Multi-Engine Start/Stop Control for Locomotives
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for more efficient scenarios for starting and stopping engines in locomotives, particularly for secondary engines, to optimize fuel usage, reduce maintenance costs, and manage engine idle conditions based on operator demand and environmental factors.
Innovation Solution
A control system that initiates or stops engines based on throttle position, vehicle speed, engine output, battery voltage, ambient temperature, brake cylinder pressure, and operator input, using a controller to manage the operation of multiple engines and adjust their RPM settings to optimize power delivery and reduce unnecessary engine operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If all engines are operated simultaneously in locomotives, then power delivery is ensured, but fuel consumption increases and maintenance costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic engine control where the controller continuously monitors throttle position, vehicle speed, and engine output levels to determine when to start or stop engines. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to operate engines only when needed, reducing fuel consumption while ensuring adequate power delivery varies with operational demands
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by monitoring throttle position thresholds, vehicle speed ranges, and engine output levels to make informed decisions about engine startup and shutdown. These parameter-based control strategies optimize the balance between power availability and fuel efficiency
2Power
If engines operate continuously, then power availability is maintained, but engine wear increases and maintenance costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The controller dynamically determines engine operation status based on real-time monitoring of throttle position, vehicle speed, and engine output. By keeping engines idle or shut down when full power is not required, the system reduces cumulative engine operating hours and wear, thereby lowering maintenance costs while maintaining power availability when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically manages engine startup and shutdown based on monitored operational parameters without requiring manual intervention. This self-service control optimizes engine usage patterns to minimize wear while ensuring power availability, reducing both maintenance needs and operational complexity
3Use of energy by moving object
If engines are stopped to save fuel, then fuel economy improves, but response time to power demand may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller monitors operational parameters continuously and anticipates power demands by detecting throttle position changes and vehicle speed variations. By preparing for potential power needs before they fully arise, the system can make quicker transition decisions from idle to operation, reducing response time delays while maintaining fuel economy during periods of low demand
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from throttle position sensors, vehicle speed sensors, and engine output monitoring to continuously assess power demands. This real-time feedback enables the controller to make informed, rapid decisions about engine startup or shutdown, balancing fuel economy with responsive power delivery based on actual operational conditions
Data Source
AI summary
Operation of a second or additional engine is initiated based on throttle position, vehicle speed and output level of the operating engine or engines. A second or additional engine is stopped based on throttle position and operation of the first engine when the second or additional engine has been idling for a predetermined period of time. Idling of an engine is started or stopped based on various conditions of the vehicle, such as battery voltage, ambient air temperature, brake cylinder pressure, operator input, battery charging current, and direction input.