Author(s)

F. Mesch, F. Puente Leon & T. Engelberg

Abstract

Train-based location by detecting rail switches R Mesch, F. Puente Leon & T. Engelberg Institutfur Mefi- und Regelungstechnik, University of Karlsruhe, Germany. Abstract The train-based identification of topological and topographic characteristics of the rail track—i.e. rail switches, crossings—represents an important component of fu- ture location systems in guided traffic. For this application, robust sensors capa- ble of working under adverse conditions (e.g. dirt, rain, snow) are needed. Eddy current sensors are completely insensitive to these influences. Such sensors are already part of a newly developed system for slip-free speed and distance mea- surement of rail vehicles by transit-time correlation. The additional use of these sensors to detect switches is a very interesting novel approach, both from a tech- nical and economic point of view. The aim of this paper is to outline the strategy for detecting rail switches. In this context, typical signals are discussed

Keywords