Train Control Matching Error for Regenerative Energy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current train control methods fail to maximize the utilization of regenerative energy by optimizing the running profiles of matched pairs of trains at the same station, leading to suboptimal energy recovery in urban rail transit systems.

Innovation Solution

A train control method that calculates a matching error between the actual and theoretical matching times of matched pairs of trains and adjusts their running strategies based on this error, optimizing the braking and traction processes to maximize regenerative energy utilization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If single-train energy-saving operation method is used to optimize driving strategy between stations, then energy consumption of individual train is reduced, but regenerative energy utilization is not maximized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy consumption of individual trainVSAvoidregenerative energy utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the control of multiple trains into a coordinated system. By forming matched pairs of trains (one braking, one accelerating) and optimizing their running profiles jointly, the system maximizes regenerative energy utilization. The control device coordinates the running strategies of paired trains to ensure the accelerating train can fully utilize the regenerative energy from the braking train, thereby resolving the contradiction between individual train energy efficiency and system-wide regenerative energy utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Loss of energy

If train group optimization control method is used with regenerative energy maximization as objective, then regenerative energy utilization is improved, but control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveregenerative energy utilizationVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the train group into multiple matched pairs, where each pair consists of one braking train and one accelerating train. This segmentation allows the complex multi-train optimization problem to be decomposed into multiple simpler paired-train optimization problems. The control device independently optimizes each matched pair while ensuring overall system coordination, thereby reducing control complexity while maintaining regenerative energy maximization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The control device performs preliminary identification of matched pairs based on train running states before optimization. By pre-categorizing trains into braking and accelerating groups and forming matched pairs in advance, the system prepares the optimization structure beforehand, reducing the real-time control complexity and enabling more efficient regenerative energy utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Loss of energy

If running profiles of matched pairs of trains are optimized to maximize regenerative energy, then energy recovery is improved, but running time and schedule flexibility may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy recoveryVSAvoidrunning time between stations
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic optimization of running profiles for matched pairs of trains. The control device continuously monitors train running states and dynamically adjusts the running strategies of paired trains to maximize regenerative energy utilization at each moment. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to changing conditions and minimize the impact on running time while maximizing energy recovery.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The optimization method changes key running parameters such as acceleration rates, braking forces, and timing of paired trains. By adjusting these parameters within acceptable ranges, the system maximizes regenerative energy recovery while keeping the changes in running time minimal. The control device carefully balances parameter adjustments to achieve energy optimization without significantly affecting schedule flexibility or running time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 method increases the utilization ratio of regenerative energy generated by train braking, reducing overall energy consumption in urban rail transit systems by dynamically adjusting the running speed curve of matched pairs of trains.

Implementation Method 1

Regenerative braking is a technique of converting the kinetic energy of a vehicle into electric energy.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRegenerative braking:

Data Source

PatentUS10023071B2Train control method for maximizing utilization of regenerative energy
Publication Date: 2018.07.17 BEIJING JIAOTONG UNIV
  • US10023071B2 patent drawing
  • US10023071B2 patent drawing
  • US10023071B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present invention provide a train control method for maximizing utilization of regenerative energy. The method mainly comprises: working out a matching error ΔT of a current matched pair of trains Mx (i, j) of a station in the current running situation; and comparing the matching error ΔT with a preset maximum adjustable error ΔTx of the current matched pair of trains Mx (i, j) of the station and determining a strategy for adjusting train running of the current matched pair of trains Mx (i, j) according to comparison results.