Electric locomotive main reservoir drainage control method, device and system and electric locomotive

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a kind of electric locomotive total air cylinder drainage control method, device, system and electric locomotive, it is related to drainage technical field, the total air cylinder of the electric locomotive is provided with first air source quality detection sensor and second air source quality detection sensor, method includes: by first air source quality detection sensor monitoring the water content of compressed air from total air cylinder discharge;By second air source quality detection sensor monitoring the water content of compressed air after being handled by air dryer;If the water content detected by first air source quality detection sensor is higher than first preset threshold, and the water content detected by second air source quality detection sensor is lower than second preset threshold, then determine that the water in total air cylinder is excessive, execute automatic drainage operation.The present disclosure can accurately, efficiently realize total air cylinder drainage.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of drainage technology, and in particular to a method, device, system, and electric locomotive for controlling drainage of the main air cylinder. Background Technology

[0002] Traditionally, the main air reservoir drainage in locomotives is manually operated by the driver and crew. The drainage cycle and requirements of the main air reservoir are entirely based on experience. In some locomotives, the main air reservoir is located under the locomotive underframe, making drainage operation extremely inconvenient for the driver and crew. If the humidity of the locomotive's operating environment is high or the external ambient temperature is low, the drainage plug is prone to freezing, which makes drainage inconvenient, affects the air source quality, and thus affects the lifespan of the braking components in the pipeline system.

[0003] During factory braking function testing and commissioning of locomotives or during powerless return operations, the driver and crew often need to open the drain plug of the main air cylinder to reduce the locomotive's total air pressure to meet the test requirements or the requirements for powerless return operations. When the locomotive's total air pressure is high, there are certain safety hazards when the driver and crew manually operate the drain plug of the main air cylinder.

[0004] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this disclosure, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure provides a method, device, system, and electric locomotive for controlling the drainage of the main air cylinder, which at least to some extent overcomes the problems of untimely and inaccurate drainage in related technologies.

[0006] Other features and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description, or may be learned in part from practice of this disclosure.

[0007] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a method for controlling drainage of the main air reservoir of an electric locomotive is provided. The main air reservoir of the electric locomotive is equipped with a first air source quality detection sensor and a second air source quality detection sensor. The method includes: monitoring the moisture content of compressed air discharged from the main air reservoir using the first air source quality detection sensor; monitoring the moisture content of compressed air treated by an air dryer using the second air source quality detection sensor; if the moisture content detected by the first air source quality detection sensor is higher than a first preset threshold and the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is lower than a second preset threshold, then it is determined that the water accumulation in the main air reservoir exceeds the standard, and an automatic drainage operation is performed.

[0008] In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, based on the foregoing scheme, the method further includes: if the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is higher than a third preset threshold, then determining that the performance of the air dryer is abnormal and generating an alarm signal.

[0009] In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, based on the foregoing scheme, a temperature sensor is provided at the drainage assembly of the main air cylinder of the electric locomotive, and the method further includes: monitoring the ambient temperature at the drainage assembly through the temperature sensor; if the temperature sensor detects that the ambient temperature is lower than a fourth preset threshold, controlling the heater in the drainage assembly to start and perform heating operation.

[0010] In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, based on the foregoing scheme, the method further includes: receiving a manual drainage command via a main air cylinder drainage button in the driver's cab; and, in response to the manual drainage command, controlling the drainage solenoid valve in the main air cylinder to open and perform a manual drainage operation.

[0011] In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, based on the foregoing scheme, the electric locomotive further includes a compressor, and the method further includes monitoring the operating status of the compressor; if the compressor is detected to be in operation, the automatic drainage operation is prohibited.

[0012] In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, based on the foregoing scheme, the electric locomotive further includes a high-pressure safety valve, and the method further includes monitoring the state of the high-pressure safety valve; if the high-pressure safety valve is detected to be activated, controlling the drain solenoid valve to open to collaboratively reduce the total wind pressure.

[0013] In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, based on the foregoing scheme, the first air source quality detection sensor and the second air source quality detection sensor are also used to detect the oil content and / or particulate matter content in the compressed air.

[0014] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a drainage control device for the main air reservoir of an electric locomotive is also provided. The main air reservoir of the electric locomotive is equipped with a first air source quality detection sensor and a second air source quality detection sensor, comprising: a moisture content monitoring module, used to monitor the moisture content of compressed air discharged from the main air reservoir through the first air source quality detection sensor; and to monitor the moisture content of compressed air processed by an air dryer through the second air source quality detection sensor; and a drainage operation module, used to determine that the water accumulation in the main air reservoir exceeds the standard and to perform an automatic drainage operation if the moisture content detected by the first air source quality detection sensor is higher than a first preset threshold and the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is lower than a second preset threshold.

[0015] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a main air reservoir drainage control system for an electric locomotive is also provided. The main air reservoir of the electric locomotive is equipped with a first air source quality detection sensor and a second air source quality detection sensor, comprising: a monitoring device for monitoring the moisture content of compressed air discharged from the main air reservoir through the first air source quality detection sensor; and monitoring the moisture content of compressed air treated by an air dryer through the second air source quality detection sensor; and a drainage device for determining that the water accumulation in the main air reservoir exceeds the standard and performing an automatic drainage operation if the moisture content detected by the first air source quality detection sensor is higher than a first preset threshold and the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is lower than a second preset threshold.

[0016] According to another aspect of this disclosure, an electric locomotive is also provided, comprising: performing the electric locomotive main air cylinder drainage control method described in any of the preceding claims.

[0017] The embodiments of this disclosure provide a method, device, system, and electric locomotive for controlling drainage in the main air cylinder of an electric locomotive. This involves comparing the moisture content detected by a first sensor and a second sensor. If the second sensor detects a high moisture content, it indicates that the dryer is not performing well, and the problem lies with the dryer. If the second sensor detects a normal moisture content, but the first sensor detects a high moisture content, it indicates that the dryer is working properly, but water has accumulated inside the main air cylinder, causing the discharged air to become humid. Compared to related technologies that may only monitor the moisture content at the outlet of the main air cylinder, where a high moisture content cannot determine whether the air dryer itself is malfunctioning, causing all the air to be humid, or whether the dryer is working properly but water accumulation in a certain main air cylinder is causing localized air humidity, the embodiments of this disclosure can accurately locate the fault point, avoiding misdiagnosis of a dryer malfunction as water accumulation in the air cylinder, or vice versa, thereby ensuring that correct maintenance measures are taken.

[0018] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure. It is obvious that the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this disclosure, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any inventive effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an exemplary application system architecture for a method of controlling the main air cylinder drainage in an electric locomotive, as described in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 2 This diagram illustrates a method for controlling the drainage of the main air cylinder of an electric locomotive according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This diagram illustrates a main air cylinder drainage control device for an electric locomotive according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 This diagram illustrates an electronic device for a method of controlling the drainage of the main air cylinder of an electric locomotive, as described in an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, they are provided so that this disclosure will be more comprehensive and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0022] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Numerous specific details are provided in the following description to give a thorough understanding of embodiments of this disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the technical solutions of this disclosure can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or other methods, components, apparatuses, steps, etc., can be employed. In other instances, well-known methods, apparatuses, implementations, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring various aspects of this disclosure.

[0023] The flowcharts shown in the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative and do not necessarily include all content and operations / steps, nor do they necessarily have to be performed in the described order. For example, some operations / steps can be broken down, while others can be combined or partially combined; therefore, the actual execution order may change depending on the specific circumstances.

[0024] First, this disclosure provides a main air cylinder drainage control method that can be applied to, but is not limited to, electric locomotives. It can be applied to any main air cylinder drainage control system. It should be noted that, as... Figure 1As shown, the main air reservoir drainage control system consists of a compressor (110), a dryer (120), a dryer drain solenoid valve (121), a main air reservoir (131), a main air reservoir (132), a main air reservoir drainage intelligent control device (141, 142), a main air reservoir drainage stage plug (1411, 1412), a main air reservoir drainage solenoid valve (1421, 1422), a main air reservoir drainage device heater (1431, 1432), a temperature sensor (1414, 1424), a brake auxiliary component (150), an air source quality detection sensor (161, 162, 163, 164; it should be noted that the air source quality detection sensor can monitor the moisture content of compressed air), a brake (170), a one-way valve (180), and a high-pressure feedback device. The system comprises a safety valve (190), a locomotive control system (200), a driver's cab main air cylinder drain button (210), a driver's cab main air pressure gauge (220), and a main air pressure sensor (230). Through the electric locomotive main air cylinder drain control method in this embodiment, the main air cylinder drain does not require complex operation by the operator, and the intelligence and convenience of the drain are greatly improved. When the main air pressure is too high, it can act synchronously with the high-pressure safety valve to quickly reduce the main air pressure. At the same time, it can detect the moisture content of the air pressure in the main air cylinder in a timely manner, monitor the air drying effect of the air dryer in real time, and provide timely feedback to the locomotive and the driver and passengers. It can also automatically control the air quality of the main air cylinder according to different operating conditions and locomotive status, improve the life cycle of the braking components, and ensure the reliability of the locomotive braking.

[0025] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates a method for controlling drainage in the main air reservoir of an electric locomotive, as shown in an embodiment of the present disclosure. The main air reservoir of the electric locomotive is equipped with a first air source quality detection sensor and a second air source quality detection sensor. The method includes the following steps: S202, the moisture content of the compressed air discharged from the main air cylinder is monitored by the first air source quality detection sensor; the moisture content of the compressed air after being processed by the air dryer is monitored by the second air source quality detection sensor.

[0026] It should be noted that the first air source quality detection sensor in this embodiment is a sensor installed on the pipeline downstream of the main air cylinder outlet. Its main function is to detect the quality of compressed air discharged from a specific main air cylinder in real time, especially its moisture content (i.e., air humidity or water vapor content). If this sensor detects that the air is very humid, it indicates that the air discharged from this air cylinder has a high moisture content, which may mean that liquid water or moisture has accumulated inside this air cylinder. The main air cylinder in this embodiment is the main air storage container in the compressed air system of the electric locomotive. It stores high-pressure air generated by the air compressor and provides a stable and sufficient supply of air to the pneumatic equipment of the entire vehicle (such as the braking system, pantograph, wind whistle, etc.). The compressed air in this embodiment refers to air that has been compressed by a compressor and has a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure. In electric locomotives, it is the power source for driving pneumatic equipment such as the braking system. The moisture content of the compressed air in this embodiment is usually expressed as "dew point temperature" or "absolute humidity". The higher the moisture content, the more humid the air, and the easier it is to condense liquid water at low temperatures. For the braking system, the moisture content is required to be extremely low to ensure that the air is dry. The second air source quality detection sensor in this embodiment is a sensor installed on the pipeline upstream of the main air cylinder and downstream of the air dryer. Its main function is to detect the quality of the compressed air that is about to enter the main air cylinder after being processed by the dryer in real time, especially the moisture content.

[0027] S204, if the moisture content detected by the first air source quality detection sensor is higher than the first preset threshold and the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is lower than the second preset threshold, then it is determined that the water accumulation in the main air cylinder exceeds the standard, and an automatic drainage operation is performed.

[0028] It should be noted that the first preset threshold in this embodiment is a pre-set upper limit value for moisture content. If the detection value of the first sensor exceeds this value, the air discharged from the air cylinder is considered to be "too humid" and has reached a level that requires attention or treatment. The second preset threshold in this embodiment is a pre-set lower limit value for moisture content. If the detection value of the second sensor is lower than this value, the air processed by the dryer is considered to be "sufficiently dry" and the dryer is working normally. For example, in this embodiment, the first preset threshold can be set to 3000 ppm and the second preset threshold can be set to 1000 ppm. The 3000 ppm and 1000 ppm values ​​in this embodiment are based on data obtained from multiple experiments. This embodiment does not impose specific limitations, and those skilled in the art can flexibly set them according to the actual situation.

[0029] The electric locomotive main air cylinder drainage control method provided in the embodiments of this disclosure firstly monitors the moisture content of compressed air discharged from the main air cylinder through a first air source quality detection sensor; secondly, it monitors the moisture content of compressed air processed by an air dryer through a second air source quality detection sensor; then, if the moisture content detected by the first air source quality detection sensor is higher than a first preset threshold and the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is lower than a second preset threshold, it is determined that the water accumulation in the main air cylinder exceeds the standard, and an automatic drainage operation is performed. Compared to related technologies that may only monitor moisture content at the outlet of the main air reservoir, if a high moisture content is detected, it is impossible to determine whether the air dryer itself is malfunctioning, causing all the air to be humid, or whether the dryer is working properly but water accumulation in a certain main air reservoir is causing localized air humidity, leading to untimely and inaccurate drainage. This embodiment of the present disclosure uses a first sensor and a second sensor for comparison: if the second sensor detects a high moisture content, it indicates that the dryer's treatment effect is poor, and the problem lies with the dryer; if the second sensor detects a normal moisture content, but the first sensor detects a high moisture content, it indicates that the dryer is working properly, but water accumulation inside the main air reservoir is causing the discharged air to be humid. This embodiment of the present disclosure can accurately locate the fault point, avoiding misjudging the dryer malfunction as water accumulation in the air reservoir, or vice versa, thereby ensuring that the correct maintenance measures are taken.

[0030] It should be noted that the drain solenoid valve in the main air cylinder drainage intelligent control device in this embodiment is a corrosion-resistant and high-pressure resistant fast-response solenoid valve, which supports high-frequency short-time drainage and reduces the impact of each drainage on the main air cylinder pressure.

[0031] In some embodiments, the electric locomotive main air cylinder drainage control method in this disclosure further includes: if the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is higher than a third preset threshold, then it is determined that the performance of the air dryer is abnormal, and an alarm signal is generated. Specifically, this disclosure embodiment sets a second air source quality detection sensor at the dryer outlet. Once the second air source quality detection sensor detects that the moisture content of the processed air exceeds a preset safety threshold (that is, the third preset threshold in this disclosure embodiment), it immediately determines that the dryer performance is abnormal, transforming potential risks into clear alarms, realizing the transformation from passive maintenance to proactive prevention. In addition, in related technologies, the main air cylinder drainage system may face two problems: water accumulation in the air cylinder or dryer failure. Monitoring only the moisture content at the air cylinder outlet cannot distinguish between them. However, this disclosure embodiment can clearly point the root cause of the problem to the dryer itself, rather than the main air cylinder, when the second sensor detects a high moisture content, avoiding misjudgment and invalid operation, significantly shortening the fault diagnosis time, and improving operation and maintenance efficiency.

[0032] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1As shown, in this embodiment of the locomotive, during operation, the air source quality detection sensors (161, 162, 163, 164) monitor the compressed air quality in the air pipeline in real time. When the air source quality detection sensor (161, which can be represented as the first air source quality detection sensor) detects that the compressed air moisture content is high, and the air source quality detection sensor (162, which can be represented as the second air source quality detection sensor) detects that the compressed air moisture content is normal, it indicates that the compressed air moisture content in the locomotive's main air cylinder (131) is high. Simultaneously, relevant information is fed back to the locomotive control system (200), and the locomotive control system (200) controls the main air cylinder drainage intelligent control device (141) to actively drain the compressed air. When the air source quality detection sensor (163, which can be represented as the first air source quality detection sensor) detects that the compressed air moisture content is high... When the second air source quality detection sensor (162) detects that the moisture content of the compressed air is normal, it indicates that the moisture content of the compressed air in the locomotive main air cylinder (132) is high. The locomotive control system (200) will then send relevant information to the locomotive control system (200), and the locomotive control system (200) will control the main air cylinder drainage intelligent control device (142) to actively drain the air. When the second air source quality detection sensor (162) or the air source quality detection sensor (164, which can be represented as the second air source quality detection sensor) detects that the moisture content of the compressed air is high, it indicates that the locomotive dryer is not working well. The locomotive control system (200) will then send relevant information to the locomotive control system (200), and the driver and crew will check the working status of the dryer in a timely manner based on the feedback. If necessary, the dryer desiccant will be replaced. After replacement, the locomotive main air moisture content will be confirmed by the second air source quality detection sensor (162 or 164) to determine whether it is normal.

[0033] In some embodiments, a temperature sensor is provided at the drainage assembly of the main air cylinder of the electric locomotive in this disclosure embodiment. The drainage control method of the main air cylinder of the electric locomotive in this disclosure embodiment further includes: monitoring the ambient temperature at the drainage assembly through the temperature sensor; if the temperature sensor detects that the ambient temperature is lower than a fourth preset threshold, controlling the heater in the drainage assembly to start and perform heating operation. Specifically, when the electric locomotive is running in winter or in cold regions, the condensate discharged from the main air cylinder will quickly freeze in the drain plug, solenoid valve and pipeline. In related technologies, when manually draining, the driver and passengers often face the dilemma of the plug freezing and being unable to operate. However, this disclosure embodiment monitors the ambient temperature at the drainage assembly in real time through the temperature sensor. Once it is lower than the fourth preset threshold (for example, this disclosure embodiment can set the fourth preset threshold to 0°C), the heater is automatically started to heat the drainage assembly (including key parts such as solenoid valve, drainage pipeline, plug, etc.), thereby maintaining the temperature of the drainage channel above the freezing point, fundamentally preventing water accumulation and freezing, avoiding the freezing of the sewage pipeline in low-temperature environments, ensuring that the drainage channel always remains unobstructed no matter how cold the environment is, having stronger environmental adaptability, and providing a more reliable guarantee for braking function.

[0034] In some embodiments, the driver and passengers control the corresponding main air cylinder drainage solenoid valve in the main air cylinder drainage intelligent control device by operating the main air cylinder drainage button in the driver's cab, so that the locomotive's main air cylinder can automatically drain water. At the same time, the driver and passengers determine that the main air pressure has reached a predetermined value by observing the main air pressure gauge in the driver's cab. When the locomotive is in the start-up working state, when the temperature sensor in the main air cylinder drainage intelligent control device detects that the ambient temperature is lower than the fourth preset threshold, the heater of the main air cylinder drainage device will be activated to ensure that the main air cylinder drainage plug in the main air cylinder drainage intelligent control device will not be blocked by ice.

[0035] In some embodiments, the electric locomotive main air cylinder drainage control method in this disclosure further includes: receiving a manual drainage command via a main air cylinder drainage button in the driver's cab; and, in response to the manual drainage command, controlling the drainage solenoid valve in the main air cylinder to open and perform a manual drainage operation. Specifically, when the automatic drainage function fails for any reason (e.g., a faulty air source quality sensor or an abnormal control system software), the driver and passengers can still directly and forcibly start drainage by operating the main air cylinder drainage button in the driver's cab, providing a crucial manual emergency channel for the entire drainage system. This ensures that, under any circumstances, the driver and passengers have the ability to perform drainage operations on the main air cylinder, avoiding the safety hazard of being unable to drain due to system failure.

[0036] In some embodiments, the driver and passengers can control the main air reservoir to drain water and adjust the locomotive's total air pressure via the main air reservoir drain button in the driver's cab. At the same time, air source quality detection sensors at different locations detect the air moisture content in the pipeline and exchange information with the locomotive control system in real time. This provides real-time feedback on the operation of the locomotive's air dryer and adaptively determines whether the main air reservoir needs to be drained based on the locomotive's operating conditions. This ensures that the air source quality for the locomotive's air entering the braking auxiliary components and brake components meets the locomotive's requirements, ensuring safe and reliable braking performance.

[0037] In some embodiments, the electric locomotive in this disclosure further includes a compressor, and the electric locomotive main air cylinder drainage control method in this disclosure further includes monitoring the operating status of the compressor; if the compressor is detected to be in operation, automatic drainage operation is prohibited. Specifically, by monitoring the compressor status and prohibiting automatic drainage at this time, the contradiction of charging and draining at the same time is avoided, ensuring that the compressor can efficiently and stably complete the charging task, maintain the stability of the total air pressure, and ensure reliable air supply to all pneumatic equipment in the vehicle; in addition, by avoiding ineffective exhaust, it is ensured that the input electrical energy is used to establish effective air pressure reserves, rather than being consumed by the system itself, directly reducing the overall energy consumption of the locomotive and improving energy utilization efficiency.

[0038] In some embodiments, the electric locomotive in this disclosure further includes a high-pressure safety valve, and the main air cylinder drainage control method in this disclosure further includes monitoring the status of the high-pressure safety valve; if the high-pressure safety valve is detected to be activated, controlling the drainage solenoid valve to open to collaboratively reduce the main air pressure. Specifically, the high-pressure safety valve is the last mechanical safety line on the main air cylinder. When the main air pressure rises abnormally (such as pressure controller failure or uncontrolled air compressor loading) and exceeds the set safety limit (for example, in this disclosure, the safety limit can be preset to a fifth preset threshold, which can be 1000 kPa), the high-pressure safety valve will automatically open, quickly releasing pressure through a large-diameter exhaust port to prevent the main air cylinder from physically bursting due to overpressure. This is equivalent to opening one or more additional pressure relief ports, forming a multi-channel collaborative pressure relief pattern, providing redundant electrical control means for high-pressure protection, and greatly enhancing the safety margin of the system.

[0039] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, this embodiment can also divide different operating modes (such as low temperature, rainy season) based on locomotive operation data and environmental parameters, and can dynamically adjust the drainage cycle and duration according to needs to form an adaptive drainage strategy, which greatly facilitates the convenience and safety of the driver and passengers; when the compressor (110) is working, the locomotive control system (200) actively cuts off the intelligent sewage discharge function of the main air cylinder to ensure that the sewage discharge does not affect the safe operation of the locomotive; when the high pressure safety valve (190) is activated, the locomotive control system (200) synchronously controls the intelligent control device (141, 142) of the main air cylinder drainage to control the main air pressure according to the signal of the brake (170) main air pressure sensor, to ensure that the main air pressure of the locomotive is normal.

[0040] In some embodiments, the first and second air source quality sensors in this disclosure are also used to detect the oil and / or particulate matter content in the compressed air. Specifically, compared to related technologies that only measure moisture content and can only solve the humidity problem, the first and second air source quality sensors in this disclosure can simultaneously monitor three major pollutants: water, oil, and dust. They can perform a comprehensive health check on the compressed air entering and leaving the main air cylinder, providing a more complete and accurate air quality report to ensure that the air source quality meets high standards. For example, if the second air source quality sensor detects a high oil / particulate matter content and the first air source quality sensor also detects a high oil / particulate matter content, it indicates that the problem lies in the air compressor, dryer, or upstream pipeline (such as oil leakage in the air compressor or severe desiccant powdering). If the second air source quality sensor detects a normal oil / particulate matter content, but the first air source quality sensor detects an abnormally high oil / particulate matter content, it indicates that the problem may lie in the internal contamination of the main air cylinder (such as rust and peeling of the inner wall) or its downstream pipeline.

[0041] In some embodiments, this disclosure integrates multiple sensors, including a pressure sensor (monitoring the main air cylinder pressure), a temperature sensor, and an air source quality detection sensor (water, oil, particulate matter). The detection accuracy is improved through data fusion algorithms. At the same time, the main air cylinder drainage trigger threshold is dynamically adjusted according to the ambient temperature and locomotive operating status to avoid over-discharge or under-discharge caused by the original manual operation or fixed sewage discharge.

[0042] In some embodiments, the present disclosure intelligently monitors the moisture content in the air source to meet the air source quality requirements of the locomotive under different operating conditions and environmental conditions, thereby ensuring the reliability of the locomotive's braking.

[0043] Based on the same inventive concept, this disclosure also provides a drainage control device for the main air cylinder of an electric locomotive, as shown in the following embodiment. Since the principle by which this device embodiment solves the problem is similar to that of the above-described method embodiment, the implementation of this device embodiment can refer to the implementation of the above-described method embodiment, and repeated details will not be elaborated further.

[0044] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates a drainage control device for the main air reservoir of an electric locomotive according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The main air reservoir of the electric locomotive is equipped with a first air source quality detection sensor and a second air source quality detection sensor. The device includes: The moisture content monitoring module 301 is used to monitor the moisture content of the compressed air discharged from the main air cylinder through a first air source quality detection sensor; and to monitor the moisture content of the compressed air after being processed by the air dryer through a second air source quality detection sensor. The drainage operation module 302 is used to determine that the water accumulation in the main air cylinder exceeds the standard if the moisture content detected by the first air source quality detection sensor is higher than the first preset threshold and the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is lower than the second preset threshold, and then to perform an automatic drainage operation.

[0045] The embodiments of this disclosure provide a drainage control device for the main air cylinder of an electric locomotive. The device monitors the moisture content of compressed air discharged from the main air cylinder using a first air source quality detection sensor in a moisture content monitoring module; monitors the moisture content of compressed air processed by an air dryer using a second air source quality detection sensor; and, through a drainage operation module, if the moisture content detected by the first air source quality detection sensor is higher than a first preset threshold and the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is lower than a second preset threshold, then it is determined that the water accumulation in the main air cylinder exceeds the standard, and an automatic drainage operation is executed. Compared to related technologies that may only monitor moisture content at the outlet of the main air reservoir, if a high moisture content is detected, it is impossible to determine whether the air dryer itself is malfunctioning, causing all the air to be humid, or whether the dryer is working properly but water accumulation in a certain main air reservoir is causing localized air humidity, leading to untimely and inaccurate drainage. This embodiment of the present disclosure uses a first sensor and a second sensor for comparison: if the second sensor detects a high moisture content, it indicates that the dryer's treatment effect is poor, and the problem lies with the dryer; if the second sensor detects a normal moisture content, but the first sensor detects a high moisture content, it indicates that the dryer is working properly, but water accumulation inside the main air reservoir is causing the discharged air to be humid. This embodiment of the present disclosure can accurately locate the fault point, avoiding misjudging the dryer malfunction as water accumulation in the air reservoir, or vice versa, thereby ensuring that the correct maintenance measures are taken.

[0046] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the electric locomotive main air cylinder drainage control device further includes: an alarm module, used to determine that the performance of the air dryer is abnormal and generate an alarm signal if the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is higher than a third preset threshold.

[0047] In some embodiments, a temperature sensor is provided at the drainage assembly of the main air cylinder of the electric locomotive in this embodiment of the present disclosure. The drainage control device of the main air cylinder of the electric locomotive in this embodiment of the present disclosure further includes: an ambient temperature monitoring module, used to monitor the ambient temperature at the drainage assembly through the temperature sensor; and a heating module, used to control the heater in the drainage assembly to start and perform heating operation when the temperature sensor detects that the ambient temperature is lower than a fourth preset threshold.

[0048] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the electric locomotive main air cylinder drainage control device further includes: a manual drainage command receiving module, used to receive a manual drainage command via the main air cylinder drainage button in the driver's cab; and a drainage solenoid valve opening module, used to control the drainage solenoid valve in the main air cylinder to open in response to the manual drainage command, and to perform a manual drainage operation.

[0049] In some embodiments, the electric locomotive in this disclosure further includes a compressor. The electric locomotive main air cylinder drainage control device in this disclosure further includes a compressor operating status monitoring module for monitoring the operating status of the compressor and an automatic drainage operation prohibition module for prohibiting the execution of automatic drainage operation if the compressor is detected to be in operating status.

[0050] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the electric locomotive further includes a high-pressure safety valve. The main air cylinder drainage control device of the electric locomotive in this embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a high-pressure safety valve status monitoring module for monitoring the status of the high-pressure safety valve; and a coordination module for controlling the drainage solenoid valve to open and coordinately reduce the total air pressure if the high-pressure safety valve is detected to be activated.

[0051] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the first air source quality detection sensor and the second air source quality detection sensor are also used to detect the oil content and / or particulate matter content in the compressed air.

[0052] Those skilled in the art will understand that various aspects of this disclosure can be implemented as a system, method, or program product. Therefore, various aspects of this disclosure can be specifically implemented in the following forms: a completely hardware implementation, a completely software implementation (including firmware, microcode, etc.), or a combination of hardware and software aspects, collectively referred to herein as a "circuit," "module," or "system."

[0053] Based on the same inventive concept, this disclosure also provides an electronic device, which includes: a processor; and a memory for storing executable instructions of the processor; wherein the processor is configured to execute the above-described method for controlling the drainage of the main air cylinder of an electric locomotive by executing the executable instructions. Since the principle by which this electronic device solves the problem is similar to that of the above-described method embodiments, the implementation of this electronic device embodiment can refer to the implementation of the above-described method embodiments, and repeated details will not be elaborated further.

[0054] The following reference Figure 4 To describe an electronic device 400 according to such an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 The electronic device 400 shown is merely an example and should not impose any limitation on the functionality and scope of use of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0055] like Figure 4 As shown, the electronic device 400 is manifested in the form of a general-purpose computing device. The components of the electronic device 400 may include, but are not limited to: at least one processing unit 401, at least one storage unit 402, and a bus 403 connecting different system components (including storage unit 402 and processing unit 401).

[0056] The storage unit stores program code, which can be executed by the processing unit 401, causing the processing unit 401 to perform the steps described in the "Exemplary Methods" section above according to various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure.

[0057] In some embodiments, when the electronic device is used to control, for example, the electric locomotive main air cylinder drainage control method described in this disclosure, the processing unit 401 may execute the following steps of the above method embodiment: The moisture content of compressed air discharged from the main air cylinder is monitored by a first air source quality detection sensor; the moisture content of compressed air after being processed by an air dryer is monitored by a second air source quality detection sensor; if the moisture content detected by the first air source quality detection sensor is higher than a first preset threshold and the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is lower than a second preset threshold, it is determined that the water accumulation in the main air cylinder exceeds the standard, and an automatic drainage operation is executed.

[0058] Storage unit 402 may include a readable medium in the form of a volatile storage unit, such as a random access memory unit (RAM) 4021 and / or a cache memory unit 4022, and may further include a read-only memory unit (ROM) 4023.

[0059] Storage unit 402 may also include a program / utility 4024 having a set (at least one) program module 6025, such program module 6025 including but not limited to: operating system, one or more application programs, other program modules and program data, each of these examples or some combination of these may include an implementation of a network environment.

[0060] Bus 403 can represent one or more of several types of bus structures, including a memory cell bus or memory cell controller, a peripheral bus, a graphics acceleration port, a processing unit, or a local bus using any of the various bus structures.

[0061] Electronic device 400 can also communicate with one or more external devices 404 (e.g., keyboard, pointing device, Bluetooth device, etc.), and with one or more devices that enable a user to interact with electronic device 400, and / or with any device that enables electronic device 400 to communicate with one or more other computing devices (e.g., router, modem, etc.). This communication can be performed via input / output (I / O) interface 405. Furthermore, electronic device 400 can also communicate with one or more networks (e.g., local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and / or public networks, such as the Internet) via network adapter 406. As shown, network adapter 406 communicates with other modules of electronic device 400 via bus 403. It should be understood that, although not shown in the figures, other hardware and / or software modules can be used in conjunction with electronic device 400, including but not limited to: microcode, device drivers, redundant processing units, external disk drive arrays, RAID systems, tape drives, and data backup storage systems.

[0062] From the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the exemplary embodiments described herein can be implemented by software or by combining software with necessary hardware. Therefore, the technical solutions according to the embodiments of this disclosure can be embodied in the form of a software product, which can be stored in a non-volatile storage medium (such as a CD-ROM, USB flash drive, external hard drive, etc.) or on a network, including several instructions to cause a computing device (such as a personal computer, server, terminal device, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods according to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0063] Based on the same inventive concept, this disclosure also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the above-described method for controlling the drainage of the main air cylinder of an electric locomotive. Since the principle by which this computer-readable storage medium embodiment solves the problem is similar to that of the above-described method embodiments, the implementation of this computer-readable storage medium embodiment can refer to the implementation of the above-described method embodiments, and repeated details will not be elaborated further.

[0064] More specific examples of computer-readable storage media in this disclosure may include, but are not limited to: electrical connections having one or more wires, portable computer disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fiber, portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0065] In this disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium may include a data signal propagated in baseband or as part of a carrier wave, carrying readable program code. Such propagated data signals may take various forms, including but not limited to electromagnetic signals, optical signals, or any suitable combination thereof. A readable signal medium may also be any readable medium other than a readable storage medium, capable of transmitting, propagating, or transmitting a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0066] Optionally, the program code contained on the computer-readable storage medium may be transmitted using any suitable medium, including but not limited to wireless, wired, optical fiber, RF, etc., or any suitable combination thereof.

[0067] In practice, program code for performing the operations of this disclosure can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Java and C++, and conventional procedural programming languages ​​such as C or similar languages. The program code can execute entirely on the user's computing device, partially on the user's computing device, as a standalone software package, partially on the user's computing device and partially on a remote computing device, or entirely on a remote computing device or server. In cases involving remote computing devices, the remote computing device can be connected to the user's computing device via any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or it can be connected to an external computing device (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider).

[0068] Based on the same inventive concept, this disclosure also provides a computer program product, including: a computer program or instructions, which, when executed by a processor, implement the electric locomotive main air cylinder drainage control method of any one of the above method embodiments. Since the principle by which this computer program product embodiment solves the problem is similar to that of the above method embodiments, the implementation of this computer program product embodiment can refer to the implementation of the above method embodiments, and repeated details will not be elaborated further.

[0069] It should be noted that although several modules or units for the device used to perform actions have been mentioned in the detailed description above, this division is not mandatory. In fact, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the features and functions of two or more modules or units described above can be embodied in one module or unit. Conversely, the features and functions of one module or unit described above can be further divided and embodied by multiple modules or units.

[0070] Furthermore, although the steps of the method in this disclosure are described in a specific order in the accompanying drawings, this does not require or imply that the steps must be performed in that specific order, or that all the steps shown must be performed to achieve the desired result. Additional or alternative steps may be omitted, multiple steps may be combined into one step, and / or a step may be broken down into multiple steps.

[0071] From the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the exemplary embodiments described herein can be implemented by software or by combining software with necessary hardware. Therefore, the technical solutions according to the embodiments of this disclosure can be embodied in the form of a software product, which can be stored in a non-volatile storage medium (such as a CD-ROM, USB flash drive, external hard drive, etc.) or on a network, including several instructions to cause a computing device (such as a personal computer, server, mobile terminal, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods according to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0072] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for controlling drainage of the main air cylinder in an electric locomotive, characterized in that, The main air cylinder of the electric locomotive is equipped with a first air source quality detection sensor and a second air source quality detection sensor. The electric locomotive also includes: a compressor and a high-pressure safety valve, comprising: The moisture content of the compressed air discharged from the main air cylinder is monitored by a first air source quality detection sensor; the moisture content of the compressed air after being processed by the air dryer is monitored by a second air source quality detection sensor. The first air source quality detection sensor is installed on the downstream pipeline of the main air cylinder outlet, and the second air source quality detection sensor is installed on the upstream pipeline of the main air cylinder and the downstream pipeline of the air dryer. If the moisture content detected by the first air source quality detection sensor is higher than the first preset threshold, and the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is lower than the second preset threshold, then it is determined that the water accumulation in the main air cylinder exceeds the standard, and an automatic drainage operation is performed. Receive a manual drainage command via the main air reservoir drain button in the driver's cab; In response to the manual drainage command, the drainage solenoid valve in the main air cylinder is opened to perform a manual drainage operation. Monitor the operating status of the compressor; If the compressor is detected to be in operation, the automatic drainage operation is prohibited. Monitor the status of the high-pressure safety valve; If the high-pressure safety valve is detected to be activated, the drain solenoid valve is controlled to open, thereby reducing the total air pressure.

2. The method for controlling drainage of the main air cylinder of an electric locomotive according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: if the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is higher than a third preset threshold, then it is determined that the performance of the air dryer is abnormal and an alarm signal is generated.

3. The method for controlling drainage of the main air cylinder of an electric locomotive according to claim 1, characterized in that, A temperature sensor is installed at the drainage assembly of the main air cylinder of the electric locomotive, and the method further includes: The ambient temperature at the drainage assembly is monitored using the temperature sensor. If the temperature sensor detects that the ambient temperature is lower than the fourth preset threshold, it controls the heater in the drainage assembly to start and perform heating operation.

4. The method for controlling drainage of the main air cylinder of an electric locomotive according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first air source quality detection sensor and the second air source quality detection sensor are also used to detect the oil content and / or particulate matter content in the compressed air.

5. A main air cylinder drainage control device for electric locomotives, characterized in that, The main air cylinder of the electric locomotive is equipped with a first air source quality detection sensor and a second air source quality detection sensor. The electric locomotive also includes: a compressor and a high-pressure safety valve, comprising: A moisture content monitoring module is used to monitor the moisture content of compressed air discharged from the main air cylinder through a first air source quality detection sensor; and to monitor the moisture content of compressed air processed by the air dryer through a second air source quality detection sensor. The first air source quality detection sensor is installed on the downstream pipeline of the main air cylinder outlet, and the second air source quality detection sensor is installed on the upstream pipeline of the main air cylinder and the downstream pipeline of the air dryer. The drainage operation module is used to determine that the water accumulation in the main air cylinder exceeds the standard and to perform automatic drainage operation if the moisture content detected by the first air source quality detection sensor is higher than the first preset threshold and the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is lower than the second preset threshold. The manual drainage command receiving module is used to receive manual drainage commands via the main air cylinder drainage button in the driver's cab; the drainage solenoid valve opening module is used to control the opening of the drainage solenoid valve in the main air cylinder in response to the manual drainage command, and to execute the manual drainage operation. The compressor operating status monitoring module is used to monitor the operating status of the compressor; the automatic drainage operation prohibition module is used to prohibit the automatic drainage operation when the compressor is detected to be in operation. The high-pressure safety valve status monitoring module is used to monitor the status of the high-pressure safety valve; the coordination module is used to control the drain solenoid valve to open when the high-pressure safety valve is detected to reduce the total air pressure.

6. A main air cylinder drainage control system for electric locomotives, characterized in that, The main air cylinder of the electric locomotive is equipped with a first air source quality detection sensor and a second air source quality detection sensor. The electric locomotive also includes: a compressor and a high-pressure safety valve, comprising: The monitoring equipment is used to monitor the moisture content of compressed air discharged from the main air cylinder through a first air source quality detection sensor; and to monitor the moisture content of compressed air after being processed by the air dryer through a second air source quality detection sensor, wherein the first air source quality detection sensor is installed on the pipeline downstream of the main air cylinder outlet, and the second air source quality detection sensor is installed on the pipeline upstream of the main air cylinder and downstream of the air dryer. The drainage device is used to determine that the water accumulation in the main air cylinder exceeds the standard if the moisture content detected by the first air source quality detection sensor is higher than the first preset threshold and the moisture content detected by the second air source quality detection sensor is lower than the second preset threshold, and then to perform an automatic drainage operation. Receive a manual drainage command via the main air cylinder drain button in the driver's cab; In response to the manual drainage command, the drainage solenoid valve in the main air cylinder is opened to perform a manual drainage operation. Monitor the operating status of the compressor; If the compressor is detected to be in operation, the automatic drainage operation is prohibited. Monitor the status of the high-pressure safety valve; If the high-pressure safety valve is detected to be activated, the drain solenoid valve is controlled to open, thereby reducing the total air pressure.

7. An electric locomotive, characterized in that, include: The method for controlling the drainage of the main air cylinder of an electric locomotive as described in any one of claims 1 to 4 shall be implemented.

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