Locomotive air conditioner fault detection system and detection method
By designing a locomotive air conditioning fault detection system, and using the button input commands of the control unit and the detection panel, the system enables rapid and accurate identification and location of locomotive air conditioning faults. This solves the problem of fault diagnosis relying on personal experience, improves maintenance efficiency, and reduces maintenance costs.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511790335.2
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-01
- Publication Date
- 2026-02-03
AI Technical Summary
The diagnosis of locomotive air conditioning faults relies heavily on personal experience, making it difficult to pinpoint the problem. This results in low diagnostic efficiency, inconsistent quality, and a lack of standardized procedures.
Design a locomotive air conditioning fault detection system, including a control unit and a detection panel. The control unit performs fault detection actions according to the input of detection commands via buttons, determines the cause of the fault using high-pressure and low-pressure detection buttons, and displays the results through indicator lights.
It enables rapid and accurate identification and location of locomotive air conditioning faults, reduces the skill requirements and labor intensity of maintenance personnel, improves maintenance efficiency, and saves costs.
Smart Images

Figure CN121453426A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of locomotive air conditioning, and in particular to a locomotive air conditioning fault detection system and detection method. Background Technology
[0002] As the core power equipment for railway transportation, the operational reliability of locomotives directly affects transportation efficiency and driving safety. The locomotive air conditioning system, as a key device for controlling the cab environment, plays a decisive role in maintaining the physiological and psychological state of the driver and crew. In harsh operating environments such as high temperature, extreme cold, high humidity, and high dust levels, a stable and comfortable cab environment not only effectively alleviates driver fatigue but also helps improve their concentration and operational precision, making it a crucial link in ensuring safe railway operation. Therefore, the performance of the locomotive air conditioning system in terms of reliability, stability, and rapid maintainability has become a key indicator for measuring the overall quality and operational capabilities of locomotives.
[0003] When an air conditioning system malfunctions, maintenance personnel generally use a five-step method of "asking, looking, listening, touching, and measuring" to locate the problem. First, they ask the driver or operator about the symptoms, timing, and environmental conditions of the malfunction (e.g., during startup, operation, or rain). Second, they visually inspect the air conditioning system pipes for oil stains (signs of refrigerant leakage), whether the condenser surface is clogged, whether the fan is rotating, and whether electrical connections are loose or show signs of burning. They then start the system and use their hearing to determine if the compressor, fan, and other core components are operating normally, and whether there are any abnormal friction, impact, or buzzing sounds (indicating motor jamming). Finally, they use portable, single-function instruments for quantitative measurements, including multimeters for measuring power supply voltage, compressor / fan winding resistance, and insulation resistance, and ammeters for measuring the operating current of the compressor and fan.
[0004] However, this approach relies heavily on the sensory experience and subjective perception of maintenance personnel, lacking objective quantitative evidence. Diagnostic results are prone to variation from person to person, and less experienced maintenance personnel struggle to handle complex or latent faults, severely impacting diagnostic efficiency and systematicity. Furthermore, the lack of unified execution standards and judgment thresholds across different stages leads maintenance personnel to operate based on their own habits, resulting in the neglect of critical steps, incomplete parameter recording, difficulties in fault reproduction, frequent misdiagnosis, and a serious impact on maintenance quality and equipment reliability. Summary of the Invention
[0005] This invention provides a locomotive air conditioning fault detection system and method to solve the problem that fault diagnosis is highly dependent on personal experience and difficult to locate. It realizes rapid and accurate identification and location of locomotive air conditioning faults, while reducing the skill requirements and labor intensity of maintenance personnel, improving maintenance efficiency and saving costs.
[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a locomotive air conditioning fault detection system, including a control unit and a detection panel;
[0007] The detection panel includes multiple buttons, and the control unit is electrically connected to the buttons and the locomotive air conditioner respectively; the detection panel is electrically connected to the locomotive air conditioner.
[0008] The control unit is used to receive multiple detection commands generated by the user pressing the buttons, control the locomotive air conditioner to perform corresponding fault detection actions according to each detection command, and determine the cause of the locomotive air conditioner's fault based on whether the locomotive air conditioner performs fault detection actions; the buttons include at least a high-pressure detection button and a low-pressure detection button.
[0009] Optionally, the system also includes cables and multiple tooling connectors;
[0010] The detection panel and each tool plug are connected by cables; the tool plugs are electrically connected to the locomotive air conditioner.
[0011] Optionally, the detection panel also includes multiple indicator lights; the number of indicator lights is the same as the number of buttons; the control unit is electrically connected to each indicator light;
[0012] The control unit is also used to control the corresponding indicator light to illuminate when the locomotive air conditioner performs a fault detection action.
[0013] Optionally, the detection panel may also include an air valve knob; the air valve knob includes multiple air speed settings and is electrically connected to the control unit;
[0014] The control unit is also used to receive the air valve detection command generated when the user turns the air valve knob, and control the locomotive air conditioner to work at the corresponding target fan speed level according to the air valve detection command.
[0015] Optionally, the buttons also include a cooling detection button;
[0016] The control unit is also used to receive a cooling detection command generated after the user presses the cooling detection button when the ambient temperature is lower than the preset temperature threshold, and control the locomotive air conditioner to operate in cooling mode according to the cooling detection command.
[0017] Secondly, the present invention provides a locomotive air conditioning fault detection method, applied to the aforementioned locomotive air conditioning fault detection device, the method comprising:
[0018] Receive multiple detection commands generated after the user presses the buttons;
[0019] According to each detection command, the locomotive air conditioner is controlled to perform the corresponding fault detection action;
[0020] The cause of the locomotive air conditioner malfunction is determined by whether the locomotive air conditioner performs a fault detection action; the buttons include at least a high-pressure detection button and a low-pressure detection button.
[0021] Optionally, the detection commands include high-voltage detection commands; the fault detection actions include high-voltage fault detection actions.
[0022] The cause of the locomotive air conditioning malfunction is determined by whether or not the locomotive air conditioning system performs fault detection actions, including:
[0023] When the locomotive air conditioner is performing a normal high-voltage fault detection operation, it is determined that the locomotive air conditioner is functioning normally;
[0024] When the locomotive air conditioner fails to perform high-voltage fault detection, the cause of the locomotive air conditioner malfunction is determined to be a high-voltage fault.
[0025] Optionally, the detection command includes a low-voltage detection command; the fault detection action includes a low-voltage fault detection action.
[0026] The cause of the locomotive air conditioning malfunction is determined by whether or not the locomotive air conditioning system performs fault detection actions, including:
[0027] When the locomotive air conditioner is performing a low-pressure fault detection procedure as usual, it is determined that the locomotive air conditioner is functioning normally.
[0028] If the locomotive air conditioner does not perform a low-pressure fault detection action, the cause of the locomotive air conditioner fault is determined to be a low-pressure fault.
[0029] Optionally, the detection panel may also include multiple indicator lights; the indicator lights may include at least a high-pressure indicator light and a low-pressure indicator light;
[0030] When the locomotive air conditioning system is performing a normal high-voltage fault detection procedure, confirming that the locomotive air conditioning system is functioning normally also includes:
[0031] Control the high-voltage indicator light to illuminate;
[0032] When the locomotive air conditioning system is performing a normal low-pressure fault detection procedure, confirming that the locomotive air conditioning system is functioning normally also includes:
[0033] The low-voltage indicator light will illuminate.
[0034] Optionally, the detection panel may also include a damper knob, and the detection commands may include damper detection commands;
[0035] Before controlling the locomotive air conditioning to perform the corresponding fault detection actions according to each detection command, it also includes:
[0036] According to the air valve detection command, the locomotive air conditioner is controlled to operate at the target fan speed level corresponding to the air valve detection command.
[0037] The technical solution of this invention, when confirming the cause of a locomotive air conditioner malfunction, can determine whether the air conditioner shuts down due to high or low pressure. Specifically, the buttons include a high-pressure detection button and a low-pressure detection button. During high-pressure detection, the user presses different buttons on the detection panel, such as the high-pressure detection button or the low-pressure detection button. The detection panel generates corresponding detection commands when the user presses the buttons. The control unit acquires these detection commands and controls the locomotive air conditioner to perform fault detection actions according to the corresponding commands. The cause of the air conditioner malfunction can be determined based on whether the locomotive air conditioner performs the fault detection actions. Using the above structure, the problem of fault diagnosis being highly dependent on personal experience and difficult to locate is solved, achieving rapid and accurate identification and location of locomotive air conditioner malfunctions. At the same time, it reduces the skill requirements and labor intensity of maintenance personnel, improves maintenance efficiency, and saves costs.
[0038] It should be understood that the description in this section is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of the present invention, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the invention. Other features of the invention will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description
[0039] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a locomotive air conditioning fault detection system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;
[0041] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a detection panel provided in an embodiment of the present invention;
[0042] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another locomotive air conditioning fault detection system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;
[0043] Figure 4 A flowchart of a locomotive air conditioning fault detection method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;
[0044] Figure 5 A flowchart of another locomotive air conditioning fault detection method provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation
[0045] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0046] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.
[0047] In one embodiment, Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a locomotive air conditioning fault detection system provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a detection panel provided in an embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment can be applied to solve the problem of fault diagnosis being highly dependent on personal experience and difficult to locate, and can realize intelligent, rapid, and accurate identification and location of locomotive air conditioning faults, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the locomotive air conditioning fault detection system includes a control unit 1 and a detection panel 2; the detection panel 2 includes multiple buttons 21, and the control unit 1 is electrically connected to the buttons 21 and the locomotive air conditioning 3 respectively; the detection panel 2 and the locomotive air conditioning 3 are electrically connected; the control unit 1 is used to receive multiple detection commands generated after the user presses the buttons 21 respectively, and controls the locomotive air conditioning 3 to perform corresponding fault detection actions according to each detection command, and determines the cause of the locomotive air conditioning fault based on whether the locomotive air conditioning performs fault detection actions; the buttons 21 include at least a high-pressure detection button 211 and a low-pressure detection button 212.
[0048] The detection panel 2 is the human-machine interface installed on the fault detection system, allowing users (drivers or maintenance personnel) to manually trigger various detection functions. Buttons 21 are multiple function selection buttons on the detection panel 2, each corresponding to a specific air conditioning detection mode. Each button 21 generates a unique level signal or coded signal when closed, serving as a "detection command" input to the control unit 1. In this embodiment, button 21 includes at least a high-pressure detection button 211 and a low-pressure detection button 212. The high-pressure detection button 211 is used to trigger the detection of functions related to the high-pressure side (refrigerant high-pressure circuit) of the air conditioning system; the low-pressure detection button 212 is used to trigger the detection of functions related to the low-pressure side (refrigerant low-pressure circuit and control circuit) of the air conditioning system. Additionally, button 21 may also include a valve detection button and a temperature detection button, etc. The locomotive air conditioner 3 is a complete air conditioning unit installed on the railway locomotive, including components such as a compressor, condenser, evaporator, fan, pressure switch, temperature sensor, and control circuit. The electrical connection interface between the detection panel 2 and the locomotive air conditioner 3 is through a connector, typically a multi-core aviation plug or industrial-grade connector, used for transmitting power, control signals, and status feedback. Control unit 1 is the core processing module of the system, which is usually an embedded microcontroller (MCU) or programmable logic controller (PLC) with the ability to acquire input signals, make logical judgments and control outputs.
[0049] Specifically, when the locomotive air conditioner 3 stops working, it may be due to automatic protection or a malfunction of certain electronic components. Regarding the protection mechanism of the locomotive air conditioner 3, if the detection module in the locomotive air conditioner 3 detects that the refrigerant pressure is too high or too low, it will trigger automatic protection to stop the air conditioner from working. In this case, it is not a malfunction for the locomotive air conditioner 3, but a normal safety protection measure to prevent damage to the locomotive air conditioner 3. Only shutdowns caused by damage to components of the locomotive air conditioner 3 are considered malfunctions and require repair. Therefore, when confirming the cause of a malfunction in the locomotive air conditioner 3, it can be confirmed whether the shutdown action was triggered by high or low pressure protection. Specifically, button 21 includes a high-pressure detection button 211 and a low-pressure detection button 212. The user will press different buttons 21 on the detection panel 2, such as pressing the high-pressure detection button 211 or the low-pressure detection button 212. At this time, the detection panel 2 will generate corresponding detection commands when the user presses the button 21. Control unit 1 will acquire these detection commands and control the locomotive air conditioner 3 to perform fault detection actions according to the corresponding commands. The cause of the fault of air conditioner 3 can be determined by whether the locomotive air conditioner 3 performs fault detection actions.
[0050] In other words, when the user presses the high-pressure detection button 211, the detection panel 2 generates a high-pressure detection command to the control unit 1. The control unit 1 then controls the locomotive air conditioner 3 to perform a high-pressure fault detection action. The control unit 1 can determine whether the fault of the locomotive air conditioner 3 is caused by a high-pressure fault based on whether the high-pressure fault detection action is performed. Similarly, when the user presses the low-pressure detection button 212, the detection panel 2 generates a low-pressure detection command to the control unit 1. The control unit 1 then controls the locomotive air conditioner 3 to perform a low-pressure fault detection action. The control unit 1 can determine whether the fault of the locomotive air conditioner 3 is caused by a low-pressure fault based on whether the low-pressure fault detection action is performed.
[0051] In one embodiment, when the control unit 1 controls the locomotive air conditioner 3 to perform a high-voltage fault detection action, if the control unit 1 determines that the locomotive air conditioner 3 performs the action normally, it indicates that the fault is not a high-voltage fault; if it does not perform the action, it indicates that the fault is a high-voltage fault. Similarly, when the control unit 1 controls the locomotive air conditioner 3 to perform a low-voltage fault detection action, if the control unit 1 determines that the locomotive air conditioner 3 performs the action normally, it indicates that the fault is not a low-voltage fault; if it does not perform the action, it indicates that the fault is a low-voltage fault.
[0052] The technical solution of this invention, when confirming the cause of a locomotive air conditioner malfunction, can determine whether the air conditioner shuts down due to high or low pressure. Specifically, the buttons include a high-pressure detection button and a low-pressure detection button. During high-pressure detection, the user presses different buttons on the detection panel, such as the high-pressure detection button or the low-pressure detection button. The detection panel generates corresponding detection commands when the user presses the buttons. The control unit acquires these detection commands and controls the locomotive air conditioner to perform fault detection actions according to the corresponding commands. The cause of the air conditioner malfunction can be determined based on whether the locomotive air conditioner performs the fault detection actions. Using the above structure, the problem of fault diagnosis being highly dependent on personal experience and difficult to locate is solved, achieving rapid and accurate identification and location of locomotive air conditioner malfunctions. At the same time, it reduces the skill requirements and labor intensity of maintenance personnel, improves maintenance efficiency, and saves costs.
[0053] In another specific embodiment, optionally, Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another locomotive air conditioning fault detection system provided in an embodiment of the present invention, with reference to... Figure 3 As shown, the system also includes cables 4 and multiple tooling plugs 5; the detection panel 2 and each tooling plug 5 are connected via cables 4; the tooling plugs 5 are electrically connected to the locomotive air conditioner 3.
[0054] Cable 4 serves as the electrical transmission medium connecting the detection panel 2 and the tooling plug 5. It is typically a multi-core shielded cable containing multiple wires for transmitting power, control signals, and feedback signals. It transmits key presses (such as high / low voltage detection signals) generated by user operations on the detection panel 2 to the tooling plug 5. The tooling plug 5 is a dedicated test interface adapter used for temporary connection to the locomotive air conditioning system during maintenance or testing. In this embodiment, one end of the tooling plug 5 is connected to the detection panel 2 via cable 4, and the other end is a plug that matches or is compatible with the original connector of the locomotive air conditioning 3. Therefore, the number of tooling plugs 5 is the same as the number of connectors on the locomotive air conditioning 3. For example, there are two tooling plugs 5, each compatible with a corresponding connector to ensure connection, enabling quick plugging and unplugging, simplicity, high reliability, and easy maintenance.
[0055] In another specific embodiment, reference continues... Figure 2 Optionally, the detection panel 2 also includes multiple indicator lights 22; the number of indicator lights 22 is the same as the number of buttons 21; the control unit 1 is electrically connected to each indicator light 22; the control unit 1 is also used to control the corresponding indicator light 22 to light up when the locomotive air conditioner 3 performs a fault detection action.
[0056] The indicator light 22 is a light-emitting element used to emit light under the control of the control unit 1.
[0057] Specifically, when the control unit 1 determines that the locomotive air conditioner 3 is normally performing the corresponding fault detection action, indicating that the locomotive air conditioner 3 is operating normally, it will control the corresponding indicator light 22 to illuminate. In one embodiment, the indicator light 22 includes a first indicator light and a second indicator light. The control unit 1 controls the first indicator light 22 to illuminate when it determines that the locomotive air conditioner 3 is normally performing the high-voltage fault detection action, and controls the second indicator light 22 to illuminate when it determines that the locomotive air conditioner 3 is normally performing the low-voltage fault detection action. The color of the first indicator light can be the same as or different from the color of the second indicator light; this can be determined according to the actual situation and is not limited here.
[0058] Optional, continue to refer to Figure 2 The detection panel 2 also includes a wind valve knob 23; the wind valve knob 23 includes multiple wind speed settings 231, and the wind valve knob 23 is electrically connected to the control unit 1; the control unit 1 is also used to receive the wind valve detection command generated when the user turns the wind valve knob 23, and control the locomotive air conditioner 3 to work at the corresponding target wind speed setting according to the wind valve detection command.
[0059] The air valve knob 23 can be a rotary switch or a touch knob. In this embodiment, the air valve knob 23 includes multiple fan speed settings 231, which can be strong cooling, weak cooling, strong airflow, and weak airflow, etc., and may also include an off setting. The specific settings can be determined according to the actual situation and are not limited here.
[0060] Specifically, by electrically connecting the air valve knob 23 to the control unit 1, when the user performs an air valve test on the locomotive air conditioner 3, they will turn the air valve knob 23 to different fan speed levels 231. This generates a corresponding air valve test command for each fan speed level and sends it to the control unit 1. The control unit 1 controls the locomotive air conditioner 3 to operate at the target fan speed level according to the different fan speed test commands to confirm whether the fan speed level 231 is normal. In one embodiment, the indicator light 22 may also include a third indicator light. The control unit 1 controls the third indicator light to illuminate when it determines that the locomotive air conditioner 3 is operating at the target fan speed level. If it is confirmed that the locomotive air conditioner 3 is not operating normally or does not match the selected target fan speed level, the control unit 1 can determine that the air conditioner malfunction is due to an abnormal air valve. The color of the third indicator light can be the same as or different from the first or second indicator light; the specific color can be determined according to the actual situation and is not limited here.
[0061] For example, taking the user rotating the fan speed setting 231 to the strong cooling setting as an example, the detection panel 2 will generate a strong cooling setting air valve detection command. After receiving this strong cooling setting air valve detection command, the control unit 1 will control the locomotive air conditioner 3 to operate in the strong cooling setting. It will confirm whether the locomotive air conditioner 3 is operating in the strong cooling setting by detecting the airflow speed or flow rate of the locomotive air conditioner 3. Once it is determined that the airflow of the locomotive air conditioner 3 reaches the corresponding speed and flow rate for the strong cooling setting, it will control the third indicator light to illuminate. At this point, it can be determined that the fault of the locomotive air conditioner 3 is not caused by the air valve. If it is determined that the locomotive air conditioner 3 is discharging air normally, but the airflow does not reach the corresponding speed or flow rate for the strong cooling setting, or the locomotive air conditioner 3 is not working, then the control unit 1 can confirm that the fault of the locomotive air conditioner 3 is caused by an abnormal air valve.
[0062] It should be noted that before the control unit 1 controls the locomotive air conditioner 3 to perform high-pressure fault detection or low-pressure fault detection, it is necessary to ensure that the air valve of the locomotive air conditioner 3 is in normal working condition. Therefore, during the detection, the operation of the air valve can be detected first to determine the fault condition of the air valve, and then the low-pressure or high-pressure fault can be detected.
[0063] In addition, a valve button can be set on the detection panel 2. That is, button 21 can also include a valve detection button. When the user tests the valve, he / she can first press the valve detection button and then turn the knob to the target valve position to perform the valve fault detection action.
[0064] Optional, continue to refer to Figure 2 The button 21 also includes a cooling detection button 213; the control unit 1 is also used to receive the cooling detection command generated after the user presses the cooling detection button 213 when the ambient temperature is lower than the preset temperature threshold, and control the locomotive air conditioner 3 to operate in cooling mode according to the cooling detection command.
[0065] The cooling test button 213 is used to check whether the cooling mode of the locomotive air conditioner 3 is set correctly. The cooling test button 213 can be a push-button or a touch-sensitive button, whichever is appropriate depending on the actual situation, and no restriction is imposed here.
[0066] Specifically, for the locomotive air conditioner 3, the common fault distribution is as follows: refrigeration system fault: 35%; pressure protection trigger: 40%; air valve fault: 15%; other unknown faults: 10%. Therefore, in addition to detecting pressure protection faults and air valve faults, the control unit 1 will also check whether the cooling mode of the locomotive air conditioner 3 is normal. Only after confirming that the cooling mode, pressure protection, and air valve are normal will other fault causes be checked one by one, such as component short circuits or open circuits. Regarding the detection of cooling mode faults, the locomotive air conditioner 3 is usually equipped with a temperature sensor. When the temperature sensor in the locomotive air conditioner 3 detects that the ambient temperature is lower than the preset temperature threshold, such as less than 19°C, the locomotive air conditioner 3 defaults to a colder temperature and will not activate the cooling mode. Therefore, to test the cooling mode of the locomotive air conditioner 3, the control unit 1 will force the locomotive air conditioner 3 to operate in cooling mode. That is, the user will press the cooling test button 213 on the test panel 2. At this time, the test panel 2 will generate a cooling test command and send it to the control unit 1. After receiving the cooling test command, the control unit 1 will control the locomotive air conditioner 3 to operate in cooling mode to determine the fault condition of the cooling mode. When the locomotive air conditioner 3 is operating normally in cooling mode, it indicates that the cooling mode of the locomotive air conditioner 3 is normal and not faulty; when the locomotive air conditioner 3 is not operating in cooling mode, it indicates that the cooling mode is abnormal. At this time, the components in the cooling mode of the locomotive air conditioner 3 can be inspected to determine the cause of the fault.
[0067] Based on the same inventive concept Figure 4 This is a flowchart of a locomotive air conditioning fault detection method provided in an embodiment of the present invention, applied to the aforementioned locomotive air conditioning fault detection device, with reference to... Figure 4 As shown, the method includes:
[0068] S110: Receive multiple detection commands generated after the user presses the buttons respectively;
[0069] S120. Control the locomotive air conditioner to perform corresponding fault detection actions according to each detection command;
[0070] S130. Determine the cause of the locomotive air conditioner malfunction based on whether the locomotive air conditioner performs a fault detection action; the buttons should include at least a high-pressure detection button and a low-pressure detection button.
[0071] Specifically, when a locomotive air conditioner stops working, it could be due to automatic protection or a malfunction of certain electronic components. Regarding the locomotive air conditioner's protection mechanism, for example, if the detection module in the air conditioner detects that the refrigerant pressure is too high or too low, it will trigger automatic protection and stop the air conditioner from working. In this case, it is not a malfunction for the locomotive air conditioner, but a normal safety protection measure to prevent damage. Only shutdowns caused by damage to components are considered malfunctions and require repair. Therefore, when confirming the cause of a locomotive air conditioner malfunction, it is important to check whether the shutdown was triggered by high or low pressure protection. Specifically, the buttons include high-pressure and low-pressure detection buttons. Users will press different buttons on the detection panel, such as the high-pressure or low-pressure detection button. When the user presses these buttons, the detection panel will generate corresponding detection commands. These detection commands are acquired, and the locomotive air conditioner is controlled to perform fault detection actions according to the corresponding commands. The cause of the air conditioner malfunction can be determined by observing whether the locomotive air conditioner performs fault detection actions.
[0072] In other words, when the user presses the high-pressure detection button, the detection panel generates a high-pressure detection command. Upon receiving this command, the panel controls the locomotive's air conditioning system to perform a high-pressure fault detection action. Whether or not the air conditioning system performs this action determines whether the fault is caused by a high-pressure problem. Similarly, when the user presses the low-pressure detection button, the detection panel generates a low-pressure detection command. Upon receiving this command, the panel controls the locomotive's air conditioning system to perform a low-pressure fault detection action. Whether or not the air conditioning system performs this action determines whether the fault is caused by a low-pressure problem.
[0073] The technical solution of this invention receives multiple detection commands generated after a user presses a button; controls the locomotive air conditioner to perform corresponding fault detection actions according to each detection command; and determines the cause of the locomotive air conditioner malfunction based on whether the locomotive air conditioner performs the fault detection action. The buttons include at least a high-pressure detection button and a low-pressure detection button. Using this method, the cause of the locomotive air conditioner malfunction can be quickly and accurately determined whether it is due to pressure protection, while reducing the skill requirements and labor intensity of maintenance personnel, improving maintenance efficiency, and saving costs.
[0074] In another specific embodiment, optionally, Figure 5This is a flowchart of another locomotive air conditioning fault detection method provided by an embodiment of the present invention. When the detection command includes a high-voltage detection command and the fault detection action includes a high-voltage fault detection action, this embodiment refines the specific implementation of S130 in the above embodiment, which determines the cause of the locomotive air conditioning fault based on whether the locomotive air conditioning performs a fault detection action, as follows:
[0075] When the locomotive air conditioner is performing a normal high-voltage fault detection operation, it is determined that the locomotive air conditioner is functioning normally;
[0076] When the locomotive air conditioner fails to perform high-voltage fault detection, the cause of the locomotive air conditioner malfunction is determined to be a high-voltage fault.
[0077] Furthermore, when the detection command includes a low-pressure detection command and the fault detection action includes a low-pressure fault detection action, the specific implementation of S130 in the above embodiment, which determines the cause of the locomotive air conditioner's fault based on whether the locomotive air conditioner performs a fault detection action, is refined as follows:
[0078] When the locomotive air conditioner is performing a low-pressure fault detection procedure as usual, it is determined that the locomotive air conditioner is functioning normally.
[0079] If the locomotive air conditioner does not perform a low-pressure fault detection action, the cause of the locomotive air conditioner fault is determined to be a low-pressure fault.
[0080] Furthermore, when the detection panel also includes a damper knob, the detection commands include damper detection commands; in the above embodiment, before S120, which controls the locomotive air conditioner to perform the corresponding fault detection action according to each detection command, the following steps are added:
[0081] According to the air valve detection command, the locomotive air conditioner is controlled to operate at the target fan speed level corresponding to the air valve detection command.
[0082] For details not covered in this embodiment, please refer to the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here.
[0083] refer to Figure 5 As shown, the method includes:
[0084] S210: Receive multiple detection commands generated after the user presses the buttons.
[0085] The detection commands include high-pressure detection commands, low-pressure detection commands, and air valve detection commands.
[0086] S220: Control the locomotive air conditioner to operate at the target fan speed level corresponding to the air valve detection command, based on the air valve detection command.
[0087] The air valve knob includes multiple fan speed settings, such as strong cooling, weak cooling, strong airflow, and weak airflow, and may also include an off setting. The specific settings can be determined according to the actual situation and are not limited here.
[0088] Specifically, when a user checks the air valves of the locomotive's air conditioning system, they will turn the air valve knob to different fan speed settings. This will generate a corresponding air valve test command. Based on the different air valve test commands, the locomotive's air conditioning system will be controlled to operate at the target fan speed setting to confirm whether the fan speed setting is normal.
[0089] For example, taking the user rotating the fan speed setting to the strongest cooling setting, the detection panel will generate a strong cooling mode air valve detection command. Upon receiving this command, the system controls the locomotive air conditioner to operate at the strongest cooling mode. The system confirms whether the locomotive air conditioner is operating at the strongest cooling mode by detecting the airflow speed or volume. If the airflow from the locomotive air conditioner reaches the speed and volume corresponding to the strongest cooling mode, the air valve is functioning normally, and the air conditioner malfunction is not due to the air valve. If the locomotive air conditioner is outputting air normally, but the airflow does not reach the speed or volume corresponding to the strongest cooling mode, or if the locomotive air conditioner is not working, then the malfunction is confirmed to be due to an abnormal air valve.
[0090] S230. When the locomotive air conditioner is performing a high-voltage fault detection action normally, it is determined that the locomotive air conditioner is normal;
[0091] S240. When the locomotive air conditioner fails to perform high-voltage fault detection, the cause of the locomotive air conditioner fault is determined to be a high-voltage fault.
[0092] S250. When the locomotive air conditioner is performing a low-pressure fault detection action normally, it is determined that the locomotive air conditioner is normal.
[0093] S260. When the locomotive air conditioner does not perform a low-pressure fault detection action, the cause of the locomotive air conditioner fault is determined to be a low-pressure fault.
[0094] Specifically, when a high-pressure detection command is received from the user via the detection panel (i.e., the high-pressure detection button is pressed), the system outputs a corresponding high-pressure self-test control signal to the locomotive air conditioner connector according to the command. This controls the locomotive air conditioner to perform preset high-pressure side fault detection actions, such as starting the compressor, activating the condenser fan, reading the high-pressure switch status, or collecting feedback values from the high-pressure sensor. Simultaneously, the system monitors in real time whether the locomotive air conditioner produces the expected response behavior within a set time (e.g., detecting compressor current, fan speed signals, or a valid high-pressure status). If the locomotive air conditioner is found to have performed the high-pressure detection action normally, it indicates that the actuators, sensors, and power supply path of the high-pressure circuit are functioning correctly, the locomotive air conditioner has no fault on the high-pressure side, and the system is in normal condition. If no valid response is detected within the preset time (e.g., no current, no status change, no feedback signal), and it is confirmed that there are no abnormalities in its output commands and communication links, then a high-pressure fault is confirmed in the locomotive air conditioner. The fault is narrowed down to high-pressure related components, such as compressor failure, high-pressure switch damage, condenser fan jamming, or severe refrigerant leakage causing abnormal pressure.
[0095] Similarly, upon receiving a low-pressure detection command (i.e., the low-pressure detection button is pressed), a low-pressure self-test command is sent to the locomotive air conditioning system, requiring it to perform actions such as evaporator fan operation, low-pressure switch detection, or control circuit function verification, while simultaneously monitoring the execution results. If the locomotive air conditioning system completes the low-pressure detection action as expected after a preset time, the low-pressure circuit is confirmed to be functioning normally, and the overall condition of the locomotive air conditioning system is good. If the locomotive air conditioning system fails to perform the corresponding actions and command transmission problems are ruled out, a low-pressure fault is confirmed in the locomotive air conditioning system, which may involve evaporator fan failure, low-pressure switch open circuit, sensor failure, or abnormal low-pressure side control power supply.
[0096] Optionally, the detection panel also includes multiple indicator lights; the indicator lights include at least a high-pressure indicator light and a low-pressure indicator light; when the locomotive air conditioner is performing a normal high-pressure fault detection action, while confirming that the locomotive air conditioner is normal, it also includes: controlling the high-pressure indicator light to illuminate; when the locomotive air conditioner is performing a normal low-pressure fault detection action, while confirming that the locomotive air conditioner is normal, it also includes: controlling the low-pressure indicator light to illuminate.
[0097] Specifically, when it is determined that the locomotive air conditioner is performing the corresponding fault detection action normally, indicating that the locomotive air conditioner is operating normally, the corresponding indicator light will be illuminated. In one embodiment, the indicator light includes a first indicator light and a second indicator light. When it is determined that the locomotive air conditioner is performing the high-voltage fault detection action normally, the first indicator light is illuminated; when it is determined that the locomotive air conditioner is performing the low-voltage fault detection action normally, the second indicator light is illuminated, to indicate to the staff the current fault diagnosis status of the locomotive air conditioner. The color of the first indicator light may be the same as or different from the color of the second indicator light; the specific color can be determined according to the actual situation and is not limited here.
[0098] In one embodiment, the indicator light may further include a third indicator light, which is controlled to illuminate when it is determined that the locomotive air conditioner is operating at the target fan speed setting.
[0099] It should be noted that the reference Figure 5 Although S250 and S260 are located after S230 and S240, they are essentially parallel steps and belong to two different fault determination methods, which will be explained here.
[0100] In another embodiment, the common fault distribution of locomotive air conditioning systems is as follows: refrigeration system faults: 35%; pressure protection triggering: 40%; air valve faults: 15%; other unknown faults: 10%. Therefore, in addition to detecting pressure protection faults and air valve faults, the cooling mode of the locomotive air conditioning system is also checked. Only after confirming that the cooling mode, pressure protection, and air valve are normal will other fault causes be checked one by one, such as component short circuits or open circuits. Regarding the detection of cooling mode faults, locomotive air conditioning systems typically have temperature sensors. When the temperature sensor detects that the ambient temperature is lower than a preset temperature threshold, such as less than 19°C, the locomotive air conditioning system defaults to a colder temperature and will not activate the cooling mode. Therefore, to detect the cooling mode of the locomotive air conditioning system, the cooling mode will be forcibly activated. That is, the user will press the cooling detection button on the detection panel, which will generate a cooling detection command. Upon receiving the cooling detection command, the system will control the locomotive air conditioning system to operate in cooling mode to determine the nature of the cooling mode fault. When the locomotive air conditioner is running normally in cooling mode, it indicates that the cooling mode of the locomotive air conditioner is normal and there is no fault. When the locomotive air conditioner is not running in cooling mode, it indicates that the cooling mode is abnormal. At this time, the components in the cooling mode of the locomotive air conditioner can be inspected to determine the cause of the fault.
[0101] The technical solution of this invention controls the locomotive air conditioner to operate at the target fan speed level corresponding to the air valve detection command, based on the air valve detection command. When the locomotive air conditioner normally performs high-voltage fault detection, it is determined to be normal. When the locomotive air conditioner does not perform high-voltage fault detection, the fault is determined to be a high-voltage fault. When the locomotive air conditioner normally performs low-voltage fault detection, it is determined to be normal. When the locomotive air conditioner does not perform low-voltage fault detection, the fault is determined to be a low-voltage fault. Using this method, rapid, accurate, low-cost, and low-threshold identification of high and low voltage faults in locomotive air conditioners is achieved, significantly improving the maintainability, reliability, and intelligent operation and maintenance level of rail transit equipment, and reducing labor costs.
[0102] It should be understood that the various forms of processes shown above can be used, with steps reordered, added, or deleted. For example, the steps described in this invention can be executed in parallel, sequentially, or in different orders, as long as the desired result of the technical solution of this invention can be achieved, and this is not limited herein.
[0103] The specific embodiments described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this invention should be included within the scope of protection of this invention.
Claims
1. A locomotive air conditioning fault detection system, characterized in that, Includes control unit and detection panel; The detection panel includes multiple buttons, and the control unit is electrically connected to the buttons and the locomotive air conditioner respectively; the detection panel is electrically connected to the locomotive air conditioner. The control unit is used to receive multiple detection commands generated by the user pressing the buttons, control the locomotive air conditioner to perform corresponding fault detection actions according to each detection command, and determine the cause of the locomotive air conditioner's fault based on whether the locomotive air conditioner performs the fault detection action; the buttons include at least a high-pressure detection button and a low-pressure detection button.
2. The locomotive air conditioning fault detection system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes cables and multiple tooling plugs; The detection panel and each of the tooling plugs are connected via the cables; the tooling plugs are electrically connected to the locomotive air conditioner.
3. The locomotive air conditioning fault detection system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection panel also includes multiple indicator lights; the number of indicator lights is the same as the number of buttons; the control unit is electrically connected to each of the indicator lights. The control unit is also used to control the corresponding indicator light to illuminate when the locomotive air conditioner performs the fault detection action.
4. The locomotive air conditioning fault detection system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection panel also includes an air valve knob; the air valve knob includes multiple air speed settings, and the air valve knob is electrically connected to the control unit. The control unit is also used to receive the air valve detection command generated when the user turns the air valve knob, and control the locomotive air conditioner to work at the corresponding target fan speed level according to the air valve detection command.
5. The locomotive air conditioning fault detection system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The button also includes a cooling detection button; The control unit is also used to receive a cooling detection command generated after the user presses the cooling detection button when the ambient temperature is lower than a preset temperature threshold, and control the locomotive air conditioner to operate in cooling mode according to the cooling detection command.
6. A method for detecting faults in a locomotive air conditioning system, characterized in that, The method, applied to the locomotive air conditioning fault detection device according to any one of claims 1-5, comprises: Receive multiple detection commands generated after the user presses the buttons; According to each of the aforementioned detection commands, the locomotive air conditioner is controlled to perform the corresponding fault detection action; The cause of the locomotive air conditioner malfunction is determined based on whether the locomotive air conditioner performs the fault detection action; the buttons include at least a high-pressure detection button and a low-pressure detection button.
7. The locomotive air conditioning fault detection method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The detection commands include high-voltage detection commands; the fault detection actions include high-voltage fault detection actions. The cause of the locomotive air conditioner malfunction is determined based on whether the locomotive air conditioner performs the fault detection action, including: When the locomotive air conditioner is performing the high-voltage fault detection action normally, it is determined that the locomotive air conditioner is normal; When the locomotive air conditioner fails to perform the high-voltage fault detection action, the cause of the locomotive air conditioner's fault is determined to be a high-voltage fault.
8. The locomotive air conditioning fault detection method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The detection commands include low-voltage detection commands; the fault detection actions include low-voltage fault detection actions. The cause of the locomotive air conditioner malfunction is determined based on whether the locomotive air conditioner performs the fault detection action, including: When the locomotive air conditioner is performing the low-pressure fault detection action normally, it is determined that the locomotive air conditioner is normal; When the locomotive air conditioner fails to perform the low-pressure fault detection action, the cause of the locomotive air conditioner fault is determined to be a low-pressure fault.
9. The locomotive air conditioning fault detection method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The detection panel also includes multiple indicator lights; the indicator lights include at least a high-voltage indicator light and a low-voltage indicator light. When the locomotive air conditioner is performing the high-voltage fault detection action normally, and while determining that the locomotive air conditioner is normal, the method also includes: Control the high-voltage indicator light to illuminate; When the locomotive air conditioner is performing the low-pressure fault detection action normally, and while determining that the locomotive air conditioner is normal, the method also includes: The low-voltage indicator light is turned on.
10. The locomotive air conditioning fault detection method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The detection panel also includes an air valve knob, and the detection commands include air valve detection commands. Before controlling the locomotive air conditioner to perform the corresponding fault detection action according to each of the aforementioned detection commands, the method further includes: The locomotive air conditioner is controlled to operate at the target fan speed level corresponding to the air valve detection command, according to the air valve detection command.
