Real-Time Model-Based Demonstrator Control of an Electrical-Mechanical Power-Split Hybrid Drive for Diesel-Powered Commuter Trains

Many railway tracks are not yet electrified and are mainly used by diesel-powered trainsets. Since electrification is complicated and expensive, other possibilities for a more environmentally friendly use of these tracks are investigated. A novel drivetrain concept for commuter trains with electrical-mechanical power-split transmission and an electrical energy storage system has been proposed that reduces emissions, allows range-limited pure electric driving, and enables high overall efficiency. The drivetrain concept has been developed using model-based system design and is validated using a demonstrator on a test bench. In this work, a real-time model-based control is developed for the demonstrator setup. For this purpose, the system simulation model is first converted into a real-time capable model. Besides, safety features for component protection and extended operating possibilities are implemented. Finally, interfaces to the real components of the demonstrator are integrated. The resulting control system enables realistic operating conditions and driving cycle results on the test bench using real track data, realistic driving dynamics, and a virtual train driver.