Methods and apparatus for very close following train movement
US6580976B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 29, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jun 17, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 29, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB61L27/20
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method for increasing efficiency of operation of trains includes operating a plurality of trains as a moving sequence and regulating distances between the trains to eliminate distances in excess of safe minimum distances between the trains. Distance between a preceding train and a following train is regulated by varying speed of the following train to minimize an excess distance between the two trains. A safe minimum distance includes a safe braking distance for the following train. In a further embodiment the safe braking distance is determined based on train weight distribution. Distributed weight is determined using measurements of train position, speed, acceleration and tractive effort to estimate forces affecting the train. The forces are related to one another to obtain a matrix equation expressing the forces in terms of car weight and train weight. The equation is solved to determine car weight and train weight.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.