Abstract
This paper describes a key component of an onboard power generation system that converts mechanical vibrations into electrical power to support a train's electronically controlled pneumatic brake system. The translational generator acquires its energy from naturally occurring rail car displacements during normal train operation. The generator uses high field strength Nd-Fe-B magnets embedded in an iron-core cup assembly. When the generator is exposed to rail car vibrations, the magnet cup assembly reciprocates with respect to a copper coil. By special design of the magnet assembly, the magnetic flux lines are concentrated and made perpendicular to the coil maximizing the electrical output for a given relative displacement. In this paper the unit's design, development, and construction are reviewed. In addition, the results of laboratory testing to characterize the unit's performance as well as design considerations in meeting the vibrational energy available in a rail car environment are presented.
Original language | English |
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Pages | 133-140 |
Number of pages | 8 |
State | Published - 1 Dec 1996 |
Externally published | Yes |
Event | Proceedings of the 1996 ASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition - Atlanta, GA, USA Duration: 17 Nov 1996 → 22 Nov 1996 |
Conference
Conference | Proceedings of the 1996 ASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition |
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City | Atlanta, GA, USA |
Period | 17/11/96 → 22/11/96 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Software
- Mechanical Engineering