NZ624412B2 - Inductively transferring electric energy to a vehicle using consecutive segments which are operated at the same time - Google Patents
Inductively transferring electric energy to a vehicle using consecutive segments which are operated at the same time Download PDFInfo
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- NZ624412B2 NZ624412B2 NZ624412A NZ62441212A NZ624412B2 NZ 624412 B2 NZ624412 B2 NZ 624412B2 NZ 624412 A NZ624412 A NZ 624412A NZ 62441212 A NZ62441212 A NZ 62441212A NZ 624412 B2 NZ624412 B2 NZ 624412B2
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Abstract
Disclosed is a system for inductively transferring electric energy to a vehicle (81) using an electric conductor arrangement for producing an alternating electromagnetic field and for thereby transferring the energy to the vehicle (81). The conductor arrangement comprises a plurality of consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3) extending in the direction of travel of the vehicle (81), which is defined by the track (83) or path of travel. Each segment (T1, T2, T3) is combined with an assigned controller adapted to control the operation of the segment (T1, T2, T3) independently of the other segments (T1, T2, T3). The controllers of at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3), which follow each other in the direction of travel of the vehicle (81), or which follow each other opposite to the direction of travel, are connected to each other and/or to a central controlling device so that the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3) can be operated at the same time. Each segment (T1, T2, T3) comprises at least three alternating current lines for carrying phases of a multi-phase alternating current in order to produce the alternating electromagnetic field. The consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3) are electrically connected in parallel to each other to a current supply. The alternating current lines of each segment (T1, T2, T3) comprise a plurality of sections which extend transversely to the direction of travel of the vehicle (81). The transversely extending sections of the at least three alternating current lines of each segment (T1, T2, T3) form, if viewed in the direction of travel, a repeating sequence of phases of the alternating current, while the segment (T1, T2, T3) is operated under control of the assigned controller. Each complete repetition of the sequence of phases comprises one transversely extending section of each phase and the order of the phases is the same in each complete repetition. The controllers of the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3) and/or the central controlling device are/is adapted to operate the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3) so that the repeating sequence of phases continues from one segment (T2) to the consecutive segment (T3) and the order of the phases is the same in the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3) and in each transition zone of two of the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3). segments (T1, T2, T3) extending in the direction of travel of the vehicle (81), which is defined by the track (83) or path of travel. Each segment (T1, T2, T3) is combined with an assigned controller adapted to control the operation of the segment (T1, T2, T3) independently of the other segments (T1, T2, T3). The controllers of at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3), which follow each other in the direction of travel of the vehicle (81), or which follow each other opposite to the direction of travel, are connected to each other and/or to a central controlling device so that the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3) can be operated at the same time. Each segment (T1, T2, T3) comprises at least three alternating current lines for carrying phases of a multi-phase alternating current in order to produce the alternating electromagnetic field. The consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3) are electrically connected in parallel to each other to a current supply. The alternating current lines of each segment (T1, T2, T3) comprise a plurality of sections which extend transversely to the direction of travel of the vehicle (81). The transversely extending sections of the at least three alternating current lines of each segment (T1, T2, T3) form, if viewed in the direction of travel, a repeating sequence of phases of the alternating current, while the segment (T1, T2, T3) is operated under control of the assigned controller. Each complete repetition of the sequence of phases comprises one transversely extending section of each phase and the order of the phases is the same in each complete repetition. The controllers of the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3) and/or the central controlling device are/is adapted to operate the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3) so that the repeating sequence of phases continues from one segment (T2) to the consecutive segment (T3) and the order of the phases is the same in the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3) and in each transition zone of two of the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3).
Description
/072271
ively transferring electric energy to a vehicle using consecutive segments which are
operated at the same time
The invention relates to the transfer of electric energy to a vehicle, in particular to a track
bound vehicle such as a light rail vehicle (e.g. a tram) or to a road automobile such as a bus.
A corresponding system comprises an electric conductor arrangement for producing an
ating electromagnetic field and for thereby transferring electromagnetic energy to the
vehicle. The conductor arrangement ses a plurality of consecutive segments, wherein
the segments extend in the direction of travel of the vehicle, which is d by the track or
path of travel. Each segment is combined with an assigned controller (e.g. the control device
of an inverter, which inverts a direct current in a current supply into an alternating t
through the segment, or of an AC/AC converter which, in ular, converts an alternating
current in an ating current supply to an alternating current in the respective segment
having a different frequency) adapted to control the operation of the segment independently
of the other ts. The controllers of at least two consecutive segments, which follow
each other in the direction of travel of the vehicle, or follow each other opposite to the
direction of travel, are ted to each other and/or to a central controlling device so that
the at least two consecutive segments can operated at the same time. Each segment
comprises at least three alternating current lines for carrying phases of a multi-phase
ating current in order to produce the alternating electromagnetic field. Each line carries
a different phase during operation. The alternating current lines of each segment comprise a
plurality of sections which extend transversely to the direction of travel of the vehicle. The
transversely ing sections of the at least three alternating-current lines of each segment
form, if viewed in the direction of travel, a repeating sequence of phases of the alternating
current, while the segment is operated under control of the assigned controller, wherein each
complete repetition of the sequence of phases comprises one ersely extending n
of each phase and the order of the phases is the same in each complete repetition. For
example in the case of a three-phase alternating current having phases U, V, W, the order of
the sequence of the transversely extending sections may be U — V — W — U — V — W (and so
on) and one complete repetition of the sequence of phases is U — V — W.
The invention also relates to a corresponding method of manufacturing the system and to a
corresponding method of operating the system.
Track bound es, such as conventional rail vehicles, mono-rail vehicles, trolley busses
and vehicles which are guided on a track by other means, such as other mechanical means,
magnetic means, electronic means and/or optical means, require electric energy for
propulsion on the track and for operating auxiliary systems, which do not produce traction of
the vehicle. Such auxiliary s are, for example, lighting systems, heating and/or air
ion system, the air ation and passenger information s. However, more
particularly speaking, the t invention is related to a system for transferring electric
energy to a vehicle which is not arily (but preferably) a track bound vehicle. A vehicle
other than a track bound vehicle is a bus, for e. An application area of the invention is
the transfer of energy to vehicles for public transport. However, it is also possible to transfer
energy to private automobiles using the system of the present invention. Generally speaking,
the vehicle may be, for example, a vehicle having an electrically operated propulsion motor.
The vehicle may also be a vehicle having a hybrid propulsion system, e.g. a system which
can be operated by electric energy or by other energy, such as ochemically stored
energy or fuel (e.g. natural gas, gasoline or ).
In order to reduce or avoid electromagnetic fields where no vehicle is driving at a time,
segments of the conductor arrangement may be operated where required only. For example,
the lengths of the segments along the path of travel are shorter than the length of a vehicle in
the travel direction and the segments may be operated only if a vehicle is already ing
the respective region of the path of travel along which the segment extends. In particular,
occupied by a rail vehicle means that the vehicle is driving on the rails along which the
segment extends. For continuous energy transfer while the vehicle is driving, it is proposed
that the segment is switched on (i.e. the assigned controller starts the production of the
alternating current through the segment) before a receiving device of a vehicle for receiving
the transferred energy enters the region of the path of travel along which the segment
extends. However, this means that two or more than two consecutive ts may be
operated at the same time. ise, the energy transfer to the e may be interrupted
and transients of the voltage induced in the vehicle’s receiver may be generated.
A1 describes a system and a method for erring electric energy to a
vehicle, wherein the system comprises the features mentioned above. However, the
ts are electrically connected in series to each other and there is one inverter at each
interface between two consecutive segments. It is disclosed that switches of the inverters are
controlled to produce the ating current. Each switch may be controlled by a drive unit
which controls the timing of individual processes of switching on and switching off the .
The drive units may be controlled by a ller of the inverter which coordinates the timing
of all drive units. The synchronization of ent inverters may be performed by a single
higher-level control device by transferring synchronization signals to each controller of the
inverters to be synchronized. A synchronization link may be provided, which may be a digital
data bus. The link extends along the path of travel of the vehicle and comprises connections
to each controller in order to transfer synchronization signals. In addition, there is also a
connection from each controller to the synchronization link. The reverse connections are
used to er signals from the llers to the synchronization link and thereby to other
controllers which are connected to the synchronization link. One of the controllers being a
master controller at a time outputs synchronization s via the reverse connection and via
the synchronization link to the other controllers for synchronizing the operation of all
controllers which are operated at a time. If the er which is controlled by the master
controller ceases operation another ller takes over the task of being the master
controller. The new master controller s synchronization signals via its reverse
connection and via the synchronization link to the other controllers.
ing to A1, synchronization is performed either at a phase shift or
with no phase shift. This means that at opposite ends of one segment or of consecutive
ts inverters are either operated with phase shift or no phase shift and,
correspondingly, an alternating current flows through the phase lines of the segment or
consecutive segments, if there is a phase shift, or no current flows through the phase lines, if
there is no phase shift. As a result, the synchronization disclosed in A1 is
performed for the sole purpose to either generate an alternating current or not to generate an
alternating current in a segment or in consecutive segments.
It is a disadvantage of this conductor arrangement having consecutive segments which are
connected in series to each other that there is still an electric voltage between the alternating
current phase lines of the segments and a nce ial if the alternating current
carried by the phase lines of the segments is zero. Consequently, it is more difficult to meet
requirements concerning omagnetic compatibility (EMC). Furthermore, the phase shift
between inverters at opposite ends of a segment or of consecutive segments may not be
exactly zero. As a result, electric currents may flow through the phase lines of the t(s)
unintentionally.
It is an object of the present invention to e a system for inductively erring electric
energy to a vehicle which reduces electric and/or electromagnetic field emissions. It is a
further object to provide a corresponding method of cturing the system and a
corresponding method of operating the .
It is a basic idea of the present invention to provide or use a conductor arrangement
comprising a plurality of consecutive ts which are electrically connected in parallel to
each other. During operation of a segment, the alternating current lines of the respective
segment carry an alternating current in order to produce the alternating electromagnetic field
for inductive energy transfer.
It is an advantage of parallel segments that the voltage between the different alternating
current lines of the segment can be zero while the segment is not operated, e.g. by switching
off the alternating current lines and y setting the electric potentials of the alternating
current lines to zero.
The ors have observed that the way of operating two or more consecutive segments at
the same time also influences the electromagnetic field. In particular, tinuities of the
omagnetic field at the interface of two consecutive segments produce undesired
frequency signals in the field itself and in the receiver system of the vehicle which receives
the electromagnetic field. The effect is similar to the effect of a step-like change of an electric
current.
In particular, the interface of two consecutive segments is not constituted by an electric line
or electric lines, but is an area (which may be called transition zone) where the consecutive
segments pass over to each other. As will be described later, it is preferred that there is a
transition zone in the direction of travel, wherein transversely ing sections of
alternating current lines of both utive segments are located within the transition zone.
Therefore, it is proposed to operate the two consecutive segments or more than two
consecutive segments, which are operated at the same time, so that the transversely
extending ns of the at least three alternating current lines of the consecutive segments
from a repeating sequence of phases of the alternating current. This repeating sequence of
phases is the same within the extension of the individual segments and in the transition zone
of two consecutive segments. For example, in the case of a three-phase alternating t
having phases U, V, W, the order of the sequence of the transversely extending sections
may be U — V — W — U — V — W... (as ned above). In case of a four-phase alternating
current having phases U, V, W, X, the order would be U — V — W — X — U — V — W —X
Therefore, this order also applies to the transition zones of consecutive segments which are
operated at the same time. Consequently, “repeating sequence” in this description means
that the order of the phases s in the same manner. One complete repetition of the
ce of phases is constituted by one ence of each phase of the alternating
Current.
As mentioned, the ing sequence of phases is formed by the transversely extending
sections of the at least three alternating current lines of the consecutive segments.
Consequently, a transversely extending section for carrying a first phase (e.g. phase U) is
followed by a transversely extending section for carrying a second phase (e.g. phase V), the
second transversely extending section is followed by a transversely extending section for
carrying a third phase (e.g. phase W), in case of more than three phases this transversely
extending section is followed by a transversely extending section for carrying a fourth phase
(e.g. phase X) and so on until a transversely extending section for carrying the last,
remaining phase of the multi-phase alternating current. In the above example of three
phases U, V, W, the last phase is W. In the above example of four phases U, V, W, X, the
last phase is X. The transversely extending section for carrying the last phase is ed by
a second transversely ing section for ng the first phase (e.g. phase U), followed
by a second transversely extending n for carrying the second phase (e.g. phase V),
and so on. In the case of three phases of the alternating current, every third transversely
extending section carries the same phase during operation and this also applies to the
transition zones of consecutive segments.
In particular, the following is ed: A system for transferring electric energy to a vehicle,
in particular to a track bound vehicle such as a light rail e or to a road automobile,
wherein
- the system comprises an electric conductor arrangement for producing an alternating
electromagnetic field and for thereby transferring the energy to the vehicle,
- the conductor arrangement comprises a ity of consecutive segments, wherein the
segments extend in the ion of travel of the vehicle, which is defined by the track or
path of travel,
- each t is combined with an assigned controller adapted to control the ion
of the segment independently of the other segments,
- the controllers of at least two consecutive segments, which follow each other in the
direction of travel of the vehicle, or which follow each other opposite to the direction of
travel, are connected to each other and/or to a central controlling device so that the at
least two consecutive ts can operated at the same time,
each segment ses at least three alternating current lines for carrying phases of a
phase ating current in order to produce the alternating electromagnetic field,
the consecutive segments are electrically connected in parallel to each other to a current
supply,
the alternating current lines of each segment comprise a plurality of sections which
extend transversely to the direction of travel of the vehicle,
the ersely extending ns of the at least three alternating-current lines of each
segment form, if viewed in the direction of travel, a repeating sequence of phases of the
alternating current, while the segment is operated under control of the assigned
controller, wherein each complete repetition of the sequence of phases comprises one
transversely ing section of each phase and the order of the phases is the same in
each complete repetition,
the controllers of the at least two consecutive segments and/or the central lling
device are/is adapted to operate the at least two utive segments, so that the
repeating sequence of phases continues from one segment to the utive segment,
wherein the order of the phases is the same in the at least two consecutive segments
and in each transition zone of two of the at least two consecutive segments.
In addition a method of operating a system is proposed for erring electric energy to a
vehicle, in particular to a track bound e such as a light rail vehicle or to a road
automobile, wherein
an electric conductor arrangement is operated for producing an alternating
electromagnetic field and for thereby transferring the energy to the vehicle,
a plurality of consecutive ts of the conductor arrangement is operated, wherein
the segments extend in the direction of travel of the vehicle, which is defined by the track
or path of travel,
for each segment, an assigned controller is operated to control the operation of the
segment independently of the other ts,
the controllers of at least two consecutive segments, which follow each other in the
direction of travel of the vehicle, or which follow each other opposite to the direction of
travel, are operated in connection with each other and/or with a central controlling device
so that the at least two consecutive segments are operated at the same time,
in each segment, at least three alternating current lines carry phases of a multi-phase
alternating current in order to produce the alternating electromagnetic field,
- the consecutive segments are electrically connected in parallel to each other to a current
suppw,
- the alternating current lines of each segment comprise a plurality of sections which
extend transversely to the direction of travel of the vehicle,
- the transversely extending ns of the at least three alternating-current lines of each
segment form, if viewed in the ion of travel, a repeating sequence of phases of the
ating current, while the segment is operated under control of the assigned
controller, wherein each complete repetition of the ce of phases comprises one
transversely ing section of each phase and the order of the phases is the same in
each complete repetition,
- the controllers of the at least two consecutive ts and/or the central controlling
device operate(s) the at least two consecutive segments, so that the repeating sequence
of phases continues from one segment to the consecutive segment, wherein the order of
the phases is the same in the at least two consecutive segments and in each transition
zone of two of the at least two consecutive segments.
Embodiments of the operating method follow from the description of the system and the
appended claims.
rmore, a method of manufacturing a system is proposed, for transferring electric
energy to a vehicle, in particular to a track bound vehicle such as a light rail vehicle or to a
road automobile, wherein
- an electric conductor ement is ed for producing an alternating
electromagnetic field and for thereby transferring the energy to the vehicle,
- the conductor arrangement comprises a plurality of consecutive segments, n the
segments extend in the direction of travel of the vehicle, which is defined by the track or
path of travel,
- each segment is combined with an assigned controller adapted to control the operation
of the segment independently of the other ts,
- the controllers of at least two consecutive segments, which follow each other in the
direction of travel of the vehicle, or which follow each other opposite to the direction of
travel, are connected to each other and/or to a central controlling device so that the at
least two consecutive segments can operated at the same time,
- each segment comprises at least three alternating t lines for carrying phases of a
multi-phase alternating current in order to e the alternating electromagnetic field,
- the consecutive segments are electrically connected in parallel to each other to a current
suppw,
- the alternating current lines of each segment comprise a plurality of sections which
extend transversely to the direction of travel of the vehicle,
- the ersely extending ns of the at least three alternating-current lines of each
segment form, if viewed in the direction of travel, a repeating sequence of phases of the
alternating current, while the segment is operated under l of the assigned
controller, wherein each complete repetition of the sequence of phases comprises one
transversely extending section of each phase and the order of the phases is the same in
each te repetition,
- the controllers of the at least two consecutive ts and/or the central controlling
device are/is d to operate the at least two consecutive segments, so that the
repeating sequence of phases ues from one segment to the consecutive segment,
wherein the order of the phases is the same in the at least two consecutive segments
and in each transition zone of two of the at least two consecutive segments.
Embodiments of the manufacturing method follow from the description of the system and the
appended claims.
The repeating sequence of phases of the alternating current allow for production of a
uous electromagnetic field in the transition zones of consecutive segments if the
segments are operated at the same time. Preferably, the distance between any two
transversely extending sections, which follow each other in the direction of travel, is constant.
Therefore, the electromagnetic field produced is particularly homogeneous with respect to
the direction of travel.
The transversely extending sections produce the relevant parts of the electromagnetic field
for energy transfer to the vehicle. In particular, as described in A1, they
produce a row of successive ic poles of an electromagnetic field, wherein the
successive magnetic poles have ating magnetic polarities. The row of successive
magnetic poles s in the travel ion of the vehicle. In this case, the alternating
current flows through successive sections of the same phase alternating in opposite
directions. In practice, this can be realised by ating current lines which extend along a
meandering path in the direction of travel. In particular, the ating current lines may be
located alternating on opposite sides of the conductor arrangement. Due to this serpentine-
like configuration of the alternating current lines, the transversely extending sections are
connected to each other by other sections which at least partly extend in the direction of
travel.
In particular, the assigned controller may control a converter which is connected to a direct
current supply line on a direct current side (i.e. the supply side) of the converter and which is
connected to the alternating current lines of the segment on an alternating t side (i.e.
the segment side) of the converter. ore, the converters are inverters. These inverters
and the current supply may be d in the way described in WO 31593 A1 .
Alternatively, the current supply line may be an alternating current supply line. In this case,
the converters are AC/AC ters which, in particular, convert the ating current in
the alternating current supply to an alternating current in the segments having a different
frequency. It is also le to combine two or more current supplies, namely at least one
alternating current supply with at least one direct current supply, wherein each supply is
connected to the respective segment via either an inverter or an AC/AC ter.
In contrast to the arrangement of A1 due to the parallel arrangement of
the segments, each t is only indirectly connected to the other segments via the
assigned converter (either an inverter or an AC/AC-converter), the supply line and the
respective assigned converter of the other segment. However, according to a ic
embodiment, the same converter may be assigned to a plurality of segments. In this case,
the individual segments which are connected to the common ed converter are not
consecutive segments and, preferably, are not operated at the same time. For example, a
corresponding switch or set of switches is ed in an alternating current connection
between the segment side of the converter and at least one of the segments. By controlling
the switch or es, the segment or segments is/are ed which can be operated by
the converter (by feeding an alternating current to the segment) at a time.
Furthermore, it is preferred that there is a synchronization link which is connected to the
converters for synchronizing operation of the converters. The system is adapted to
synchronize the assigned ters of consecutive segments, which are operated at the
same time, in a manner so that the electromagnetic field produced by the consecutive
segments is continuous at the interface or interfaces between the consecutive segments.
With respect to the , the following is preferred:
- for a sequence of consecutive segments, an converter is assigned and connected to
each segment, wherein the assigned converter is connected to a t supply and is
adapted to convert a current carried by the current supply to an alternating current
carried by the at least one alternating current line of the segment, so that there is a
sequence of assigned converters for the corresponding sequence of consecutive
segments,
- each of the converters of the sequence of assigned converters is connected to a
synchronization link for synchronizing operation of the sequence of assigned
converters,
- the system is adapted to synchronize the sequence of ed converters in a manner
so that the electromagnetic field produced by the sequence of consecutive segments is
uous at the interface or interfaces between the consecutive segments.
With respect to the ing method, the following is preferred:
- for a sequence of consecutive segments, a converter is assigned and connected to
each segment, wherein the assigned converter is connected to a current supply and
converts — during operation of the segment - a current carried by the current supply to
an alternating current carried by the at least one alternating current line of the segment,
so that there is a ce of assigned ters for the corresponding ce of
consecutive segments,
- each of the converters of the sequence of assigned converters is connected to a
synchronization link for synchronizing operation of the sequence of assigned
converters and receives and/or outputs — during operation of the segment and if
another converter of the sequence of assigned converters is also operated — a
synchronization signal via the synchronization link,
- the sequence of ed converters is synchronized in a manner so that the
electromagnetic field produced by the sequence of consecutive segments is continuous
at the interface or interfaces between the consecutive ts.
With respect to the manufacturing method, the following is preferred:
- for a sequence of consecutive segments, assigning and connecting an ter to
each segment, wherein the assigned converter is connected to the current supply and
is d to convert a current carried by the current supply to an alternating current
carried by the at least one alternating current line of the segment, so that there is a
sequence of assigned ters for the corresponding sequence of utive
segments,
- connecting each of the converters of the sequence of assigned converters to a
onization link for synchronizing operation of the sequence of assigned
converters,
- enabling the system to synchronize the sequence of assigned converters in a manner
so that the electromagnetic field produced by the sequence of consecutive segments is
continuous at the interface or interfaces between the utive segments.
Due to the conductor ement as described above and below and due to the
synchronization of the assigned converters of consecutive segments, the electromagnetic
field does not comprise step-like s of the field intensity at the interface, at each point
in time while the consecutive segments are operated together. In particular, the course of the
electromagnetic field in the direction of travel does not change at the interface between the
consecutive ts, due to the synchronization. The electromagnetic field, which is
produced by the at least three alternating current lines per segment may be produced as a
moving magnetic wave, i.e. the magnetic flux fluctuates in the manner of a wave (an example
will be given below), which moves in or opposite to the direction of travel of the vehicle, the
wave being continuous in the tion zone(s) of the consecutive segments. In particular,
the assigned controllers of the at least two consecutive segments are synchronized so that
the electromagnetic field produced by the at least two consecutive segments forms the
magnetic wave. Such a moving wave has the advantage that the vehicle may stop at any
location and the inductive energy transfer may continue independently of the location.
As mentioned above, the alternating current lines may follow a meandering path in the
direction of travel. Consequently, the transversely ing sections of the ating
current lines are connected to each other by connecting sections which at least partly extend
in the direction of travel. For example, these connecting sections may comprise curved line
In order to produce a homogenous electromagnetic field having constant width in the
ion of the extension of the transversely extending sections, these transversely
extending sections should have the same s. As a , the connecting sections of the
different ersely ing sections are located in the same two side margins at the
opposite (lateral) sides of the tor arrangement. Depending on the way of arranging
the connecting sections, the space which is required for laying the connecting sections in the
side margins differs.
It is an object of the preferred embodiment, which will be described in the following, to reduce
the space in the side margins which is required for the connecting sections. In particular, the
depth of the side margins (in the vertical direction) should be as small as possible, since the
alternating current lines may weaken the construction of the track.
In order to solve this object, it is proposed to arrange the alternating current lines in a manner
so that, in the course of the meandering path of the respective alternating current line:
- the transversely extending section of a first phase of the alternating current extends
from a first side of the tor arrangement towards a second side of the conductor
arrangement, which is the side opposite to the first side of the conductor arrangement,
- the transversely extending section of a second phase of the alternating current, which
s the first phase in the order of phases, extends from the second side of the
conductor arrangement towards the first side of the conductor arrangement,
- the transversely extending section of a third phase of the alternating current, which
follows the second phase in the order of phases, extends from the first side of the
conductor arrangement towards the second side of the tor arrangement,
- if there are more than three phases, the transversely extending section(s) of the next
phase or next phases in the order of phases extend(s) in the te direction
n the first and second side of the conductor arrangement compared to the
transversely ing n of the preceding phase in the order of phases, until the
last phase is reached.
In on or alternatively, this object is solved by a conductor arrangement, wherein, if
viewed in the direction of travel from a first of the two consecutive segments to a second of
the two consecutive segments, a transversely extending section of the first utive
segment follows a transversely extending section of the second consecutive segment in the
ing sequence of phases of the alternating current. For example, in the case of a three-
phase alternating current having phases U, V, W, and if the order of the sequence of the
transversely extending sections is U — V — W — U — V — W — U — V — W (as mentioned
above), the first six transversely extending sections may be part of the second segment, the
third transversely extending section carrying phase U may be part of the second segment,
the third transversely extending n carrying phase V may be part of the first segment
and all further transversely extending sections in the sequence may be part of the second
segment or of further segments. To illustrate this, a number can be added to the letter of the
phase, wherein the number designates the segment which comprises the ersely
extending n. E. g., U1 denotes a transversely extending section carrying phase U
belonging to segment 1. According to the above example, the sequence of phases can
therefore be denoted by: U1 — V1 —W1 — U1 — V1 —W1 — U2 — V1 —W2 In case of a
four-phase ating current having phases U, V, W, X, an example of a sequence would
be: U1 —V1 —W1 —X1 —U1 —V2—W1 —X2
The transversely extending sections, which follow each other in the order of the phases and
which belong to different segments, are d in the transition zone of the two consecutive
segments. They are the first or last transversely extending sections of the respective
segment which carry a ular phase. These first or last transversely extending sections
can be used in particular for connecting the alternating current lines to a converter (see
above) or to another device which feeds the alternating current lines with the ating
current during operation. Alternatively, these last or first transversely extending sections can
be connected to the other alternating t lines of the same segment to form an electric
star point connection. Since the first and last transversely extending sections alternating
belong to different segments it is possible to form the repeating sequence of phases at
regular distances between the transversely extending sections, n the first solution of
the object described above (saving space in the side margins) is realized, namely the next
ersely extending section in the order of phases extends in the opposite direction
between the first and second side of the conductor ement compared to the
transversely extending section of the ing phase in the order of the phases, if the
course of the meandering alternating current lines is followed. In other words, the two
solutions of the object are equivalent, if regular, constant distances n the ersely
extending sections are ed not only within the segments, but also in the tion zone
of the two consecutive segments.
According to a preferred embodiment, each of the converters (e.g. inverters and/or AC/AC-
converters) comprises a control device (in particular the assigned ller mentioned
above) which is connected to the synchronization link for receiving a synchronization signal
transferred by the synchronization link, n the control devices of the sequence of
assigned converters are adapted to output a onization signal via the synchronization
link to the consecutive converter of the sequence of assigned converters. Output and receipt
of a synchronization signal may depend on the question whether the converter, the
preceding converter and/or the successive converter is operated. For example, the output of
a synchronization signal to the consecutive converter (i.e. the successive converter) may
stop if the operation of the converter is ceased. Consequently, the successive converter may
not receive a synchronization signal anymore, but may output a synchronization signal to its
consecutive converter, so that synchronized operation of the consecutive converters is
guaranteed. In addition or alternatively, starting operation of a converter may cause starting
the output of a synchronization signal to the consecutive converter.
In particular, the control devices of the sequence of assigned converters are adapted or
operated to output the synchronization signal only if the converter, which ses the
control , is operating, i.e. is ing the alternating current carried by the
corresponding segment of the sequence of consecutive segments.
Transferring onization signals from any converter to the respective utive
converter only has the advantage that no central synchronization control is required. On the
other hand, delays of the delivery of onization signals are minimized and are the same
for each pair of consecutive converters, provided that the ways of transferring the
synchronization signal and the sectional lengths of the synchronization link between the
consecutive converters are the same for all pairs of consecutive converters. In ular,
delay can be anticipated and, thereby, its effect can be eliminated.
Preferably, the synchronization signal is a continuous signal which is transferred at least
during operation of the converter or converters. For example, the onization signal can
be a signal which is also used internally by the converter to control the switching processes
of switches which generate the alternating current on the segment side of the ter.
Typical s for this internal control are pulse width modulation control signals which are
transferred from a central controller of the converter to ent drive units which actually
drive the electric currents that cause the switching of the switches. In this context, the term
pulse width modulation control signal is understood to be the control signal which is used to
produce the result of a pulse width modulation process. Alternatively, instead of pulse width
modulation control signals, clock signals of the central controller of the converter may be
output as onization signal. According to a specific embodiment, the synchronization
signal may be a binary signal having two different signal levels corresponding to “0” and “1’,
wherein the level change from “0” to “1” or vice versa is used to onize the phase of the
alternating current produced by the converter and wherein the length of time n a
change from “0” to “1” or vice versa to the next change from “0” to “1” or from “1” to “0” is
used to synchronize the time period of periodic processes during the operation of the
converters, such as the time period of the alternating current which is produced by the
converter. Variants are possible, such as using the time period of the synchronization signal
for defining a pre-defined fraction of the time period of the alternating current produced by
the ter.
In some cases, es may travel always in the same ion along the consecutive
segments of the conductor arrangement. However, in other cases, the direction of travel may
change from time to time to the opposite direction. In the latter case, it is preferred that the
system comprises a control unit which is connected to the synchronization link and which is
adapted to output a direction selection signal via the synchronization link to at least one of
the control devices of the converters and wherein the system is adapted in such a manner
that the control device(s) receiving the direction selection signal outputs the onization
signal via the synchronization link to the converter which is the consecutive converter in the
direction of the sequence of assigned converters which corresponds to the direction selection
signal, i.e. the synchronization signal is output either to the consecutive converter in a first
ion or to the consecutive converter in the opposite direction depending on the direction
selection . In other words, the order of the sequence of assigned converters can be
reversed, if necessary. In particular, the synchronization link may se an additional line
for transferring the direction selection signal to the converters.
The ing aspect of the invention can be realized in connection with the basic idea of the
t invention, as mentioned above, but can also be realized if the operation of the at
least two consecutive segments is performed in a different manner and/or if the segments
are not el to each other. This aspect of the invention refers to the following: A system
for transferring electric energy to a vehicle, in ular to a track bound vehicle such as a
light rail vehicle or to a road automobile, wherein
- the system comprises an electric conductor arrangement for producing an alternating
electromagnetic field and for thereby erring the energy to the vehicle,
- the conductor arrangement comprises a plurality of consecutive segments, wherein the
segments extend along the path of travel of the vehicle, each segment sing at
least one alternating t line for carrying an alternating current in order to produce
the alternating electromagnetic field,
- the system comprises a current supply (e.g. a direct current supply or an alternating
current supply) for ing electric energy to the segments,
- the segments are electrically connected in parallel to each other to the current supply,
- an converter is assigned and connected to each segment, wherein the assigned
converter is connected to the current supply and is adapted to convert a current carried
by the current supply to an alternating t carried by the at least one alternating
current line of the segment.
Optionally, a sequence of the ed converters may be defined which corresponds to a
ponding sequence of consecutive segments.
The underlying problem of the aspect is that at least some of the converters are not operated
continuously, since the ponding segment should not e an electromagnetic field
all the time. Corresponding reasons have been explained above. For example, if the
presence of a vehicle above the respective segment is detected or if it is detected that a
vehicle will occupy the space next to the segment (in particular above the segment)
according to a pre-defined criterion, the converter which is assigned to the segment should
start operation. It is an object of this aspect of the invention that the operation should be
WO 68534
started effectively and reliably. In particular, fluctuations of the alternating electric current,
which is produced by the converter immediately after starting the operation, should be
reduced or avoided. Fluctuation of the alternating current would cause fluctuations of the
frequency and/or of the field intensity which is produced by the segment which, in turn, would
cause transients of the voltage which is induced in the receiver of the vehicle.
It is proposed that at least one of the converters and ably all ters comprise(s) a
starting device for starting operation of the converter.
The starting device is adapted to start the operation of the converter in two steps. In the first
step a power supply of the converter is switched on. In the second step, with a predefined
delay after the first step or when it has been detected that the power supply has become
stable, production of the alternating current carried by the corresponding segment is enabled.
Regarding the method of operating the system operation of the converter is started in two
steps, first switching on power supply and second, with a predefined delay or when it has
been detected that the power supply has become stable, enabling production of the
ating current carried by the corresponding segment. Enabling tion of the
ating current means that the production of the alternating current is started. In other
words, the production of the alternating current is not started when the power supply of the
converter is switched on, but is started later in the second step. Consequently, since there is
time for the power supply to become stable, the alternating current can be produced in a
stable manner from start onwards.
ably, synchronization is also realized in connection with this aspect of the invention. In
this case, the converter receives a synchronization signal preferably when the first step of the
start operation is performed and, therefore, the synchronization signal can be used by the
converter when the power supply has been switched on to prepare synchronized operation,
before the production of the alternating t is started. For example, a central controller of
the ter, which is adapted to control the operation of switch drive units (for driving
switches of the ter) may be started in the first step or in between the first step and the
second step of the starting operation. The synchronization signal may be used to
synchronize the operation of the central controller before the operation of the es of the
ter is started which causes the production of the alternating t. In particular, the
power supply of the switch drive units may be switched on later than the power supply of the
ter, namely in the second step and, thereby, the production of the alternating current is
started.
Examples of the present invention and further embodiments will be described with reference
to the attached drawing. The figures of the drawing show:
Fig. 1 schematically a rail e which is ling on a track that is equipped with an
electric conductor arrangement comprising a ity of consecutive segments
which are connected in parallel to each other to a direct current supply,
Fig. 2 an example of a three-phase conductor arrangement of a single segment,
Fig. 3 a diagram g alternating currents through the three phases of the
arrangement according to Fig. 2,
Fig. 4 a diagram showing schematically the movement of a magnetic wave ed by
the conductor arrangement along the track and showing the movement of the
receiving device due to the movement of the vehicle on the track,
Fig. 5 for three different points in time, a situation in which a rail vehicle travels on a track,
wherein the track is provided with a plurality of consecutive segments of a
conductor arrangement, wherein the segments can be ed on and off for
ing the vehicle with energy,
Fig. 6 a preferred embodiment of a phase conductor arrangement at the transition
zone of two consecutive segments of the conductor arrangement, n electric
lines of the two consecutive segments are arranged to extend from the transition
zone to a location sideways of the track,
Fig. 7 an arrangement similar to the arrangement shown in Fig. 6, wherein two star-point
connections of the three phases of the consecutive segments are located in the
transition zone,
Fig. 8 an arrangement similar to the arrangement shown in Fig. 1, wherein the alternating
current lines of in each case two consecutive segments extend from a common
transition zone to respective inverters in the manner shown in Fig. 6,
Fig. 9 an arrangement similar to the arrangement shown in Fig. 8, wherein inverters are
assigned to two segments of the conductor arrangement, wherein the segments
which are connected to the same er are not consecutive segments, i.e. are not
neighbouring segments in the sequence of consecutive segments,
Fig. 10 a module which is connected to the direct current supply line shown in Fig. 9 and is
also connected to the three alternating current lines of two segments, wherein the
module comprises an inverter, a constant current source and ement of
switches for switching on and off the three ating current lines of the segments
so that only one of the ts is provided with electric energy from inverter at a
time,
Fig. 11 an arrangement r to the arrangement shown in Fig. 8, wherein the
utive segments do not have the same lengths in the direction of travel and
wherein the track is adapted to provide energy to a bus instead of a tram, wherein
an ed view of one of the inverters is shown in the lower left of the figure,
Fig. 12 a circuit diagram showing schematically three consecutive segments of a conductor
arrangement, for example the conductor arrangement shown in Fig. 1, Fig. 5, Fig.8,
Fig. 10 or Fig. 11, n an inverter is assigned to each segment for producing an
alternating t and wherein each inverter is connected to a synchronization link
and to a direct current supply,
Fig. 13 a block diagram schematically rating an embodiment of the arrangement for
starting the operation of a inverter,
Fig. 14 a circuit diagram of a specific embodiment of an inverter comprising a starting
device for starting the operation of the inverter,
Fig. 15 an ment of an interface between an inverter and a onization link,
wherein an additional direction selection signal line is provided,
Fig. 16 a top view of a shaped block, which may be used to support the lines of a segment,
Fig. 17 a al cross-section through half of the block of Fig. 16.
In the examples which are described with reference to the figures the converters are
ers, but corresponding examples may comprise AC/AC-converters and the direct
current supply may be an alternating current supply instead.
Fig. 1 shows a rail vehicle 81 travelling on a track 83 which is provided with a conductor
arrangement for producing an electromagnetic field which induces an electric voltage in a
receiver 85 of the vehicle 81.
The conductor arrangement is constituted by a plurality of consecutive segments T1 T3.
, T2,
Further segments may be provided, but are not shown in Fig. 1. Each segment T1, T2, T3 is
connected to a direct current supply 108 via in each case one assigned inverter K1, K2, K3.
The direct current in the supply 108 is provided by a power source 101.
Fig. 2 shows the part of a conductor arrangement which may constitute one t. The
figure is understood to show a schematic view, but the distances between the transversely
extending sections of the conduct ement may be to scale. The three lines 1, 2, 3 of the
tor arrangement comprise these sections which extend transversely to the direction of
travel (from left to right or right to left). Only some of the transversely extending sections of
lines 1, 2, 3 are denoted by a nce numerals, namely three sections 5a, 5b and 5c of
line 3, some r sections of the line 3 by “5’ one section 5x of line 2 and one section 5y
of line 1. In the most red case, the arrangement 12 shown in Fig. 2 is located
underground of the track so that Fig. 2 shows a top view onto the ement 12. The track
may extend from left to right, at the top and the bottom in Fig. 2, Le. the transversely
extending line sections may be completely within the boundaries defined by the limits of the
track.
For example in the manner as shown in Fig. 8, the three lines 1, 2, 3 may be connected to an
inverter K. At the time which is depicted in Fig. 2, a positive current I1 is flowing through line
3. “Positive” means, that the current flows from the er into the line. The three lines 1, 2,
3 are connected to each other at the other end of the arrangement at a common star point 4.
Consequently, at least one of the other currents, here the current l2 through the line 2 and
the current l3 through the line 1, are negative. Generally speaking, the star point rule applies
which means that the sum of all currents flowing to and from the star point is zero at each
point in time. The directions of the currents h lines 1, 2, 3 are indicated by .
The sections of line 3 and the corresponding sections of lines 1, 2 which extend transversely
to the direction of travel preferably have the same width and are parallel to each other. In
practice, it is preferred that there is no shift in width direction between the transversely
extending sections of the three lines. Such a shift is shown in Fig. 2 for the reason that each
n or each line can be identified.
ably, each line follows a serpentine-like path (also called: meandering path) along the
track in the same manner, wherein the lines are shifted in the direction of travel by one third
of the distance between consecutive sections of the same line extending transversely to the
ion of travel. For e, as shown in the middle of Fig. 2, the distance between
consecutive sections 5 of line 3 is denoted by Tp. Within the region between these
consecutive sections 5, there are two other sections which extend transversely to the
direction of travel namely, section 5x of line 2 and section 5y of line 1. This pattern of
consecutive sections 5, 5x, 5y repeats at regular distances n these sections in the
direction of travel.
The corresponding direction of the current which flows h the sections is shown in the
left region of Fig. 2. For example, section 5a carries a current from a first side A of the
arrangement 12 to the opposite side B of the arrangement. Side A is one side of the
tor arrangement or track (such as the right hand side in the direction of travel, when
viewed from a travelling vehicle) and side B is the opposite side (e.g. the left side of the
track), if the arrangement 12 is buried in the ground under the track, or more generally
speaking, extends in a horizontal plane.
The consecutive n 5b consequently carries an electric current at the same time which
is flowing from side B to side A. The next consecutive section Sc of line 3 is consequently
ng a t from side A to side B. All these currents have the same size, since they
are carried by the same line at the same time. In other words: the sections which extend
ersely are ted to each other by connecting sections which extend in the
direction of travel.
As a result of this serpentine like line arrangement, the magnetic fields which are produced
by sections 5a, 5b, 5c, of the line 3 produce a row of successive magnetic poles of an
electromagnetic field, wherein the successive ic poles (the poles produced by section
5a, 5b, 5c, ...) have alternating magnetic polarities. For example, the polarity of the magnetic
pole which is produced by section 5a may correspond at a specific point in time a ic
dipole, for which the magnetic north pole is facing upwardly and the magnetic south pole is
facing downwardly. At the same time, the magnetic polarity of the magnetic field which is
produced by section 5b is oriented at the same time in such a manner that the ponding
magnetic dipole is facing with its south pole upwardly and with its north pole downwardly.
The corresponding ic dipole of n Sc is oriented in the same manner as for
n 5a and so on. The same applies to lines 1 and 2.
However, the present invention is focussed on the case that there are at least three phases
and, correspondingly, three alternating current lines. Therefore, the above description of line
3 also applies to lines 1 and 2. In contrast, a conductor ement having only one phase
may be arranged as line 3 in Fig. 2, but instead of the star point 4, the end of the line 3
(which is located at the right hand side of Fig. 2) may also be connected to the inverter (not
shown in Fig. 2) by a connector line (not shown in Fig. 2) which extends along the track. A
ase arrangement may consist of lines 3 and 2, for example, but the distance between
the transversely extending sections of the two lines (or more generally speaking: of all lines)
is preferably constant (i.e. the distances between a transversely extending section of line 3 to
the two nearest transversely extending section of line 2 — in the direction of travel and in the
opposite direction — are equal).
In the case of the example shown in Fig. 2, but also in other cases, it is an object to avoid
transients of the electromagnetic field which is produced at the interface of consecutive
segments. Such transients may occur for different reasons. One possible reason is the
WO 68534
arrangement of the alternating t lines at the opposite ends of the segment. The
distance Tp between consecutive transversely extending sections 5 of the same line was
mentioned above. Since there are three alternating current lines 1, 2, 3 in the example of Fig.
2, the distance between utive transversely extending sections of any of the lines 1, 2,
3 is one third of the ce Tp. However, this does not apply to parts of the transition zones
at the opposite ends. On the left hand side in Fig. 2, where the lines 1, 2, 3 are connected to
an external device, such as an inverter, the distance between the first transversely extending
sections of lines 1, 2 is two thirds of the distance Tp. At the end of the segment on the right
hand side of Fig. 2, the distance between the last ersely ing sections of lines 2,
3 is also two thirds of the distance Tp. The reason for this increased ce is that it shall
be possible to maintain the repeating sequence of phases of the alternating current, even in
the transition zones of two consecutive segments.
In ular, a utive segment may be arranged on the left hand side of Fig. 2. In this
case, an alternating current line 3' of this consecutive segment comprises a transversely
extending section 5' which is placed in the middle between the first transversely extending
sections of lines 1, 2. If this line 3' is operated in phase with line 3, the repeating sequence of
phases is maintained in the transition zone. "In phase" means that the current carried by the
transversely extending section 5' has the same amount at the same point in time, but the
direction of the current through the transversely extending section 5' is opposite to the
ion of the current through the transversely ing section 5a.
Similarly, there may be a r consecutive segment in the area on the right hand side of
Fig. 2, wherein a transversely extending section (not shown in Fig. 2) of a line may be placed
in the middle between the last transversely extending sections of lines 2, 3.
As mentioned above, the view shown in Fig. 2 is a schematic view. This applies to the
connecting sections of lines 1, 2, 3 which connect the transversely extending sections 5 of
the lines 1, 2, 3. The connecting ns are shifted in lateral direction (the vertical direction
in Fig. 2), so that the meandering path of the individual lines 1, 2, 3 can be followed. In
practice, it is preferred to place the connecting ns "in line" with each other in the
opposite side margins of the conductor arrangement. In Fig. 2, these side margins extend
from left to right at the opposite sides A, B of the arrangement.
In the schematic view of Fig. 2, some of the connecting sections of line 1 are denoted by 7,
some of the connecting sections of line 2 are denoted by 8 and some of the connecting
sections of line 3 are denoted by 9. Since these connecting sections 7, 8, 9 are represented
by straight lines, they could be shifted in two narrow side margins having the width of a line.
However, this requires that the intersection between a transversely extending section and a
connecting section forms a sharp edge. In practice, such sharp edges are not preferred,
since it would exercise stress forces to the lines and since connecting sections of different
lines 1, 2, 3 would extend in parallel to each other. Therefore, an arrangement as
schematically indicated in Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 is preferred, wherein the ting sections are
curved, starting at the intersections to the transversely extending sections.
The arrangement of the transversely extending sections in the tion zones of two
consecutive segments, as described above, allows for a homogeneous electromagnetic field
over the whole extension of the two consecutive segments, including the transition zone. In
addition, the arrangement shown in the tion zone on the left hand side of Fig. 2,
wherein a transversely extending section of the utive segment is arranged in between
transversely extending ns of lines 1, 2 of the segment, saves space in the side
margins, where the connecting sections are placed. The meandering paths of the lines 1, 2,
3 can be mapped on each other by shifting the paths by two third of the ce Tp.
Therefore, parallel extending connecting sections can be avoided as far as possible. If the
lines would be arranged so that they can be mapped on each other by just one third of the
distance Tp, connecting lines of the three different alternating current lines 1, 2, 3 would
extend in parallel to each other in some regions of the ement. It should be noted that
the term "mapped on each other" does not refer to the end regions of the lines, i.e. the
transition zones to the utive segments.
The diagram shown in Fig. 3, s the currents through the phases 1, 2, 3 of Fig. 2 at an
arbitrary point in time. In the ntal direction, the phase angle varies. The peak current
value of the currents may be in the range of 300 A respectively -300 A (vertical axis).
However, greater or smaller peak currents are also possible. 300 A peak current is sufficient
to provide propulsion energy to a tram for moving the tram along a track of some hundred
meters to a few kilometres, for e within the historic town centre of a city. In on,
the tram may withdraw energy from an rd energy storage, such as a conventional
electrochemical battery arrangement and/or a super cap arrangement. The energy storage
may be charged again fully, as soon as the tram has left the town centre and is connected to
an overhead line.
Fig. 4 shows a cut along a cutting plane which extends vertically and which extends in the
travel direction. The wires or bundles of wires of lines 1, 3, 2 which are located in sections of
the lines 1, 3, 2 which extend transversely to the direction of travel are shown in the lower
half of Fig. 4. In total, seven sections of the arrangement 12 which extend transversely to the
travel direction are shown in Fig. 4, at least partially. The first, fourth and seventh section in
2012/072271
the row (from left to right) belong to line 1. Since the direction of the current l1 through
section 5b (the fourth section in Fig. 4) is te to the direction of the current l1 through
the sections 5a, 50 (the first and the seventh section in Fig. 4), and since the currents l1, l3,
l2 are alternating ts, the produced electromagnetic wave is moving in the direction of
travel at a speed vw. The wave is denoted by 9, the inductivity of the arrangement 12 by Lp.
The cross sections shown in the upper half of Fig. 4 represent a ing device of a vehicle
which is travelling in the direction of travel and at a speed vm and at the top of Fig. 4 “2 TP”
indicates that Fig. 4 shows a line segment of arrangement 12, the length of which is equal to
twice the distance between the consecutive transversely extending sections of a line, here
line 1.
According to the es shown in Fig. 5, a vehicle 92 (e.g. a tram) is moving from the left
to the right. In the upper view, the vehicle 92 occupies the track above segments T2, T3 and
partly occupies the track above segments T1 and T4. The receiving s 95a, 95b are
located always above segments which are fully occupied by the vehicle. This is the case,
because the distance between the receiving devices to the t end of the vehicle in
lengthwise ion is greater than the length of each segment of the conductor arrangement
112.
In the situation of the upper view, the segments T2, T3 are operated and all other segments
T1, T4, T5 are not operated. In the middle view, where the vehicle 92 fully occupies the track
above segments T2, T3 and nearly fully occupies the track above segment T4, operation of
segment T2 has been stopped, because the receiving devices 95a has already left the region
above segment T2, and segment T4 will start operation as soon as the vehicle fully occupies
the region above the segment T4. This state, when the segment T4 is switched on is shown
in the lower view of Fig. 5. However, in the meantime t T3 has been switched off.
Fig. 6 shows a transition zone of two consecutive segments. The conductor arrangement
507a, 507b, 507c; 508a, 508b, 5080 is a three-phase conductor arrangement, i.e. each of the
two segments of the conductor arrangement shown in Fig. 6 comprises three phase lines for
conducting three phases of a three phase ating electric current. One of the three
phases is indicated by a single line, the second of the three phases is indicated by a double
line and the third of the three phases is indicated by a triple line. All electric lines are
extending in a meandering manner in the direction of travel (from left to right or vice versa).
Each segment can be operated separately of each other, but the segments can also be
ed simultaneously. Fig. 6 shows a preferred embodiment of a basic concept, namely
the concept of overlapping regions of the consecutive segments.
The segment shown on the left hand side in Fig. 6 ses phase lines 507a, 507b, 5070.
Following the extension of these phase lines 507, from left to right, each phase line 507
which reaches a cut-out 609 (indicated by a recess of the dashed outline of the track, which
may be physical cut-out of a block carrying the lines) is conducted away from the track
towards an inverter (not shown) for operating the phase lines 507. For example, phase line
507b reaches cut-out 609 where the t 609 ends. In contrast to phase |ine 507b, phase
lines 507a, 5070 reach the cut-out 609 with a line section which s from the opposite
side of the line of shaped blocks towards the cut-out 609.
Each of the three phase lines 507 comprises |ine sections which extend transversely to the
direction of travel. These transversely extending sections form a repeating sequence of
phases in the direction of travel, Le. a section of the first phase line 507a is followed by a
section of the second phase line 507b which is followed by a line section of the third phase
line 5070 and so on. In order to continue with this repeated sequence of the phase lines in
the tion zone, a phase |ine 508b (the second phase line) of the neighbouring segment
is conducted through the cut-out 609 so that it forms a transversely extending |ine section in
between the first phase line 507a and the third phase line 5070 of the other t where
they reach the cut-out 609. In other words, the second phase line 508b of the second
segment replaces the second phase line 507b of the first segment in order of the phases to
continue with the repeated sequence of phase lines. The other phase lines of the second
segment, namely the first phase line 508a and the third phase line 5080 are conducted
through cut-out 609 in a corresponding manner so that the sequence of phases, if the
extension in the direction of travel is considered, is the same as for the first segment on the
left hand side of Fig. 6.
Fig. 7 shows a second type of a transition zone of two consecutive segments, for example
also located in a t 609 of the track. Same reference ls in Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 refer
to the same features and elements. Fig. 7 shows, for example, the t shown on the
right hand side in Fig. 6 and a further segment of the tor arrangement. The phase
lines of this r segment are d by 509a (first phase line), 509b (second phase line)
and 5090 (third phase line) of the further segment. The area of the cut-out 609 is used as an
area for establishing electric connections between the three phases of each segment, Le. a
star point connection (see Fig. 2) is made for each segment. The star points are denoted by
511a or 51 1 b. Preferably, the location of the star point 511 is at a greater distance to the
upper surface of the cover layer than the line sections of the phase lines where the phase
lines are located within the recesses or spaces which are defined by the shaped blocks.
Therefore, the star point connections are well protected.
The concepts bed in connection with Fig. 6 and 7 can be combined with the
synchronization according to the present invention in order to produce a continuous
electromagnetic field (in particular a continuously moving wave, see Fig. 4) at the transition
zones of utive segments which are ed at the same time.
The arrangements shown in Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 are red compared to the arrangement
shown in Fig. 2 with respect to the shape of the connecting sections which connect the
transversely ing sections. The connecting sections comprise curves at the
intersections to the transversely extending section. Therefore, it is possible that connecting
sections on the same side of the track do not extend in el to each other at all. Rather,
some connecting sections cross each other, if view from the top.
The arrangement of Fig. 8 comprises a direct t supply 4 having a first line 4a at a first
electric potential and a second supply line 4b at another electric potential. A power source S
is connected to the lines 4a, 4b. Each segment T comprises a plurality of lines (in particular
three lines) for carrying a separate phase of an alternating t. The alternating current is
generated by an associated er K1, K2, K3, K4, K5, K6, which is connected to the direct
current supply 4 at its direct current side. In the arrangement shown in Fig. 2 there is one
inverter K per segment T. It should be noted that the inverters K are located in pairs nearby
each other at the transition zones of consecutive segments, ing to the t of Fig.
6 and 7. The current supply of Fig. 8 is a direct current supply connecting a central power
source S with individual inverters. However, this principle can be ed, according to
Fig. 9 and 10.
According to Fig. 9, a plurality of inverters is connected in parallel to each other with a direct
current supply 4 having lines 4a, 4b. However, in contrast to the arrangement shown in Fig.
8, the inverters P1, P2, P3 are connected to a plurality of alternating current supplies and
each of these supplies connects the inverter P with one segment T. According to the specific
embodiment shown in Fig. 9, each inverter P is connected to two segments T1, T4; T2, T5;
T3, T6. As schematically indicated by the length of the e 81 traveling along the
segments T, only one segment T1, T2, T3 or T4, T5, T6 of the pairs of segments T is
operated while the vehicle is traveling in the position shown in Fig. 9. Segments T2, T3, T4
are operated in order to transfer energy to the receivers 95a, 95b of vehicle 81. Operation of
segments T1, T5, T6 would not result in a significant energy transfer to the vehicle 81. If the
vehicle continues traveling from left to right in Fig. 9, segment T2 will be switched off and
segment T5 will be switched on instead.
As a result, only one of the segments of a pair of segments T which is ted to the same
er P will be operated at a time. Therefore, it is possible to combine the inverter with a
constant current source which is adapted to produce a desired constant current through a
single segment. ln alternative arrangements, it would be possible, for example, to connect
more than two segments to the same er and to operate only one of these segments at
a time.
Fig. 10 shows a module comprising an inverter P which may be constructed as known to a
skilled person. For example, in case of a three-phase alternating current to be produced,
there may be s comprising a series connection of two semiconductor switches for each
phase. Since the construction of inverters is known, the details are not described with
nce to Fig. 10. On the alternating current side, the er P is connected to a nt
t source 12. This constant current source 12 consists of a network of passive
elements, namely one inductance 18a, 18b, 18c in each phase line of the alternating current
and one capacitance 20a, 20b, 20c in a tion which connects one of the phase lines
starting at ajunction 21a, 21b, 21c to a common star point 11.
The nt current source may also comprise a second ance in each phase line
which is located at the opposite side of the junction 21 as the first inductance 18. Such an
arrangement can be called a three-phase T-network. The purpose of the second inductance
is to minimize the reactive power produced by the segment which is connected to the
nt current source.
In the example shown in Fig. 10, the phase lines of the constant current source 12 are
connected to junctions 7a, 7b, 7c via a second capacitance 42a, 42b, 420. The capacitances
42 serve to compensate the inherent inductances of the segments which can be connected
to the junctions 7. “Compensation” in this case means the reactive power produced by the
respective segment is minimized while the segment is ed. This illustrates the principle
that the compensating capacitance can be ated in the module which also comprises the
constant current source.
In the example shown in Fig. 10, a first switching unit 13a comprising semiconductor
switches 16a, 16b, 160, one in each phase line, is connected to the junctions 7a, 7b, 7c and
WO 68534
in a similar manner the semiconductor es 16a, 16b, 16c of a second switching unit 13b
are also connected to the junctions 7. For example, the first switching unit 13a may be
connected to the alternating current supply 6a, 6c or 6e of Fig. 9 and the second switching
unit 13b may be connected to the alternating current supply 6b, 6d or 6f of Fig. 9.
If operation of the consecutive segments T1 to T6 of Fig. 9 should start ion one after
the other, the operation of the assigned inverters P1 to P3 will start in the (logical) sequence
P1 -P2-P3-P1-P2-P3, but the switching unit 13a will be switched off after the inverter
operation has ceased for the first time during this sequence and the switching unit 13b will be
switched on. Synchronization signals can be output by the inverters to the consecutive
inverter according to this logical sequence, for example using corresponding addresses of a
digital data bus.
Fig. 11 schematically shows a vehicle 91, in ular a bus for public transport of people,
comprising a single receiver 95 for receiving the electromagnetic field produced by ts
on the primary side of the system. There are five utive segments T1, T2, T3, T4, T5
which differ with respect to the lengths in the direction of travel (from left to right in Fig. 11).
At the tion zone of segment T1 to segment T2 as well at the transition zone of segment
T4 to segment T5, there are two inverters K1, K2; K4, K5, whereas at the transition zone of
segment T2 to segment T3 there is only the inverters K3 assigned to segment T3. An
enlarged view of inverter K3 is shown in the bottom left of the figure.
The effective alternating voltage of the alternating current produced by the inverters (of any
embodiment of this description) may be, for example, in the range of 500 — 1.500 V. The
frequency of the alternating current may be in the range of 15 — 25 kHz.
In the example shown in Fig. 12, three consecutive segments T1, T2, T3 are depicted.
However, the conductor arrangement may comprise any other number of segments which
form a sequence of consecutive segments. In particular, the number of segments in practice
may be larger, for example at least ten or twenty segments. The alternating current line or
alternating current lines of the ts T1, T2, T3 are ented by a single line per
segment, which comprises windings in order to indicate the inductivity which is required for
inductive energy transfer. The alternating t line(s) is/are connected to the assigned
inverter K1 K3. The inverters K are connected to the direct current supply via connection
, K2,
lines CLa, CLb. The direct current supply ses a first line 4a and a second line 4b at
different electric potentials. The first line 4a is electrically connected via the first connection
lines CLa to the inverters K and the second line 4b of the direct current supply is connected
via the second connection lines CLb to the inverters K.
Furthermore, Fig. 12 shows a synchronization link SL which may be realized by a digital data
bus, such as a data bus according to the CAN (controller area network)-bus-standard. The
synchronization link SL is connected to the respective inverter K at an interface IP of the
inverter K.
Optionally, an additional ion selection line may be provided and, in particular, may be
connected to the interface IP of each inverter K, in order to enable direction selection with
respect to the direction which s the order of the sequence of utive segments T
and, pondingly, the order of the sequence of assigned inverters K. However, the
direction selection line DS can be omitted, in particular if vehicles always travel in the same
direction on the track which is provided with the conductor arrangement.
In the following, an example of the operation of the consecutive segments will be given. For
e, a vehicle which always covers two consecutive ts while it is driving on the
track is to be provided with energy. In this one, two or temporarily three consecutive
segments may be operated at the same time. However, the description is not d to the
operation of two or three consecutive segments. Rather, any other number of consecutive
segments may be operated at the same time.
If, for example, the direction of the order of the sequence of consecutive segments T is from
left to right in Fig. 12, Le. the order is T1-T2—T3, an active inverter T (i.e. an er which is
operating and is therefore producing an alternating current in the respective corresponding
segment T) outputs a synchronization signal to the consecutive inverter K. If, for example,
er K1 is operating, it outputs a synchronization signal via the synchronization link SL to
the consecutive inverter K2. lf inverter K2 is operating, it outputs a synchronization signal to
consecutive er K3. However, if inverter K is not operating, it does not output a
synchronization signal to the consecutive inverter K.
As a result, a sequence of consecutive inverters K which are operated at the same time
forms a chain, wherein each chain link (i.e. each inverter K) outputs a synchronization signal
to the consecutive chain link. ore, synchronized operation of the inverters K is
guaranteed. On the other hand, since the last chain link does not output a synchronization
signal, other inverters which are not part of the same ce of consecutive inverters, can
also operated, but are not synchronized or are synchronized with another sequence of
consecutive inverters. In other words, there may be separate chains of active inverters and
the synchronization method described above guarantees that the inverters of each dual
chain of active inverters are operated synchronously.
If a direction selection line is present as shown in Fig. 12, the direction for transferring the
synchronization signal to the consecutive inverter K can be reversed on receipt of a direction
selection signal by the respective interfaces lP. For e, the receipt of a corresponding
direction selection signal via the ion selection line SL may cause the active inverter K3
to output a synchronization signal to the new consecutive inverter K2 and so on.
Fig. 13 shows a possible embodiment of an inverter, for example one of the inverters shown
in Fig. 1, Fig. 8, Fig. 10, Fig. 11 or Fig. 12. The controller or a ity of controllers of the
er is/are denoted by CTR. Furthermore, the inverter comprises a power unit PU for
providing the required form of electrical power to the inverter. In the specific embodiment
shown in Fig. 13, the inverter also comprises two starting s SD1, SD2. However,
instead of two separate starting devices, the inverter may atively comprise a single
starting device which combines the functions of the two starting devices SD1, SD2 which will
be ned in the following.
The starting devices SD1, SD2 are connected to a signal line 131, which may be the same
signal line or same combination of signal lines which is used as synchronization link (for
example as explained in connection with Fig. 12). Alternatively, the signal line 131 may be an
internal signal line for connecting the ent starting devices SD1, SD2 and may be
omitted, if there is a single starting device only. However, it is preferred that the starting
device or starting devices are connected to an external device via the signal line 131 or via
another signal line, so that the starting device(s) can be enabled or disabled by the external
device (which may be a central control unit of the system) for providing energy to vehicles.
As shown in Fig. 13, it is preferred that the starting device SD1 (or alternatively a|| starting
devices or the single starting device) is connected to a detection ement 133, 134 for
detecting the presence of a e. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 13, it is schematically
indicated, that the area which is covered by the vehicle presence detection (as ed by
dashed line 134) covers the whole area of the alternating t |ine(s) of the segment T
which is/are connected to the inverter K. However, vehicle ce detection can be
performed in a different manner, for example by detecting that a vehicle has reached or
passes a pre-defined position on the track. If the vehicle ce detection system 133, 134
produces a signal indicating that the operation of the inverter K should be started (for
example by transferring a signal from loop 134 via signal line 133) the first starting device
SD1 (or the single starting device) es on the power supply of the inverter K. In the
specific embodiment shown in Fig. 13, this is performed by closing a switch or by closing
switches in the connection lines CLa, CLb, so that the controller CTR is ted to the
power unit PU. This power unit PU may be omitted if, for example, voltage and current of the
direct current supply are suitable for operation of the inverter K without an additional power
unit PU. However, it is preferred to use such a power unit PU and, in particular, to use the
same direct current supply for operational power of the ent units of inverter K and, at the
same time, for providing the energy to the alternating current |ine(s) of the corresponding
segment T. A corresponding example is shown by Fig. 14.
Starting the power supply of the controller CTR does not start fu|| operation of the inverter K.
In other words, starting the power supply of the controller CTR does not start the generation
of the alternating current which is used to operate the corresponding t T. Rather, this
full operation is started only after a delay or is started if it is ed that the power supply of
the controller CTR has become stable. “Stable” means that the power supply does not cause
fluctuations of the ating t which is produced by the inverter K.
If the pre-defined delay period has elapsed, or if is detected that the power supply has
become stable, the second starting device SD2 (or the single ng device) enables fu||
operation of the inverter K, for example by outputting a corresponding enabling signal via
signal line 132.
Fig. 14 shows an inverter K, for example the inverter of Fig. 13. lnverter K comprises a first
controller CTR1 and a second controller arrangement CTR2 comprising three drive units
147a, 147b, 147c for controlling the switching operations for six switches SW1...SW6. These
switches SW (for example semiconductor switches, such as IGBTs) and their operation are
principally known in the art. The production of a three-phase alternating current through
alternating current lines 6 of the corresponding segment (not shown in Fig. 14) will not be
described in detail here. Series connections of in each case two of the switches SW1, SW2;
SW3, SW4; SW5, SW6 are connected at their opposite ends to the direct current lines 148a,
148b that are connected to the tion lines CLa, CLb via a protection and filter unit 145.
The power unit PU (which may be a distributed unit comprising two its, as shown in
Fig. 14) is also connected to the direct current lines 148 and es the first controller
CTR1 with power, ed that the first starting device SD1 has switched on the power
supply of the first controller CTR1. Furthermore, the power unit PU also provides the second
arrangement of controllers (i.e. the drive unit 147) with electrical power, if the second starting
device SD2 has switched on the power supply of the second controller arrangement CTR2.
For simplicity, the control connections of the starting devices SD1, SD2 are not or not
completely shown in Fig. 14.
The first controller CTR1 has several connections to units denoted by 143 which are input or
output units for inputting or outputting signals to/from the first controller CTR1. For example,
the first controller CTR1 and the units 143 are provided on a common board 141. However,
other embodiments are also possible.
The signal line 131 at the bottom of Fig. 14 is used for transferring synchronization signals
and for transferring signals to/from the first starting device SD1, such as a vehicle detection
presence . The signal line 131 may be a digital data bus optionally comprising an
onal direction selection signal line as mentioned above.
The first controller CTR1 is adapted to control the operation of the drive units 147 based on
the synchronization which is effected by a synchronization signal that is received via the
onization link Sync2. During operation of the second controller arrangement CTR2 (i.e.
during ion of the drive units 147 and, therefore, during generation of the alternating
current carried by alternating current lines 6) the first controller CTR1 outputs a
synchronization signal via synchronization link Sync1, preferably towards the consecutive
inverter only. If the inverter K does not receive a synchronization signal, the first controller
CTR1 controls the operation of the drive units 147 without the presence of a synchronization
signal which is received from the exterior. r, it outputs a synchronization signal in any
case during operation of the drive units 147.
In the absence of a vehicle presence ion signal or if a e absence signal, which
may be received by the first starting device SD1 via signal line 131, indicates that the
operation of the inverter K should stop, the first starting device SD1 switches off the power
supply of the controllers CTR1, CTR2.
Fig. 15 shows a signal interface. On the left hand side of Fig. 15, there are two
synchronization links Sync1, Sync2 from the interface to the inverter (not shown in Fig. 15).
These lines Sync1, Sync2 may be the lines shown at the bottom, right hand side of Fig. 14.
Each of the onization signal lines Sync1, Sync2 ates at an output unit
153a, 153b which may be used alternatively for inputting or outputting the respective
synchronization signal to the inverter or from the inverter.
On the right hand side of Fig. 15, two lines 121, 122 of a signal line (such as the signal line
131 of Fig. 13 or Fig. 14 or the signal line SL of Fig. 12) are shown. In the operating state
ed by Fig. 15, the first line 121 is connected via first contacts of a switch 159 and via a
connection line 154b to the output unit 153a at synchronization line Sync2.
Furthermore, the second signal line 122 is connected via second contacts of the switch 159
via connection line 155a to the other input/output unit 153b at the other synchronization line
Sync1. ore, a synchronization signal which is received via the second line 122 is
transferred via synchronization line Sync1 to the inverter. On the other hand, a
synchronization signal which is output by the inverter via synchronization line Sync2
transferred via the first signal line 121, in particular to the consecutive inverter, according to
the present order of the sequence of utive inverters.
On receipt of a corresponding direction selection signal via line DS, the switch 159 switches
to a different operating state, in which the first signal line 121 is connected via first contacts
of the switch 159 and via a connection line 155b to input/output unit 153b where the first
synchronization line Sync1 terminates. In addition, the second signal line 122 is connected
via second ts of the switch 159 and via a connection line 154a with the other
input/output unit 153a, where the second synchronization line Sync2 terminates. During
operation of the inverter, a onization signal which is received via the second signal line
122 is therefore transferred via the second synchronization line Sync2 to the inverter. On the
other hand, a synchronization signal which is output by the inverter is transferred via the first
onization line Sync1 to the first signal line 121.
In ular, input/output units 153 can be adapted in such a manner that synchronization
s which are output by the unit 153 are addressed to a pre-defined inverter. Therefore, a
synchronization signal which is output by unit 153a will always be transferred to a specific
inverter which is the consecutive inverter with respect to a first direction of the order of
sequence of consecutive inverters. A synchronization signal which is output by the other unit
153b will always by addressed to a second specific inverter which is the consecutive inverter
according to the opposite direction of the order of sequence of consecutive inverters. In both
cases, the first signal line 121 is used to transfer the respective onization signal.
Fig. 16 shows a top view of a shaped block. The block 304 comprises six recesses 315a —
315f which extend perpendicularly to a centre line 310 which divides the block 304 in two
halves. The centre line 310 extends in the direction of travel of a vehicle, if the block 304
forms parts of a track for the vehicle.
The recesses 315 are parallel to each other and are arranged within the same horizontal
plane which is parallel to the image plane of Fig. 16. The es 315 extend in width
direction (the vertical direction in Fig. 1) over about three quarters of the total width of block
304. They are ed symmetrically to the centre line 310.
Each recess has a U-shaped cross-section to receive a cable, i.e. an electric line. The
dashed lines shown in Fig. 16 which extend along the recesses 315 are centre lines of the
recesses 315. At each of the two opposite ends of the straight recesses 315, there a
bifurcated curved recess region 316 which forms a transition to a eral straight recess
317 extending along the l edge of the block 304. Cables can be laid in a manner
consecutively extending from the straight recesses 315 through the curved recess region 316
into the peripheral straight recess 317, thereby changing the direction of extension from
transversely to the direction of travel (for transversely extending ns of the line) to
parallel to the direction of travel.
The curved recess regions 316 allow for placing a cable, which extends h the recess
315 in such a manner that it continues to either the left or the right, if viewed in the straight
direction of the recess 315. For example, a cable (not shown in Fig. 16) may extend through
recess 315b, may turn to the right — while extending through recess region 316 — and may
then extend through the straight recess 317 which extends perpendicularly to the recesses
315 on the opposite side of curved recess region 316. There are two peripheral straight
recess regions 317 on opposite sides of block 304. The cable may then turn to the right
through the recess region 316 at the end of recess 315e and may then extend h
recess 315e. At the end of recess 315e, which is shown in the lower part of Fig. 16, the cable
may again turn left through recess region 316 into the other straight recess 317. The other
recesses 315 may be used for two other cables.
As shown in Fig. 17, the depth of the recesses 315, 316, 317 is different. The depth of recess
315 is sufficient to receive one cable. The depth of the curved recess region 316 increases
from the end of recess 315 to recess 317 as indicated by a dashed line in Fig. 2. The bottom
profile of the curved recess region 316 is not fully shown in Fig. 2, since the sectional view
includes a region 319 of block 304 which is not recessed. Each of the curved recess s
316 comprises such an island region 319 which is d between the two curved branches
of the curved recess region 316. One of the branches extends above the plane of Fig. 17 and
the other branch extends below the plane of Fig. 17. In addition, the island region 319 is
located between the straight recess 317 and the two branches of the curved recess region
316.
Since the depth of the curved recess region 316 increases towards the straight recess 317,
different cables can be laid upon one another. The depth of the straight recess 317 is
sufficient to arrange two cables upon one another extending in the same straight ion.
For e, a first cable may extend trough the lower recess 317 in Fig. 16 and may turn
left into recess 315b through the recess region 316 shown in the bottom left part of Fig. 16. In
addition, a second cable may extend trough recess 315a, may turn into the recess 317,
y crossing (if viewed from above) the first cable.
The example concerning the extension of cables or electric lines given above refers to one
specific application for laying three meandering cables. r, the use of the shaped
block 304 shown in Fig. 16 and 17 is not restricted to this application. Rather, for example,
less or more than three cables can be laid using the block 304 shown in Fig. 16 and 17.
The term 'comprising' as used in this specification and claims means 'consisting at least in
part of'. When interpreting statements in this specification and claims which include
'comprising'; other features besides the features prefaced by this term in each statement can
also be present. d terms such as 'comprise' and 'comprised' are to be interpreted in a
similar manner.
Claims (18)
1. A system for transferring electric energy to a vehicle, wherein - the system comprises an electric conductor arrang ement for producing an ating omagnetic field and for thereby transferring the energy to the vehicle, - the conductor arrangement comprises a plurality o f consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), wherein the ts (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) extend in the direction of travel of the vehicle, which is d by the track or path of , - each segment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) is combined wit h an assigned controller (CTR1) adapted to control the operation of the segment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) independently of the other segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), - the controllers (CTR1) of at least two consecutiv e segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), which follow each other in the direction of travel of the vehicle, or which follow each other opposite to the direction of travel, are connected to each other and/or to a central controlling device so that the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) can be operated at the same time, - each segment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) comprises at le ast three alternating current lines (1, 2, 3) for carrying phases of a multi-phase ating current in order to produce the alternating electromagnetic field, - the consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) are electrically connected in parallel to each other to a current supply, - the alternating current lines (1, 2, 3) of each s egment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) comprise a plurality of sections (5) which extend transversely to the direction of travel of the vehicle, - the transversely extending sections (5) of the at least three ating current lines (1, 2, 3) of each segment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) form, if viewed in the ion of travel, a repeating sequence of phases of the alternating current, while the segment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) is operated under control of the ed controller (CTR1), wherein each te tion of the sequence of phases comprises one transversely extending section (5) of each phase and the order of the phases is the same in each complete repetition, characterized in that - the controllers (CTR1) of the at least two consec utive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) and/or the central controlling device are/is adapted to operate the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), so that the repeating sequence of phases continues from one segment (T2) to the consecutive segment (T3), wherein the order of the phases is the same in the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) and in each transition zone of two of the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5).
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the system is d to synchronize the assigned controllers (CTR1) of the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) in a manner so that the electromagnetic field produced by the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) forms a magnetic wave which moves in or opposite to the direction of travel of the vehicle, the wave being continuous in the transition zone of the consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5).
3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, if viewed in the direction of travel from a first (T2) of the two utive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) to a second (T3) of the two utive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), a transversely extending section (5’) of the first consecutive segment (T2) follows a transversely extending section (5) of the second consecutive segment (T3) in the repeating sequence of phases of the alternating current.
4. The system of one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the transversely extending sections (5) of each of the alternating current lines (1, 2, 3) are connected to each other via connecting sections (7, 8, 9), which at least partly extend in the direction of , so that each of the ating current lines (1, 2, 3) follows a meandering path in the direction of travel in which the connecting sections (7, 8, 9) are located alternating on opposite sides of the conductor arrangement, and wherein the transversely extending sections (5) of a complete repetition of the phases of the repeating sequence are formed by the meandering paths of the alternating current lines (1, 2, 3) in the following manner: - the transversely extending section (5) of a first phase (3) of the alternating current extends from a first side (B) of the conductor arrangement s a second side (A) of the conductor arrangement, which is the side te to the first side of the conductor ement, - the transversely extending section (5x) of a seco nd phase (2) of the alternating current, which s the first phase (3) in the order of phases, s from the second side (A) of the conductor arrangement towards the first side (B) of the conductor arrangement, - the transversely ing section (5y) of a thir d phase (1) of the ating current, which follows the second phase (2) in the order of phases, extends from the first side (B) of the conductor arrangement towards the second side (A) of the conductor arrangement, - if there are more than three , the transver sely extending section(s) of the next phase or next phases in the order of phases extend(s) in the te direction between the first and second side of the conductor arrangement compared to the transversely extending section of the preceding phase, until the last phase is reached.
5. The system of one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the vehicle is a track bound vehicle (81) or a road automobile.
6. A method of ing a system for transferring electric energy to a vehicle, wherein - an electric conductor arrangement is operated for producing an alternating electromagnetic field and for thereby transferring the energy to the vehicle, - a ity of consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) of the conductor arrangement is ed, wherein the ts (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) extend in the direction of travel of the vehicle, which is defined by the track or path of travel, - for each t (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), an assigne d controller (CTR1) is operated to control the operation of the segment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) ndently of the other segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), - the controllers (CTR1) of at least two consecutiv e segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), which follow each other in the direction of travel of the vehicle, or which follow each other opposite to the direction of travel, are operated in connection with each other and/or with a central controlling device so that the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) are operated at the same time, - in each segment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), at least th ree alternating current lines (1, 2, 3) carry phases of a multi-phase alternating current in order to produce the alternating electromagnetic field, - the consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) are electrically connected in parallel to each other to a current supply, - the alternating current lines (1, 2, 3) of each s egment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) comprise a plurality of sections which extend transversely to the direction of travel of the vehicle, - the transversely extending sections (5) of the at least three alternating-current lines of each segment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) form, if viewed in the direction of travel, a repeating ce of phases of the alternating current, while the segment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) is operated under control of the assigned controller (CTR1), wherein each complete repetition of the sequence of phases comprises one transversely extending section of each phase and the order of the phases is the same in each complete repetition, characterized in that - the controllers (CTR1) of the at least two consec utive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) and/or the l controlling device operate(s) the at least two utive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), so that the repeating sequence of phases continues from one segment (T2) to the consecutive segment (T3), n the order of the phases is the same in the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) and in each transition zone of two of the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5).
7. The method of claim 6, wherein the assigned controllers (CTR1) of the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) are synchronized so that the electromagnetic field produced by the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) forms a magnetic wave which moves in or opposite to the direction of travel of the vehicle, the wave being continuous in the transition zone of the utive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5).
8. The method of claim 6 or 7, wherein, if viewed in the direction of travel from a first (T2) of the two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) to a second (T3) of the two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), a transversely extending section of the first consecutive segment (T2) follows a transversely extending section of the second utive segment (T3) in the repeating sequence of phases of the alternating t.
9. The method of one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the transversely extending sections (5) of each of the alternating current lines (1, 2, 3) are connected to each other via connecting sections (7, 8, 9), which at least partly extend in the direction of travel, so that each of the alternating current lines (1, 2, 3) follows a meandering path in the direction of travel in which the connecting sections (7, 8, 9) are located alternating on opposite sides of the conductor arrangement, and wherein the transversely ing sections (5) of a complete repetition of the phases of the repeating sequence are formed by the meandering paths of the alternating current lines (1, 2, 3) in the following : - the transversely extending section (5) of a first phase (3) of the alternating current extends from a first side (B) of the conductor ement towards a second side (A) of the conductor arrangement, which is the side te to the first side of the conductor arrangement, - the ersely ing n (5x) of a seco nd phase (2) of the alternating current, which follows the first phase (3) in the order of phases, extends from the second side (A) of the conductor arrangement towards the first side (B) of the conductor ement, - the transversely extending section (5y) of a thir d phase (1) of the alternating current, which follows the second phase (2) in the order of phases, extends from the first side (B) of the conductor arrangement towards the second side (A) of the conductor arrangement, - if there are more than three phases, the transver sely extending section(s) of the next phase or next phases in the order of phases extend(s) in the opposite direction n the first and second side of the conductor arrangement compared to the transversely extending section of the preceding phase, until the last phase is reached.
10. The method of one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the vehicle is a track bound vehicle (81) or a road bile.
11. A method of manufacturing a system for transferring electric energy to a vehicle, wherein - an electric conductor arrangement is provided for producing an alternating electromagnetic field and for thereby transferring the energy to the vehicle, - the conductor arrangement comprises a plurality o f consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), wherein the segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) extend in the direction of travel of the vehicle, which is defined by the track or path of travel, - each segment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) is combined wit h an assigned controller (CTR1) d to control the operation of the segment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) independently of the other segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), - the controllers (CTR1) of at least two utiv e segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), which follow each other in the direction of travel of the vehicle, or which follow each other opposite to the direction of travel, are connected to each other and/or to a central controlling device so that the at least two utive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) can operated at the same time, - each segment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) comprises at le ast three alternating current lines (1, 2, 3) for carrying phases of a multi-phase alternating current in order to produce the alternating electromagnetic field, - the consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) are electrically connected in parallel to each other to a current supply, - the alternating current lines (1, 2, 3) of each s egment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) comprise a plurality of sections which extend transversely to the ion of travel of the vehicle, - the transversely extending sections (5) of the at least three alternating-current lines of each segment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) form, if viewed in the direction of travel, a repeating sequence of phases of the alternating current, while the segment (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) is operated under control of the assigned controller (CTR1), n each complete repetition of the sequence of phases comprises one transversely extending section of each phase and the order of the phases is the same in each complete repetition, - the controllers (CTR1) of the at least two consec utive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) and/or the central controlling device are/is adapted to operate the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), so that the repeating ce of phases continues from one segment (T2) to the consecutive t (T3), wherein the order of the phases is the same in the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) and in each transition zone of two of the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5).
12. The method of claim 11, n the system is adapted to synchronize the assigned controllers (CTR1) of the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) so that the electromagnetic field produced by the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) forms a magnetic wave which moves in or te to the direction of travel of the vehicle, the wave being continuous in the transition zone of the consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5).
13. The method of claim 11 or 12, wherein the ating current lines (1, 2, 3) of the at least two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) are laid so that, if viewed in the direction of travel from a first of the two consecutive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) to a second of the two utive segments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5), a transversely extending section of the first consecutive segment (T2) follows a transversely extending section of the second consecutive segment (T3) in the ing sequence of phases of the alternating current.
14. The method of one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the transversely extending sections (5) of each of the alternating current lines (1, 2, 3) are ted to each other via connecting sections (7, 8, 9), which at least partly extend in the direction of travel, so that each of the alternating current lines (1, 2, 3) follows a meandering path in the direction of travel in which the connecting sections (7, 8, 9) are d alternating on opposite sides of the conductor arrangement, and wherein the transversely extending sections (5) of a complete repetition of the phases of the repeating sequence are formed by the meandering paths of the alternating current lines (1, 2, 3) in the ing manner: - the transversely extending section (5) of a first phase (3) of the alternating current extends from a first side (B) of the conductor ement towards a second side (A) of the conductor arrangement, which is the side opposite to the first side of the tor arrangement, - the transversely extending section (5x) of a second phase (2) of the alternating current, which follows the first phase (3) in the order of phases, extends from the second side (A) of the conductor arrangement towards the first side (B) of the conductor arrangement, - the transversely extending section (5y) of a third phase (1) of the alternating current, which follows the second phase (2) in the order of phases, extends from the first side (B) of the conductor arrangement towards the second side (A) of the conductor arrangement, - if there are more than three phases, the transversely extending n(s) of the next phase or next phases in the order of phases (s) in the opposite direction n the first and second side of the conductor arrangement compared to the ersely extending section of the preceding phase, until the last phase is reached.
15. The method of one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the vehicle is a track bound e (81) or a road automobile.
16. A system for transferring electric energy to a vehicle, the system substantially as herein described with reference to any embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings.
17. A method of operating a system for transferring electric energy to a vehicle, the method substantially as herein described with reference to any embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings.
18. A method of manufacturing a system for transferring electric energy to a vehicle, the method substantially as herein described with reference to any ment shown in the accompanying drawings.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB1119530.2A GB2496433A (en) | 2011-11-10 | 2011-11-10 | Inductively transferring energy to an electric vehicle |
GB1119530.2 | 2011-11-10 | ||
PCT/EP2012/072271 WO2013068534A2 (en) | 2011-11-10 | 2012-11-09 | Inductively transferring electric energy to a vehicle using consecutive segments which are operated at the same time |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
NZ624412A NZ624412A (en) | 2015-12-24 |
NZ624412B2 true NZ624412B2 (en) | 2016-03-30 |
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