Voltage control on a train system
First Claim
1. A method of preventing train voltages from falling below a predetermined voltage in a commuter train system having a plurality of trains, the method comprising the steps of:
- estimating a power consumption of each train on the commuter train system;
predicting a train voltage of each train that is consuming power based on the estimated power consumption of each nearby train;
comparing the predicted train voltage of each train that is consuming power with a minimum voltage (Vmin); and
reducing an acceleration command of each train that has the predicted train voltage less than a low voltage (Vlow), the reducing step being performed when one or more predicted train voltages are less than the minimum voltage (Vmin).
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Abstract
The present invention provides methods for preventing low train voltages and managing interference, thereby improving the efficiency, reliability, and passenger comfort associated with commuter trains. An algorithm implementing neural network technology is used to predict low voltages before they occur. Once voltages are predicted, then multiple trains can be controlled to prevent low voltage events. Further, algorithms for managing inference are presented in the present invention. Different types of interference problems are addressed in the present invention such as “Interference During Acceleration”, “Interference Near Station Stops”, and “Interference During Delay Recovery.” Managing such interference avoids unnecessary brake/acceleration cycles during acceleration, immediately before station stops, and after substantial delays. Algorithms are demonstrated to avoid oscillatory brake/acceleration cycles due to interference and to smooth the trajectories of closely following trains. This is achieved by maintaining sufficient following distances to avoid unnecessary braking/accelerating. These methods generate smooth train trajectories, making for a more comfortable ride, and improve train motor reliability by avoiding unnecessary mode-changes between propulsion and braking. These algorithms can also have a favorable impact on traction power system requirements and energy consumption.
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Citations
17 Claims
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1. A method of preventing train voltages from falling below a predetermined voltage in a commuter train system having a plurality of trains, the method comprising the steps of:
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estimating a power consumption of each train on the commuter train system;
predicting a train voltage of each train that is consuming power based on the estimated power consumption of each nearby train;
comparing the predicted train voltage of each train that is consuming power with a minimum voltage (Vmin); and
reducing an acceleration command of each train that has the predicted train voltage less than a low voltage (Vlow), the reducing step being performed when one or more predicted train voltages are less than the minimum voltage (Vmin). - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8)
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9. A method of preventing low train voltages in a commuter train system having a plurality of trains, the method comprising the steps of:
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predicting a voltage of each train based on an estimated power consumption of each nearby train; and
controlling an acceleration command of each train in order to prevent any one or more predicted train voltages from falling below the a minimum voltage (Vmin). - View Dependent Claims (10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17)
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Specification