Train Control Device Balancing Cant via Acceleration Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Riding comfort in trains is compromised by vibrations caused by frequent changes in rail continuity at branch sections and imbalanced speeds through curved sections, which existing automatic train operation equipment struggles to mitigate effectively, especially when time constraints are present.
Innovation Solution
A train control device with an acceleration detection unit and a train control unit that adjusts the passing speed through curved sections to achieve a balanced cant state, using data from acceleration detection and onboard ATC devices to optimize speed settings based on detected acceleration and load compensation, thereby reducing vibrations and improving comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the train speed is reduced when passing through branch sections to reduce vibrations, then riding comfort is improved, but the running time between stations cannot be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the speed limit dynamic rather than static. The speed limit is adjusted in real-time based on the actual number of branch sections the train will pass through, which is determined by combining route information from the route setting device with real-time train position data. This allows the speed limit to adapt to actual operating conditions, enabling speed reductions only when necessary to pass through branch sections, thereby reducing vibrations while minimizing impact on running time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of speed limit from a fixed value to a variable value that depends on the number of branch sections. The control device calculates the actual number of branch sections based on route information and train position, then sets the speed limit accordingly. This parameter change allows the system to optimize between vibration reduction and running time by adjusting the speed limit based on actual conditions rather than applying a constant reduction.
2Productivity
If the train runs at imbalanced speed through curved sections, then productivity is improved, but acceleration is applied to passengers in lateral direction deteriorating riding comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by calculating and setting the balanced speed before the train enters the curved section. The control device obtains curve radius information from route information, calculates the balanced speed using the centrifugal force balance formula (v = sqrt(R*g*tan(alpha))), and sets this speed as the speed limit before the train reaches the curve. This preliminary speed adjustment ensures that when the train enters the curved section, it is already traveling at the optimal balanced speed, preventing lateral acceleration and improving riding comfort while maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of physically balancing the train on curved tracks with a computational approach. Instead of relying on mechanical adjustments to the track or train configuration, the system uses a calculation device to compute the balanced speed based on curve radius and gravitational acceleration, then uses a control device to enforce this calculated speed limit. This substitution of mechanical balancing with computational control allows for more precise and adaptable speed management.
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
The solution effectively reduces vibrations and enhances riding comfort by dynamically adjusting train speeds to balance centrifugal forces, even in scenarios where time constraints limit usual speed reductions, thereby improving passenger experience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the speed at which the centrifugal force and a cant are balanced differs according to the type of vehicle and the vehicle occupancy
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, a train control device includes an acceleration detection unit and a train control unit. The acceleration detection unit detects acceleration of a train along a rotation radius direction, when the train is turning and passing a curved section of a rail line with a cant. The train control unit sets a passing speed of the train passing through the curved section so that a state of the train is placed in a balanced cant, based on a direction of the detected acceleration.