LSM Power Control Overlapping Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear synchronous motor (LSM) power control systems, particularly sub-block switching schemes, are inadequate for propelling and controlling multiple vehicles that are closely spaced, as they require separate inverters for each block and are not suitable for applications like elevators or transit systems where vehicles need to operate independently and in close proximity.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a power control system that uses overlapping blocks, allowing multiple inverters to be switchably coupled to a common region of the guideway, enabling the propulsion and control of closely spaced vehicles by concurrently using first and second inverters for adjacent blocks, thereby allowing vehicles to operate independently even within the same block.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate inverters are used for each block, then vehicle control is simplified, but the number of inverters increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple blocks are merged to share a common inverter. The patent divides the guideway into blocks where each block can be controlled by a dedicated inverter or shared with adjacent blocks. This reduces the total number of inverters needed while maintaining the ability to control vehicles in each block independently through switchable connections.
Solution Approach 2:
A single inverter is designed to serve multiple blocks through switchable connections. The inverter can be dynamically connected to different blocks based on vehicle position and control requirements, making it a multi-functional device that replaces what would traditionally require separate dedicated inverters for each block.
2Length of moving object
If blocks are made shorter to accommodate closely spaced vehicles, then vehicle spacing is reduced, but the number of blocks and inverters increases
Solution Approach 1:
The block boundaries and inverter connections are made dynamic rather than fixed. Switching mechanisms allow blocks to be dynamically reconfigured and reassigned to different inverters based on real-time vehicle positions. This dynamic allocation enables closely spaced vehicles to share blocks without requiring the guideway to be divided into numerous small fixed blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The guideway is segmented into blocks that can be flexibly assigned to inverters. Rather than having fixed one-to-one mappings between blocks and inverters, the segmentation allows multiple blocks to be grouped under a single inverter's control, with the ability to resegment and reassign as vehicles move through the system.
3Device complexity
If sub-block switching is used, then the number of inverters is reduced, but multiple closely spaced vehicles cannot be controlled independently
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures switchable connections between inverters and blocks to enable future independent control of multiple vehicles. By establishing the infrastructure of switchable block assignments in advance, the system is prepared to handle closely spaced vehicles independently when they enter the guideway, rather than requiring complex real-time reconfiguration during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Switching mechanisms act as intermediaries between inverters and blocks, enabling flexible power distribution. These switches allow a single inverter to serve multiple blocks or allow multiple inverters to serve overlapping block regions, facilitating independent control of closely spaced vehicles while reducing the total number of inverters required.
4Adaptability or versatility
If overlapping blocks with shared inverters are used, then closely spaced vehicles can operate independently, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system uses feedback from vehicle position sensors to dynamically determine which inverters should be connected to which blocks. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically manage the complexity of overlapping block assignments and switchable connections, making the control system adaptive rather than statically complex.
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 allows for efficient propulsion and control of closely spaced vehicles without the need for short blocks, reducing the number of inverters and power dissipation, while maintaining cost-effectiveness by using two-way switches, which are more expensive than one-way switches but less expensive than employing numerous separate inverters.
Implementation Method 1
Linear Synchronous Motor (LSM) can be used to propel vehicles
Data Source
AI summary
A system is disclosed that controls the power flow to Linear Synchronous Motor (LSM) stators for a vehicle transport system. This invention allows multiple vehicles to operate in close proximity in a guideway without requiring an excessive number of separate controllers. It can be used in conjunction with schemes now in use and is particularly useful in elevator hoistways or for automated people movers near stations.