Transversal generator set and modular design for refurbishment of locomotives

Abstract

A generator set has a transversal configuration on the locomotive. The generator set and its configuration on the platform offer good performance with respect to the space it occupies along the length of the locomotive platform deck, and offer better access for maintenance purposes. A walkway interface structure supports a modular design for locomotives using standardized major sub-assemblies that can be easily interfaced from one locomotive and under-frame to another.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]The present application claims the benefit, under 35 U.S.C. §119(e), of U.S. Provisional Application 60 / 929,286 entitled “Transversal Generator Set and Modular Design for Refurbishment of Locomotives” to Burns et al filed Jun. 20, 2007, which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention generally relates to the refurbishment of train locomotives, or the like. More particularly, it relates to a transversal modular generator set to be installed on a locomotive during its refurbishment. The present invention also relates to a modular design concept which facilitates the refurbishment of locomotives through the use of a walkway interface system and standardized locomotive major sub-assemblies.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Refurbishment of locomotive generator sets is carried out often these days as a cost-effective way for replacing older locomotives that may otherwise have other highly functional su...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0030]The transversal genset according to the present invention offers a better HP / linear feet ratio compared to most actual locomotives with their gensets aligned along the length of the locomotive. The present genset also offers better access for maintenance purposes with full access to all sides of the genset. The genset according to the present invention also simplifies hood designs, as much less doors are required for access to the genset. Furthermore, the present genset is designed to comply with an overall modularity and parametrization concept for locomotives.

[0031]The concept of a modular design consists of having standardized major sub-assemblies that can be easily interface from one locomotive and under-frame to another. The main benefits of this concept include:

Problems solved by technology

Furthermore, refurbishment of gensets on locomotives of different lengths is complicated due to the fact that, when longitudinal or side-by-side configurations are used, the actual design and layout of the gensets needs to be adapted to each and every new platform length.

There is a lack of standardization in the major sub-assemblies of the locomotive which often prevents the use or transfer of one sub-assembly from one particular locomotive and under-frame to another locomotive and under-frame.

There is also a lack of standardization in common interface assemblies that could also be used for the transfer of one sub-assembly from one particular locomotive and under-frame to another locomotive and under-frame.

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