Torque Distribution Control via Traction Compound Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle systems experience torque distribution imbalances due to weight transfer between axles, leading to torque reductions at lead axles and overloads at trailing axles, causing high temperatures and potential failure during continuous tractive efforts.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a reservoir for a traction control compound and a delivery system controlled by a processor to apply the compound to wheels based on temperature measurements, adjusting torque distribution by increasing adhesion between wheels and the route.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If continuous tractive effort is applied to move the vehicle system, then productivity is improved, but temperature of motors increases leading to potential failure
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the adhesion parameter by applying traction control compound to the route surface, which modifies the friction characteristics between wheel and route. This allows continuous tractive effort to be maintained without excessive motor temperature increase, as the improved adhesion enables more efficient torque transfer.
2Force
If torque is applied to trailing axles to compensate for weight transfer, then tractive effort is improved, but the axles operate above specified operational values causing overload
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies traction control compound locally at specific openings positioned near wheels experiencing adhesion losses. This creates localized improved adhesion zones that allow torque to be distributed more evenly across axles, preventing overload on trailing axles while maintaining overall tractive effort.
3Reliability
If torque distribution is adjusted to balance load across axles, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to temperature monitoring and compound delivery system
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the vehicle's own operational parameters (motor temperature) to trigger the application of traction control compound. The temperature monitoring and compound delivery system creates a self-regulating mechanism that automatically balances torque distribution across axles based on real-time conditions, improving reliability without requiring external intervention.
4Force
If traction control compound is applied to increase adhesion, then torque distribution is improved, but loss of substance occurs due to compound consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies traction control compound partially, only at specific locations and only when motor temperature exceeds a threshold. This selective application approach provides sufficient adhesion improvement to balance torque distribution while minimizing compound consumption compared to continuous or widespread application.
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
Reduces weight transfer effects, improves torque distribution, prevents overload in trailing axles, and reduces motor temperatures by balancing torque across axles, thereby enhancing vehicle system efficiency and preventing failures.
Implementation Method 1
The traction control compound is configured to increase an adhesion, friction, and/or the like between the wheels and a route traversed by the powered vehicle system.
Implementation Method 2
The delivery subsystem may deliver the traction control compound based on temperature measurements representing temperatures of motors
Implementation Method 3
The delivery subsystem may deliver the traction control compound based on temperature measurements representing temperatures of motors
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method herein relate to vehicle control by adjusting a torque distribution of the vehicle. The system includes a first motor configured to provide a torque to a first wheel, and a delivery system configured to controllably apply a traction control compound to a route on which the first wheel is configured to travel. The system also includes a controller circuit having one or more processors. The controller circuit is configured to control the delivery system to apply the traction control compound to the route based on a monitored temperature of the first motor.