APPLICATION OF A ROBOTIC SYSTEM TO AUTOMATE THE PROCESS OF MEASURING VOLTAGE ACROSS TRACK RELAYS OF RAILWAY STATION TRACK CIRCUITS

Purpose. This study aims to develop the structure of an automatic measuring complex that enables the implementation of the approach to measure voltage across the windings of track circuit relays at the electric interlocking tower, without compromising its dependability and reliability, featuring the capability for timely detection of deviations from standard voltage levels. Methodology. Methods of analysis and synthesis were applied to examine the principles of voltage measurement across the windings of track circuit relays at stations, as well as relevant robotic designs and their applications in railway transport; and to justify the configuration and parameters of a robotic system for automatic voltage measurement across track relay windings. Findings. The current procedure for measuring voltage across track relays, along with existing approaches to its automation, was analysed. Certain drawbacks of the mentioned measurement process, related to its duration and the risk of hazardous failure, were identified. To enable voltage measurement across track relays, the structure of an automatic measuring complex, based on a robotic system with three degrees of freedom, a working area in rectangular coordinates, controlled by the Arduino UNO board, and the ability to transfer measurement results to an electromechanic's automated workstation for storage and further processing, was developed. A method for predicting gradual failures as the voltage across the relay winding approaches the threshold of specified standards, along with an algorithm for responding to such deviations, was proposed. Originality. For the first time, an approach was proposed to measure the voltage across the track relays at a railway station, enabling automatic measurements with reliable galvanic isolation between the measuring circuit and other power supply circuits of the track circuit receivers, without the involvement of maintenance personnel. Practical value. The implementation of the developed complex enables automatic, safe and prompt measurement of voltage across the windings of track circuit relays at the electric interlocking tower, featuring an option to timely detect voltage deviations from standard values and predict gradual failures of station track circuits. This, in turn, will allow maintenance personnel to allocate their time to other tasks.