Train velocity estimation method based on an adaptive filter with fuzzy logic

The train velocity is difficult to determine when the velocity is measured only on the driven or braked locomotive wheelsets. In this case, the calculated train velocity is different from the actual train velocity due to slip velocity or skid velocity respectively. The train velocity is needed for a locomotive controller proper work. For this purpose, an adaptive filter that is tuned by a fuzzy logic is designed and described in the paper. The filter calculates the train longitudinal velocity based on locomotive wheelset velocity. The fuzzy logic is used for the tuning of the filter according to actual wheelset acceleration and wheelset jerk. The simulation results are based on real measured data on a freight train. The results show that the calculated velocity corresponds to the actual train velocity.