired, the communication device of the EOTU can be
switched from the first data transmission rate and/or the first
power level to the second data transmission rate and/or the second
power level. An example of where it may be desired to switch from
the first data transmission rate and/or the first power level to
the second data transmission rate and/or the second power level may
include, for example, a known noisy wireless transmission
environment (such as an urban environment) or a canyon where
communication between the EOTU and HOTU may be adversely by hills
or mountains forming the canyon.
[0021] In another example, the EOTU switching between a first
configuration profile and a second configuration profile can be
based on time/date and/or location determined visibility conditions
and/or detecting a light sensor failure whereupon a
high-visibility-marker (HVM) can be turned on in response. For
example, for a particular time/date and/or location of the EOTU
determined from the received GPS data, it may be determined that it
is night time (e.g., on a particular calendar date) or that the
EOTU is in an area where there is limited ambient light (even
during daylight hours), whereupon the EOTU may turn on the HVM.
[0022] Further preferred and non-limiting embodiments or examples
are set forth in the following numbered clauses.
[0023] Clause 1: A method of controlling operation of an
end-of-train unit (EOTU) of a train during travel of the train on a
path, the method comprising: (a) determining by a controller,
comprising one or more processors, from first GPS data received by
a GPS receiver of the EOTU, a first geographical location of the
EOTU; (b) causing by the controller an electrical/electronic device
or system of the EOTU to operate in a first mode of operation on
the basis of the first geographical location of the EOTU determined
in step (a); (c) following travel of the train on the path after
step (b), determining by the controller, from second GPS data
received by the GPS receiver of the EOTU, a second geographical
location of the EOTU; (d) causing by the controller the
electrical/electronic device or system of the EOTU to operate in a
second mode of operation that is different than the first mode of
operation on the basis of the second geographical location of the
EOTU determined in step (c).
[0024] Clause 2: The method of clause 1, wherein: the
electrical/electronic device or system comprises an EOTU
communication device that is operative for communicating with a
head-of-train unit (HOTU) via a communication channel; the first
mode of operation includes the EOTU communication device
communicating with the HOTU at a first data transmission rate; and
the second mode of operation includes the EOTU communication device
communicating with the HOTU at a second, different data
transmission rate, wherein the communication channel is a wired
communication channel, a wireless (radio) communication channel, or
a combination of a wired and wireless (radio) communication
channel.
[0025] Clause 3: The method of clause 1 or 2, wherein the EOTU
communication device comprises a transmitter or a transceiver and
the HOTU comprises a HOTU communication device comprising a
receiver or a transceiver.
[0026] Clause 4: The method of any one of clauses 1-3, wherein: the
electrical/electronic device or system comprises an EOTU
communication device that is operative for communicating with a
head-of-train unit (HOTU) via a communication channel; the first
mode of operation includes the EOTU communication device operating
at a first transmission power level; and the second mode of
operation includes the EOTU communication device operating at a
second, different transmission power level, wherein the
communication channel is a wired communication channel, a wireless
(radio) communication channel, or a combination of a wired and
wireless (radio) communication channel.
[0027] Clause 5: The method of any one of clauses 1-4, wherein: the
electrical/electronic device or system comprises an EOTU
communication device that is operative for communicating with
head-of-train unit (HOTU) via a communication channel; the first
mode of operation includes a first handshake period between the
EOTU communication device and the HOTU; and the second mode of
operation includes a second, different handshake period between the
EOTU communication device and the HOTU.
[0028] Clause 6: The method any one of clauses 1-5, further
including: the controller determining from the first and second GPS
data, respective, first and second times of day, wherein: the
electrical/electronic device or system is a lamp; the lamp is
operated in the first mode of operation based on the first
geographical location of the EOTU, the first time of day, or both;
and the lamp is operated in the second mode of operation based on
the second geographical location of the EOTU, the second time of
day, or both wherein: the first and second modes of operation are
the lamp are on and off, or vice versa.
[0029] Clause 7: The method any one of clauses 1-6, further
including: the controller determining that a light sensor for
controlling the first and second modes of operation of the lamp
based on ambient light is not functioning; and the controller
determining with reference to data stored in a memory regarding the
lamp being in the first or second mode of operation for each
combination of geographical location, time of day, or both and
bypassing the light sensor and controlling the lamp to be in the
first or second mode of operation based on said referenced
data.
[0030] Clause 8: The method any one of clauses 1-7, wherein: the
electrical/electronic device or system comprises the controller and
an EOTU communication device that are operative for communicating
via a communication channel with a head-of-train unit (HOTU); the
second mode of operation comprises the controller, via the EOTU
communication device, communicating to the HOTU via the
communication channel a first signal (request) for the HOTU to
transmit to the controller a second signal to change a state of a
lamp of the EOTU from on to off, or vice versa; and the first mode
of operation comprises the controller, via the EOTU communication
device, not communicating the first signal (request) to the HOTU,
wherein the communication channel is a wired communication channel,
a wireless (radio) communication channel, or a combination of a
wired and wireless (radio) communication channel.
[0031] Clause 9: The method any one of clauses 1-8, wherein: the
electrical/electronic device or system comprises the controller and
an EOTU communication device that are operative for communicating
via a communication channel with a back office; the first mode of
operation comprises the controller, via the EOTU communication
device, periodically or aperiodically communicating first
sequential set(s) of train information to the back office via the
communication channel at or within a first interval of time; and
the second mode of operation comprises the controller, via the EOTU
communication device, periodically or aperiodically communicating
second sequential set(s) of train information to the back office
via the communication channel at or within a second, different
interval of time, wherein: the communication channel is a wired
communication channel, a wireless (radio) communication channel, or
a combination of a wired and wireless (radio) communication
channel. Each set of train information can include, for example,
one or more of: communication quality, train speed determined from
received GPS data, train speed profile, train/locomotive ID, the
current location of HOTU, and/or the current location of EOTU.
However, these examples of train information are not to be
construed in a limiting sense.
[0032] Clause 10: The method any one of clauses 1-9, wherein: the
electrical/electronic device or system comprises the controller;
the first mode of operation comprises the controller periodically
or aperiodically acquiring data from or about one or more train
devices at or within a first interval of time (e.g., a first data
logging rate); and the second mode of operation comprises the
controller periodically or aperiodically acquiring data from or
about the one or more train devices at or within a second,
different interval of time (e.g., a second data logging rate),
wherein: the second interval of time is greater than or less than
the first interval of time; and the train devices comprise one or
more of: the state of a battery of the EOTU, a state of a GPS
receiver, air pressure in a brake pipe, a state of a brake pipe
valve, the operation of a radio, a current data transmission rate
of the radio, a current power level used by the radio, a current
handshake period between radios, and the like. However, this list
of devices is not to be construed in a limiting sense. In an
example, the first interval of time between sequential acquisitions
of data may be 5 minutes while the second interval of time between
sequential acquisitions of data may be 10 minutes. However, this is
not to be construed in a limiting sense.
[0033] Clause 11. The method any one of clauses 1-10, wherein: the
electrical/electronic device or system comprises an EOTU camera;
the first mode of operation comprises a first set of images
acquired by the EOTU camera to be transmitted to or not transmitted
to a head-of-train unit (HOTU) via a communication channel; and the
second mode of operation comprises a second set of images acquired
by the EOTU camera to be the other of transmitted to or not
transmitted to the HOTU via the communication channel, wherein the
communication channel is a wired communication channel, a wireless
(radio) communication channel, or a combination of a wired and
wireless (radio) communication channel.
[0034] Clause 12: The method any one of clauses 1-11, further
including the controller determining from the first and second GPS
data, respective, first and second times of day, wherein: the
electrical/electronic device or system comprises the controller and
an EOTU communication device that are operative for: in the first
mode of operation acquiring or not acquiring data from a remote
data source via a communication channel based on the first
geographical location of the EOTU, the first time of day, or both
and; in the second mode of operation the other of acquiring data or
not acquiring data via the communication channel from the remote
data source based on a second combination including the second
geographical location of the EOTU, the second time of day, or both,
wherein the communication channel is a wired communication channel,
a wireless (radio) communication channel, or a combination of a
wired and wireless (radio) communication channel.
[0035] Clause 13: The method of any one of clauses 1-12, wherein:
the electrical/electronic device or system comprises a cellular
telephone transceiver; the first mode of operation comprises the
controller, via a EOTU communication device, communicating with a
back office via a first wireless communication channel; and the
second mode of operation comprises the controller, via the EOTU
communication device, communicating with the back office via a
second wireless communication channel, wherein when the first
communication channel uses the cellular telephone transceiver the
second communication channel does not use the cellular telephone
transceiver, or vice versa.
[0036] Clause 14: A method of controlling operation of an
end-of-train unit (EOTU) of a train during travel of the train on a
path, the EOTU comprising one or more processors, the method
comprising: (a) receiving, by a GPS receiver of the EOTU, first GPS
data; (b) setting by a controller, based on the first GPS data
received in step (a), a first mode of operation of an
electrical/electronic device or system of the EOTU; (c) after
travel of the train on the path following step (b), receiving by
the GPS receiver of the EOTU, second GPS data; and (d) setting by
the controller, based on the second GPS data received in step (c),
a second, different mode of operation of the electrical/electronic
device or system of the EOTU that is different than the first mode
of operation.
[0037] Clause 15: The method of clause 14, wherein each GPS data
includes a timestamp, data from which the GPS receiver can
determine its geographical location, or both.
[0038] Clause 16: The method of clause 14 or 15, wherein the first
and second modes of operation of the EOTU are based on the
geographic location, or timestamp, or both determined from each GPS
data and include at least one of the following: first and second
data transmission rates of an EOTU communication device; first and
second power levels of data transmission of the EOTU communication
device; first and second handshake periods of the EOTU
communication device with another communication device; a lamp of
the EOTU changing state from off to on, or vice versa; transmitting
or withholding a request to the other communication device to
output a command for the EOTU to change the state of the lamp off
to on, or vice versa; the EOTU periodically or aperiodically
transmitting data, wherein the interval between sequential data
transmissions is changed between a first interval of time and a
second interval of time; the EOTU periodically or aperiodically
acquiring data, wherein the interval between sequential data
acquisitions is changed between the first interval of time and the
second interval of time; the EOTU transmitting and not transmitting
images acquired by a camera; the EOTU acquiring and not acquiring
data from a remote data source; and the EOTU communication device's
use and non-use of a cellular telephone transceiver at part of a
communication channel.
[0039] Clause 17: The method any one of clauses 14-16, wherein the
communication channel is a wired communication channel, a wireless
(radio) communication channel, or a combination of a wired and
wireless (radio) communication channel.
[0040] Clause 18: A method of controlling operation of an
end-of-train unit (EOTU) of a train during travel of the train on a
path, the EOTU comprising a controller including one or more
processors, the method comprising: (a) in response to travel of the
train by a first geographical location, the controller setting a
function of the EOTU to a first mode of operation in response to a
first signal received by the EOTU; and (b) in response to travel of
the train by a second geographical location, the controller setting
the function of the EOTU to a second, different mode of operation
in response to a second signal received by the EOTU.
[0041] Clause 19: The method of clause 18, wherein each signal is
received by a receiver of the EOTU.
[0042] Clause 20: The method of clause 18 or 19, wherein the
receiver is at least one of the following: a GPS receiver and/or a
radio receiver.
[0043] Clause 21: The method of any one of clauses 18-20, wherein
the first and second mode of operation include one of the
following: first and second data transmission rates of an EOTU
communication device; first and second power levels of data
transmission of the EOTU communication device; first and second
handshake periods of the EOTU communication device with another
communication device; a lamp of the EOTU changing state from off to
on, or vice versa; the EOTU transmitting or withholding a request
to the other communication device to output a command for the EOTU
to change the state of the lamp off to on, or vice versa; an
interval between sequential data transmissions changing from a
first interval of time to a second interval of time; an interval
between sequential data acquisitions changing from a first interval
of time to a second interval of time; the EOTU transmitting and not
transmitting images acquired by a camera; the EOTU acquiring and
not acquiring data from a remote data source; and the EOTU
communication device's use and non-use of a cellular telephone
transceiver at part of a communication channel.
[0044] Clause 22: The method of any one of clauses 18-21, wherein
the first signal is received from one or more GPS transmitters or a
head-of-train unit (HOTU) of the train
[0045] Clause 23: The method of any one of clauses 18-22, wherein
the second signal is received from the one or more GPS transmitters
or the HOTU of the train.
[0046] Clause 24: The method of any one of clauses 18-23, wherein
at least one of the first and second signals is received from a
source remote from the EOTU via a wired connection, or a wireless
connection, or the combination of a wired connection and a wireless
connection.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING(S)
[0047] FIG. 1 is a schematic, side-view, of a train, including a
locomotive and a number of cars, showing non-limiting example
locations of a head-of-train unit (HOTU) and an end-of-train unit
(EOTU) in accordance with the principles of the present
invention;
[0048] FIG. 2 is schematic illustration of the HOTU and EOTU of
FIG. 1 including a communication channel that may be used alone or
in combination by a radio of the EOTU for communication in
accordance with the principles of the present invention;
[0049] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of an example method in accordance
with the principles of the present invention;
[0050] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of an example method in accordance
with the principles of the present invention; and
[0051] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of an example method in accordance
with the principles of the present invention;
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0052] Various non-limiting examples will now be described with
reference to the accompanying figures where like reference numbers
correspond to like or functionally equivalent elements.
[0053] 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 example(s) as oriented in the drawing figures.
However, it is to be understood that the example(s) may assume
various alternative variations and step sequences, except where
expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood
that the specific example(s) illustrated in the attached drawings,
and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary
examples or aspects of the invention. Hence, the specific examples
or aspects disclosed herein are not to be construed as
limiting.
[0054] With reference to FIG. 1, in some non-limiting embodiments
or examples, a train 2 can include a locomotive 4 and a number of
cars 6-1-6-X, where "X" can be any whole number greater than or
equal to 2. In the example train 2 shown in FIG. 1, locomotive 4 is
the lead vehicle of the train and car 6-X is the last vehicle of
train 2. However, this is not to be construed in a limiting sense
since it is envisioned that the lead vehicle of train 2 can be a
car 6 other than locomotive 4, e.g., locomotive 4 can be positioned
in train 2 between the lead vehicle and the last vehicle. For the
purposes of the following description, locomotive 4 will be the
lead vehicle of train 2.
[0055] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, train 2 can
include a brake pipe 10 which runs the length of the train between
locomotive 4 and car 6-X. In an example, brake pipe 10 can be
pressurized with air from a compressor 14 which can be disposed in
locomotive 4. In some non-limiting embodiments or example, train 2
can include a head-of-train unit (HOTU) 8 disposed in locomotive 4
and an end-of-train unit (EOTU) unit 12 disposed in car 6-X. In
some non-limiting embodiments or examples, one of the functions of
HOTU 8 is to control the air pressure in brake pipe 10 thereby
controlling the application of the brakes of the train. In an
example, HOTU 8 may control the air pressure in brake pipe 10 via a
valve 9. More specifically, when valve 9 is open, pressurized air
in brake pipe 10 is allowed to vent atmosphere. In contrast, when
valve 9 is closed the air pressure in brake pipe 10 is increased by
the operation of compressor 14. HOTU 8 can be coupled to valve 9 in
a manner to control the open and closed states thereof.
[0056] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, when it is
desired to make a brake application, HOTU 8 can cause valve 9 to
open thereby reducing the brake pipe air pressure whereupon the
brakes of the train increase to a level related to the pressure of
air in brake pipe 10. In order to release the brakes, HOTU 8 can
cause valve 9 to switch to a closed state whereupon air generated
by compressor 14 charges the brake pipe 10 with pressurized air.
The operation of HOTU 8 to open and close valve 9 can be under the
control of an operator via a human machine interface (not
specifically disclosed herein).
[0057] One of the drawbacks of controlling the air pressure in
brake pipe 10 via valve 9 is reaction time. For example, for trains
with, for example, 100 or more cars, it can take up to two minutes
or more from the time valve 9 is set to an open state for the
reduction in brake pipe 10 air pressure to propagate from
locomotive 4 to car 6-X at the tail end of the train. This results
in cars 6 applying brakes at different points of time which can
result in uneven braking and significant in-train forces to
couplers 16 of train 2. In order to reduce this propagation delay,
an EOTU 12 can be provided on car 6-X at the tail end of train 2
which can be operatively coupled to a valve 13 (similar to valve
9). Operating under the direction of HOTU 8, EOTU 12 can control
the open and closed states of valve 13 (desirably in
synchronization with) the open and closed states of valve 9 being
controlled by HOTU 8 in order to reduce the propagation delay in
the brake pipe air pressure discussed above.
[0058] The foregoing description of HOTU 8 controlling valve 9 and
EOTU 12 controlling valve 13, desirably in synchronization with
HOTU 8 controlling valve 9, is but one non-limiting embodiment or
example of how HOTU 8 and EOTU 12 may be used and is not to be
construed in a limiting sense. For example, in some non-limiting
embodiments or examples, HOTU 8 may only monitor brake pipe
pressure and forward the said monitored brake pipe pressure to
another system (not shown) which controls valve 9.
[0059] With reference to FIG. 2 and with continuing reference to
FIG. 1, in some non-limiting embodiments or examples, HOTU 8 can
include a radio 26 and EOTU 12 can include a radio 28. In an
example, radios 26 and 28 can be in wireless communication with
each other whereupon messages, signals, and data can be wirelessly
transferred between HOTU 8 and EOTU 12.
[0060] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, HOTU 8 and
EOTU 12 can each include a processor 18 and a memory 20 coupled to
processor 18 and operative for storing one or more software control
programs and/or operational data. Each radio 26 and 28 can be
operated by its corresponding processor to pass messages, signals,
and/or data between HOTU 8 and EOTU 12 in a manner known in the
art.
[0061] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, "controller"
can include one or more processors of HOTU 8 and/or EOTU 12. Hence,
when discussing processing by a controller, it is to be understood
that such processing can be performed by either one or both of
processors 18 of HOTU 8 and EOTU 12. However, this is not to be
construed in a limiting sense.
[0062] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, EOTU 12 may
include a GPS receiver 24. In an example, GPS receiver 24 can
receive from one or more GPS transmitters 30 (e.g., GPS
satellites), GPS signals which include GPS data from which GPS
receiver 24 can determine its geographical location on or about the
time the GPS signals are received by GPS receiver 24. In some
non-limiting embodiments or examples, the GPS signals received by
GPS receiver 24 can also include time data from which a time of day
and, optionally, a current calendar date can be determined for the
current location of GPS receiver at the geographical location.
[0063] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, EOTU 12 may
include one or more electrical/electronic devices or systems, some
of which will be described hereinafter. These one or more other
electrical/electronic devices or systems can be operated in
different modes of operation depending on the geographical location
of EOTU 12 determined from GPS data received by GPS receiver 24.
Examples of changing the operational modes of the one or more
electrical/electronic devices or systems of EOTU 12 will now be
described. In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the one or
more electrical/electronic devices or systems may include radio 28.
However, this is not to be construed in a limiting sense.
[0064] With reference to FIG. 3 and with continuing reference to
FIGS. 1 and 2, in some non-limiting embodiments or examples, a
method of controlling the operation of EOTU 12 during travel of the
train on a path can include the method advancing from a start step
34 to a step 36 wherein a first geographical location of EOTU 12 is
determined from first GPS data received by GPS receiver 24.
[0065] The method can then advance to step 38 wherein, based on the
first geographical location of the EOTU determined in step 36, a
controller of EOTU 12 causes an electrical/electronic device or
system of the EOTU to operate in the first mode of operation on the
basis of the first geographical location of the EOTU 12 determined
in step 36.
[0066] The method can then advance to step 40 wherein, following
travel of the train on the path (e.g., a length of track) after
step 38, the controller can determine from second GPS data received
by the GPS receiver 24, a second geographical location of the EOTU
12. The method can then advance to step 42 wherein the controller
causes the electrical/electronic device or system of EOTU 12 to
operate in a second mode of operation that is different from the
first mode of operation on the basis of the second geographical
location of EOTU 12 determined in step 40. The method can then
advance to a stop step 44. In some non-limiting embodiments or
examples, the steps of the method of FIG. 3 may be repeated as
often as is deemed suitable and/or desirable for particular
application(s) and/or environment(s). Accordingly, the description
of the method of FIG. 3 including stop step 44 is not to be
construed in a limiting sense.
[0067] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the electrical
or electronic device or system can comprise an EOTU communication
device, such as radio 28, that can be operative for communicating
with HOTU 8, in particular, radio 26 of HOTU 8 via a communication
channel 32. In an example, communication channel 32 can be a
wireless (radio) communication channel. However, this is not to be
construed in a limiting sense since it is envisioned that all or
part of communication channel 32 may be a wired connection, e.g.,
without limitation, a coaxial cable. In other words, communication
channel may be a wired communication channel, a wireless (radio
communication) channel, or a combination of a wired and wireless
communication channel.
[0068] In an example, the first mode of operation can include the
EOTU communication device, e.g., radio 28, communicating with HOTU
8, in particular, radio 26 of HOTU 8, at first data transmission
rate. The second mode of operation can include radio 28
communicating with radio 26 of HOTU 8 at a second, different data
transmission rate.
[0069] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the different
data transmission rates may be used (e.g., at the same carrier
frequency of communication channel 32) where, based on the first
and second geographical locations determined from the GPS data
received by GPS receiver 24, it may be desirable to transmit data
at a slower data transmission rate due to the potential for noise
in the environment, especially where communication channel 32 is at
least in part a wireless communication channel that can be
adversely affected by such noise.
[0070] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the controller
can have access to a database stored in, for example, memory 20 of
EOTU 12. The database can include a list of geographical locations
and, for each geographical location, one or more desired
operational states of the one or more electrical/electronic devices
or systems of EOTU 12 corresponding to geographical locations of
EOTU 12 determined from the GPS data received by GPS receiver 24.
For example, when train 2 is traveling on the path and EOTU 12
enters a geographical region that includes the first geographical
location, the controller can be programmed or configured to
determine from the database that the electrical/electronic device
or system of EOTU 12 is to operate in the first mode of operation.
Moreover, as the train 2 travels further down the path and the
controller determines that EOTU 12 is at the second geographical
location, the controller can be programmed or configured to
determine from the database that the electrical/electronic device
or system of EOTU 12 is to operate in the second mode of operation,
different than the first mode of operation.
[0071] In this example, the first geographical region may be a
region that includes a noisy environment for wireless data
transmission. In this example, upon the controller determining that
EOTU 12 is at a first geographical location within the first
geographical region, the controller can cause radio 28 to operate
in a first mode of operation that may be a slower data transmission
rate that facilitates communication of data between radios 28 and
26 in such noisy environment. In an example, upon the controller
determining that EOTU 12 is at the second geographical location
which is outside of the first geographical region having the noisy
wireless data transmission environment (e.g., a less noisy wireless
data transmission environment), the controller can cause radio 28
to communicate with radio 26 at a second, greater data transmission
rate. This example assumed that the second geographical location
was a less noisy environment for wireless data transmission.
However, this is not to be construed in a limiting sense since it
is envisioned that the second geographical location may be even a
more noisy wireless data transmission environment than the first
geographical location. Accordingly, the data transmission rate may
be further reduced upon the controller determining that EOTU 12 is
at the second geographical location. Hence, in an example, as train
2 moves between different geographical locations, as determined
from GPS data received from GPS receiver 24, the operational modes
of one or more of the electrical/electronic devices or systems of
EOTU 12 can be changed. In some non-limiting embodiments or
examples, the same carrier frequency may be used with the first and
second data transmission rates.
[0072] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, radio 28 can
comprise a transmitter or transceiver and radio 26 can comprise a
receiver or a transceiver.
[0073] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the first mode
of operation can include the EOTU communication device, in an
example, radio 28, operating at a first transmission power level.
The second mode of operation can include radio 28 operating at a
second, different transmission power level. In an example, a lower
transmission power level (e.g., 2 watts) may be in an environment
having less noise while a higher transmission power level (e.g., 8
watts) may be in an environment having more noise. However, this is
not to be construed in a limiting sense.
[0074] In some non-limiting embodiments or example, the first mode
of operation can include a first handshake period between radio 28
and radio 26 and the second mode of operation can include the
second, different handshake period. In an example, the first
handshake period, e.g., in a noisy environment, may include a
handshake between radios 28 and 26 very 5 seconds while the second
handshake period e.g., in a less noisy environment, may include
handshake between radios 28 and 26 very 10 seconds.
[0075] As noted above, the geographical regions related to the
first and second geographical locations and/or the first and second
geographical locations can be stored in the database and can be
used as a basis for determining when to change the operational mode
of any one or more of the electrical/electronic device or system of
EOTU 12. In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the
controller can determine from the first and second GPS data
respective first and second times of day in addition to first and
second geographical locations of the EOTU 12. In some non-limiting
embodiments or examples, the database may include, for each
geographical location, a set of dates/times of day when it is
daylight or night time in said geographical location. Each set of
dates/times of day can be utilized by the controller to determine
when to have an electrical/electronic device or system operating in
the first mode of operation or the second mode of operation.
[0076] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the
electrical/electronic device or system can be a lamp 44, also known
as a high visibility marker (HVM). In an example, lamp 44 can be
operated in the first mode of operation based on the first
geographical location of the EOTU, the first time of day, or both.
The lamp can be operated in the second mode of operation based on
the second geographical location of EOTU 12, the second time of
day, or both. In this example, the first and second modes of
operation can be the lamp being on and off, or vice versa.
[0077] In an example, the decision to operate lamp 44 in the first
or second modes of operation can be based on the geographical
location of EOTU 12, for example, in a tunnel, where the lamp is
illuminated, or outside of the tunnel, where lamp 44 may be turned
off if, based on the time of day, the controller determines that it
is daylight. In another example, if it is determined that the first
time of day is nighttime, the lamp can be illuminated (turned on)
regardless of the geographical location of EOTU 12. If, based on
the current geographical location of EOTU 12, the controller
determines from that EOTU 12 may be in low ambient light, e.g., in
a tunnel or a canyon the controller can cause lamp 44 to be turned
on. In another example, if the controller determines with reference
to data stored in the database for the second time of day at the
current geographical location of EOTU 12 that it is daylight, lamp
44 may be illuminated only when the geographical location of EOTU
12 is determined to be one where it is desired to have the lamp 44
illuminated, e.g., a tunnel or other location where there is
limited ambient light.
[0078] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, EOTU 12 can
include a light sensor 46 for controlling the on/off state of light
44 based on ambient light received by light sensor 46. If light
sensor 46 is not functioning, however, it would be, nevertheless,
desirable to control the on/off state of lamp 44. In an example,
the controller can determine with reference to data stored in in
the database for each geographical location of EOTU 12, time of
day, or both whether there is a need to have lamp 44 on or off and
can bypass light sensor 46 and cause lamp 44 to be in the first or
second mode of operation based on said reference data. For example,
if light sensor 46 is not operational and the controller determines
from the time of day at the current geographical location of EOTU
12 that it is night, the controller can bypass light sensor 46 and
can cause lamp 44 to be in an on state. In another example, if
light sensor 46 is not operational and the controller determines
from the time of day at the current geographical location of the
EOTU that it is daylight, the controller can bypass light sensor 46
and can cause lamp 44 to be in an off state. In another example,
if, based on the geographical location of EOTU 12 (e.g., a tunnel),
controller determines with reference to the data stored in memory
that it would be desirable to have lamp 44 in an on state
regardless of the time of day, the controller can bypass light
sensor 46 and control lamp 44 to be in the on state.
[0079] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the
electrical/electronic device or system can comprise the combination
of the controller and radio 28 that can be operative for
communicating via communication channel 32 with HOTU 8. In this
example, the second mode of operation can comprise the controller
and radio 28, communicating to HOTU 8 via communication channel 32
a first signal (request) for HOTU 8 to transmit to EOTU 12 a second
signal to change the state of lamp 44 from on to off, or vice
versa. In this example, the first mode of operation can comprise
the controller and radio 28 not communicating (withholding) the
first signal (request) to HOTU 8.
[0080] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the
electrical/electronic device or system can comprise the controller
and radio 28 that can be operative for communicating via a
communication channel 48 with a back office 78. In this example,
the first mode of operation can comprise the controller and radio
28 periodically or aperiodically communicating one or more first
sequential sets of train information to back office 78 via
communication channel 48 at or within a first interval of time. In
an example, the second mode of operation can comprise the
controller and radio 28 periodically or aperiodically communicating
one or more second sequential sets of train information to the back
office 78 via communication channel 48 at or within a second,
different interval of time. In an example, the first interval of
time may be the controller communicating with back office 78 every
five minutes. The second interval of time may be the controller
communicating with back office 78 every ten minutes. However, this
is not to be construed in a limiting sense. In this example, the
first and second sequential sets of train information can be the
same or different. In an example, each set of train information may
include, for example, one or more of communication quality, train
speed determined from received GPS data, train speed profile,
train/locomotive ID, the current location of HOTU 8, and/or the
current location of EOTU 12. However, this is not to be construed
in a limiting sense. Back office 78 may use some or all this
information for coordinating the movement of train 2 in a rail
network.
[0081] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the
electrical/electronic device or system can comprise the controller.
In the first mode of operation, the controller can periodically or
aperiodically acquire data from or about one or more train devices
at or within a first interval of time. In the second mode of
operation, the controller can periodically or aperiodically acquire
data from or about the one or more train devices at or within a
second different interval of time. The second interval of time can
be greater than or less than the first interval of time. In this
example, the first interval of time may be, for example, 5 minutes
and the second interval of time may be, for example, 10 minutes.
However, this is not to be construed in a limiting sense.
[0082] Examples of such train devices and data can include one or
more of: the state of a battery (not shown) of EOTU 12, a state of
GPS receiver 24, air pressure in brake pipe 10, a state of valve 13
or 9, the operational state of radio 28 and/or 26, a current data
transmission rate of radio 28, a current power level used by radio
28, a current handshake period between radios 26 and 28, and the
like. However, this list of devices and data is not to be construed
in a limiting sense.
[0083] In some non-limiting embodiments or example, the
electrical/electronic device or system may comprise a camera 80 of
EOTU. In this example, the first mode of operation can comprise a
first set of images acquired by camera 80 not being transmitted to
HOTU 8 via communication channel 32. The second mode of operation
can comprise a second set of images acquired by camera 80 being
transmitted to HOTU 8 via communication channel 32. In an example,
camera 80 can be programmed, configured, or controlled to
periodically or aperiodically acquire images. In an example, the
first set of images may not contain information deemed by the
controller not to be relevant for the purposes of data logging and
may, therefore, not be transferred. On the other hand, the second
set of images may be deemed desirable to save, e.g., if the images
are recording an event, such as a crash or a derailment event, and
may therefore be transferred to HOTU 8 via communication channel
32.
[0084] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the
electrical/electronic device or system can comprise the combination
of the controller and radio 28. In an example, the first mode of
operation can comprise the controller and radio 26 acquiring or not
acquiring data from a remote data source 82 via a communication
channel 84 based on the first geographical location of EOTU 12, the
first time of day, or both. The second mode of operation can
comprise the other of acquiring data or not acquiring data from the
remote data source 82 via communication channel 84 based on the
second geographical location of EOTU 12, the second time of day, or
both. In an example, communication channels 48 and 84 can be
wireless communication channels. However, this is not to be
construed in a limiting sense since it is envisioned that each
communication channel 48 and 84 may be a wireless communication
channel, a wired communication channel, or a combination of a wired
and wireless communication channel.
[0085] In an example, remote data source 82 may comprise a train
traffic automation system and the data acquired by the controller
from remote data source 82 can include data that is being passed
between EOTU's and HOTU's of one or more other trains in a train
network.
[0086] In some non-limiting embodiments or example, the
electrical/electronic device or system can comprise a cellular
telephone transceiver 86 that is part of or operatively connected
to radio 28. In an example, the controller can cause radio 28 to
utilize cellular transceiver 86 to communicate with back office 78
via a communication channel 88 that can comprise a cellular network
when direct radio communication with back office 78 via
communication channel 48 is unavailable. In an example, the first
mode of operation can comprise the controller via radio 28 and
cellular transceiver 86 communicating with back office 78 via
communication channel 88. In an example, the second mode of
operation can comprise the controller via radio 28 (without using
cellular transceiver 86) communicating with back office 78 via
communication channel 48.
[0087] With reference to FIG. 4 and with continuing reference to
all previous figures, in some non-limiting embodiments or examples,
a method of controlling EOTU 12 can include the method advancing
from a start step 50 to step 52 wherein GPS receiver 24 receives
first GPS data. The method can then advance to step 54 wherein a
controller of EOTU can set a device or system of the EOTU to a
first mode of operation on the basis of the first GPS data. In step
56, after travel of the train on the path following step 54, GPS
receiver 24 can receive second GPS data. In step 58, the
controller, based on the second GPS data can set the device or
system of EOTU 12 to a second mode of operation. The method can
then advance to stop step 60. In some non-limiting embodiments or
examples, the steps of the method of FIG. 4 may be repeated as
often as is deemed suitable and/or desirable for particular
application(s) and/or environment(s). Accordingly, the description
of the method of FIG. 4 including stop step 60 is not to be
construed in a limiting sense.
[0088] In some non-limiting embodiments or example, each GPS data
can include a timestamp or time, and data from which GPS receiver
24 can determine its geographical location, or both. In some
non-limiting embodiments or examples, the first and second modes of
operation can be based on the geographic location of EOTU, or the
timestamp, or both determined from each GPS data. These first and
second modes of operation can include one or more of the following:
first and second data transmission rates of an EOTU communication
device; first and second power levels of data transmission of the
EOTU communication device; first and second handshake periods of
the EOTU communication device with another communication device; a
lamp of the EOTU changing state from off to on, or vice versa;
transmitting or withholding a request to another communication
device to output a command for the EOTU to change the state of the
lamp off to on, or vice versa; the EOTU periodically or
aperiodically transmitting data, wherein the interval between
sequential data transmissions is changed between a first interval
of time and a second interval of time; the EOTU periodically or
aperiodically acquiring data, wherein the interval between
sequential data acquisitions is changed between the first interval
of time and the second interval of time; the EOTU transmitting and
not transmitting images acquired by a camera; the EOTU acquiring
and not acquiring data from a remote data source; and the EOTU
communication device's use and non-use of a cellular telephone
transceiver at part of a communication channel.
[0089] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the
communication channel can be a wired communication channel, a
wireless communication channel, or a combination of a wired and
wireless communication channel.
[0090] With reference to FIG. 5 and with continuing reference to
all previous figures, in some non-limiting embodiments or examples,
a method of controlling the operation of EOTU 12 during travel of
train 2 on the path can include the method advancing from start
step 70 to step 72 wherein the controller of EOTU 12 sets a
function of the EOTU to a first mode of operation in response to a
first signal received by EOTU 12 on the basis of the train
traveling by a first geographical location. In step 74, the
controller sets the function of EOTU 12 to a second, different mode
of operation in the response to a second signal received by EOTU 12
in response to travel of the train by a second geographical
location. The method can then advance to a stop step 76. In some
non-limiting embodiments or examples, the steps of the method of
FIG. 5 may be repeated as often as is deemed suitable and/or
desirable for particular application(s) and/or environment(s).
Accordingly, the description of the method of FIG. 5 including stop
step 76 is not to be construed in a limiting sense.
[0091] In an example, each signal can be received by a receiver of
EOTU 12. In an example, the receiver can be GPS receiver 24 or
radio receiver 28. In some non-limiting embodiments or examples,
where the signal is received by radio receiver 28, data received by
a GPS receiver 22 of HOTU 8 can be communicated to EOTU 12 via
radios 26 and 28. Based on the data received by GPS receiver 22,
from which the current geographical location of HOTU 8 can be
determined, and knowing the length of train 2, the geographical
location of EOTU 12 can be determined, e.g., by reference to a
track database stored in a memory that includes data about the
characteristics (geography and topography) of the path that train 2
is traveling, such as curves, straightaways, and the like.
[0092] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, HOTU 8 may
directly command EOTU 12, via radios 26 and 28, to set the function
of EOTU 12 to a different mode of operation based on data received
by GPS receiver 22, without communicating said received data to
EOTU 12.
[0093] In some non-limiting embodiments or examples, the first and
second modes of operation can include one or more of the following:
first and second data transmission rates of an EOTU communication
device; first and second power levels of data transmission of the
EOTU communication device; first and second handshake periods of
the EOTU communication device with another communication device; a
lamp of the EOTU changing state from off to on, or vice versa; the
EOTU transmitting or withholding a request to the other
communication device to output a command for the EOTU to change the
state of the lamp off to on, or vice versa; an interval between
sequential data transmissions changing from a first interval of
time to a second interval of time; an interval between sequential
data acquisitions changing from a first interval of time to a
second interval of time; the EOTU transmitting and not transmitting
images acquired by a camera; the EOTU acquiring and not acquiring
data from a remote data source; and the EOTU communication device's
use and non-use of a cellular transceiver at part of a
communication channel.
[0094] In this example, the first signal can be received from one
or more GPS transmitters 30 or HOTU 8. Similarly, the second signal
can be received from the one or more GPS transmitters 30 or HOTU 8.
Finally, at least one of the first and second signals can be
received from remote data source 82 via a communication channel 84
which can be a wireless connection, a wired connection, or the
combination of a wireless and wired connection.
[0095] Although the invention has been described in detail for the
purpose of illustration based on what is currently considered to be
the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be
understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the
invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but, on the
contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent
arrangements that are within the spirit and scope of the appended
claims. For example, it is to be understood that the present
invention contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more
features of any embodiment can be combined with one or more
features of any other embodiment.
* * * * *