Patent ID: 8310979
Filing Date: 2012-11-13
Classification: B61L,H04B,H04W

Abstract:
1. A method of operating a distributed power repeater for a train system, the method comprising: (a) using the repeater, monitoring all radio traffic within a reception range of the repeater on a plurality of wireless communications channels serviced by the repeater to relay messages comprising distributed power commands between a plurality of transmitters and receivers disposed on a plurality of trains for distributed power control of the trains; (b) using the repeater, determining a level of channel loading on each of the channels; (c) using the repeater, comparing the level of channel loading for each of the channels to a predetermined limit; and for each of the channels, (d) if the level of channel loading is less than the predetermined limit, using the repeater to relay messages over the channel at a first activity level; (e) if the level of channel loading exceeds the predetermined limit, using the repeater to relay messages over the channel at a second activity level less than the first activity level.