Train Suspension Energy Harvesting System Maximizing the Output DC Power | IEEE Conference Publication | IEEE Xplore

Train Suspension Energy Harvesting System Maximizing the Output DC Power


Abstract:

An energy harvesting system that scavenges onboard train vibrations to supply a DC load is here presented. The developed system benefits from an electronic interface, whi...Show More

Abstract:

An energy harvesting system that scavenges onboard train vibrations to supply a DC load is here presented. The developed system benefits from an electronic interface, which is equipped with a Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controller to maximize the power extraction. In particular, the train suspension vibration is mechanically converted into a unidirectional rotation of a shaft by a rack and pinion system equipped with a Mechanical Motion Rectifier. The unidirectional rotating shaft drives a three-phase electromagnetic generator whose AC voltages are rectified by an electronic interface, which also maximizes the extracted power. Indeed, the time variability of the train suspension displacement leads to a time-variable generator speed, which requires a dynamical adaptation of its load to maximize the power generation. To this aim, a MPPT controller based on a Perturb and Observe (P&O) technique with current limitation is employed. Experimental results show the ability of the proposed power electronic interface to maximize the power extraction in presence of both constant and time-variable generator speeds.
Date of Conference: 12-14 October 2020
Date Added to IEEE Xplore: 28 September 2020
Print ISBN:978-1-7281-3320-1
Print ISSN: 2158-1525
Conference Location: Seville, Spain

I. Introduction

Improving transportation safety and efficiency in freight trains requires continuous monitoring by on board sensors, which need energy supply for measuring and for transmitting information [1]-[3]. The lack of electricity in freight cars can be overcome by resorting to alternative energy sources. A very promising solution is represented by railcar suspensions, where usually vibrations energy is dissipated through oil shock absorbers or frictional dampers [4]. Among the different solutions for regenerative suspensions proposed in the literature, a very efficient regenerative system for railcar suspensions, based on a bidirectional moving rack, a Mechanical Motion Rectifier (MMR) gearbox and an electromagnetic generator, is introduced and discussed in [5].

References

References is not available for this document.