Gas-Driven Auxiliary Generator for Train Idling Energy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diesel-electric locomotives suffer from high energy wastage and emissions during idling and slow speeds due to the use of large diesel generators, leading to substantial energy and greenhouse gas emissions.
Innovation Solution
A gas-driven electric power generator carriage is introduced, which provides energy for the train and can operate independently, combining with hybrid systems to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by capturing braking energy and using renewable sources for charging, thereby optimizing energy smoothing and reducing energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If diesel-electric locomotives use large diesel generators for power supply, then sufficient power output is achieved, but energy wastage and emissions increase during idling and slow speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into multiple independent power sources: a main diesel generator for high power demands and a gas-driven auxiliary generator for idling and slow speed operations. This segmentation allows the system to use the appropriate power source based on operational requirements, reducing energy wastage during low-power phases while maintaining sufficient power output when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different power sources based on operational conditions. During idling and slow speeds, the gas-driven auxiliary generator takes over to reduce energy wastage and emissions. During high-power demands, the main diesel generator provides sufficient power output. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between maintaining power output and reducing energy loss.
2Reliability
If diesel generators operate continuously to provide electric train power, then reliable power supply is maintained, but greenhouse gas emissions and environmental harm increase
Solution Approach 1:
A gas-driven auxiliary generator is introduced as an intermediary power source between the main diesel generator and the train's power needs. This intermediary system operates during low-power phases (idling and slow speeds) to provide reliable power supply while producing fewer greenhouse gas emissions and harmful factors compared to continuous diesel generator operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of power generation by switching from continuous diesel generator operation to conditional operation based on power demand. The gas-driven auxiliary generator operates during specific parameter ranges (low speed, idling) to maintain power supply reliability while reducing emissions and harmful factors associated with continuous high-power diesel operation.
3Use of energy by moving object
If hybrid operation with energy storage is implemented, then fuel consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hybrid system is segmented into distinct functional modules: energy storage subsystem (batteries), regenerative braking subsystem, gas-driven auxiliary generator, and control subsystem. This segmentation allows for manageable complexity while achieving fuel consumption reduction through coordinated operation of these independent but integrated components.
Solution Approach 2:
The gas-driven auxiliary generator serves multiple functions: providing power during idling and slow speeds, charging the energy storage system during regenerative braking, and reducing overall fuel consumption. This multi-functionality justifies the increased device complexity by delivering multiple benefits from a single integrated system.
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
This solution achieves significant fuel savings of up to 40% and substantial reductions in NOx and CO2 emissions, improving environmental and economic benefits by switching from diesel to gas operation, and utilizing renewable energy sources for locomotive power.
Implementation Method 1
A gas-driven electric power generator carriage is introduced, which provides energy for the train
Implementation Method 2
gas-driven electric power generator arranged for providing energy for supply of electric power to the train
Data Source
AI summary
Device for energy supply of a train set consisting of at least one hybrid- or diesel-electric locomotive. The device comprises at least one gas driven electric power generator, driven by at least one engine or fuel cell which in turn are driven by gas from the at least one container or hydrogen storage facility, wherein the at least one electric power generator is connected to the locomotive electrical power supply networks. The device is arranged for supplying the train set with electrical current supply and/or idle current for a locomotive provided with or without automatic idle stop.