Automated measurement of parameters of track circuits

Abstract

The method of measuring the parameters of track circuits (a time and amplitude parameters of code current, flowing in rail lines, an input impedance of the track circuit, a characteristic impedance , a propagation constant) is considered in this paper. The algorithms of definition of parameters of track circuit (ТС) are elaborated. As a result, the develop hardware-software apparatuses allows you to define by the EMF induced in the two receiving coils separately, the following quantities: the magnitude of the code current for the entire length of the track circuit, the duration of the pulses and pauses for all parcels of code, determine the type of code signal and the type of code track transmitter, coordinate, the length of the TC, serviceability of insulating junctions and electrical connectors. The results of measurements of EMF induced in each of the receiving coils apart, the spectral composition of the noise occurring in the traction network, and harmonic amplitude and impulse noise, the causes of noise in the rail network can be revealed. Algorithm for checking the status of the track circuit involves determining the state of the track circuit and it is carried out on the current curve of the locomotive signalling depending on the coordinates obtained from the measurements. Underestimated the value of ALS current compared with the calculated value indicates an undervalued ballast resistance. The test of offered measuring apparatuses were executed on the Pridneprovsky railway.