ECP Brake Module Backup for Fast Rail Braking Response
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle braking systems, particularly in rail vehicles, face inefficiencies and unreliability due to long response times and potential failures in electronic modules of ECP brake systems, which can lead to ineffective braking and safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A network-based ECP brake control system that includes a controller capable of identifying and reconfiguring electronic and pneumatic modules to ensure effective braking, even in failure situations, by shifting operations between modules and using communication protocols like CAN to manage pressure changes in brake systems across multiple vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If conventional air brake systems are used, then the system is simple and reliable, but the response time is long and braking efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical air brake control system with an electronically controlled electro-pneumatic (ECP) brake system. Electronic control modules and solenoid valves are used to control compressed air delivery, enabling faster and more precise brake application while maintaining the pneumatic actuation mechanism. This substitution reduces response time from several seconds to under one second while managing system complexity through electronic integration.
2Loss of time
If ECP brake systems with electronic modules are implemented, then braking response time is reduced, but system reliability decreases due to potential electronic module failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a backup electronic control module that remains in standby mode and can automatically take over if the primary electronic module fails. This redundancy ensures continuous brake control functionality, maintaining system reliability while preserving the fast response characteristics of the ECP system. The backup module is pre-configured and can immediately assume control without compromising brake performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates diagnostic circuits that continuously monitor the status of electronic modules and provide feedback to the control system. When a failure is detected, the system automatically switches to the backup module or activates alternative braking procedures, ensuring maintained reliability. The feedback mechanism enables real-time detection and response to electronic component failures.
3Productivity
If existing ECP brake systems are used, then braking efficiency is improved, but compatibility with different vehicle types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the electronic control module with configurable parameters and adaptive control algorithms that can be adjusted to match different vehicle characteristics, brake configurations, and operational requirements. The system can be programmed to work with various vehicle types including locomotives, passenger cars, and freight cars, maintaining high braking efficiency across different applications through software configuration rather than hardware changes.
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
The system ensures reliable and efficient braking across various modes (lead, trail, helper, test) by identifying and backing up key components, thereby enhancing safety and compatibility with different types of vehicles, including UIC-type compliant mainline, freight, and passenger locomotives.
Implementation Method 1
A solenoid valve may be disposed within the brake unit and may be controlled by the electronic module to open or close and control a flow of compressed air
Implementation Method 2
Vehicle systems may be equipped with braking systems that may use compressed air as a force to push blocks onto wheels or pads onto discs
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a brake control system (100) comprising a controller (102) receiving input indicating a directed change in a brake setting for a vehicle system (200), and brake units (108, 110, 114, 116, 118) onboard different ones of vehicles (204, 206) in the vehicle system. The brake units include electronic modules (108-1, 110-1, 114-1, 116-1, 118-1) and pneumatic modules (108-2, 110-2, 114-2, 116-2, 118-2). The pneumatic modules may be controlled by the electronic modules to control braking of the vehicles. The controller sends signals to the electronic modules based on the input and determines an inoperative state of a first electronic module of the brake units that is onboard a first vehicle of the vehicles and can direct a different, second electronic module of the brake units that is onboard the first vehicle or a second vehicle of the vehicles to control the brake unit of the first vehicle responsive to determining the inoperative state of the first electronic module.