Description:Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an advanced safety system designed to enhance the safety of roadway workers near railroad tracks through real-time train detection and alerting. The system utilizes nRF-based wireless technology and cloud-based monitoring to ensure timely and effective notifications to workers, reducing risks associated with operating close to railroad tracks.
Background of the Invention
This innovative system uses instantaneous data processing and state-of-the-art wireless technology to identify and alert workers to approaching trains, thereby revolutionizing roadway worker safety. The system, which consists of two crucial parts placed on trains and at construction sites next to railroad tracks, ensures that workers receive timely notifications so they can take the necessary safety precautions and leave the track zone when necessary.
This invention addresses the problem of worker safety on the roadways near railroad tracks, where the possibility of oncoming trains poses a significant risk. Traditional safety procedures might not provide workers with timely alerts, increasing the risk of mishaps and injury. These risks are exacerbated by the lack of real-time train detection and warning systems, which exposes workers to potentially catastrophic events.
US10179595B2 Systems and methods are provided for worker protection. The worker protection systems comprise a plurality of alert devices, comprising one or more wearable personal alert devices, each worn by a person (e.g., worker), and one or more companion alert devices that broadcast alerts or signals triggering alerts. The companion alert devices comprise vehicle-mounted alert devices, configured for operation on vehicles (e.g., trains), and wayside detection units, configured for placement on or near paths of the vehicles. The wayside detection units may be operable to autonomously detect and track the vehicles.
RESEARCH GAP: A Wireless innovation with nRF Technology for Worker Safety System with Real-Time Train Detection and Alerting is the novelty of the system.
US11412441B2 A system including a plurality of network devices including one or more worker monitoring devices and one or more area monitoring devices is provided. The plurality of network devices monitor at least one of a peer alarm, a worker biometric datum or an area environmental datum. The plurality of network devices are structured to communicate with one another in an ad-hoc wireless mesh network. A first network device of the plurality of network devices transmits the at least one peer alarm, worker biometric datum or area environmental datum for presentation on a second network device of the plurality of network devices.
RESEARCH GAP: A Wireless innovation with nRF Technology for Worker Safety System with Real-Time Train Detection and Alerting is the novelty of the system.
None of the prior art indicate above either alone or in combination with one another disclose what the present invention has disclosed. This invention relates to nRF-Based Wireless Network enhanced Roadway Worker Safety System with Real-Time Train Detection and Alerting.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention.
This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.
To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
This cutting-edge system's real-time train detection and alerting features greatly increase worker safety on the street. By leveraging cutting-edge wireless technology and cloud-based monitoring, it offers a comprehensive approach to reducing the risks involved in operating close to railroad tracks, eventually ensuring the safety of workers on the street. This all-inclusive safety device protects road workers from approaching trains by utilizing wireless technology and real-time data processing. The WNER_TWSMote and the WNER_RWSMote are two of its essential parts. The Raspberry Pi PICO Board, nRF Module, GPS Module, Magnetometer Sensor, Halt Switch, and Power Supply are only a few of the sensors and modules that are integrated by the WNER_TWSMote, which is mounted on trains. Its main function is to wirelessly transmit signals to the WNER_RWSMote units stationed at roadway worker sites and identify the presence of trains. The WNER_TWSMote keeps track of the train's location and motion continuously to make sure that workers are notified as soon as a train approaches.
As opposed to this, the road workers' WNER_RWSMote units, which are positioned strategically along the trackside, are outfitted with a Raspberry Pi PICO Board, nRF Module, GSM Modem, LED Display, Buzzer, and Solar Powered Power Supply. The WNER_RWSMote quickly uses its sensors to identify an incoming train after getting a signal from the WNER_TWSMote, alerting workers with both visual and audible cues. Workers are able to take the appropriate safety measures and leave the track area thanks to this prompt notification. nRF-based spread spectrum radio communications facilitates communication between the WNER_TWSMote and WNER_RWSMote units, guaranteeing dependable and interference-resistant data transfer even in demanding conditions. Furthermore, all of the system's alarms are instantly logged to a Tailored cloud server. Further examination of the alarms is made possible by this cloud-based logging, which also provides insightful information about the system's operation and any possible safety issues.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The illustrated embodiments of the subject matter will be understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. The following description is intended only by way of example, and simply illustrates certain selected embodiments of devices, systems, and methods that are consistent with the subject matter as claimed herein, wherein:
FIGURE 1: SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE
The figures depict embodiments of the present subject matter for the purposes of illustration only. A person skilled in the art will easily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments are described herein in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of details provided herein is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
It is also to be understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as specific examples, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a",” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes” and/or “including,” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.
It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions/acts noted may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may, in fact, be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.
In addition, the descriptions of "first", "second", “third”, and the like in the present invention are used for the purpose of description only, and are not to be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, features defining "first" and "second" may include at least one of the features, either explicitly or implicitly.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, e.g., those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
This cutting-edge system's real-time train detection and alerting features greatly increase worker safety on the street. By leveraging cutting-edge wireless technology and cloud-based monitoring, it offers a comprehensive approach to reducing the risks involved in operating close to railroad tracks, eventually ensuring the safety of workers on the street. This all-inclusive safety device protects road workers from approaching trains by utilizing wireless technology and real-time data processing. The WNER_TWSMote and the WNER_RWSMote are two of its essential parts. The Raspberry Pi PICO Board, nRF Module, GPS Module, Magnetometer Sensor, Halt Switch, and Power Supply are only a few of the sensors and modules that are integrated by the WNER_TWSMote, which is mounted on trains. Its main function is to wirelessly transmit signals to the WNER_RWSMote units stationed at roadway worker sites and identify the presence of trains. The WNER_TWSMote keeps track of the train's location and motion continuously to make sure that workers are notified as soon as a train approaches.
As opposed to this, the road workers' WNER_RWSMote units, which are positioned strategically along the trackside, are outfitted with a Raspberry Pi PICO Board, nRF Module, GSM Modem, LED Display, Buzzer, and Solar Powered Power Supply. The WNER_RWSMote quickly uses its sensors to identify an incoming train after getting a signal from the WNER_TWSMote, alerting workers with both visual and audible cues. Workers are able to take the appropriate safety measures and leave the track area thanks to this prompt notification. nRF-based spread spectrum radio communications facilitates communication between the WNER_TWSMote and WNER_RWSMote units, guaranteeing dependable and interference-resistant data transfer even in demanding conditions. Furthermore, all of the system's alarms are instantly logged to a Tailored cloud server. Further examination of the alarms is made possible by this cloud-based logging, which also provides insightful information about the system's operation and any possible safety issues.
The nRF-Based Wireless Network Enhanced Roadway Worker Safety System includes the following components:
WNERTWSMote (10):
nRF Module (10A): Facilitates wireless communication with the WNER_RWSMote units.
Power Supply (10B): Provides the necessary power for operation.
Halt Switch (10C): Allows manual interruption of the system if necessary.
Magnetometer Sensor (10D): Measures the orientation and movement of the train.
GPS Module (10E): Tracks the real-time location of the train.
Raspberry Pi PICO Board (10F): Acts as the central processing unit for managing data and communication.
The WNER_TWSMote, mounted on trains, continuously tracks the train's location and motion. It wirelessly transmits this information to the WNER_RWSMote units, ensuring that roadway workers receive timely alerts about approaching trains.
WNERRWSMote (20):
nRF Module (20A): Receives signals from the WNER_TWSMote and facilitates communication.
Solar Powered Power Supply (20B): Ensures continuous operation with sustainable energy.
Buzzer (20C): Emits audible alerts to notify workers.
GSM Modem (20D): Provides additional communication capabilities if needed.
LED Display (20E): Provides visual alerts to workers.
Raspberry Pi PICO Board (20F): Manages data processing and communication with the WNER_TWSMote.
The WNER_RWSMote, strategically positioned at roadway worker sites, detects incoming trains based on signals received from the WNER_TWSMote. It promptly alerts workers with both visual and audible signals, allowing them to take appropriate safety measures.
COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
The system employs nRF-based spread spectrum radio communications to ensure reliable, interference-resistant data transfer between the WNER_TWSMote and WNER_RWSMote units. This technology guarantees consistent performance even under challenging conditions.
CLOUD-BASED MONITORING
All system alerts and data are logged to a tailored cloud server. This cloud-based logging allows for real-time monitoring, analysis of alarms, and provides valuable insights into the system's performance and safety issues. It facilitates continuous evaluation of the system's effectiveness and operational status.
ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
1. To ensure that workers are kept safe by receiving timely notifications of incoming trains, WNER_TWSMote units are deployed aboard trains to detect their presence and relay signals to WNER_RWSMote units stationed at roadway worker sites.
2. The WNER_TWSMote on board trains sends signals to the WNER_RWSMote, which is stationed at highway worker locations. The WNER_RWSMote quickly detects oncoming trains and notifies workers to guarantee their safety near railway tracks.
3. The WNER_TWSMote onboard trains and the WNER_RWSMote units at roadway worker sites may communicate wirelessly thanks to the nRF Module, which makes it possible to transmit train detection signals in real time to protect worker safety near railroad tracks.
4. To improve worker safety near railroad lines, the WNER_TWSMote's GPS Module precisely locates trains, allowing for precise real-time tracking and the delivery of train detection signals.
5. The WNER_RWSMote's embedded GSM modem makes it easier to communicate with the cloud server, enabling remote train detection alert monitoring and administration to improve worker safety near railroad tracks.
, Claims:1. An nRF-Based Wireless Network Enhanced Roadway Worker Safety System with Real-Time Train Detection and Alerting comprises of WNER_TWSMote (10), nRF Module (10A), Power Supply (10B), Halt Switch (10C), Magnetometer Sensor (10D), GPS Module (10E), Raspberry Pi PICO Board (10F), WNER_RWSMote (20), nRF Module (20A), Solar Powered Power Supply (20B), Buzzer (20C), GSM Modem (20D), LED Display (20E) and Raspberry Pi PICO Board (20F).
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the WNER_TWSMote is mounted on trains and is configured to continuously track the train's location and motion and wirelessly transmit this information to the WNER_RWSMote units.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the WNER_RWSMote units are positioned at roadway worker sites and are configured to receive signals from the WNER_TWSMote and provide both visual and audible alerts to workers.
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the nRF-based spread spectrum radio communications ensure reliable and interference-resistant data transfer between the WNER_TWSMote and WNER_RWSMote units.
5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein all alerts and data are logged to a tailored cloud server for real-time monitoring, analysis, and insight into the system's operation and safety issues.

6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the WNER_RWSMote includes a solar-powered
power supply for sustainable energy use.