Speed proving method and apparatus

A method of delaying activation of a warning system of a level crossing configured to assume a maximum speed of an approaching train and calculate an estimated arrival time for activating the level crossing therefrom, the method comprising:

• (a) detecting the presence of an approaching train having a plurality of axles, wherein a first axle speed for a primary axle of the train is detected by passing over a first axle counting wheel sensor positioned at a first distance from the level crossing;
• (b) detecting the presence of the approaching train wherein a second speed for the primary axle of the train is detected by a second axle counting wheel sensor positioned at a second distance from the level crossing;
• (c) measuring the time taken for the primary axle to travel between the first axle counting wheel sensor and the second axle counting wheel sensor to calculate an average primary axle speed for the primary axle of the train;
• (d) comparing the detected second axle speed to the average primary axle speed to assess whether the detected second axle speed is determined valid or determined fail and,
• where if the detected second axle speed of the primary axle is determined valid;
• (e) calculating an arrival time for the train at the level crossing based on the second detected axle speed of the primary axle;
• and
• (f) determining a maximum safe delay for activating the warning system of the level crossing based on the difference between the calculated arrival time of the train and the estimated arrival time.