| Class / Patent application number | Description | Number of patent applications / Date published |
|---|
| 246186000 | Motive-power control | 19 |
| 20090090818 | SYSTEM, METHOD, AND COMPUTER READABLE MEDIUM FOR IMPROVING THE HANDLING OF A POWERED SYSTEM TRAVELING ALONG A ROUTE - A control system is provided for improving the handling of a powered system traveling along a route. The powered system includes a first and second powered vehicle respectively positioned in two consists, which are separated by at least one non-powered vehicle. The control system includes a controller configured to determine at least one slack location along the powered system. The slack location represents a force separation in the powered system between two respective regions, which include a compression region subject to a compression force and a tension region subject to a tension force. The controller is coupled to a respective engine of a powered vehicle, and the controller adjusts an output of the engine to control a rate of change of the at least one slack location along the powered system. Additionally, a method is provided for improving the handling of a powered system traveling along a route. | 04-09-2009 |
| 20100019103 | FUEL EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENT FOR LOCOMOTIVE CONSISTS - A fuel efficiency improvement device for use on each of a plurality of locomotives in a consist includes a processor configured to transmit an initialization message including an identifier and power and fuel consumption rate information for the locomotive on which it is installed to all other locomotives in the consist. One of the devices is chosen to act as a lead device. The lead device is responsible for determining alternative throttle notch settings for each of the locomotives based on the power and fuel consumption rate information in the initialization message. The lead device may be chosen on the basis of identifiers in the initialization messages such as serial numbers. The alternative throttle settings may be determined using greedy value and maximum power calculations. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20120074266 | RAIL VEHICLE CONTROL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING WITH A RAIL VEHICLE - A rail vehicle control communication system includes a vehicle management device capable of being coupled with a conductive pathway extending along a track and of forming an instruction to control an operation of a rail vehicle travelling along the track, the vehicle management device transmitting the instruction to the rail vehicle through the conductive pathway; and an on-board communication device capable of being coupled with the rail vehicle, the on-board communication device configured to receive the instruction communicated through the conductive pathway from the vehicle management device, the on-board communication device configured to change the operation of the rail vehicle based on the instruction. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20130001370 | POWER CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A LOCOMOTIVE CONSIST - The present disclosure is directed to a power control system for a consist. The consist may include a plurality of locomotives, each locomotive having an engine. The power control system may include a plurality of locomotive controllers. Each locomotive controller may be associated with one of the engines and configured to monitor temperature and power conditions of the associated engine. The power control system may also include a central controller adapted to receive temperature and power conditions from each locomotive controller and to determine desired power levels for each engine in the consist based on the received temperature and power conditions of the plurality of locomotives. | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130206923 | Transporting System, Transporting Carriage and Method for Transporting Metal Coils - A transporting system for transporting metal coils, for example hot coils, may include a multi-track rail system; a number of driverless transporting carriages, which can be moved on the rail system by means of a drive device and are equipped with an on-board communication device; a locating device, with which up-to-the-moment locational information can be determined for each transporting carriage located on the rail system; and a central control device, to which the locational information of each transporting carriage can be fed, wherein a communication link, which at least in certain sections is formed without any lines, can be established between the control device and the communication device. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130240678 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A LOCOMOTIVE CONSIST HAVING A LOCOMOTIVE AND AUXILIARY POWER UNIT - An apparatus and method for controlling a locomotive assembly having a locomotive and an auxiliary power unit is disclosed. The locomotive assembly includes at least one locomotive having a power bus, a primary engine-generator set electrically coupled to the power bus, and a locomotive controller programmed to control the primary engine-generator set. The locomotive assembly also includes an auxiliary power unit having an auxiliary engine-generator set electrically coupled to a locomotive power bus, and a first auxiliary controller. The auxiliary controller is programmed to receive a command signal from the locomotive controller indicating a desired amount of power, and control the auxiliary engine-generator set of the auxiliary power unit to produce the desired amount of power. | 09-19-2013 |
| 20130277505 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LIMITING IN-TRAIN FORCES OF A RAILROAD TRAIN - An apparatus includes a first element for identifying planned applications of tractive effort and braking effort for a railway vehicle while traversing a track segment. The apparatus includes a second element for determining a slack condition of the railway vehicle at one or more locations on the track segment in advance of the railway vehicle traversing the track segment based on the planned applications of tractive effort and braking effort. The apparatus includes a third element for redetermining the slack condition at the one or more locations based on at least one deviation from the planned applications of tractive effort and braking effort. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20140353434 | LOCOMOTIVE/TENDER CAR COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - The disclosure is directed to a communication system for a consist having a locomotive and a tender car. The communication system may have a locomotive access point configured to be located onboard the locomotive, a locomotive controller connected to the locomotive access point, a tender car access point configured to be located onboard the tender car, and a tender car controller connected to the tender car access point. The communication system may also have at least one network component configured to be located onboard the locomotive or the tender car and connected with a corresponding one of the locomotive and tender car access points, and a communication coupling extending between the locomotive and tender car access points. The locomotive and tender car controllers may be configured to selectively affect operation of the locomotive and tender car, respectively, based on operational information obtained via the at least one network component. | 12-04-2014 |
| 246187000 | Electric | 11 |
| 20120199702 | CONTROL, SOUND, AND OPERATING SYSTEM FOR MODEL TRAINS - The present invention provides a model train operating, sound and control system that provides a user with increased operating realism. Disclosed is a novel remote control communication capability between the user and the model trains. This feature is accomplished by using a handheld remote control on which various commands may be entered, and a Track Interface Unit that retrieves and processes the commands. The Track Interface Unit converts the commands to modulated signals (preferably spread spectrum signals) which are sent down the track rails. The model train picks up the modulated signals, retrieves the entered command, and executes it through use of a processor and associated control and driver circuitry. Another novel feature disclosed is a speed control circuit located inside the model train that is capable of continuously monitoring the operating speed of the train and making adjustments to a motor drive circuit. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20140263861 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A LOCOMOTIVE CONSIST - A locomotive assembly including a legacy locomotive controller and an intercept locomotive controller and a method of controlling a locomotive are disclosed. The locomotive assembly includes a power bus, a locomotive, and an intercept locomotive controller. The locomotive includes a primary power unit coupled to the power bus and a legacy locomotive controller programmed to transmit a control command to the primary power unit. The intercept locomotive controller is electrically coupled between the locomotive controller and the primary power unit and is programmed to intercept an initial locomotive control signal transmitted from the legacy locomotive controller to the primary power unit indicating an amount of locomotive power, modify the initial locomotive control signal, and transmit the modified control signal to the primary power unit. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20130200222 | CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REMOTELY ISOLATING POWERED UNITS IN A VEHICLE SYSTEM - A method includes obtaining motive outputs demanded by a trip plan for a vehicle system having interconnected propulsion-generating vehicles, determining motive output capabilities of the propulsion-generating vehicles, and identifying segments of the trip where the motive output capabilities of the propulsion-generating vehicles exceed motive outputs demanded by the trip plan over the segments. The method further includes selecting one or more of the propulsion-generating vehicles for turning at least one of off or to idle in the one or more segments while one or more remaining propulsion-generating vehicles in the vehicle system remain on. The propulsion-generating vehicles are selected such that a total motive output capability of the one or more remaining propulsion-generating vehicles remains at least as great as the motive outputs demanded by the trip plan over the one or more segments. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20140166821 | Directional Communication Device for Locomotive Consist Communication - A locomotive consist communication system and method of communication using directional communication devices that allow each locomotive to communicate wirelessly with at least one locomotive directly attached to it. Each of the locomotives is equipped with at least one directional communication device placed on the side of the locomotive directly facing the locomotive attached to it. The locomotive consist communication system forms a communication network running through the consist that allows various locomotives to communicate with each other and share information. This directional wireless communication is resistant to multipath interference, requires less power, and is less likely to be damaged because it is situated on the side of the locomotive facing the locomotive attached to it. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20120160969 | CONTROL SYSTEM FOR SIMPLIFYING CONTROL OF A MODEL RAILROAD - A control system for at least a pair of motor powered rail vehicles coupled together in a model train railroad includes a controller, a control module installed on each of the at least pair of motor powered rail vehicles, a bi-directional communication between the controller and at least one control module in one of the at least pair of motor powered rail vehicles, a bi-directional communication between the at least pair of control modules, and at least one of the controller and the one of the pair of control modules configured to store in memory full load electrical power value and use the full load electrical power value in adjusting motor load for a respective motor powered rail vehicle. The control system also uses a subsonic motor signal to enhance low speed operation of rail vehicles and a graphical interface within the controller and capability to utilize previously unknown devices. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120199701 | CONTROL, SOUND, AND OPERATING SYSTEM FOR MODEL TRAINS - The present invention provides a model train operating, sound and control system that provides a user with increased operating realism. Disclosed is a novel remote control communication capability between the user and the model trains. This feature is accomplished by using a handheld remote control on which various commands may be entered, and a Track Interface Unit that retrieves and processes the commands. The Track Interface Unit converts the commands to modulated signals (preferably spread spectrum signals) which are sent down the track rails. The model train picks up the modulated signals, retrieves the entered command, and executes it through use of a processor and associated control and driver circuitry. Another novel feature disclosed is a speed control circuit located inside the model train that is capable of continuously monitoring the operating speed of the train and making adjustments to a motor drive circuit. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20140117167 | COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR MULTIPLE LOCOMOTIVES - The disclosure is directed to a control system for a train consist. The control system may have a first controller associated with a first locomotive and a second controller associated with a second locomotive. The control system may also include an input device configured to generate a first signal indicative of a desired consist performance, and at least one sensor configured to generate a second signal indicative of an actual performance of the first and second locomotives. The second controller may be configured to determine a first performance setting of the first locomotive and a different second performance setting of the second locomotive based on the first signal, and automatically adjust the first and second performance settings based on a difference between the first and second signals. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140252174 | LEAD LOCOMOTIVE CONTROL OF POWER OUTPUT BY TRAILING LOCOMOTIVES - A locomotive consist control system may include a lead controller associated with a lead locomotive of the consist, and a secondary controller associated with a trailing locomotive of the consist and communicatively coupled by a communication link with the lead controller. The lead controller may be configured to receive a generator voltage or current output from a power bus electrical characteristics sensor associated with each locomotive, determine a total electrical power output requirement for the consist, determine an electrical power output requirement for each locomotive in the consist, and supply instructions to dynamically adjust an output voltage or current generated by a generator associated with each locomotive to a desired voltage or current anywhere within the rated capacity of the generator. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140263860 | CONTAINERIZED LOCOMOTIVE DISTRIBUTED POWER CONTROL - A distributed power (DP) control system is contained within a non-freight carrying intermodal container for communicating with and receive instructions and/or commands from a command system of a lead distributed power locomotive within a train. The container is configured to be provided on a car adjacent to a remote non-distributed powered (non-DP) locomotive provided within a length of the train. One or more connection hoses connect the distributed power control system within the container to the non-DP locomotive to control application of at least its brake system. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140299715 | SIGNALING AND REMOTE CONTROL TRAIN OPERATION - A model train and layout control system based on on-board sound and locomotive modules, new signaling methods, bi-directional communication, environmental sound, turnout control, train location methods, computer interaction and accessory control, by adding components to existing technology. AC power signal waveforms are variously altered to convey digital command words. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140346287 | VEHICLE SYSTEM AND METHOD - Various methods and systems are provided for a vehicle. In one example, a vehicle comprises a first fuel tank configured to store a first fuel, and a second fuel tank configured to store a second fuel, both the first fuel tank and the second fuel tank disposed in the vehicle, a multi fuel engine disposed in the vehicle, the multi fuel engine configured to combust the first fuel and the second fuel, a fuel injection system configured to inject the first fuel into the multi fuel engine, and a conduit configured to route the second fuel from the second fuel tank to the multi fuel engine. | 11-27-2014 |
| 246187000 | Remote control | 7 |
| 20120199702 | CONTROL, SOUND, AND OPERATING SYSTEM FOR MODEL TRAINS - The present invention provides a model train operating, sound and control system that provides a user with increased operating realism. Disclosed is a novel remote control communication capability between the user and the model trains. This feature is accomplished by using a handheld remote control on which various commands may be entered, and a Track Interface Unit that retrieves and processes the commands. The Track Interface Unit converts the commands to modulated signals (preferably spread spectrum signals) which are sent down the track rails. The model train picks up the modulated signals, retrieves the entered command, and executes it through use of a processor and associated control and driver circuitry. Another novel feature disclosed is a speed control circuit located inside the model train that is capable of continuously monitoring the operating speed of the train and making adjustments to a motor drive circuit. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20140263861 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A LOCOMOTIVE CONSIST - A locomotive assembly including a legacy locomotive controller and an intercept locomotive controller and a method of controlling a locomotive are disclosed. The locomotive assembly includes a power bus, a locomotive, and an intercept locomotive controller. The locomotive includes a primary power unit coupled to the power bus and a legacy locomotive controller programmed to transmit a control command to the primary power unit. The intercept locomotive controller is electrically coupled between the locomotive controller and the primary power unit and is programmed to intercept an initial locomotive control signal transmitted from the legacy locomotive controller to the primary power unit indicating an amount of locomotive power, modify the initial locomotive control signal, and transmit the modified control signal to the primary power unit. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20130200222 | CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REMOTELY ISOLATING POWERED UNITS IN A VEHICLE SYSTEM - A method includes obtaining motive outputs demanded by a trip plan for a vehicle system having interconnected propulsion-generating vehicles, determining motive output capabilities of the propulsion-generating vehicles, and identifying segments of the trip where the motive output capabilities of the propulsion-generating vehicles exceed motive outputs demanded by the trip plan over the segments. The method further includes selecting one or more of the propulsion-generating vehicles for turning at least one of off or to idle in the one or more segments while one or more remaining propulsion-generating vehicles in the vehicle system remain on. The propulsion-generating vehicles are selected such that a total motive output capability of the one or more remaining propulsion-generating vehicles remains at least as great as the motive outputs demanded by the trip plan over the one or more segments. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20140166821 | Directional Communication Device for Locomotive Consist Communication - A locomotive consist communication system and method of communication using directional communication devices that allow each locomotive to communicate wirelessly with at least one locomotive directly attached to it. Each of the locomotives is equipped with at least one directional communication device placed on the side of the locomotive directly facing the locomotive attached to it. The locomotive consist communication system forms a communication network running through the consist that allows various locomotives to communicate with each other and share information. This directional wireless communication is resistant to multipath interference, requires less power, and is less likely to be damaged because it is situated on the side of the locomotive facing the locomotive attached to it. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20120160969 | CONTROL SYSTEM FOR SIMPLIFYING CONTROL OF A MODEL RAILROAD - A control system for at least a pair of motor powered rail vehicles coupled together in a model train railroad includes a controller, a control module installed on each of the at least pair of motor powered rail vehicles, a bi-directional communication between the controller and at least one control module in one of the at least pair of motor powered rail vehicles, a bi-directional communication between the at least pair of control modules, and at least one of the controller and the one of the pair of control modules configured to store in memory full load electrical power value and use the full load electrical power value in adjusting motor load for a respective motor powered rail vehicle. The control system also uses a subsonic motor signal to enhance low speed operation of rail vehicles and a graphical interface within the controller and capability to utilize previously unknown devices. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120199701 | CONTROL, SOUND, AND OPERATING SYSTEM FOR MODEL TRAINS - The present invention provides a model train operating, sound and control system that provides a user with increased operating realism. Disclosed is a novel remote control communication capability between the user and the model trains. This feature is accomplished by using a handheld remote control on which various commands may be entered, and a Track Interface Unit that retrieves and processes the commands. The Track Interface Unit converts the commands to modulated signals (preferably spread spectrum signals) which are sent down the track rails. The model train picks up the modulated signals, retrieves the entered command, and executes it through use of a processor and associated control and driver circuitry. Another novel feature disclosed is a speed control circuit located inside the model train that is capable of continuously monitoring the operating speed of the train and making adjustments to a motor drive circuit. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20140117167 | COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR MULTIPLE LOCOMOTIVES - The disclosure is directed to a control system for a train consist. The control system may have a first controller associated with a first locomotive and a second controller associated with a second locomotive. The control system may also include an input device configured to generate a first signal indicative of a desired consist performance, and at least one sensor configured to generate a second signal indicative of an actual performance of the first and second locomotives. The second controller may be configured to determine a first performance setting of the first locomotive and a different second performance setting of the second locomotive based on the first signal, and automatically adjust the first and second performance settings based on a difference between the first and second signals. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140252174 | LEAD LOCOMOTIVE CONTROL OF POWER OUTPUT BY TRAILING LOCOMOTIVES - A locomotive consist control system may include a lead controller associated with a lead locomotive of the consist, and a secondary controller associated with a trailing locomotive of the consist and communicatively coupled by a communication link with the lead controller. The lead controller may be configured to receive a generator voltage or current output from a power bus electrical characteristics sensor associated with each locomotive, determine a total electrical power output requirement for the consist, determine an electrical power output requirement for each locomotive in the consist, and supply instructions to dynamically adjust an output voltage or current generated by a generator associated with each locomotive to a desired voltage or current anywhere within the rated capacity of the generator. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140263860 | CONTAINERIZED LOCOMOTIVE DISTRIBUTED POWER CONTROL - A distributed power (DP) control system is contained within a non-freight carrying intermodal container for communicating with and receive instructions and/or commands from a command system of a lead distributed power locomotive within a train. The container is configured to be provided on a car adjacent to a remote non-distributed powered (non-DP) locomotive provided within a length of the train. One or more connection hoses connect the distributed power control system within the container to the non-DP locomotive to control application of at least its brake system. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140299715 | SIGNALING AND REMOTE CONTROL TRAIN OPERATION - A model train and layout control system based on on-board sound and locomotive modules, new signaling methods, bi-directional communication, environmental sound, turnout control, train location methods, computer interaction and accessory control, by adding components to existing technology. AC power signal waveforms are variously altered to convey digital command words. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140346287 | VEHICLE SYSTEM AND METHOD - Various methods and systems are provided for a vehicle. In one example, a vehicle comprises a first fuel tank configured to store a first fuel, and a second fuel tank configured to store a second fuel, both the first fuel tank and the second fuel tank disposed in the vehicle, a multi fuel engine disposed in the vehicle, the multi fuel engine configured to combust the first fuel and the second fuel, a fuel injection system configured to inject the first fuel into the multi fuel engine, and a conduit configured to route the second fuel from the second fuel tank to the multi fuel engine. | 11-27-2014 |
| 246187000 | Control of vehicle from leading vehicle | 2 |
| 20120199702 | CONTROL, SOUND, AND OPERATING SYSTEM FOR MODEL TRAINS - The present invention provides a model train operating, sound and control system that provides a user with increased operating realism. Disclosed is a novel remote control communication capability between the user and the model trains. This feature is accomplished by using a handheld remote control on which various commands may be entered, and a Track Interface Unit that retrieves and processes the commands. The Track Interface Unit converts the commands to modulated signals (preferably spread spectrum signals) which are sent down the track rails. The model train picks up the modulated signals, retrieves the entered command, and executes it through use of a processor and associated control and driver circuitry. Another novel feature disclosed is a speed control circuit located inside the model train that is capable of continuously monitoring the operating speed of the train and making adjustments to a motor drive circuit. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20140263861 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A LOCOMOTIVE CONSIST - A locomotive assembly including a legacy locomotive controller and an intercept locomotive controller and a method of controlling a locomotive are disclosed. The locomotive assembly includes a power bus, a locomotive, and an intercept locomotive controller. The locomotive includes a primary power unit coupled to the power bus and a legacy locomotive controller programmed to transmit a control command to the primary power unit. The intercept locomotive controller is electrically coupled between the locomotive controller and the primary power unit and is programmed to intercept an initial locomotive control signal transmitted from the legacy locomotive controller to the primary power unit indicating an amount of locomotive power, modify the initial locomotive control signal, and transmit the modified control signal to the primary power unit. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20130200222 | CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REMOTELY ISOLATING POWERED UNITS IN A VEHICLE SYSTEM - A method includes obtaining motive outputs demanded by a trip plan for a vehicle system having interconnected propulsion-generating vehicles, determining motive output capabilities of the propulsion-generating vehicles, and identifying segments of the trip where the motive output capabilities of the propulsion-generating vehicles exceed motive outputs demanded by the trip plan over the segments. The method further includes selecting one or more of the propulsion-generating vehicles for turning at least one of off or to idle in the one or more segments while one or more remaining propulsion-generating vehicles in the vehicle system remain on. The propulsion-generating vehicles are selected such that a total motive output capability of the one or more remaining propulsion-generating vehicles remains at least as great as the motive outputs demanded by the trip plan over the one or more segments. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20140166821 | Directional Communication Device for Locomotive Consist Communication - A locomotive consist communication system and method of communication using directional communication devices that allow each locomotive to communicate wirelessly with at least one locomotive directly attached to it. Each of the locomotives is equipped with at least one directional communication device placed on the side of the locomotive directly facing the locomotive attached to it. The locomotive consist communication system forms a communication network running through the consist that allows various locomotives to communicate with each other and share information. This directional wireless communication is resistant to multipath interference, requires less power, and is less likely to be damaged because it is situated on the side of the locomotive facing the locomotive attached to it. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20120160969 | CONTROL SYSTEM FOR SIMPLIFYING CONTROL OF A MODEL RAILROAD - A control system for at least a pair of motor powered rail vehicles coupled together in a model train railroad includes a controller, a control module installed on each of the at least pair of motor powered rail vehicles, a bi-directional communication between the controller and at least one control module in one of the at least pair of motor powered rail vehicles, a bi-directional communication between the at least pair of control modules, and at least one of the controller and the one of the pair of control modules configured to store in memory full load electrical power value and use the full load electrical power value in adjusting motor load for a respective motor powered rail vehicle. The control system also uses a subsonic motor signal to enhance low speed operation of rail vehicles and a graphical interface within the controller and capability to utilize previously unknown devices. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120199701 | CONTROL, SOUND, AND OPERATING SYSTEM FOR MODEL TRAINS - The present invention provides a model train operating, sound and control system that provides a user with increased operating realism. Disclosed is a novel remote control communication capability between the user and the model trains. This feature is accomplished by using a handheld remote control on which various commands may be entered, and a Track Interface Unit that retrieves and processes the commands. The Track Interface Unit converts the commands to modulated signals (preferably spread spectrum signals) which are sent down the track rails. The model train picks up the modulated signals, retrieves the entered command, and executes it through use of a processor and associated control and driver circuitry. Another novel feature disclosed is a speed control circuit located inside the model train that is capable of continuously monitoring the operating speed of the train and making adjustments to a motor drive circuit. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20140117167 | COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR MULTIPLE LOCOMOTIVES - The disclosure is directed to a control system for a train consist. The control system may have a first controller associated with a first locomotive and a second controller associated with a second locomotive. The control system may also include an input device configured to generate a first signal indicative of a desired consist performance, and at least one sensor configured to generate a second signal indicative of an actual performance of the first and second locomotives. The second controller may be configured to determine a first performance setting of the first locomotive and a different second performance setting of the second locomotive based on the first signal, and automatically adjust the first and second performance settings based on a difference between the first and second signals. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140252174 | LEAD LOCOMOTIVE CONTROL OF POWER OUTPUT BY TRAILING LOCOMOTIVES - A locomotive consist control system may include a lead controller associated with a lead locomotive of the consist, and a secondary controller associated with a trailing locomotive of the consist and communicatively coupled by a communication link with the lead controller. The lead controller may be configured to receive a generator voltage or current output from a power bus electrical characteristics sensor associated with each locomotive, determine a total electrical power output requirement for the consist, determine an electrical power output requirement for each locomotive in the consist, and supply instructions to dynamically adjust an output voltage or current generated by a generator associated with each locomotive to a desired voltage or current anywhere within the rated capacity of the generator. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140263860 | CONTAINERIZED LOCOMOTIVE DISTRIBUTED POWER CONTROL - A distributed power (DP) control system is contained within a non-freight carrying intermodal container for communicating with and receive instructions and/or commands from a command system of a lead distributed power locomotive within a train. The container is configured to be provided on a car adjacent to a remote non-distributed powered (non-DP) locomotive provided within a length of the train. One or more connection hoses connect the distributed power control system within the container to the non-DP locomotive to control application of at least its brake system. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140299715 | SIGNALING AND REMOTE CONTROL TRAIN OPERATION - A model train and layout control system based on on-board sound and locomotive modules, new signaling methods, bi-directional communication, environmental sound, turnout control, train location methods, computer interaction and accessory control, by adding components to existing technology. AC power signal waveforms are variously altered to convey digital command words. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140346287 | VEHICLE SYSTEM AND METHOD - Various methods and systems are provided for a vehicle. In one example, a vehicle comprises a first fuel tank configured to store a first fuel, and a second fuel tank configured to store a second fuel, both the first fuel tank and the second fuel tank disposed in the vehicle, a multi fuel engine disposed in the vehicle, the multi fuel engine configured to combust the first fuel and the second fuel, a fuel injection system configured to inject the first fuel into the multi fuel engine, and a conduit configured to route the second fuel from the second fuel tank to the multi fuel engine. | 11-27-2014 |
