ATO System Self-Configuration via Kinematic Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

ATO systems for trains require control parameters that are specific to each movement, making it inefficient to determine and apply universal control parameters across different operations.

Innovation Solution

A method for automatically determining control parameters by measuring kinematic variables and adjusting control values within defined limits, allowing the ATO system to learn and adapt its control parameters based on the train's reaction to drive or braking commands.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If control parameters are manually determined for each train operation, then adaptability to specific train characteristics is improved, but time consumption and operational efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to train characteristicsVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The ATO system automatically determines its own control parameters by executing test commands and measuring train responses, eliminating the need for manual parameter determination. The system performs self-identification of train characteristics and self-configuration of control parameters, thereby reducing time consumption while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system measures the train's response to test commands and uses this feedback to automatically determine optimal control parameters. By continuously monitoring kinematic variables and adjusting parameters based on observed responses, the system achieves both speed and adaptability in parameter determination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If automatic parameter determination is implemented, then time saving and efficiency are improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ATO system integrates multiple functions into a single automated parameter determination process. The same system that controls train operation also performs self-testing, self-measurement, and self-configuration, reducing overall system complexity despite the automated nature of the process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If control values are adjusted without limits, then optimization of train performance is improved, but safety and reliability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrain performance optimizationVSAvoidsafety
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically adjusts control parameters within predefined safe limits while optimizing train performance. By changing parameters dynamically based on measured train responses and constrained by safety boundaries, the system achieves both performance optimization and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP4339072A1Method for determining at least one control parameter for an ato system
Publication Date: 2024.03.20 SIEMENS MOBILITY GMBH
  • EP4339072A1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP4339072A1 patent drawingFigure 4~5
  • EP4339072A1 patent drawingFigure 6

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for determining at least one control parameter for an ATO system for a train with at least one locomotive, comprising the following steps: automatically determining at least one actuation value for a train control system of the locomotive, automatically outputting the at least one determined actuation value in order to control the train, in particular the locomotive, based on the at least one output actuation value by means of the train control system, automatically detecting a response of the train to the output of the at least one actuation value, and automatically determining at least one control parameter for the ATO system based on the detected response. The invention relates to a device, a train, a computer program, and a machine-readable storage medium.