Multi-Input Propulsion Load Sharing for Efficiency and System Life
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transportation systems powered by multiple power devices, such as engine, battery, and fuel cell systems, often operate outside their efficiency ranges, leading to degradation and reduced useful life due to uncoordinated load distribution across these systems.
Innovation Solution
A method for energy management that coordinates power distribution among fuel cell, battery, and engine systems based on their respective efficiencies, optimizing power output to maintain high efficiency and prolong system life, by using the engine for high power demands, fuel cell for lower demands, and strategically supplementing with battery power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If each power system is operated solely based on maximum power output capabilities, then power demand can be met, but the systems operate outside their efficiency ranges leading to degradation and shortened useful life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic load distribution that continuously adjusts the operating point of each power system based on real-time conditions. The controller dynamically determines optimal power allocation among the engine, fuel cell, and battery to maintain operation within efficiency ranges while meeting varying power demands, preventing degradation from static maximum power operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by operating each power system at variable load levels rather than fixed maximum output. The controller adjusts the power contribution of each system based on their respective efficiency characteristics, allowing the engine, fuel cell, and battery to operate at optimal points that balance power delivery with longevity
2Power
If loads are selected based on maximum power output of each system, then power capability is maximized, but efficiency and power capacity range are not maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The controller dynamically adjusts operational parameters by varying the load on each power system according to its efficiency characteristics. Instead of operating at fixed maximum power points, the system continuously optimizes the operating parameters of the engine, fuel cell, and battery to maintain high efficiency while delivering required power capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static maximum power operation to dynamic load management. The controller continuously monitors and adjusts the power contribution of each system in real-time, enabling the transportation system to adapt its energy usage pattern to maintain efficiency across varying power demand conditions
3Ease of operation
If uncoordinated load distribution is used across power systems, then operational simplicity is maintained, but degradation is expedited and useful life is shortened
Solution Approach 1:
The controller automatically manages load distribution across power systems without requiring manual intervention. The system self-regulates by continuously monitoring power demands and efficiency parameters, dynamically allocating loads to maintain optimal operation of each component while preventing degradation, thus achieving both simplicity and reliability
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 approach reduces losses, maintains high performance of power systems over longer durations, increases fuel economy, and minimizes carbon-based emissions by operating each system within its optimal efficiency range.
Implementation Method 1
the battery system may include one or more batteries and one or more fuel cell modules, respectively, located at one or more rail vehicles of the consist
Implementation Method 2
the fuel cell system may be equipped with one or more fuel cell modules, respectively, located at one or more rail vehicles of the consist
Data Source
AI summary
Various methods and systems are provided for energy management at a consist. In one example, a method for the energy management includes coordinating a distribution of a power demand in response to a power output of each of a fuel cell system, a battery system, and an engine system. The power output of each of the fuel cell system, the battery system, and the engine system may be selected based on a respective efficiency of each system.