Locomotive Engine Start via DC Bus Alternator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-engine locomotives face challenges in starting or restarting engines without a separate starter motor, which is a high maintenance item, especially when engines are turned on and off frequently, requiring an efficient method to utilize existing power sources for starting.
Innovation Solution
A propulsion system with a plurality of engine systems, including an induction alternator and an electrical converter circuit that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, allowing power from one engine to be used to start or restart another engine via a direct current bus, eliminating the need for a separate starter motor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate starter motor is used for each engine, then engine starting is reliable, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling the alternator to perform dual functions: generating electrical energy during engine operation and functioning as a starter motor for engine starting. This eliminates the need for separate starter motors, reducing device complexity while maintaining starting reliability through the same electrical component
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the starter motor function with the alternator, combining two previously separate components into one. The alternator serves both as a power generation device during operation and as a starting device, reducing the overall number of components and simplifying the engine starting system
2Use of energy by moving object
If engines are turned on and off frequently, then fuel economy improves, but engine wear and maintenance increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by using the engine's own alternator to provide the starting torque needed for restart operations. This eliminates the need for external starter motors and allows the engine system to restart itself using its own generated electrical energy, facilitating frequent on/off cycles without additional mechanical wear from separate starting components
3Device complexity
If starter motors are eliminated, then device complexity decreases, but an alternative starting method must be implemented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by reversing the conventional relationship between the alternator and starting system. Instead of using a separate motor to start the engine and the alternator only for power generation, the system uses the alternator in reverse as a motor to start the engine, eliminating the need for separate starter motors while maintaining starting capability
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 optimizes engine performance in terms of fuel economy, emissions compliance, and power source lifetime while providing high power for acceleration, reducing maintenance costs and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an induction alternator that converts mechanical energy output by the engine into alternating current electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
an electrical converter circuit that converts the outputted alternating current electrical energy into direct current electrical energy
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of starting or restarting an engine on a locomotive having at least one of another engine, a fuel cell system and an energy storage system. The method is applicable to large systems such as trucks, ships, cranes and locomotives utilizing diesel engines, gas turbine engines, other types of internal combustion engines, fuel cells or combinations of these that require substantial power and low emissions utilizing multiple power plant combinations. The method is directed, in part, at a flexible control strategy for a multi-engine systems based on a common DC bus electrical architecture so that prime power sources need not be synchronized.