Automated Distributed Power Linking for Rail Locomotives
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current distributed power systems for vehicles, such as trains, require manual setup and linking of locomotives, which is time-consuming and prone to human error, especially when replacing lead locomotives or adjusting power operations, particularly in long trains with multiple remote locomotives.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for remotely establishing distributed power operations using a communication network with a processor and input device to transmit linking and de-linking signals between lead and remote propulsion units, allowing autonomous control and setup from a single location, reducing the need for physical presence on each locomotive.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual setup and linking of locomotives is performed, then distributed power operations can be established, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automation where the lead locomotive automatically performs setup and linking operations with remote locomotives without requiring manual intervention. The control system autonomously transmits commands, receives acknowledgments, and establishes communication links, eliminating the need for operators to physically board each locomotive for configuration.
2Reliability
If operators physically board each remote locomotive to enter road numbers and orientation, then linking can be established, but human error increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of operators physically boarding locomotives, manually entering data, and configuring systems with an automated electronic control system. The lead locomotive's control system electronically transmits road numbers, orientation data, and linking commands to remote locomotives, eliminating human intervention and associated errors while significantly improving setup speed.
3Reliability
If periodic re-communication of commands is performed to ensure receipt, then reliability of command transmission is improved, but communication overhead and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where remote locomotives automatically send acknowledgment messages back to the lead locomotive confirming receipt of commands. This automated feedback loop ensures reliable command transmission without requiring operators to manually verify each communication cycle, maintaining high reliability while minimizing time overhead through efficient automated confirmation protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controllably linking propulsion units in a vehicle consist includes transmitting a linking signal having an identity of a lead propulsion unit. A remote propulsion unit is remotely controlled by the lead unit when the identity matches a designated identity stored onboard the remote unit. A de-linking signal is transmitted from the lead unit when the lead unit is to be decoupled from the vehicle consist. The de-linking signal includes a replacement identity of a replacement propulsion unit. A replacement linking signal is transmitted from a second lead unit. The remote propulsion unit allows the second lead propulsion unit to remotely control the operations of the remote propulsion unit when replacement identity stored onboard the remote propulsion unit matches an identity that is communicated in the replacement linking signal.