One Case of the Integration of Machines and Communications Demonstrated by the Advancement of Level Crossing Control

Abstract

Among the transportation systems, railways are said to be highly safe systems. However, level crossing accidents, which account for one-third of the total, cannot be overlooked due to their social impact. In addition, level crossing has many problems in the transportation economy, such as the problem of level crossings that do not open in urban areas. In this paper, I will examine solutions to these issues from the perspective of "integration of machines and communications". The proposed solution is to control the ground equipment and the train by exchanging information using communication, and will shift from the conventional method of notifying the crew in case of danger to the system in which the train passes through a level crossing when safety is confirmed. Part of this method has already been put into practical use as a function of the wireless train control system (CBTC), and it has been recognized that it is also effective in controlling the fixed time of level crossing warnings. Optimizing the level crossing warning time is also effective in reducing the number of level crossings that do not open, which is a problem at level crossing in urban areas, and can be expected to contribute to the SDGs by reducing ovule gas emissions by realizing smooth traffic flow.