TRANZLOG V4.5

Introduced in 2003 and updated in 2006, the Tranzlog V4 range is the latest generation of data logging, communications and control products produced by Otari Electronics Ltd. The culmination of 25 years of research, development, and experience in rail data logging,  the Tranzlog range features Otari's nearly indestructible data storage (ROC^©), and unique "natural language" user programmability. Rugged, adaptable, flexible and economical, Tranzlog is the perfect device for on-loco system integration.  Tranzlog is designed "out of the box" to perform the following functions:

• Data logging for accident and maintenance purposes.

• Manufacturer, user or supplier-programmable control functions like:

  • Flexible and adaptable vigilance control

  • Headlight status tied to locomotive direction, with appropriate warning

  • Location related (derived via GPS and dead reckoning) safety features

  • Train, cab and driver security enhancement.

Tranzlog V4 has a flexible interface to allow it to connect to the numerous external device types. The flexibility comes from a flexible structure and a range of interchangeable electronics cards which cover many different types of locomotive or transit vehicle application.  A typical interface consists of:

• Universal Axle Generator interface

• Universal Speedometer interface

• GPS interface

• Wireless 802.11b connectivity

• Ethernet connectivity(1 port)

• RS485 connectivity(1 ports)

• RS232 connectivity(2 ports)

• CDMA Modem connectivity (internal and inbuilt)

• Fully galvanically isolated RS232 connectivity (2 ports)

• Inbuilt quad pressure transducers for BP, BC, ER and trail mode or other pressure monitoring function

• Many external analog and on-off signals from the loco

• Output control via relays or high current internal mosfets

• Otari's own Speedometer and DID for more timely and effective driver interaction.

Some key user features of Tranzlog V4^© are:

• "Plain English" programming of complex control functions which facilitate flexibility and adaptability.  Programming issues can be quickly prototyped, tested and implemented "in-cab" whilst the English-like nature of the control language makes the code virtually self documenting 

• A hardened memory module, which offers up to 4 gigabytes of storage, solves the problem of retention of data after catastrophe for critical safety investigations.  The unit is capable of storing many months of operational data which can be replayed through Otari's simulator interface to precisely understand what the locomotive and driver was doing prior to an incident

• One touch "Class" setup, which enables workshop personnel to take a standard off-the-shelf unit and customize it to a particular type of locomotive or transit vehicle in minutes

• Inbuilt automated testing procedures, both at manufacture and routine checks give a high probability of correct operation for what is a complex piece of equipment

• Rapid installation and replacement, since the unit is easily wired into the locomotive or transit vehicle using high quality and rugged connectors which are locked in place, but can be quickly disconnected to enable complete box change-out (without individual wire disconnection) in a matter of minutes.  The connectors also enable installation and maintenance without special crimping tools.  A special function built into the "BaseStation" program allows for the full "personality" of the Tranzlog V4^© being removed to be transferred to the new installed unit, thus saving tedious manual configuration.

The Tranzlog controller is designed to tightly integrate with a laptop or wireless desktop connected PC running Otari's application software which includes the "BaseStation" program: this handles setup / data extraction, diagnosis and retrieved data analysis, and runs on any PC compatible laptop or notebook.  The data analysis software includes:

• In-Cab simulation of all the controls and instruments of the loco, and the operation of these devices in various playback speeds from 0.5 of real time to around 500 times real time.  At the maximum simulation speed, A 500 mile trip can be viewed in 3 minutes or less

• A Graphing simulation, which takes key analog and event data and graphs it into a moving graph which is tied to the In-Cab simulation

• A Tabular Event List in which every device operation on the loco is displayed (to the nearest 0.1 sec) and tied to the In-Cab simulation

• A Mapping simulation which displays the exact position of the loco at any particular point, and is tied to the In-Cab simulation

• A Data Analyser, which collects operational statistics from the gathered data.  Using the Data Analyser many "what-if" scenarios can be asked and answered.  The Data Analyser is proving to be an invaluable tool for fuel efficiency gains and understanding the dynamics of any on-track situation.

The above environment presents a powerful tool for complete understanding of locomotive operation.

In addition to the Tranzlog Base Station, Tranzlog units equipped with CDMA modems come with a series of customised "Real-Time Viewers" in order to capture live data off the Tranzlog, formatted for particular functions.  In addition Tranzlog has been developed so that almost all functions achievable by direct connection are capable of being carried out using a Real-Time connection via the CDMA modem, and since data rates aren't too much different from direct connect data transfer speeds, the modem works well for transferring data logs, settings and other key setup information.  The only functions that cannot be carried out remotely are speedometer calibration and tests which may trigger locomotive safety systems.

Related Equipment

The Tranzlog system also includes related and connected expansion devices which enhance the function of the unit.  These are:

1. Otari's analog speedometer and ammeter is based on a standard meter system that Otari manufactures. Immune to vibration, static and the general stressful environments found in locomotive cabs,  Otari's meters take their feeds from Tranzlog (or any other driving source) and provide a smooth and readable speed indication under any lighting conditions.  Modeled after the latest automotive speedometer technology, Otari's meters are superior in every way to combined digital and analog meters.  The superb adjustable white LED backlighting provide excellent visibility at all times.

2. A "Driver Interface Display" (DID) Panel which gives the driver a range of feedback from the locomotive, Tranzlog or text messages.  The DID allows critical warnings to be conveyed quickly to the driver, and for key parameters to be entered by the driver for logging and long term storage.  The DID also acts as a communications node for SMS messages from the inbuilt CDMA modem to be displayed to the driver in-cab, and for control and monitoring of position related track based safety information (speed restrictions, curve speeds, consist speed limitations, etc)

3. Current and voltage monitoring equipment which allows Tranzlog to record horsepower, load pot position, etc

4. Ultrasonic fuel probe for fuel tank level monitoring for more efficient train running, and feedback on engine performance.