BNSF's use of low band radio frequency packet technolgies for safety overlays

摘要

The Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway Company is using low band RF technologies in the 44 Mhz band along with the Global Positioning System and Geographic Information Systems for a variety of functions that add to a more safe and efficient operation. Locomotives, Hy-Rail vehicles, failed equipment detectors, hot bearing detectors and wind speed indicators are using this technology, which has helped increase safety and efficiency of railway operations. Locomotives have been equipped with this technology to report fuel usage and monitor their position and relate this position to railroad geography. Hy-Rail vehicles are also equipped with this technology to alert the dispatcher and Hy-rail operator of the vehicles' locations and whether they are in compliance with their authority to occupy the main track. Wind Speed Indicator systems on BNSF are using the technology to deliver wind speed and direction, humidity and wind speed trends over time. This information is integrated into the dispatching system to support decision making. Field personnel can also monitor this information for local use. Elimination of dedicated point-to-point technologies is facilitated by this low band, packet technology, which will allow for less network infrastructure maintenance.