Methods and systems for powering a rail vehicle

Abstract

Various methods and systems are provided for supplying gaseous natural gas and electrical energy to a rail vehicle. In one embodiment, a method comprises receiving natural gas at an engine on board a rail vehicle during engine operation, stopping the engine in response to an engine shutdown request, and receiving electrical energy from off board the rail vehicle to power the rail vehicle for at least a period while the engine is stopped.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 678,191, filed Aug. 1, 2012, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD[0002]Embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein relate to a rail vehicle, and related methods for supplying fuel to an engine of the rail vehicle.BACKGROUND[0003]Locomotives (or other vehicles) typically include a prime mover that is powered by a fuel source to generate mechanical energy. In one example of a locomotive, mechanical energy generated by the prime mover may be converted to electrical energy that is used to power traction motors and other components and systems of the locomotive. In some examples, the prime mover may be a combustion engine that is fueled by diesel, gasoline, or other liquid petroleum distillates. In other examples the engine may additionally or alternatively utilize a gaseous fuel, such as natural gas.[0004]In light of its favorable ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent allows for a rail vehicle to have an engine shutdown for an extended period while still receiving electricity to power certain parts of the vehicle. This results in reduced engine idle time, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions.

Problems solved by technology

Such an interface, however, requires suitable cryogenic hosing, cryogenic coupling components, and associated design constraints and maintenance requirements.

Transferring LNG across such an interface also creates the potential for LNG leaks.

However, as with transferring LNG across an interface, this configuration requires additional insulated hosing and coupling components that present design challenges and risks.

Additionally, LNG storage tanks typically generate boil-off gas that may accumulate in the tank.

Such venting of natural gas may raise environmental concerns.

Nevertheless, instead of entering a shutdown mode, the locomotive engine may continue to idle to generate electricity needed by components and / or systems on board the locomotive.

Such idling may produce undesirable exhaust emissions and reduce overall operating efficiencies.

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