Method of determining locomotive orientation based on magnetic compass reading, GPS, and track layout

摘要

A method of determining locomotive orientation based on magnetic compass reading, GPS, and track layout includes the steps of determining a global position and a heading of a locomotive. Upon determining the global position and heading, it is necessary to communicate these to a track database disposed in a computer located in a predetermined location. The track database also includes a parallel line substantially identical to a predetermined track layout within the track database for comparing the determined global position and heading to the parallel line for deriving an actual orientation of a locomotive.