Automated real-time positive train control track database validation

Abstract

Methods and systems are described that can be used to verify a track database of a train management system, for example that the track database has not been corrupted, built with critical errors, or is not being used properly by the software application. In one embodiment, radio frequency identification (RFID) tags are mounted on the trackside features contained in the track database. The tags contain data such as the geographical coordinates of the trackside features and a unique feature identifier that uniquely identifies the respective feature. As the train passes the trackside feature, a tag reader on the train reads the tag to gather the geographical coordinates and the feature identifier. The train management system then compares the geographical coordinates and/or the feature identifier from the tag with the expected geographical coordinates and/or the expected feature identifier in the track database.

1 . A method comprising:
 as a train is traveling on a railway track and passes a trackside feature disposed adjacent to the railway track, reading a feature identifier that uniquely identifies the trackside feature and geographical coordinates of the trackside feature from a radio frequency identification tag disposed on the trackside feature using a reader located on the train; and   comparing the feature identifier and the geographical coordinates read by the reader with an expected identifier and expected geographical coordinates.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the expected identifier and expected geographical coordinates are calculated by a processor on the train. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the reader is located on the engine of the train, and the tag is located in a vertical orientation on the trackside feature. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 as the train is traveling on a railway track, using the reader to read data from additional radio frequency identification tags that are fixed to additional trackside features.