Switching Module Control for Rail Vehicle Energy Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle systems, such as rail vehicles, face challenges with space and weight constraints due to the large amount of hardware required for energy management and storage, leading to increased costs and maintenance needs.
Innovation Solution
A control system with selectably connected switching modules that can communicate with energy dissipation, external charging, and internal storage systems, allowing for efficient management and transfer of energy between these systems, reducing the need for multiple hardware components and optimizing energy use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate energy management systems are used to handle different energy storage and dissipation functions, then system reliability and functional capability are improved, but device complexity, weight, and space requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple energy management functions (battery charging/discharging, capacitor charging/discharging, dynamic braking energy dissipation, and auxiliary power supply) into a single integrated control system. The controller manages all energy flows through a unified architecture, eliminating the need for separate control systems for each energy management function, thereby reducing hardware complexity while maintaining system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated control system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it controls energy transfer between batteries and capacitors, manages dynamic braking energy dissipation, provides auxiliary power supply, and coordinates charging from external sources. This multi-functional approach allows a single system to replace multiple specialized systems, reducing overall device complexity
2Use of energy by moving object
If large capacity batteries are installed to store sufficient energy for multiple trips, then energy availability is improved, but weight and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the energy storage function between two types of energy storage devices: batteries for long-term energy storage and capacitors for short-term high-power delivery. This segmentation allows the battery to be smaller since it only needs to store energy for extended periods, while the capacitor handles peak power demands, thereby reducing overall battery weight while maintaining energy availability
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different energy storage devices based on real-time power demands. The controller monitors energy requirements and automatically determines whether to draw from the battery, capacitor, or a combination of both, optimizing the use of available energy resources and reducing the need for oversized battery capacity
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate control systems are used for different energy management functions, then functional capability is improved, but weight, space, and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple control functions into a single integrated controller that manages battery operations, capacitor operations, dynamic braking energy dissipation, and auxiliary power supply. This consolidation reduces the total weight of control systems by eliminating redundant hardware and software across multiple separate control units
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 reduces the footprint and weight of energy management hardware, lowers costs, and simplifies maintenance by enabling shared use of switching control systems across multiple energy management systems, enhancing energy efficiency and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second switching modules control the path of a current distributed through the one of the at least two of an energy dissipation system, external energy charging system, or internal energy storage system
Data Source
AI summary
A control system includes a first switching module and a second switching module. The second switching module is operably connected to the first switching module. The control system is configured to be selectably connected to at least two of an energy dissipation system, an external energy storage system, or an internal energy storage system. When the control system is selected for electrical communication with one of the at least two of an energy dissipation system, external energy charging system, or internal energy storage system, the first and second switching modules control the path of a current distributed through the one of the at least two of an energy dissipation system, external energy charging system, or internal energy storage system.