Shunting Yard Brake Control Optimizing Push-Off Speeds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current drainage systems in shunting processes face inefficiencies due to the lack of precise running resistance data, leading to suboptimal push-off speeds and increased push-off times, as existing methods rely on worst-case scenarios or fixed static criteria, failing to exploit the performance potential of good runners and lacking real-time adaptability.
Innovation Solution
The method divides the overall simulation problem into local sub-problems by controlling brake run-out speeds for each process, calculating optimal entry and exit speeds based on minimum and maximum expected running resistances, and coordinating these to minimize push-off time, allowing for dynamic adjustments and better utilization of braking capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the worst-case running resistance values are used to ensure reliable operation, then safety and reliability are improved, but the discharge performance and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static worst-case resistance values to dynamic, real-time resistance measurements. The system continuously monitors actual running resistance during discharge operations and adjusts control parameters accordingly, allowing the system to adapt to varying conditions rather than relying on fixed conservative estimates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by measuring actual running resistance during the discharge process and using this information to optimize subsequent operations. The system learns from real-time performance data and adjusts its control strategies to maximize discharge efficiency while maintaining safety, rather than relying solely on pre-determined worst-case scenarios.
2Productivity
If real-time running resistance measurements are implemented, then discharge performance is improved, but the complexity of the control system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the system to measure and utilize its own running resistance characteristics without requiring external intervention. The control system automatically monitors its own performance, extracts relevant parameters, and adjusts its operation accordingly, reducing the need for complex external measurement and control infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key control parameters dynamically based on measured running resistance values. Rather than using fixed parameters, the system adjusts speed, acceleration, and other control variables in real-time according to actual resistance conditions, allowing performance optimization through parameter adaptation rather than system complexity.
3Measurement precision
If measurement results are used after the bead-breaking point is reached, then measurement accuracy is improved, but the ability to optimize process performance before discharge begins deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing optimization calculations and determining control parameters before the actual discharge operation begins. The system uses predicted resistance values and performs simulations in advance to establish optimal discharge profiles, ensuring that decisions are made with sufficient lead time rather than reacting after the fact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating virtual models or simulations of the discharge process that replicate real-world conditions. These digital twins allow the system to test and optimize control strategies in a virtual environment before actual discharge occurs, enabling performance optimization without requiring real-time measurement during the critical discharge window.
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 enables a priori optimization of push-off speeds, reducing push-off time and increasing drainage system performance by accounting for individual process characteristics and braking capacities, ensuring stable and efficient operation even with uncertain running resistance data.
Implementation Method 1
wagons or groups of wagons, also known as 'workouts,' are sorted from an upstream track into different directional tracks using the force of gravity acting on the workouts
Implementation Method 2
the task of the brakes located in the track path is to compensate for the inherent peculiarities of the train as it runs through the distribution zone
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for computer-aided simulation and/or execution of a plurality of sequences (100 ... 102) in a shunting yard (10), in which it is simulated that the sequences are initiated and pass through at least one track brake on their way through the shunting yard (10). The execution of the plurality of sequences (100 ... 102) is simulated using a computer, whereby a confidence interval is assumed for the values of the sequence characteristics, which are still unknown before the initial initiation. For each sequence, starting with the last track brake in the path, the minimum and maximum entry speed into all preceding brakes is determined in a backward chaining process. Based on the range of entry speed into the subsequent brakes (70 ... 77) thus determined for each sequence (100 ...102) The controllable range of the running time from the track brake (60, 61) to the subsequent brake is determined for both a maximum expected running resistance and a minimum expected running resistance of the sequence, from which it follows that this running time is controllable for all sequence properties lying within the confidence interval. The optimization problem thus consists of (number of sequences to be optimized times number of brakes controllable according to the method) independent solution sets. From these, an increase in performance can be achieved for each sequence to be optimized and each track brake controllable according to the method using altruistic methods or optimization procedures such as Nelder-Mead. Furthermore, the invention comprises a shunting system, a computer program product, and a computer-readable storage medium.