Train Brake Backup Control via Valve Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electronic airbrake systems in locomotives fail to allow normal operation after failure of primary electronically controlled valves, preventing trains from continuing to operate until serviced and repaired, as existing failsafe systems do not enable default brake functionality.
Innovation Solution
An automatic brake backup control system that includes a pneumatic operating unit with a brake pipe control portion, electronically controlled valves, and an operating state control to switch between normal and backup operation modes, enabling continued operation of the train by activating independent brake controllers and backup valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If electronically controlled valves are used in the primary brake control system, then brake control precision and automation are improved, but system reliability deteriorates when valve failures occur
Solution Approach 1:
The brake control system is segmented into multiple independent valve groups (first and second electronically controlled charge valves, first and second electronically controlled vent valves) with separate control pathways. When one valve fails, the system can switch to using the other valves in the same group, maintaining operational capability and improving reliability after failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-configures backup valve arrangements and control pathways before any failure occurs. The operating state control is预先 programmed to automatically or manually switch between normal and backup valve configurations, ensuring that when a valve failure is detected, the system can immediately transition to an alternative configuration without loss of brake control functionality.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If failsafe systems are implemented to stop train operation upon valve failure, then safety is improved, but operational continuity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The operating state control acts as an intermediary between the brake controller and the valve system, managing the transition between normal and backup valve configurations. This intermediary layer enables safe operation continuation by coordinating the switch to backup valves while maintaining proper brake control, thus preserving both safety and operational continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by switching between different valve configurations (normal vs. backup modes). When a valve failure occurs, the system modifies which valves are active and how they are controlled, allowing continued operation in a degraded but still safe and functional state.
3Productivity
If backup valve systems are added to maintain operation after failure, then operational continuity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake controller and operating state control are designed with multi-functionality, capable of managing both normal and backup valve configurations through the same control architecture. This universal control approach allows the system to handle multiple valve arrangements without proportionally increasing control system complexity, as the same controller adapts its operation based on the active configuration.
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
Enables the train to maintain default brake functionality even after primary valve failures, allowing continued operation and reducing downtime for maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
a first electronically controlled charge valve of the at least one electronically controlled valve including an input configured to be connected to the source of control pressure and an output connected to the equalizing reservoir control chamber, the first electronically controlled charge valve configured to: in a first state, permit air flow into the equalizing reservoir control chamber; and, in a second state, prevent air flow into the equalizing reservoir control chamber
Implementation Method 2
a first electronically controlled vent valve of the at least one electronically controlled valve including an input connected to the equalizing reservoir control chamber and an exhaust port connected to atmosphere, the first electronically controlled vent valve configured to: in a first state, prevent air flow out of the equalizing reservoir control chamber; and, in a second state, permit air flow out of the equalizing reservoir control chamber and vent air to atmosphere
Implementation Method 3
a second electronically controlled charge valve of the at least one electronically controlled valve including an input connected to the source of control pressure and an output connected to the equalizing reservoir control chamber
Implementation Method 4
a second electronically controlled vent valve of the at least one electronically controlled valve including an input connected to the equalizing reservoir control chamber and an exhaust port open to atmosphere
Implementation Method 5
an equalizing reservoir control chamber configured to control air pressure of the brake pipe
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an automatic brake backup control system and method for a train equipped with an electronic airbrake system and including at least one locomotive, a brake pipe, a source of control pressure, and at least one brake. The system includes a pneumatic operating unit that includes a brake pipe control portion. The brake pipe control portion includes a primary passage network, a control passage network, and an equalizing reservoir control chamber configured to control air pressure of the brake pipe. The brake pipe control portion also includes a first and second electronically controlled charge valve, and a first and second electronically controlled vent valve. The brake pipe control portion further includes an operating state control configured to switch operation of the at least one locomotive between a normal operation mode and a backup operation mode in response to an input by an operator.