Dynamic Test Bench for Metro Trains Using Inertial Rolling Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional test tracks for metro trains are large and inflexible, making it difficult to simulate the full range of tests required for traction, braking, communication, and safety functions in a limited space.
Innovation Solution
A compact test bench with inertial rolling units, motorized axles, and communication antennas that replicate the dynamics and communication systems of a full test track, allowing for simulation of traction, braking, and safety functions, including energy-neutral motor control and slope simulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional test track is used to test metro trains, then comprehensive testing of traction, braking, communication and safety functions can be performed, but the test track occupies several thousand square meters which is not always available and cannot be assigned to other uses
Solution Approach 1:
The test track is segmented into modular rolling units, each comprising an inertial mass, motor, and speed sensor placed under individual axles. This segmentation allows the testing system to be compact while maintaining comprehensive testing capability for multiple train functions simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a simplified copy of the test track functionality using rolling units that replicate the essential testing capabilities. Instead of building a full-scale physical test track, the system uses inertial masses and motors to simulate track conditions and train dynamics, achieving the same testing objectives in a fraction of the space.
2Adaptability or versatility
If rolling units with inertial mass and motors are placed under axles to simulate train dynamics, then the test bench can reproduce traction and braking functions, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Each rolling unit is designed as a universal module that can perform multiple functions: simulating inertial effects during acceleration and deceleration, providing traction force through its motor, measuring speed via the speed sensor, and supporting the axle. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems for each testing requirement, thereby managing complexity while enhancing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The rolling units are self-contained with integrated motors, inertial masses, and speed sensors that work autonomously to simulate train dynamics. The system uses the train's own weight and the rolling units' components to generate the necessary forces and measurements, reducing the need for external testing equipment and simplifying the overall system architecture.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables comprehensive testing of metro trains in a limited space, ensuring accurate simulation of movement, inertia, and communication, thereby validating key operational and safety features without the need for extensive infrastructure.
Implementation Method 1
an inertial mass (28) arranged to rotate around said axis (X30)
Implementation Method 2
a motor (26), arranged to transform electrical energy to mechanical energy
Implementation Method 3
a rolling zone (34) formed by said band (32) in its upper part located between said rollers (33)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to a bench (1) provided for testing an automatic subway train set (2), comprising at least two mutually spaced-apart rolling units (8), each provided so that at least one wheel (6) of the train set (2) can be made to roll thereon, each unit (8) comprising: a rotary inertial mass (28); a motor (26) engaging with the inertial mass; and a sensor (51) sensing the rotational speed of the inertial mass. The bench further comprises means (11, 15) for controlling each of the motors (26) so as to permanently cancel out any difference in speed between the rolling units.