Locomotive Controller with Dynamic Braking Distance Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locomotive remote control systems lack the sophistication to handle train control and dynamics effectively outside of hump and flat yards, requiring more expertise and a better human-machine interface to manage complex terrain and optimize train operations.
Innovation Solution
A locomotive controller with an input device, display, and processor that provides real-time simulation and control of train dynamics, including speed management, brake applications, and traction control, allowing operators to set desired speeds and stop locations while optimizing train handling and fuel efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the engineer-in-a-box concept is used for remote control, then automation and productivity are improved, but the system lacks sophistication to handle complex train control and dynamics outside of hump and flat yards
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments train control into multiple independent modules: speed control, brake control, traction control, and dynamic simulation. Each module handles specific aspects of train operation, allowing the automated system to manage complex dynamics through coordinated specialized subsystems rather than a monolithic control approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback through a dynamic simulation model that predicts train behavior based on current operating conditions. The simulation receives inputs from sensors and control systems, continuously updates the predicted train state, and provides feedback to the control algorithms to adjust speed, braking, and traction in real-time for complex terrain management.
2Ease of operation
If traditional control interfaces are used, then device complexity is reduced, but operator workload increases and handling is less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces a graphical display interface as an intermediary between the operator and the complex control systems. This display visualizes train position, speed, stopping distances, and track conditions in an intuitive format, allowing operators to monitor and control train operations without directly managing the underlying complexity of multiple control modules and simulation models.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual copy of the train and track environment through dynamic simulation. This simulated representation mirrors the actual physical system, allowing operators to interact with a simplified digital model that accurately reflects complex train dynamics, thereby reducing the cognitive load of managing real-world complexities.
3Reliability
If multiple brake applications are provided (emergency, full service, controlled stop), then safety and control precision are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic brake control where the appropriate brake application type (emergency, full service, or controlled stop) is automatically selected based on real-time simulation of train state, track conditions, and operator inputs. The control system dynamically adjusts braking parameters without requiring manual selection of brake modes, maintaining safety while managing complexity through adaptive automated decision-making.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a locomotive controller including an input device, a display and a processor for driving the display and receiving inputs from the input device. Software in the processor determines and drives the display to show a location of a train on a track and indicia of the location on the track of stopping distances for one of an emergency brake application, a full service brake application and at least one controlled stop brake application. Creep control is also provided.