A Highly Efficient and Reliable Power Scheme Using Improved Push-Pull Forward Converter for Heavy-Duty Train Applications

Electronically controlled pneumatic (ECP) brake systems have become popular in heavy-duty train applications because of their advantages, which include shorter stopping distances, improved handling, and less brake-shoe and wheel wear. In ECP brake systems, an improved power supply is required to support efficient and reliable operations. In this paper, we propose a new power converter for ECP brake systems, which is derived from a conventional push-pull converter. As opposed to conventional push-pull converters, we insert a clamping capacitor into the proposed circuit. This clamping capacitor simultaneously enables a greater number of operation modes for the proposed converter and absorbs the voltage spikes in the switch. The proposed converter is more suited for ECP brake applications that require high power, low voltage ripple, and high impedance. We theoretically analyze the proposed converter, and present the design guidelines. Further, we discuss the modeling and control aspects. We demonstrate the operations of the proposed model by performing both simulations and experiments.