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U.S. Department of Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation Icon United States Department of Transportation United States Department of Transportation

A Radar Vehicle Detection System for Four-Quadrant Gate Warning Systems and Blocked Crossing Detection

Document Series:
Technical Reports
Author:
  • Thomas N. Hilleary
Report Number
DOT/FRA/ORD-12/24
Office
RRD
Subject:
Grade Crossing TechnologyHighway-Rail Grade Crossing Warning SystemsHighway-Rail Grade CrossingsSignal and Train Control
Keywords:
Microwave radar, vehicle detection, Wavetronix, four-quadrant gate, blocked railroad crossing, exit gates, obstacle detection, IODS, island radar,

The Wavetronix Matrix Radar was adapted for use at four-quadrant gate railroad crossings for the purpose of influencing exit gate behavior upon the detection of vehicles, as an alternative to buried inductive loops. Two radar devices were utilized, operating collaboratively, in order to realize a fully redundant system. Performance variables including vehicle size and location, vehicle occlusion, and radar positioning were evaluated, along with sensitivity to rain, snow, and other environmental conditions. Recommendations for utilization of the radars in conjunction with popular crossing warning system controllers are provided. Also included is a means for detecting vehicles that are stopped, stored, or deliberately placed in the crossing island, and rapidly communicating that information across cellular, PTC, ITCS, and ACSES, and other data networks.

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Last updated: Thursday, January 10, 2013