Current Collector Tracking for Slotted Vehicle Power Feed Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for electrically feeding vehicles in underground environments, such as mines, face challenges with precise alignment of current collectors with slotted electric conductors, which is necessary for adequate electric contact.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates a tracking device with lateral and vertical guiding means that are laterally displaceable, allowing for precise alignment of the contact elements with the electric conductors. This alignment is achieved through the use of alignment actuators and position sensors, enabling the tracking device to adjust its position relative to the slotted element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a slotted electric conductor system is used for electrical feeding, then safety properties and emission reduction are improved, but precise alignment between current collector and slots becomes difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The current collector is designed with dynamic alignment capabilities through actuators that can adjust the position of the collector arm and contact element in real-time. This dynamic adjustment system compensates for variations in vehicle position, suspension movement, and track irregularities, maintaining precise alignment with the slotted conductor throughout operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces purely mechanical alignment systems with an integrated system incorporating sensors (optical, laser, or ultrasonic) and control actuators. This substitution allows for automated detection of slot position and active correction of collector alignment, reducing dependence on rigid mechanical precision alone.
2Weight of moving object
If battery capacity is reduced to lower weight and cost, then vehicle payload capacity is improved, but range limitation becomes a problem
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges battery electric drive with overhead catenary power supply into a hybrid architecture. The vehicle uses its battery for maneuvering, acceleration, and periods when overhead power is unavailable, while the overhead conductor provides continuous power supplementation during sustained operation, combining the advantages of both power sources to extend range without requiring large battery capacity.
Data Source
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AI summary
System for electrically feeding at least one electrically powered vehicle comprising suspended elongated slotted element(s) having electric conductor(s) arranged in slot(s) and current collector(s) co-acting with the slotted element. The current collector(s) comprises contact element(s), collector arm(s) supporting the contact element(s) at its first end and is adapted to connect to a vehicle with its second end, and actuator(s) configured to act on the collector arm(s) to displace the first end contact element towards the slotted element(s). The actuator(s) displaces the first end of the collector arm towards the slotted element(s). The contact element is connected to the collector arm via a tracking device comprising a body part to which said contact element(s) is connected. The tracking device further comprises lateral guiding means configured to co-act with at least one laterally facing portion of the elongated slotted element to guide the tracking device laterally relative elongated slotted element. At least one lateral guiding means is laterally displaceable relative said body part by means of an alignment actuator.