Distributed Power Vehicle Linking via Automatic Discovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
The conventional setup process for distributed power arrangements in vehicles is time-consuming, manpower-intensive, and prone to human error, requiring manual intervention and entry of vehicle identifiers for linking, which can lead to linking failures.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for automated discovery and configuration of vehicles in a distributed power arrangement, allowing vehicles to automatically detect and configure remote operation without manual entry of identifiers, reducing the need for operator intervention and minimizing human error.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual intervention is used to enter vehicle identifiers and configure distributed power modes, then the setup process can be completed, but the process becomes time-consuming and manpower-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables vehicles to automatically discover and configure distributed power arrangements without manual intervention. The lead vehicle automatically identifies remote vehicles and establishes communication links, eliminating the need for operators to manually enter identifiers and reducing setup time while maintaining reliability through automated error-free configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations (operators physically entering data) with automated electronic communication systems. Vehicles use communication devices to automatically exchange identifiers and establish links, substituting human operators with automated digital processes that are faster and more reliable
2Ease of operation
If operators manually enter vehicle identifiers, then configuration can be achieved, but human error increases leading to linking failures
Solution Approach 1:
Vehicles automatically perform the configuration tasks that previously required manual operator input. The system self-configures by having vehicles autonomously discover each other, exchange identifiers, and establish communication links, eliminating human error while maintaining operational simplicity through automated processes
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automated feedback mechanisms where vehicles verify communication links and configuration status. If linking fails, the system automatically detects and corrects issues rather than requiring manual troubleshooting, improving reliability while keeping operations simple
3Ease of manufacture
If operators walk between vehicles to configure them, then all vehicles can be set up, but the process requires significant manpower and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of operators physically moving between vehicles with wireless electronic communication. Vehicles automatically discover and configure each other through communication devices, eliminating the need for operators to walk between vehicles and dramatically improving setup efficiency while maintaining ease of configuration
Solution Approach 2:
Vehicles perform their own configuration and discovery processes autonomously. The lead vehicle automatically identifies and configures remote vehicles without external assistance, enabling rapid setup of distributed power arrangements across multiple vehicles simultaneously, thereby大幅提升 productivity
Data Source
AI summary
A distributed power system includes a communication device and a control device. The communication device is configured to be disposed onboard a first vehicle of a vehicle system that also includes at least a second vehicle. The communication device is configured to communicate a discover message. The control device is configured to be operatively connected to the communication device, and, responsive to the communication device receiving a discover reply message from a second vehicle, to generate a configure message for the communication device to transmit to the second vehicle based on an identifier of the second vehicle included in the discover reply message. The configure message includes instructions for the second vehicle to transition to a remote mode of operation in which remote control of tractive and braking efforts of the second vehicle is enabled.