Guidance for Optimized Loco Driving (GOLD) system is based on principle that pareto front of different driving strategies for a journey plotted on Journey Time vs Fuel consumed for the journey follows an inverse relationship. Hence, any journey can be completed in different amount of times and there will always be one optimal driving strategy which consumes the least energy (hence fuel) for each journey time.
The system simulates the speed profile for a given trip by taking various factors into account acting on the train. The total available time for a trip is fully utilized to achieve minimum fuel consumption for complete trip. Optimal speed profiles and power (notch) level are continuously displayed to the driver as advisory input.
Target transit / trip completion time is the key reference point to generate fuel optimized speed profiles. The optimal speed profile changes as the trip progresses. Depending on the status of trip already completed and other affecting factors and events (which could not be incorporated/ anticipated at the start of the trip), the original speed profile is dynamically updated for the remaining part of the trip.
Driver following the advisory speed profile can complete the trip with fewer variations from required target completion time and with lesser fuel consumption, as compared to random sample of trips on same route without any advisory assistance.
Driver Advisory Interface
A 10.4" TFT LCD display on the driver's desk provides a real- time, optimized speed profile for the driver to follow. Once data is input at start of trip using this display, On-board computer will continuously generate the optimal speed profile on real-time basis. The run time screen shows the optimal speed profile vs. current speed profile, advised notch (or braking power) vs current notch (or braking power) and other trip related data, so as to help the driver complete the trip in most fuel efficient manner.
Driver Advisory System display with Optimum and current profile
TFT LCD based Display unit for GOLD
TFT LCD display unit installed in driver cab of locomotive
