CHARACTERISTIC OF POSITION DETECTION AND METHOD OF POSITION CORRECTION BY ROTATING AXLE

CARAT (Computer And Radio Aided Train ) control system is designed with the major aim of increasing the efficiency of train operation at low cost. It detects the train position - the basic element of control - utilizing the train itself instead of the traditional track circuit. There are several methods of position detection available on board the train. At present, CARAT is being developed on the principle of utilizing the method of axle rotation. This paper describes the train control method utilizing the rotating axle for position detection; summarizes the results of the vehicle tests done to grasp the actual state of vehicle slip and slide which is the inherent weakness of this method relying on the rotating axle; and presents the results of position error correction, based on these vehicle tests, thereby testifying to the possibility of realizing a sufficiently effective train control function.