Modular system for dynamic management of auxiliary loads and power supplies

Abstract

A modular system for dynamically managing auxiliary loads and power supplies, in one embodiment, the system includes an auxiliary power supply controller configured to determine a first selection of one or more power supply input sources from a plurality of power supply input sources, in one embodiment, the method includes determining a first selection of one or more power consumption devices from a plurality of power consumption devices, managing a transmission of an auxiliary power source from the first selection of one or more power input sources to the first selection of one or more power consumption devices, and managing a transmission of power from an alternator to one or more pumps, the auxiliary power supply controller is configured to manage transmission of the auxiliary power supply from a first selection of the one or more power supply input sources to a first selection of the one or more power consumption devices. Power supply availability from the one or more power input sources and a power demand for each of the one or more power consuming devices are determined.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the application for patent having application number 202080095555.2, filed on October 16, 2020, and titled “Auxiliary Power Controller”. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates generally to controllers, and more particularly, to an auxiliary power controller. BACKGROUND

[0003] The temperature of water and oil for locomotive enigmas should be maintained within a certain temperature range to prevent damage to the engine. While idling can be used to maintain the oil and water temperature, idling consumes fuel, thereby increasing cost and emissions. A traditional auxiliary power unit (APU) can be used to charge the starting battery and maintain the oil and water temperature. However, the APU also consumes fuel and produces emissions. In addition, adding an APU to the locomotive introduces another engine that the locomotive needs to maintain. SUMMARY

[0004] According to an embodiment, an auxiliary power controller includes one or more processors and one or more computer-readable non-transitory storage media coupled to the one or more processors. The one or more computer-readable non-transitory storage media comprise instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the auxiliary power controller to perform operations comprising determining a first selection of one or more power input sources from a plurality of power input sources. The operations further comprise determining a first selection of one or more power consuming devices from a plurality of power consuming devices. The operations further comprise managing transfer of the auxiliary power from the first selection of one or more power input sources to the first selection of one or more power consuming devices.

[0005] In certain embodiments, the operations further comprise determining a second selection of one or more power input sources from the plurality of power input sources, wherein the second selection of one or more power input sources is different from the first selection of one or more power inputs; determining a second selection of one or more power consuming devices from the plurality of power consuming devices, wherein the second selection of one or more power consuming devices is different from the first selection of one or more power consuming devices; and managing transfer of the auxiliary power from the second selection of one or more power input sources to the second selection of one or more power consuming devices.

[0006] In certain embodiments, the step of managing the transfer of auxiliary power from the one or more power input sources to the one or more power consuming devices includes the steps of: determining a power supply in a first selection of the one or more power input sources exceeds a power demand of a first selection of the power consuming devices; and initiating the transfer of auxiliary power from the first selection of the one or more power input sources to the first selection of the power consuming devices.

[0007] The plurality of power input sources can include two or more of: an APU battery, a starter battery, a combined APU / starter battery, a solar panel, and a wayside power unit. The plurality of power consuming devices can include two or more of: a water pump, a water heater, an oil pump, an oil heater, a starter battery, a cab heater / air conditioner, an air compressor, and electrical components. The auxiliary power controller can be located within a vehicle, such as a locomotive.

[0008] According to another embodiment, a method includes the steps of: determining, by an auxiliary power controller, a first selection of one or more power input sources from a plurality of power input sources; determining, by the auxiliary power controller, a first selection of one or more power consuming devices from a plurality of power consuming devices; and managing, by the auxiliary power controller, a transfer of auxiliary power from the first selection of the one or more power input sources to the first selection of the one or more power consuming devices.

[0009] According to yet another embodiment, one or more computer-readable non-transitory storage media embodying instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform operations including determining a first selection of one or more power input sources from a plurality of power input sources. The operations also include the step of determining a first selection of one or more power consuming devices from a plurality of power consuming devices. The operations also include the step of managing a transfer of auxiliary power from the first selection of the one or more power input sources to the first selection of the one or more power consuming devices.

[0010] Technical advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure can include one or more of the following. The auxiliary power controller employs a modular design that allows for flexible selection of one or more power input sources and selection of one or more power consuming devices. The modular design of the APU system described herein allows for future upgrades (e.g., addition of a solar panel as a power input source). The modular design of the APU system described herein allows the auxiliary power controller to continue to provide auxiliary power even in the event of a failure of one of the power input sources. The auxiliary power controller manages the flow of energy between the power input sources and the power consuming devices, which can reduce energy costs and harmful emissions. The APU system is simple, easy to maintain, and has a low probability of failure if the APU engine is not selected or is not used as a power input source.

[0011] Other technical advantages will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the following drawing, detailed description, and claims. Moreover, while specific advantages have been enumerated, various embodiments can include all, some or no specific advantages. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0012] To aid the understanding of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the following description, taken in Figure 1 An example system is shown that uses an auxiliary power controller to manage the transfer of auxiliary power from one or more power input sources to one or more power consuming devices; Figure 2 An example system is shown that uses an auxiliary power controller to manage the transfer of auxiliary power from a combined APU / starter battery and solar panels to one or more power consuming devices; Figure 3 An example system is shown that uses an auxiliary power controller to manage the transfer of auxiliary power from an APU battery and solar panels to one or more power consuming devices; Figure 4 An example is shown of a solar panel system that can be used by Figures 1 to 3 systems described herein; Figure 5 An example method is shown that uses an auxiliary power controller to manage the transfer of auxiliary power from one or more power input sources to one or more power consuming devices; and Figure 6 An example computer system is shown that can be used by the systems and methods described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] The systems and methods described herein allow for the use of multiple energy sources to power auxiliary loads on a vehicle such as a locomotive. An auxiliary power controller is used to manage the flow of energy between multiple power sources and demands on the vehicle. Energy sources can include dedicated on-board batteries, starter batteries, dynamic braking recovery systems, wayside power units, solar panels, main vehicle alternators, separate diesel auxiliary engines, etc. The energy demands that these energy sources satisfy can include charging the starter batteries, heating engine oil, heating engine water, heating the cab of the vehicle, cooling the cab of the vehicle, and powering cab electronics, etc. The present disclosure allows for a modular system to dynamically manage auxiliary loads and power sources on a vehicle. The systems and methods described herein allow for multiple power sources for auxiliary loads based on available / required power as compared to traditional APU systems that only have a single diesel engine power source.

[0014] Figure 1 An example system is shown that uses an auxiliary power controller to manage the transfer of auxiliary power from one or more power input sources to one or more power consuming devices. Figure 2An example system is shown that uses an auxiliary power controller to manage the transfer of auxiliary power from a combined APU / starter battery and solar panels to one or more power consuming devices. Figure 3 An example system is shown that uses an auxiliary power controller to manage the transfer of auxiliary power from an APU battery and solar panels to one or more power consuming devices. Figure 4 An example system is shown that can be used by the system of Figures 1 to 3 An example solar panel system that can be used by the system of Figure 5 An example method is shown that uses an auxiliary power controller to manage the transfer of auxiliary power from one or more power input sources to one or more power consuming devices. Figure 6 An example computer system is shown that can be used by the systems and methods described herein.

[0015] Figure 1 An example system 100 is shown that uses an auxiliary power controller 110 to manage the transfer of auxiliary power from one or more power input sources 120 to one or more power consuming devices 130. The system 100 or portions thereof can be associated with an entity, which can include any entity, such as a business or company (e.g., a railroad company, a transportation company, a shipping company, etc.). The system 100 or portions thereof can be associated with a vehicle (e.g., a locomotive, an airplane, a naval vessel, a heavy commercial vehicle, a military vehicle, a heavy truck, etc.). The components of the system 100 can be implemented using any suitable combination of hardware, firmware, and software. For example, the components of the system 100 can be implemented using one or more components of the computer system of Figure 6 An example system 100 is shown that uses an auxiliary power controller 110 to manage the transfer of auxiliary power from one or more power input sources 120 to one or more power consuming devices 130. The system 100 or portions thereof can be associated with an entity, which can include any entity, such as a business or company (e.g., a railroad company, a transportation company, a shipping company, etc.). The system 100 or portions thereof can be associated with a vehicle (e.g., a locomotive, an airplane, a naval vessel, a heavy commercial vehicle, a military vehicle, a heavy truck, etc.). The components of the system 100 can be implemented using any suitable combination of hardware, firmware, and software. For example, the components of the system 100 can be implemented using one or more components of the computer system of Figure 1 The system 100 includes an auxiliary power controller 110, a power input source 120, a power consuming device 130, a locomotive alternator 140, an engine block 150, a water pump 160, and an oil pump 170.

[0016] The auxiliary power controller 110 is a component that manages the transfer of auxiliary power from one or more power input sources 120 to one or more power consuming devices 130. The auxiliary power controller 110 represents any suitable computing component that can be used to process information for the system 100. The auxiliary power controller 110 can coordinate the transfer of energy between one or more components of the system 100 and / or facilitate communication between one or more components of the system 100.

[0017] The auxiliary power controller 110 can communicate with one or more components of system 100 via a hardwired or wireless connection. The auxiliary power controller 110 may include communication capabilities that allow users (e.g., technicians, administrators, operators, etc.) to communicate directly with one or more components of system 100. For example, the auxiliary power controller 110 may be part of a computer (e.g., a laptop, desktop computer, smartphone, tablet, etc.), and a user (e.g., a vehicle operator) may access the auxiliary power controller 110 through a computer interface (e.g., a screen, a graphical user interface (GUI), or a panel). The auxiliary power controller 110 can communicate with one or more components of system 100 via a network. The auxiliary power controller 110 can be located anywhere suitable to process information from system 100. For example, the auxiliary power controller 110 may be located inside a vehicle (e.g., a locomotive).

[0018] The auxiliary power controller 110 can determine to select one or more power input sources 120 from a plurality of power input sources 120. For example, the auxiliary power controller 110 can determine that the operator has selected some power input sources 120 from a predetermined selection of power input sources 120. As another example, the auxiliary power controller 110 can detect (e.g., sense) available power input sources 120 from a predetermined selection of power input sources 120. As yet another example, the auxiliary power controller 110 can select a power input source from a predetermined selection of power input sources 120 based on one or more factors, such as the geographic location where the vehicle will be used, the size of the vehicle, the auxiliary power required by the vehicle, etc.

[0019] The auxiliary power controller 110 can determine one or more power consuming devices 130 from a plurality of power consuming devices 130. For example, the auxiliary power controller 110 can determine that the operator has selected certain power consuming devices 130 from a predetermined set of power consuming devices 130. As another example, the auxiliary power controller 110 can automatically detect (e.g., sense) power consuming devices 130 from a predetermined selection of power consuming devices 130.

[0020] The auxiliary power controller 110 can manage the transfer of auxiliary power from one or more power input sources 120 to one or more power consuming devices 130. For example, the auxiliary power controller 110 can determine the power supply of the first power input source 120 and the power demand of the first power consuming device 130. The auxiliary power controller 110 can then determine that the power supply of the first power input source 120 meets or exceeds the power demand of the first power consuming device 130, and in response to this determination, initiate the transfer of auxiliary power from the first power input source 120 to the first power consuming device 130. As another example, the auxiliary power controller 110 can determine that the power supply of the first power input source 120 is less than the power demand of the first power consuming device 130. The auxiliary power controller 110 can determine that the power supply of the first power input source 120 is less than the power demand of the first power consuming device 130. The auxiliary power controller 110 can determine that the combined power supply of two or more power input sources 120 exceeds the power demand of the first power consuming device 130. In response to this determination, the auxiliary power controller 110 may initiate the transfer of auxiliary power from two or more power input sources 120 to the first power consumption device 130.

[0021] The auxiliary power controller 110 can determine that the selection of power input source 120 and / or available power input source 120 has changed. For example, the auxiliary power controller 110 can determine that the operator has selected a different set of power input sources 120 from a predetermined selection of power input sources 120. In some embodiments, the operator can add one or more power input sources 120 to the selection of power input sources 120, remove one or more power input sources 120 from the selection of power input sources 120, or replace one or more power input sources 120 in the selection of power input sources 120. In some embodiments, the auxiliary power controller 110 can automatically detect whether one or more power input sources 120 are available or unavailable, and automatically change the selection of power input sources 120 based on availability.

[0022] The auxiliary power controller 110 can determine that the selection of power-consuming device 130 and / or available power-consuming device 130 has changed. In some embodiments, the auxiliary power controller 110 can determine that the operator has selected a different set of power-consuming devices 130 from a predetermined selection of power-consuming devices 130. For example, the operator can add one or more power-consuming devices 130 to the selection of one or more power-consuming devices 130, remove one or more power-consuming devices 130 from the selection of power-consuming devices 130, or replace one or more power-consuming devices 130 within the selection of power-consuming devices 130. In some embodiments, the auxiliary power controller 110 can automatically detect that one or more power-consuming devices have become available or unavailable, and automatically change the selection of power-consuming devices 130 based on availability.

[0023] The power input source 120 of system 100 refers to any physical component that can provide auxiliary power to one or more power-consuming devices 130 of system 100. The power input source 120 can be located anywhere suitable to provide auxiliary power to one or more power-consuming devices 130 in system 100. For example, the power input source 120 can be located on, inside, or near a vehicle. The power input source 120 may include an APU battery 121, a starter battery 122, a combined APU / starter battery 123, a dynamic regenerative braking system 124, a solar panel 125, a roadside power unit 126, and an APU motor 127.

[0024] The APU battery 121 of the power input source 120 is a dedicated on-board battery that provides power to the vehicle's auxiliary loads when the engine is off. When the engine is running, the APU battery 121 can be charged via the alternator 140. The APU battery 121 can be a lead-acid battery, a lithium-ion battery, a nickel-manganese-cobalt battery, a lithium iron phosphate battery, or any other suitable battery capable of storing energy. The starter battery 122 of the power input source 120 provides the power required to start the vehicle's engine. The starter battery 122 can also be used to power the vehicle's electronic equipment. The combined APU / starter battery 123 of the power input source 120 combines the APU battery 121 and the starter battery 122 into a single battery.

[0025] The dynamic regenerative braking system 124 of the power input source 120 is a system for converting and storing heat lost due to normal braking of the vehicle. The solar panel 125 of the power input source 120 is a component that absorbs sunlight as energy. (See below...) Figure 4The solar panel 125 is described in more detail below. A roadside power unit 126 of the power input source 120 provides standard utility power to the vehicle for maintenance or parking. In some embodiments, the vehicle (e.g., a locomotive) is plugged into the roadside power unit 126. The roadside power unit 126 may include one or more plugs, housings, transformers, circuit breakers, switches, power connectors, etc. The roadside power unit 126 may include various control layouts and various voltages (e.g., 208 volts, 220 volts, 240 volts, 480 volts, or 575 volts).

[0026] The APU engine 127 of the power input source 120 is a small (e.g., 22 hp) diesel engine. In conventional systems, the APU engine 127 provides auxiliary power to one or more components of the vehicle. The vehicle's main engine is only started when the vehicle actually needs to move or be towed. If the vehicle idles for more than a predetermined time (e.g., 10 minutes), the main engine shuts off and the APU engine 127 starts running. In some embodiments of system 100, the selection of the power input source 120 does not include the APU engine 127. Using a power input source 120 other than the APU engine 127 eliminates the maintenance time and costs, repair time and costs, and pollutant emissions associated with the APU engine 126.

[0027] The power consuming device 130 of system 100 represents any device that consumes auxiliary power. The power consuming device 130 receives auxiliary power from power input source 120. The power consuming device 130 can be located anywhere suitable to receive auxiliary power from power input source 120. For example, the power consuming device 130 can be located on, inside, or near a vehicle. The power consuming device 130 may include an air compressor 131, a cabin heater / air conditioner 132, a starter battery 133, electrical components 134, a water heater 135, a water pump 160, an oil heater 136, and an oil pump 170.

[0028] The air compressor 131 of the power-consuming device 130 is a device that converts electrical electricity into potential energy stored in compressed air. The cab heater / air conditioner 132 of the power-consuming device 130 includes one or more devices for providing heating and / or cooling to the vehicle's cab. The cab heater / air conditioner 132 can be located in any suitable location to provide heat and / or air conditioning to the vehicle's cab. For example, the cab heater / air conditioner 132 can be located inside the cab, mounted on one side of the vehicle, mounted on the roof of the vehicle, etc.

[0029] The starter battery 133 of the power-consuming device 130 (i.e., the starter battery 122 of the power input source 120) provides the power required to start the vehicle engine. The starter battery 122 can also be used to operate electronic equipment in the vehicle. The electrical components 134 of the power-consuming device 130 include components of the vehicle that consume power. The electrical components 134 may include a fan, blower, lighting (e.g., cab lighting), a computer, one or more components of a Positive Train Control (PTC) system, an event recorder, a fault code chip, a processor, etc. The alternator 140 is a generator that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. When the engine of system 100 is running, the alternator 140 can charge the battery and provide additional power to the vehicle's electrical systems. For some vehicles, such as locomotives, the diesel engine can drive the alternator 140, which provides power to move the locomotive.

[0030] The water pump 160 of system 100 is a circulation pump that circulates water used by engine block 150 to prevent the water from freezing. Engine block 150 is part of the vehicle's main engine. Water is distributed around engine block 150 to keep the engine temperature within its most efficient range. The water heater 135 of the power consumption device 130 is a heating device for heating the water used by engine block 150. The oil pump 170 is a circulation pump that circulates oil used by engine block 150 to maintain the oil's viscosity. The oil heater 135 of the power consumption device 130 is a heating device for heating the oil used by engine block 150.

[0031] In operation, the auxiliary power controller 110 determines a first selection from one or more power input sources 120 among a plurality of power input sources 120. For example, the auxiliary power controller 110 may determine that the first selected power input source 120 includes an APU battery 121 and a solar panel 125. The auxiliary power controller 110 also determines a first selection from one or more power consuming devices 130 among a plurality of power consuming devices 130. For example, the auxiliary power controller 110 may determine that the first selected power consuming device 130 includes a cabin heater / air conditioning unit 132 and a starter battery 133. The auxiliary power controller 110 then manages the transfer of auxiliary power from the first selected power input source 121 to the first selected power consuming device 130. Therefore, Figure 1 The system 100 allows for flexibility in selecting power input sources and power output consumption devices, allows for future upgrades, reduces energy costs, and reduces harmful emissions.

[0032] Although Figure 1A specific arrangement of the auxiliary power controller 110, power input source 120, power consumption device 130, alternator 140, engine block 150, water pump 160, and oil pump 170 is shown, but this disclosure considers any suitable arrangement of the auxiliary power controller 110, power input source 120, power consumption device 130, alternator 140, engine block 150, water pump 160, and oil pump 170. For example, the positions of the water pump 160 and oil pump 170 relative to the engine block 150 may be reversed.

[0033] Although Figure 1 A specific number of auxiliary power controllers 110, power input sources 120, power consuming devices 130, alternators 140, engine blocks 150, water pumps 160, and oil pumps 170 are shown, but this disclosure contemplates any suitable number of auxiliary power controllers 110, power input sources 120, power consuming devices 130, alternators 140, engine blocks 150, water pumps 160, and oil pumps 170. For example, system 100 may include more or fewer than seven and / or more power input sources 120 or fewer than eight power consuming devices. As another example, system 100 may include more or fewer than one auxiliary power controller 110.

[0034] Can be Figure 1 The system 100 shown may be modified, added to, or omitted. System 100 may include more, fewer, or other components. For example, system 100 may include one or more controllers, sensors, accessories, application software, etc. One or more components of system 100 may include components from... Figure 6 One or more components of a computer system.

[0035] Figure 2 An example system 200 is shown that uses an auxiliary power controller 110 to manage the transmission of auxiliary power from a combined APU / starter battery 123 and a solar panel 125 to one or more power-consuming devices, such as a cab heater / air conditioning unit 132, a water pump 160, and / or an oil pump 170. System 200 includes an auxiliary power controller 110, a combined APU / starter battery 123, a solar panel 125, a cab heater / air conditioning unit 132, an alternator 140, an engine block 150, a water pump 160, and an oil pump 170. (As described above) Figure 1 The APU / starter battery 123 and solar panel 125 combination is the vehicle's input power source, while the cab heater / air conditioner 132, water pump 160 and oil pump 170 are the vehicle's power-consuming devices.

[0036] When the engine of the vehicle associated with system 200 is running, the alternator 140 of system 200 serves as a power input source to provide power to one or more power-consuming devices of system 200. For example, alternator 140 can provide power to cabin heater / air conditioning 132 to heat and / or cool the vehicle's cabin. As another example, alternator 140 can provide power to water pump 160 to circulate water through engine block 150 of system 200. As yet another example, alternator 140 can provide power to oil pump 170 to circulate oil through engine block 150 of system 200. As yet another example, alternator 140 can provide power to combined APU / starter battery 123 to charge APU / starter battery 123.

[0037] When the vehicle engine associated with system 200 is shut down, the alternator 140 of system 200 is no longer used as a power input source for system 200. The auxiliary power controller 110 identifies the combination of APU / starter battery 123 and solar panel 125 as a power input source, identifies the cabin heater / air conditioning unit 132, water pump 160, and oil pump 170 as power-consuming devices, and manages the transfer of auxiliary power from the combined APU / starter battery 123 and / or solar panel 125 to the cabin heater / air conditioning unit 132, water pump 160, and oil pump 170. For example, the auxiliary power controller 110 can initiate the process of transferring auxiliary power from the APU / starter battery 123 to the cabin heater / air conditioning unit 132. If the auxiliary power controller 110 determines that the APU / starter battery 123 cannot meet the power requirements of the cabin heater / air conditioning unit 132, the auxiliary power controller 110 can initiate the transfer of auxiliary power from the combined APU / starter battery 123 and solar panel 125 to the cabin heater / air conditioning unit 132. Therefore, system 200 can provide auxiliary power to electrical consumption devices without using the APU diesel engine, thereby reducing maintenance and repair costs associated with the APU diesel engine and harmful emissions.

[0038] Although Figure 2 A specific arrangement of the auxiliary power controller 110, combined APU / starter battery 123, solar panel 125, cab heater / air conditioning 132, alternator 140, engine block 150, water pump 160, and oil pump 170 is shown, but this disclosure considers any suitable arrangement of the auxiliary power controller 110, combined APU / starter battery 123, solar panel 125, cab heater / air conditioning 132, alternator 140, engine block 150, water pump 160, and oil pump 170.

[0039] Although Figure 1A specific number of auxiliary power controllers 110, combined APU / starter battery 123, solar panels 125, cab heater / air conditioning 132, alternator 140, engine assembly 150, water pump 160, and oil pump 170 are shown, but this disclosure contemplates any suitable number of auxiliary power controllers 110, combined APU / starter battery 123, solar panels 125, cab heater / air conditioning 132, alternator 140, engine assembly 150, water pump 160, and oil pump 170.

[0040] Can be Figure 2 The system 200 shown may be modified, added to, or omitted. System 200 may include more, fewer, or other components. For example, system 200 may include one or more controllers, sensors, accessories, application software, etc. One or more components of system 200 may include components from... Figure 6 One or more components of a computer system.

[0041] Figure 3 An example system 300 is shown that uses an auxiliary power controller 110 to manage the transmission of auxiliary power from an APU battery 121 and a solar panel 125 to one or more power-consuming devices, such as a cabin heater / air conditioning unit 132, a starter battery 133, a water pump 160, and / or an oil pump 170. System 300 includes an auxiliary power controller 110, an APU battery 121, a solar panel 125, a cabin heater / air conditioning unit 132, a starter battery 133, an alternator 140, an engine block 150, a water pump 160, and an oil pump 170. (As described above) Figure 1 The APU battery 121 and solar panel 125 are the vehicle's input power sources, while the cab heater / air conditioner 132, starter battery 133, water pump 160 and oil pump 170 are the vehicle's power-consuming devices.

[0042] When the engine of the vehicle associated with system 300 is running, the alternator 140 of system 300 serves as a power input source to provide power to one or more power-consuming devices of system 300. For example, alternator 140 can provide power to cabin heater / air conditioning 132 to heat and / or cool the vehicle's cabin. As another example, alternator 140 can power water pump 160 to circulate water through engine block 150 of system 300. As yet another example, alternator 140 can power oil pump 170 to circulate oil through engine block 150 of system 200. As yet another example, alternator 140 can provide power to APU battery 121 to charge APU battery 121. As yet another example, alternator 140 can provide power to starter battery 133 to charge starter battery 133.

[0043] When the vehicle engine associated with system 300 is shut down, the alternator 140 of system 300 is no longer used as a power input source for system 300. The auxiliary power controller 110 identifies the APU battery 121 and solar panel 125 as power input sources, and the cabin heater / air conditioning unit 132, starter battery 133, water pump 160, and oil pump 170 as power-consuming devices, and manages the transfer of auxiliary power from the APU battery 121 and / or solar panel 125 to the cabin heater / air conditioning unit 132, starter battery 133, water pump 160, and oil pump 170. For example, the auxiliary power controller 110 can initiate the transfer of auxiliary power from the solar panel 125 to the cabin heater / air conditioning unit 132 and starter battery 133. If the auxiliary power controller 110 determines that the available power from the solar panel 125 is below a predetermined power level, the auxiliary power controller 110 can initiate the transfer of auxiliary power from the APU battery 121 and the solar panel 125 to the cabin heater / air conditioning 132 and the starter battery 133. Therefore, the system 300 can provide auxiliary power to the power-consuming devices without using the APU diesel engine, which can reduce maintenance and repair costs associated with the APU diesel engine and harmful emissions. In some embodiments, if the APU battery 121 cannot meet the power demand of the power-consuming devices, the automatic engine start-stop (AESS) system starts the vehicle's engine, thereby allowing the alternator 140 to meet the power demand of the power-consuming devices.

[0044] although Figure 3 A specific arrangement of the auxiliary power controller 110, APU battery 121, solar panel 125, cab heater / air conditioning 132, starter battery 133, alternator 140, engine block 150, water pump 160, and oil pump 170 is shown, but this disclosure considers any suitable arrangement of the auxiliary power controller 110, APU battery 121, solar panel 125, cab heater / air conditioning 132, starter battery 133, alternator 140, engine block 150, water pump 160, and oil pump 170.

[0045] Although Figure 3 A specific number of auxiliary power controllers 110, APU batteries 121, solar panels 125, cab heaters / air conditioners 132, starter batteries 133, alternators 140, engine blocks 150, water pumps 160, and oil pumps 170 are shown, but this disclosure contemplates any suitable number of auxiliary power controllers 110, APU batteries 121, solar panels 125, cab heaters / air conditioners 132, starter batteries 133, alternators 140, engine blocks 150, water pumps 160, and oil pumps 170.

[0046] Can be Figure 3 The system 300 shown may be modified, added to, or omitted. System 300 may include more, fewer, or other components. For example, system 300 may include one or more controllers, sensors, accessories, application software, etc. One or more components of system 300 may include components from... Figure 6 One or more components of a computer system.

[0047] Figure 4 It can be shown by Figures 1 to 3 The following is an example of a solar panel system 400 used in a system. The solar panel system 400 includes solar panels 410, a panel frame 420, and hooks 430. Solar panels 410 are components that absorb sunlight as energy. Solar panels 410 can be of any suitable size and shape. For example, each solar panel 410 can be rectangular, having a width of 1.75 feet and a length of 3.5 feet. Solar panels 410 can be combined to form any suitable size and shape. For example, a 3×4 solar panel array can be formed to produce a total width of 5.25 feet and a total length of 10.5 feet. Solar panels 410 can be made of any material suitable for absorbing sunlight. For example, solar panels 410 can be made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), or any other suitable material.

[0048] In some embodiments, solar panel 410 serves as a power input source for the vehicle. Solar panel 410 generates a predetermined number of watts of power. For example, solar panel 410 may generate 15 watts of power per square foot, such that a 3×4 array of solar panels 410 would produce 1080 watts of power. As another example, each solar panel 410 may generate 290 to 360 watts of power. Solar panel 410 may include one or more inverters for converting direct current (DC) energy absorbed by sunlight into usable alternating current (AC) energy. The AC energy can then be distributed to one or more power-consuming devices of the vehicle. Solar panel 410 may be attached to the roof of the vehicle and serve as a power input source for the vehicle.

[0049] Solar panel 410 can be attached to a vehicle using solar panel frame 420. Solar panel frame 420 is any frame used to physically connect solar panel 410 to the vehicle. Solar panel frame 420 can be made of any suitable material capable of providing structural support for solar panel 410. For example, solar panel frame 420 can be made of metal (e.g., steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, copper, iron, etc.), plastic, fabric, combinations thereof, or any other suitable material. Solar panel system 400 may include one or more hooks 430. Hooks 430 can be used to lift solar panel 410 and / or solar panel frame 420 from the vehicle. Hooks 430 can be of any suitable type, size, shape, and material. For example, hooks can be eye hooks, U-hooks, swivel hooks, etc. In some embodiments, solar panel 410, solar panel frame 420, and hooks 430 of solar panel system 400 are made of materials capable of withstanding sun, rain, hail, wind, snow, ice, sleet, and / or other weather conditions.

[0050] Figure 5 An example method 500 is illustrated, using an auxiliary power controller to manage the transfer of auxiliary power from one or more power input sources to one or more power consuming devices. Method 500 begins at step 505. In step 510, the auxiliary power controller (e.g., Figure 1 The auxiliary power controller 110 draws power from multiple power input sources (e.g., Figure 1 The auxiliary power controller can select one or more solar panels (e.g., from the power input source 120) to choose between the first and second power input sources. For example, the auxiliary power controller can select one or more solar panels (e.g., from the following power input sources) to choose between the first and second power input sources. Figure 1 Solar panels 125) and roadside power units (e.g., Figure 1 The roadside power unit 126 includes an APU battery, a starter battery, a combined APU / starter battery, a dynamic regenerative braking system, solar panels, and a roadside power unit. Then, method 500 moves from step 510 to step 515.

[0051] In step 515 of method 500, the auxiliary power controller receives power from multiple power-consuming devices (e.g., Figure 1 The auxiliary power controller can select the first and second power consumption devices from the following power consumption devices (e.g., air compressor, etc.). Figure 1 The air compressor 131) and the starter battery (e.g., Figure 1 (Starter battery 133): air compressor, cab heater / air conditioner, starter battery, electrical components, water heater, water pump, oil heater and oil pump. Then, method 500 moves from step 515 to step 520.

[0052] In step 520 of method 500, the auxiliary power controller determines each available power source among the first and second power input sources. For example, the auxiliary power controller may determine that the solar panel can provide 5 kW of power, while the roadside power unit can provide 650 kW of power. Method 500 then moves from step 520 to step 525, where the auxiliary power controller determines the required auxiliary power demand for each of the first and second power-consuming devices. For example, the auxiliary power controller may determine that the air compressor requires 5 kW of power, while the starter battery requires 600 kW of power. Method 500 then moves from step 525 to step 530.

[0053] In step 530 of method 500, the auxiliary power controller determines whether the available power supply of the first power input source meets or exceeds the auxiliary power requirements of the first and second power consuming devices. If the auxiliary power controller determines that the available power supply of the first power input source meets or exceeds the auxiliary power requirements of the first and second power consuming devices, method 500 moves from step 530 to step 535, wherein the auxiliary power controller initiates the transfer of auxiliary power from the first power input source to the first and second power consuming devices.

[0054] If, in step 530, the auxiliary power controller determines that the available power supply from the first power input source is less than the auxiliary power requirements of the first and second power-consuming devices, then method 500 moves from step 530 to step 540, wherein the auxiliary power controller initiates the transfer of auxiliary power from the first and second power input sources to the first and second power-consuming devices. For example, the auxiliary power controller may determine that the solar panel can only provide 5 kilowatts of power, which is less than the 605 kilowatts of auxiliary power required by the air compressor and the starting battery. To meet this power requirement, the auxiliary power controller initiates the transfer of auxiliary power from the first and second power input sources to the first and second power-consuming devices. Then, method 500 moves from steps 535 and 540 to step 545.

[0055] In step 545 of method 500, the auxiliary power controller determines whether the power input source and / or power consumption device has changed. For example, the auxiliary power controller may detect the addition of a new power input source (e.g., a dynamic regenerative braking system). If the auxiliary power controller determines that the power input source and / or power consumption device has changed, the auxiliary power controller modifies the selection of the power input source and / or power consumption device accordingly. For example, in response to the detection of a dynamic regenerative braking system, the auxiliary power controller may add the dynamic regenerative braking system to the selection of available power input sources. Method 500 then moves from step 550 to step 555, where method 500 ends. If, in step 545, the auxiliary power controller determines that the power input source and / or power consumption device has not changed, method 500 moves from step 545 to step 555, where method 500 ends. Therefore, method 500 allows for flexible selection of one or more power input sources and one or more power output consumption devices.

[0056] Can be Figure 5 Method 500 can be modified, added to, or omitted. Method 500 may include more, fewer, or other steps. For example, method 500 may include selecting more or fewer than two power input sources from a plurality of power input sources. The steps may be performed in parallel or in any suitable order. For example, steps 510 and 515 of method 500 may be reversed. Although discussed as specific components for completing steps of method 500, any suitable component may perform any step of method 500.

[0057] Figure 6 An exemplary computer system is shown that can be used by the systems and methods described herein. For example, Figure 1 One or more components of system 100 (e.g., auxiliary power controller 110) may include one or more interfaces 610, processing circuitry 620, memory 630, and / or other suitable elements. Interface 610 receives inputs, sends outputs, processes inputs and / or outputs, and / or performs other suitable operations. Interface 610 may include hardware and / or software.

[0058] Processing circuitry 620 performs or manages the operation of a component. Processing circuitry 620 may include hardware and / or software. Examples of processing circuitry include one or more computers, one or more microprocessors, one or more application programs, etc. In some embodiments, processing circuitry 620 executes logic (e.g., instructions) to perform actions (e.g., operations), such as generating output from input. The logic executed by processing circuitry 620 may be encoded in one or more tangible, non-transitory computer-readable media (e.g., memory 630). For example, the logic may constitute a computer program, software, computer-executable instructions, and / or instructions executable by a computer. In certain embodiments, the operation of an embodiment may be performed by one or more computer-readable media that store, embody, and / or encode a computer program and / or have a stored and / or encoded computer program.

[0059] Memory 630 (or memory cell) stores information. Memory 630 may include one or more non-transitory, tangible, computer-readable and / or computer-executable storage media. Examples of memory 630 include computer memory (e.g., RAM or ROM), mass storage media (e.g., hard disk), removable storage media (e.g., optical disc (CD) or digital video disc (DVD)), database and / or network storage (e.g., server) and / or other computer-readable media.

[0060] Herein, one or more computer-readable non-transitory storage media may include one or more semiconductor-based or other integrated circuits (ICs) (e.g., field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs)), hard disk drives (HDDs), hybrid hard disk drives (HHDs), optical disks, optical disk drives (ODDs), magneto-optical disks, magneto-optical drives, floppy disks, floppy disk drives (FDDs), magnetic tape, solid-state drives (SSDs), RAM drives, secure digital cards or drives, any other suitable computer-readable non-transitory storage media, or any suitable combination of two or more of these (if applicable). Where appropriate, computer-readable non-transitory storage media may be volatile, non-volatile, or a combination of volatile and non-volatile.

[0061] Here, unless otherwise expressly stated or the context otherwise requires, "or" is inclusive rather than exclusive. Therefore, in this document, unless otherwise expressly stated or the context otherwise requires, "A or B" means "A, B, or both." Furthermore, unless otherwise expressly stated or the context otherwise requires, "and" is both joint and multiple. Therefore, in this document, unless otherwise expressly stated or the context otherwise requires, "A and B" means "A and B, together or separately."

[0062] The scope of this disclosure includes all changes, substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications to the exemplary embodiments described or illustrated herein that will be understood by those skilled in the art. The scope of this disclosure is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described or illustrated herein. Furthermore, although this disclosure describes and illustrates various embodiments herein as including specific components, elements, features, functions, operations, or steps, any of these embodiments may include any combination or arrangement of any components, elements, features, functions, operations, or steps described or illustrated anywhere herein that will be understood by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, in the appended claims, references to a device or system or a component of a device or system adapted to, arranged, capable of, configured to, enabled, operable, or operable to perform a particular function cover that device, system, or component, whether or not it or the particular function is activated, turned on, or unlocked, provided that the device, system, or component is so adapted to, arranged to, capable of, configured to, enabled, operable, or operable. Furthermore, although this disclosure describes or illustrates specific embodiments as providing particular advantages, those specific embodiments may not provide, or may provide some or all of those advantages.

Claims

1. A modular system for dynamically managing auxiliary loads and power sources on a vehicle, comprising: an engine block of a vehicle; one or more pumps operably coupled to the engine block; an alternator configured to provide power to the pumps to circulate fluids through the engine block; one or more power input sources; one or more power consuming devices; and an auxiliary power controller configured to: determine a first selection of the one or more power input sources from a plurality of power input sources, determine a first selection of one or more power consuming devices from a plurality of power consuming devices, manage transfer of auxiliary power from the first selection of the one or more power input sources to the first selection of the one or more power consuming devices, and manage transfer of power from the alternator to the one or more pumps, wherein the auxiliary power controller is configured to determine power supply availability of the one or more power input sources and power demand of each of the one or more power consuming devices prior to managing transfer of the auxiliary power from the first selection of the one or more power input sources to the first selection of the one or more power consuming devices, wherein the power demand from a power consuming device indicates an amount of power the power consuming device is to consume from the one or more power consuming devices. The auxiliary power controller detects available power input sources from a predetermined selection of the one or more power input sources.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein, The auxiliary power controller selects a power input source from the predetermined selection of the one or more power input sources based on one or more factors.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein, The factors include at least one of a geographic location where a vehicle associated with the auxiliary power controller is to be used, a size of the vehicle, and an amount of auxiliary power required by the vehicle.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein, The auxiliary power controller determines a power supply of a first power input source and a power demand of a first power consuming device.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein, The auxiliary power controller determines that the power supply of the first power input source meets or exceeds the power demand of the first power consuming device.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein, The auxiliary power controller initiates transfer of auxiliary power from the first power input source to the first power consuming device.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein, The auxiliary power controller determines that a combined power supply of two or more power input sources exceeds the power demand of the first power consuming device.

8. The system of claim 5, wherein, The auxiliary power controller initiates transfer of auxiliary power from the two or more power input sources to the first power consuming device.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein, 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a diesel engine configured to drive the alternator to provide power to move the vehicle.

11. A modular system for dynamically managing auxiliary loads and power sources on a locomotive, comprising: a locomotive engine block; a water pump configured to circulate water through the locomotive engine block; an oil pump configured to circulate oil through the locomotive engine block; a locomotive alternator configured to provide power to the water pump and to provide power to the oil pump; one or more power input sources; ​ one or more power consuming devices; and an auxiliary power controller configured to perform the following operations: determining a first selection of one or more power input sources from a plurality of power input sources, determining a first selection of one or more power consuming devices from a plurality of power consuming devices, managing transfer of auxiliary power from the first selection of one or more power input sources to the first selection of one or more power consuming devices, and managing transfer of power from the locomotive alternator to the water pump and the oil pump, wherein the auxiliary power controller is configured to determine power supply availability from the one or more power input sources and power demand of each of the one or more power consuming devices prior to managing transfer of auxiliary power from the first selection of one or more power input sources to the first selection of one or more power consuming devices, wherein the power demand from a power consuming device indicates an amount of power that the power consuming device is to consume from the one or more power consuming devices.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein, the auxiliary power controller detects available power input sources from a predetermined selection of one or more power input sources.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein, the auxiliary power controller selects a power input source from a predetermined selection of one or more power input sources based on one or more factors.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein, the factors include at least one of a geographic location where a vehicle associated with the auxiliary power controller is to be used, a size of the vehicle, and an amount of auxiliary power required by the vehicle.

15. The system of claim 11, wherein, the auxiliary power controller determines a power supply of a first power input source and a power demand of a first power consuming device.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein, the auxiliary power controller determines that the power supply of the first power input source meets or exceeds the power demand of the first power consuming device.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein, the auxiliary power controller initiates transfer of auxiliary power from the first power input source to the first power consuming device.

18. The system of claim 15, wherein, the auxiliary power controller determines that a combined power supply of two or more power input sources exceeds the power demand of the first power consuming device.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein, the auxiliary power controller initiates transfer of auxiliary power from the two or more power input sources to the first power consuming device.

20. The system of claim 11, further comprising a diesel engine configured to drive the locomotive alternator to provide power to move a locomotive.

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