Automation of Adjustment of the Selective Characteristic of a Locomotive Traction Generator with Electric Transmission

Abstract—This paper studies a method of automation of adjustment of the selective characteristic of a locomotive traction generator that makes it possible to use most completely and efficiently the free capacity of the engine. The problem of minimization of the functions of several variables is solved using the Hooke–Jeeves method, the algorithm being a combination of the exploratory search with the alternative change of the variables and accelerating pattern matching search in the direction determined in the process of the exploratory search. A computer program is developed allowing automating the process of adjustment of the selective characteristic of the locomotive traction generator. Based on the proposed method, a series of the training programs is developed for studying the electrical circuits of the locomotives. The main difference of these programs from programs of similar purpose is the presence of a detailed mathematical model of the studied circuit node, in which the total functionally of the program is based. This model allows calculating and reflecting the state of the electrical circuit at any state of the control elements and in any operation mode of the power plant using virtual measuring devices for troubleshooting and adjusting the circuit.