Simulation of transit bus regenerative braking systems

Computer simulations have played a major role in the engineering development of an innovative Regenerative Braking, Storage and Propulsion System for a Brisbane City Council public transport bus. The simulations were used to study and analyse the design and operation of various conceptual arrangements for determination of a near optimal configuration before commencing prototype design and construction. In each system a hydrostatic pump/motor was used to capture the energy normally dissipated as heat in the brake pads during vehicle retardation. The energy was then stored in either a pressurised hydraulic accumulator or by spinning up a flywheel. This paper provides a descriptive overview of the simulations and their results, thus providing an indication of the usefulness of computer simulations as an engineering tool for similar research and development projects.