Impact of Parallel Operation of AC Traction Motors on Locomotive Performance

Presented paper deals with common problems of parallel operation of AC traction motors and presents some methods to investigate the basic impacts of the concept. A complex simulation model is introduced as well as results of simulations. Based on the results, a conclusion is made on locomotive performance impact

Performance and Fuel Consumption Optimizations of Shunting Hybrid Locomotives

In recent years hybrid electric drive has become very popular in public transportation and automobiles. This article deals with hybrid drive technology and its impact on performance and energy consumption optimization of shunting locomotives in comparison with conventional diesel-electric locomotives. Based on classic longitudinal train dynamics theory of train movement and with support of simulation results, a comparison of electrochemical accumulators and super-capacitors impact is also introduced

Simulation and Experimental Study of Ball Position Control at Biaxial Platform using State Space Approach

Ball on plate platform is a great tool for testing of various control techniques. This study provides a detailed design and comparison of three control structures for automatic stabilization of the ball´s location on plate and ball trajectory tracking. Namely PD controller, state space feedback and state space observer with state space feedback. All three methods are designed and practically compared. All structures have a common feature. It is the methodology for calculating the parameters of the controllers. Ball - on - plate mathematical model derived by Newton´s method and DC motor position loop control are also part of this article. For the authors of this article, this study is an opportunity to create an educative setup to explain the principles of basic control system for non - technical person and offers motivation to future students

Structural Health Monitoring of Helicopter Fuselage

The helicopter design is a challenging experience for fatigue concern as it is subjected to a very wide range of low- and high-frequency load cycles per flight, much more than a fixed wing aircraft. Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) seems to have capability in helping to reduce the maintenance and operational costs, which are about 25 percent of the direct operating cost of the helicopter, thus playing an important role especially in the case of the ageing helicopters. In fact, the damage tolerant design approach makes the fatigue resistance evaluation not only a safety issue but also a maintenance related concern. The work presented in this paper is a part of an international research project HECTOR (HElicopter fuselage Crack moniToring and prognosis through On-board sensoR network), founded by the European Defense Agency (EDA) and supported by 10 EDA Member States: Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain