Modular Yard Automation (MYA)
In this yard, a 65 car cut
was classified in 25 minutes
Definition
The Global Rail Systems Modular Yard Automation system (MYA) enables a railroad to implement scalable automated solutions to increase safety, productivity and efficiency in any rail yard application.
System Description
Each MYA system is comprised of the following standard and/or optional systems;
1. Switch machine sub-system
2. Communication sub-system
3. Switch occupancy zone sub-system
4. Switch Control sub-system
5. Yard Management software
6. System Components and Features
With the above sub-systems properly integrated, Global Rail Systems provides a scalable process for automating a yard of any size or traffic volume.
1. Switch Machine Sub-System
Global Rail Systems TS-4500 power switch machine is the latest in technology design allowing a cost effective solution to increase safety and reliability in yard and mainline switch control applications. The unique patent pending design incorporates the best practices of applied engineering for force generation and switch point holding force. The reduction of linkages and the use of sealed bearings ensures increased reliability and minimizes maintenance requirements lowering the overall cost of ownership. The direct drive design maximizes the available power for throwing any size switch point. The spring holding force is easily adjusted and will not cause track structure failure due to excessive impact during throwing or while in the holding position. The field serviceable spring assembly allows maximum availability and reliability.
| Global Rail Systems TS-4500 Switch Machine | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | W 38”, D 39 ½”, H 13” |
| Throw Force | Up to 4500 lbs. |
| Spring Holding Force | Self adjusted to 2,000 lbs. |
| Speed of Throw | 2.2 seconds |
| Point Detection | Proximity Sensors |
| Primary Motor Shut Off | Microprocessor based |
| M/W Lock-out Tag-out | Yes |
| Overload Protection | Solid State Timer |
| Local Control | Push Button Toggle |
| Throw Rod Mechanism | Direct Drive Rack & Pinion |
| Power Supply | 12VDC |
| Charging System | Solar or AC |
| Local Control | Push Button Toggle |
| Remote Control | Radio, Data or DTMF |
| Manual Control | Hand Pump |
| Trail-able | Up to 40 mph |
| Environmental Specification | -40F to +130F |
| Event Logging | Up to 15,000 Events |
| Warranty | Two Year Parts and Labor |
Global Rail Systems provides multiple options for switch machines. We can supply the NGS, or the switch machine of your choice.
2. Communication System Sub-System
In a MYA system the communication method depends on how the railroad wants to control the switches in the yard. Global Rail Systems provides either a data or UHF-VHF radio control. If the system is to be controlled from a centrally located control center or a touch screen PC application, the data radio is used. The MYA system can utilize any of the existing serial data protocols that the railroad industry is currently using such as ATCS, Genesis, DT4, DT8, MCS1 etc.
If the switch is to be controlled by a ground crew, a radio is installed that will work with the hand held voice radio. If the railroad is using a VHF radio then we provide the appropriate VHF radio tuned to the frequency that the railroad is licensed to use. The ground crew will use the DTMF key pad on their hand set to send a switch position request.
The MYA system can also utilize telephone modems or fiber optic networks as other means of integrating into a communications network. Once the communications link is established the system will provide normal, reverse, out of correspondence point position indication and Over the Switch Zone (OS) occupancy to the office system.
3. Switch Zone Detection Sub-System System (OS)
In a MYA system, safety is always the first priority in the implementation of our design. Depending on the system requirements, Global Rail Systems/SI can provide a full OS system to prevent the switch from being thrown while the OS is occupied and will also eliminate side swipes. This requires just two insulated joints to be installed on the turnout side of the control point just behind the switch points. A single track circuit can also be utilized to protect the switch from being thrown in the face of a car or while occupied without the need for insulated joints. The track circuits are four wire, closed loop track circuits designed according to AREMA recommended practices.
4. Switch Control Sub-System
The MYA system design uses the Global Logic Controller (GLC) in each switch machine to handle all controls, indications and safety logic. Processor features are listed below:
1. 16 inputs with 12 outputs
2. Expandable I/O
3. Event logging in each switch for up to 15,000 events
4. Programmable in C++, Ladder Logic or CANS (European Standard)
5. Environmental ratings are -40C to +85C
6. Static Voltage rated to 3500vdc
7. Three serial data ports for remote data communication
The options for switch control include, Local Push Button control, DTMF Radio Control, PC Based Local Control Panel or Yardmaster PC Control.
5. Yard Management software
The control program is provided by the TrackMaster software. It provides scalable solutions for future expansion to accommodate any size application. The software accommodates entrance/exit and stacked routing capabilities. TrackMaster is also capable of interfacing with other programs to help increase yard efficiencies. Some of these include, MIS Interface to track equipment in the yard, AEI Reader Interface to verify consist lists from the MIS, Command Center to locomotive data communications allowing on-board terminal communication to the train crew, GPS tracking of assets as well as other advanced yard planning tools.
6. System Components and Features
Tilt-over Mast
The mast supplied for systems utilizing solar power are manufactured to withstand wind speeds of 90+ MPH. It is a counter balanced tilt over tower to allow a single person safe access for maintenance and cleaning of solar panels. This will help increase the life of the panels as well keep any maintenance people safely on the ground.
External Electronic Housing
All electronic components have been removed from the ground based switch machine and mounted on the mast. This keeps the components drier and less likely to fail due to exposure to excessive moisture or flooding. The system also complies with M/W lock out/tag out practices.
Maximize off the Shelf Technology
In all cases, Global Rail Systems has looked to use components that can be found in use across the rail industry. This helps provide reliability and durability with the use of railroad environment tested components.
Efficient Design
In all design criteria, ease of maintenance is a critical design goal. Ease of maintenance to ensure longevity of components through proper maintenance practices is addressed in all areas of the design process and manufacturing.
Practical Solutions to Complex Issues The information contained herein is the property of Global Rail Systems, Inc.; it is confidential and is intended only for the business use of the recipient. The unauthorized use, access, copy or disclosure of the information contained within this document, without permission, is strictly prohibited.
Global Rail Systems Keeps You Moving Safely
Global Rail Systems Inc.
P.O. Box 110, 503 FM 147, Marlin, Texas 76661
Call toll free: 866-883-2213 --- Fax: 254-883-2201