The first step to improving the performance of retarder control algorithms is to conduct an exhaustive study of existing algorithms. Retarder control algorithms described in König’s 1969 paper and those used by WABCO (as revealed in their patents) are described. Two new algorithms proposed by Peter Wong are also described. The König paper is important because it appears to represent the best of algorithms then in use in Europe. WABCO is one of the two major suppliers of class yard equipment in the United States. Future notes will describe algorithms used by GRS (the other major U.S. supplier) and various other algorithms.
The literature reviewed to date has revealed three basic speed control systems in use in foreign classification yards. These are: Clasp retarders usin...
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