Abstract: A system and a method for determining a true acceleration and velocity of a locomotive and for controlling wheel slip and wheel skid of the locomotive is disclosed. The system, using accelerometers, can control the velocity of the wheels of the locomotive based on the comparison between a true locomotive velocity signal and a wheel velocity signal such that an actual tangential speed of the wheels is regulated to correspond to the true locomotive longitudinal velocity plus an allowance velocity for creepage. The accelerometer can also be used at the same time for impact detection purposes. Furthermore, if a set of accelerometers are used, the locomotive can also play a diagnostic role for track quality reporting in rail yards. The control of wheel slip and wheel is particularly useful in DC locomotive applications with individual axle control.

Abstract: Methods of dynamic braking include two embodiments with braking circuits for vehicles such as, for example, locomotives which are operable down to very low speeds. These circuits can provide a braking force even at zero locomotive speed.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to regenerative braking methods for a hybrid vehicle such as a hybrid locomotive, which are compatible with optimum management of a large battery pack energy storage system. Four methods for recovering energy from regenerative braking and for transferring this energy to an energy storage systems are disclosed. These methods may also be used with battery operated vehicles.

Abstract: Methods of dynamic braking include two embodiments with braking circuits for vehicles such as, for example, locomotives which are operable down to very low speeds. These circuits can provide a braking force even at zero locomotive speed.

Abstract: A dynamic braking circuit that can be operated with stability over both high and low speed regimes. This circuit has the advantage of using fewer components than previous circuits. In addition, when in braking mode, the armature and field currents tend to oppose each other across the main braking switch hence reducing electromechanical stresses when in high current regime. According to a second embodiment, a dynamic braking circuit implements a “soft” extended braking function with the capability of providing a smoother braking action at high braking effort at little extra cost resulting from the replacement of a contactor by a reverser. The main advantages of this preferred embodiment are that the current generated by the armatures during braking can be controlled independently from the excitation of the field windings at low speeds and that it enables simultaneous self supply, regeneration and dynamic braking.