Topological manifold‐based monitoring method for train‐centric virtual coupling control systems

Abstract

Train-centric virtual coupling is one of the promising techniques available to increase the capacity of the railway, and is much more complex than the existing train control systems. The safety issue for the system needs to be addressed since virtually coupled trains are allowed to run closer than under the traditional fixed/moving block principle. In this study, the authors proposed a topological manifold-based monitoring method to guarantee the safety of the train-centric virtual coupling systems. The basic signalling equipment and dynamic train behaviour are described as topological elements and manifolds. Based on that, several safety monitoring theorems are proved to ensure the safety of the virtual coupling control logic. The theorem for the verification of trains running information is proved, along with theorems for the correctness of the virtual coupling control strategy. The trains' dynamic behaviour under specific control commands can also be supervised by a safety theorem. Finally, a case study is performed to illustrate the proposed method. The results show that the method is feasible for monitoring the train-centric virtual coupling control systems.