This study defines the information gathering and communication and response
needed for safety at highway-rail crossings. It examines technologies for low-cost,
high-safety treatments for low volume highway crossings of higher speed (130-200 kph) rail. Crossing closure and consolidation is a necessary first step. Existing
train control and crossing safety systems are examined. Intelligent Transportation
System technologies are examined for applicability to the information gathering,
communicating, and control functions of grade crossing safety. Guidelines are
offered for low volume crossings of the high speed rail line in Oregon. A
preliminary cost benefit analysis is presented.
Above 200kph, crossing closure or grade separation is required. In the range of
130-200 kph, ITS technologies have the potential to enhance crossing safety at
much lower cost than grade separation. A global positioning system based positive
train control system provides the train location and speed information needed for
advanced crossing control. A traffic management center can receive train and
crossing information, operate crossing systems, and grant clearance for train or
highway users through the crossing. Remote lock gates provide safety at private
crossings. Increased traveler information and four quadrant warning gates increase
motorist compliance at public crossings. At train speeds above 175 kph, barrier
gates protect rail movements. Video monitoring and detection systems provide
reliable, redundant information should a vehicle become trapped in a crossing. / Graduation date: 1996
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:ORGSU/oai:ir.library.oregonstate.edu:1957/34690 |
| Date | 30 April 1996 |
| Creators | Zaworski, David D. |
| Contributors | Layton, Robert D. |
| Source Sets | Oregon State University |
| Language | en_US |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis/Dissertation |
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