Small scale model railway vehicle coupling devices, systems, and methods

Abstract

A coupling for small-scale rail vehicles includes two rods, a coil spring and a spring strut. Each lever has a coupling end and a lever end and is mounted on the pivot post for selectively pivoting in opposite directions between an open configuration and a closed configuration. When opened, the coupling ends are separated away for selective coupling to the second coupling. Any load borne by the coupling end from the second coupling member is transmitted to the railway vehicle via the pivot column. A coil spring extends between the lever ends. It is biased toward the closed configuration. The spring strut partially bisects the coil spring and urges the rod via the coil spring toward the closed configuration and urges the coupling end in opposite lateral directions toward a centered position to securely couple with the second coupling member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to couplings for model railway trains, and more particularly to coupling devices, systems and methods for small-scale model railway vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] Model railway trains and equipment can be miniature replicas of full-size railway equipment. Model railway trains and equipment can be available in various sizes (or scales). In the prior art, connecting devices (also referred to herein as "connectors") for model trains and railways can be provided to assemble various railway rolling stock into trains, disassemble trains, store and / or retrieve railway rolling stock in and / or provide a realistic model railway experience.

[0003] Typically, in the prior art, model railway equipment can be available in a variety of different small scales, including, for example, O scale (1:42) models, HO scale (1:87) models, N scale (1:160) models, and / or Z scale (1:220) models. Enthusiasts may widely use N scale and Z scale model trains and railways. The layout of the model railway can preferably be functional and have a realistic appearance.

[0004] One object of the present invention may be to provide a model railway vehicle connection device, system and / or method that operates normally and is fully functional, and is sized to fit a particularly small scale (e.g., N scale or Z scale) of model railway vehicles.

[0005] Most existing N-scale couplings are significantly over-scale, for example, approximately three times (3x) the size they would be if scaled down to the size of a real train. Nevertheless, the “True-Seale” coupling offered by Micro-Trains Line Co. (“Micro-Trains”) in Tarrent, Oregon, may be sized to fit an N-scale model railway train. However, at this size and scale, its functionality may be insufficient. Therefore, it may be necessary to provide a mechanically designed model railway vehicle coupling device, system, and / or method that addresses one or more problems associated with existing scale and / or over-scale coupling designs.

[0006] One or more existing high-ratio connector designs may have some degree of interoperability. For example, a connector from one brand (e.g., "Brand X") may be at least slightly compatible with a connector from another brand (e.g., "Brand Y").

[0007] However, the aforementioned "True-Seale" connector (whose scale is likely roughly accurate) may not interoperate with any overscale connector design. Instead, the "True-Seale" connector is typically about one-third (3x) of an overscale connector design.

[0008] The disclosure of U.S. Patent No. 8,720,710 (Smith) concerning prior art scale couplings is incorporated herein by reference. However, those skilled in the art may not be able to develop the “magnetically actuated model railway coupling” taught in that patent into a fully functional product, i.e., at least not solely based on its teachings and disclosure.

[0009] In the prior art, small “N-scale” model railway couplings can have two different main designs: (i) a “spring joint” coupling design; and / or (ii) a “split rod” coupling design. Furthermore, the latter—the split rod coupling design—can be (a) a longitudinal metal spring actuated design, or (b) a plastic spring actuated design.

[0010] *Longitudinal metal spring, split rod connector. *The most popular design in the prior art is probably the super-scale Micro-Trains longitudinal metal spring design. It may use a metal helical spring, which may provide very good operating characteristics. In many respects, this design may be the best among the prior art designs described herein. However, in use, it may also have very obvious drawbacks and / or disadvantages associated with the spring's extension and / or so-called "slinky" effect. In this general type of prior art design, the spring device may longitudinally resist the rod movement of the connector. This spring device may bear the forces that the model train is typically subjected to during pulling and / or pushing. Therefore, such prior art spring devices, in addition to simply keeping the connector closed, may cause some undesirable extension, "slinky" movement, or other clearances in the model train's connector. Therefore, although springs may perform relatively well in certain aspects of coupling operation (e.g., reliable operation with very low force and / or unaffected by excessive memory effects), their longitudinal arrangement and / or the generation or susceptibility to the telescoping or "spring-like" effect can be a significant drawback.

[0011] *Plastic spring split rod connectors. *Plastic spring split rod connectors do not use metal springs to push the rod halves together, but may use one or more molded plastic spring devices. The springs may only serve to keep the connector closed, and / or may not be specifically pushed / pulled by the model train. Plastic springs may be relatively inexpensive and / or easy to manufacture. They can be integrally molded with the connector itself. However, like other existing technology designs, they may not perform well. They may be affected by excessive memory effects (e.g., if they are held in one or more positions for too long) and / or they may degrade due to continuous use or over time. The problem is that relatively large forces are usually required to actuate such connector designs. Their springs may have weakened and / or become unable to connect the model train vehicles together. Generally, many model train enthusiasts may consider plastic springs inferior, i.e., from an operational perspective.

[0012] *Spring-joint couplings. *In the prior art involving N and Z scale model railway vehicles, spring-joint coupling designs may only be offered as scaled-down versions of larger scale designs (e.g., typically scaled down to HO or 1:87). These designs may work very well for larger scales but may not scale well. In these designs, the coupling may consist of a single rod with a separate joint section (i.e., rather than a split rod). This type of design may require springs in two locations: (i) a small helical spring that helps to bias the joint toward the closed position, keeping it there, and / or allows the joint to displace toward the open position (resisting the bias) to achieve the coupling; and / or (ii) another spring device that helps to keep the entire coupling rod centered while providing lateral clearance to help the model railway vehicle navigate corners. Successfully scaling down these coupling designs to a small scale of 1:160 may not be easy. Therefore, even for the N scale standard (which may be somewhat accustomed to sacrificing actual size / scale for the functionality of components), this style of coupling design may tend to be too large. Scaling down this connector design to a realistic 1:160 scale may not be feasible. Furthermore, among other things, it may be difficult to make the coil spring act light enough to achieve proper functionality and / or good operating characteristics. Additionally, these prior art connector designs suffer from another significant drawback: the coil spring at the closed joint is exposed and appears less aesthetically pleasing—especially at smaller scales, for example.

[0013] Some other existing model railroad connector designs (including some variations of split-rod connectors) may require two separate helical springs that act in a rotational manner (rather than any that act in a compressive manner or anything other than a compressive manner). However, it may be difficult to properly manufacture or produce such springs and / or make them function correctly. It may be difficult to provide the two springs with exactly equal tension, for example, if the connector may need to be properly centered. Furthermore, the spring may be intended for a dual purpose: (a) to keep the split rod closed with sufficient tension so that the model railcars do not accidentally disconnect; (b) to be light enough so that the model railcars automatically connect to each other. One or more of these factors may make such existing designs extremely difficult to implement and / or put into practice. By design, such springs may not be able to function properly and / or cost-effectively. Therefore, such connectors may have been designed many years ago but may never have been commercially available.

[0014] In other aspects of the prior art, Micro-Trains' "True-Seale" coupling may have been available in 2016 or around that time. It likely employed a plastic spring-loaded split-bar design, as described above. It may have offered model railway enthusiasts a coupling—perhaps unlike any of the other prior art couplings described herein—that was actually scaled and / or resembled a prototype in proportion. However, as briefly mentioned above, it may have been insufficiently functional in some respects. Instead, it was more likely and / or more often used as a primary decorative component—for example, at the front of the locomotive hauling the train, the most prominent part, but not connected to anything—rather than a functional component. The "True-Seale" coupling offered by Micro-Trains may have one or more significant problems. The required coupling force may be too high, making any automatic coupling virtually impossible. And / or its lateral movement may be too limited, potentially failing to meet the needs of many model railway enthusiasts, and / or failing to allow model trains to successfully maneuver around or through any corners and switches except the widest ones. Some model railway enthusiasts might attempt to solve their problems by manipulating the plastic springs to reduce their tension, but the results are likely to be far from satisfactory. They may end up with carriages that cannot maintain their connection, and / or where the required connecting force remains excessive regardless. Even if such couplings could be equipped with thinner plastic springs, they may still lack sufficient lateral movement. In the current technology, plastic springs may not be particularly practical in model railway couplings.

[0015] One object of the present invention may be to provide a small-scale model railway vehicle connection device, system and / or method.

[0016] One object of the present invention is to provide a small-scale model railway vehicle coupling device, system and / or method that accurately simulates full-size couplings, is suitable for particularly small-scale (e.g., N-scale or Z-scale) model railway vehicles, has a realistic and / or near-realistic scale appearance, and / or is fully functional.

[0017] According to one aspect of the invention, an object may be to provide a small-scale model railway vehicle connection device, system and / or method having a split rod connecting spring device.

[0018] According to one aspect of the invention, an object may be to provide a small-scale model railway vehicle coupling device, system and / or method that enables: automatic coupling of model railway vehicles, preferably without the intervention of a model railway operator; and / or vehicles to remain coupled while traversing a model railway with various gradients and curves.

[0019] According to one aspect of the invention, the object may be to provide a small-scale model railway vehicle coupling device and / or system that is easier to manufacture than prior art coupling designs.

[0020] One object of the present invention is to eliminate or mitigate one or more disadvantages and / or deficiencies associated with the prior art, to meet or provide one or more needs and / or advantages, and / or to achieve one or more of the objectives of the invention—one or more of these objectives are preferably readily understood and / or conceived by those skilled in the art in light of the teachings and / or disclosure herein. Summary of the Invention

[0021] According to the present invention, a coupling device is disclosed. This coupling device is preferably used with a second coupling and a pivot post fixed to a small-scale model railway vehicle. The coupling device preferably includes: a head rod having a head connecting end and a head rod lever end; and a retaining rod having a retaining connecting end and a retaining rod lever end. The head rod and the retaining rod are preferably stacked together and preferably centrally and pivotally mounted on the pivot post. The head rod and the retaining rod are preferably selectively pivotable about the pivot post in opposite directions relative to each other between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the head connecting end is preferably separated from the retaining connecting end, such that the coupling device is preferably selectively connected to and disengaged from the second coupling in the open configuration. In the closed configuration, the head connecting end of the coupling device is preferably adapted to be securely engaged with the second coupling. Preferably, any load borne by the head connecting end and the retaining connecting end from the second coupling is transmitted to the small-scale railway vehicle via the pivot post. The coupling device also preferably includes a helical spring and a spring strut. The helical spring preferably defines a spring axis. The helical spring preferably engages the head lever end and the retainer lever end and extends therebetween. The spring axis is preferably transverse to the forward / reverse direction of movement of the small-scale model railway vehicle. The helical spring is preferably compressed in the open configuration and biased toward the closed configuration. The spring strut preferably engages the helical spring and at least partially divides it in two. Preferably, via the helical spring, the spring strut pushes the head lever and retainer lever toward the closed configuration and, in the opposite transverse direction, pushes the head connecting end and retainer connecting end toward a substantially centered position relative to the small-scale model railway vehicle, so that the connecting device is securely engaged with the second connecting member.

[0022] According to one aspect of the invention, the head coupling end may preferably, but does not necessarily, have an inward bevel and a joint hook. The retaining coupling end preferably, but does not necessarily, have an inner bearing surface. Preferably, when the second coupling is selectively pushed against the inward bevel and the inner bearing surface, the head rod and the retaining rod may preferably, but does not necessarily, pivot toward the open configuration to facilitate automatic engagement. Preferably, after the second coupling passes the inward bevel, the helical spring may preferably, but does not necessarily, push the head rod and / or the retaining rod toward the closed configuration. In the closed configuration, the joint hook may preferably, but does not necessarily, securely engage the second coupling to achieve the secure engagement of the coupling device with the second coupling.

[0023] According to one aspect of the invention, when the head rod and the retaining rod are stacked together as described above, the head rod may preferably, but need not necessarily, be positioned above the retaining rod.

[0024] According to one aspect of the invention, the coupling device may preferably, but not necessarily, include a coupling housing. The coupling housing may preferably, but not necessarily, securely engage the pivot column and / or securely mount it on a small-scale railway vehicle.

[0025] According to one aspect of the invention, the coupling device preferably, but not necessarily, includes mounting screws. The mounting screws may, but not necessarily, securely mount the coupling housing to a small-scale railway vehicle. The mounting screws preferably, but not necessarily, pass through holes in the coupling housing and / or through the pivot column.

[0026] According to one aspect of the invention, the coupling device preferably, but not necessarily, includes mounting screws. The mounting screws may, but not necessarily, securely mount the coupling box to the small-scale railway vehicle. The pivot column may, but not necessarily, be fixed to the small-scale railway vehicle via the coupling box.

[0027] According to one aspect of the invention, the connecting device preferably, but not necessarily, includes a gasket member. The spring support may preferably, but not necessarily, securely engage with the gasket member and / or extend from the gasket member. The connecting housing may preferably, but not necessarily, have an inner sidewall. The gasket member may preferably, but not necessarily, securely engage with the inner sidewall, preferably securely fixing the spring support in a fixed position, preferably resisting the aforementioned push of the helical springs of the head rod and retaining rod towards the closed configuration.

[0028] According to one aspect of the invention, the spring strut can preferably, but not necessarily, be fixed in a fixed position relative to a small-scale model railway vehicle, preferably resisting the aforementioned push of the helical springs of the head rod and retainer rod toward the closed configuration.

[0029] According to one aspect of the invention, the head lever end and / or the retainer lever end may preferably, but need not, each have a spring landing portion. The spring landing portion may preferably, but need not, be securely engaged with the coil spring. The spring landing portion may preferably, but need not, have a tapered diameter. The widest point of the tapered diameter may preferably, but need not, be wider than the inner diameter of the coil spring. The narrowing point of the tapered diameter may preferably, but need not, be substantially equal to the inner diameter of the coil spring. The coil spring may preferably, but need not, be securely engaged at the narrowing point and / or biased to prevent slippage past the widest point.

[0030] According to one aspect of the invention, the helical spring may preferably, but not necessarily, be fixed to the head lever end and / or the retainer lever end by adhesive and / or mechanical attachment devices.

[0031] According to one aspect of the invention, the retaining rod lever end may preferably, but not necessarily, have an extension engaging the spring strut, preferably when the retaining rod pivots away from the substantially central position and / or when the retaining connecting end pivots toward the spring strut. Preferably, when the extension engages the spring strut, the helical spring may preferably, but not necessarily, be restricted from further compression adjacent to the retaining rod lever end, and / or the retaining rod may preferably, but not necessarily, be restricted from further pivoting away from the substantially central position, preferably to achieve the secure connection between the connecting device and the second connecting member.

[0032] According to one aspect of the invention, the extension may preferably, but need not necessarily, be selectively removable.

[0033] According to one aspect of the invention, the head rod may preferably, but not necessarily, have a connecting ridge. The retaining rod may preferably, but not necessarily, have a connecting tab. The connecting ridge may preferably, but not necessarily, engage and / or pivot the retaining rod, preferably together with the head rod, and preferably when the head connection end continues to pivot after the head rod and retaining rod have pivoted to the closed configuration. The connecting ridge may preferably, but not necessarily, engage the connecting tab and / or pivot the retaining rod, preferably together with the head rod, and preferably when the head connection end continues to pivot after the head rod and retaining rod have pivoted to the open configuration. The connecting tab may preferably, but not necessarily, engage the connecting ridge and / or pivot the head rod, preferably together with the retaining rod, and preferably when the retaining connection end continues to pivot after the retaining rod and head rod have pivoted to the open configuration.

[0034] According to one aspect of the invention, the head connector may preferably, but not necessarily, have a magnetically actuated release pin to enable selective magnetic movement of the head connector toward the open configuration.

[0035] According to one aspect of the invention, the spring support may preferably, but need not necessarily, restrict the movement of the spring.

[0036] According to one aspect of the invention, the spring strut may preferably, but not necessarily, achieve selective compression and / or tension of the helical spring adjacent to the lever end of the head rod, preferably at least to some extent independent of any compression and / or tension of the helical spring on the other side of the spring strut adjacent to the retainer rod.

[0037] According to one aspect of the invention, the spring strut includes a plate member, a flange member, and / or a column member.

[0038] According to the present invention, one or more small-scale model railway vehicle coupling devices, systems, and methods are also disclosed. (In this document, the small-scale model railway vehicle coupling device and / or system may alternatively be referred to as a "coupling element".) According to one aspect of the present invention, the device, system, and / or method is preferably used for coupling small-scale model railway vehicles and / or trains.

[0039] According to one aspect of the invention, the device, system, and / or method may preferably, but need not necessarily, involve a split rod-connector spring device.

[0040] According to one aspect of the invention, the split-type rod connector spring device may preferably, but not necessarily, include a helical spring, a retaining post member, and / or two rods. The two rods may preferably serve as two split rod halves of the connector. Each rod may preferably, but not necessarily, have a lever portion. The helical spring may preferably be elongated and have a longitudinal spring axis. The helical spring may preferably engage the lever portions of the two rods and extend therebetween. In use, the spring axis may preferably be laterally oriented—i.e., relative to the direction of movement of the vehicle. The helical spring and the lever portion may preferably act on the two split rod halves of the connector. The retaining post member may preferably cooperate with the helical spring to enable reliable self-centering of the connector. The retaining post member may preferably facilitate automatic engagement with relatively low spring force and / or help maintain reliable vehicle engagement when the train passes through a corner.

[0041] In view of the teachings and disclosure herein, those skilled in the art will understand that the small-scale model railway vehicle coupling devices, systems and methods according to the present invention offer significantly advantageous practicality and / or functionality compared to the prior art.

[0042] Other advantages, features and / or characteristics of the invention, as well as the operation and function of related elements combining structural, operational and / or component, feature and / or manufacturing economics, will become more apparent upon consideration of the detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] The novel features considered to be characteristic of the invention, as well as related apparatuses, systems, and / or methods according to the invention, with regard to their structure, organization, use, and / or methods of manufacture and / or operation, and other objectives and advantages, can be better understood from the accompanying drawings (in which currently preferred embodiments of the invention have been shown by way of example). However, it is clearly understood that such drawings are for illustrative and / or descriptive purposes only and are not intended to define the scope of the invention. In the drawings:

[0044] Figure 1A A rear view of a connector according to a preferred embodiment of the invention is shown;

[0045] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A bottom view of a partial cross-section of the connector along section line 1B-1B;

[0046] Figure 1C yes Figure 1B A close-up view of the central circle area 1C;

[0047] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1A An exploded perspective view of the connecting components;

[0048] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the left front bottom of the rod / spring sub-assembly of the connector in Figure 1.

[0049] picture Figure 4 This is a left front bottom perspective view of a rod / spring sub-assembly according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the lever / spring assembly, with a hand shown as a size and / or proportion reference;

[0051] Figure 6A A rear view of the connector according to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention is shown;

[0052] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A Top view of a partial cross-section of the connector;

[0053] Figure 7 It is connected to another such connector. Figure 1A Partial cross-sectional view of the bottom of the connector;

[0054] Figure 8A yes Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional view of the bottom of the connectors, each connector being in a closed configuration before being securely engaged with each other;

[0055] Figure 8B yes Figure 8A A partial cross-sectional view of the bottom of the connectors, each connector being in an open configuration during secure engagement with each other;

[0056] Figure 8C yes Figure 8B A close-up view of the central circle area 8C.

[0057] Figure 8D yes Figure 8A A partial cross-sectional view of the bottom of the connectors, each connector being in a closed configuration after being securely engaged with each other;

[0058] Figure 9A yes Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional view of the bottom of the connector, showing the offset structure encountered when passing through the railway;

[0059] Figure 9B yes Figure 9A The bottom partial cross-sectional view of the connector shows another offset structure encountered when crossing the railway;

[0060] Figure 10 A bottom perspective view of the mounting block and spring strut according to another preferred embodiment of the invention is depicted, shown on a model train;

[0061] Figure 11 This is a bottom perspective view of a magnetically actuated release pin on a rod / spring subassembly according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0062] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 rod / spring subassembly and Figure 10 A perspective view of the bottom of the mounting blocks and spring struts, shown on the model train; and

[0063] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 The bottom perspective view of the connector shows the connector box on the model train. Detailed Implementation

[0064] This disclosure, including the accompanying drawings, may include one or more numbers, words, phrases, sentences, menu items, arrangements, and / or configurations, which may be included by way of example. It is particularly important to reiterate in this regard that such drawings and / or this disclosure are for illustrative and descriptive purposes only and are not intended to define the scope of the invention.

[0065] In addition, one or more directional terms (e.g., front, top, bottom, left, right, side) and / or other terms used in this document may be represented and / or referenced by other terms.

[0066] In the attached diagram, Figures 1A to 13 Aspects of a small-scale model railway vehicle coupling device, system, and method according to the present invention are shown.

[0067] The connector 100 preferably has a "split rod" design, having two parts or halves: a head half (or "head rod") 110 and a retainer half (or "retainer rod") 120. The two are preferably designed to stack together. The retainer half 120 is preferably located at the bottom, and the head half 110 is preferably located at the top.

[0068] The overlapping stacks 110, 120 are preferably supported by and pivot about a pivot member 130. The pivot member 130 is preferably provided in the form of a column. The two halves 110, 120 preferably pivot about this column member 130. The pivot member 130 preferably engages the connector box 140 and its top cover 150. (As shown and described elsewhere herein, the pivot member 130 is preferably provided as part of the connector box 140. The pivot member 130 is preferably shaped to define a hole through which the connector box 140 and the remainder of the connector 100 are mounted to the model train 90.) The pivot member 130 preferably transfers any load carried by the connector halves 110, 120 to the model train 90 itself via the box 140 and / or the cover 150. (The box 140 and / or the cover 150 may be provided with the connector 100, or as part of the model train 90 rather than as a completely separate component.)

[0069] Each of the connecting halves 110, 120 preferably has an extension forming lever portions 118, 128. Preferably, the head rod (or "joint rod" or "joint half") 110 has a head / joint portion 112, and the retaining rod 120 has a retaining portion 122, both opposite to their respective lever portions 118, 128. These connecting parts 112, 122 (i.e., the head portion 112 of the head rod 110 and the retaining portion 122 of the retaining rod 120) are preferably available between an open configuration and a closed configuration (in Figure 1B (It can pivotally move in directions "A" and "B"). In a closed structure, such as... Figure 1B 、 Figures 3-5 、 Figures 6B-8A 、 Figures 8D-9A and Figures 11-13 As may be optimally shown, the head portion 112 and the retaining portion 122 are adapted together to secure the coupling 100 carrying them to another coupling 100 (e.g., Figure 7 、 Figure 8D and Figure 9A (Possibly best shown). However, in the open configuration, the head portion 112 and the retaining portion 122 are separated from each other (relative to the open configuration) to selectively achieve a secure engagement with or release from another coupling 100—as shown. Figure 8B As shown in the best example.

[0070] The lever portions 118 and 128 are preferably shorter (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 3 (As shown). However, some preferred embodiments of the connector 100' may be provided with long lever portions 118', 128' (e.g., as shown). Figure 4(As shown). In the long lever embodiment of connector 100', the helical spring 160 is located between the ends of the long levers 118', 128' extending on each of the two connector halves 110', 120'—for example, as Figure 4 As shown. In a preferred short lever embodiment of the connector 100, the helical spring 160 is preferably located between the short levers 118, 128 of the two connector halves 110, 120—for example, as Figure 1B , Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figures 7-9B and Figures 11-12 As shown – near the pivot column member 130.

[0071] Advantageously, the long lever embodiments of the connectors 100', 100" are preferably easily compatible with the conventional construction of the connector boxes 140", 150" of model trains according to the prior art (e.g., Figures 6A-6B (Possibly best shown). The long lever 118”, 128””””””””””””””””””””””””)””)”)”)”)”)”)”))”))))))))) The long lever 118””””1255555””15 ... Figure 6B (As shown) Sufficient clearance is provided because, according to the prior art, the mounting screw 152 can conventionally be located approximately in the middle of the model train coupling boxes 140”, 150”. Therefore, the long lever implementation of the couplings 100”, 100” can preferably be readily adapted to the prior art model railway vehicle 90, preferably requiring minimal (if any) modifications to the vehicle 90 itself.

[0072] On the other hand, the short lever embodiment can preferably and / or advantageously provide significantly more lateral travel for the coupling 100. This feature preferably allows the model train 90 to navigate sharper railway bends. In the short lever embodiment, the coil spring 160 is preferably positioned closer to the pivot member 130. (However, prior art model train coupling boxes can utilize this location to mount screws 152 that can pass through the pivot member 130, as per...) Figure 10 and Figure 12-13 This can be best understood. The short lever embodiment of the connector 100 may include a customized connector box and / or may involve more modifications to the connector box of prior art model trains than the long lever embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] The short pole implementation and the long pole implementation are preferably fully compatible to be connected to each other (as per [reference]). Figure 3 and 4 (The considerations are understandable), and they can preferably be used interchangeably according to the specific requirements of the model track vehicle and / or the specific track project.

[0074] Regardless of the implementation, lever portions 118, 128 are preferably securely attached to the helical spring 160. Spring 160 is preferably mechanically attached and secured to lever portions 118, 128, such as... Figures 1B-1C and Figure 7 This is best understood. Preferably, each of the lever ends 118, 128 has a spring landing portion. The spring landing portion 200 is securely engaged with the helical spring 160. For example... Figure 1C As best shown, the spring landing portion 200 preferably has a tapered diameter 202. The widest point 204 of the tapered diameter 202 is preferably wider than the inner diameter 162 of the coil spring 160. The narrowing point 206 of the tapered diameter 202 is preferably substantially equal to the inner diameter 162 of the coil spring 160. The coil spring 160 is preferably firmly engaged at the narrowing point 206 and biased to prevent slippage at the widest point 204.

[0075] Spring 160 may be mechanically attached and secured to lever portions 118, 128 in the manner described above and / or otherwise. (Additionally or alternatively, spring 160 may be attached and secured to lever portions 118”, 128” using adhesive 164 (e.g., specialty glue), such as...) Figure 6A and Figure 6B As best shown. Attaching and securing the spring 160 to the lever portions 118, 128 preferably helps to supplement the spring tension. The spring 160 can be subjected to both compressive and tensile forces.

[0076] like Figure 1B and Figure 1C As may be best shown, each of the lever portions 118, 128 is preferably provided with a spring landing portion 200. The spring 160 may preferably act on the levers 118, 128 with a compressive force. Furthermore, in some cases, the coil spring 160 may be under tension. (As described elsewhere herein, the coupling 100 preferably includes a retaining strut or “spring strut” 170, which divides the spring 160 in two and / or helps to self-center the mechanism.) In any case, the spring 160 is preferably held attached to the lever portions 118, 128, even under tension.

[0077] In commercial embodiments of the invention, the construction, mechanical attachment, and secure retention of the helical spring 160 and the spring landing portion 200 can be achieved in a variety of different ways falling within the scope of the invention. For example, a hook portion (not shown) can be provided to retain the spring 160 attached to the spring landing portion 200 provided on each of the lever portions 118, 128, and / or the spring 160 can be glued to the spring landing portion 200" on the lever portions 118", 128", as shown. Figure 6A and Figure 6BAs may be optimal. For example, a special / cyanoacrylate (“CA”) adhesive 164 can be applied to the opposite ends of the spring landing portion 200” and the spring 160 to mechanically attach the opposite ends of the spring 160 to the connecting rod lever portions 118”, 128”. Preferably, the CA adhesive 164 can effectively support the opposite ends of the spring 160 against the lever portions 118”, 128”, and / or maintain a firm engagement between the spring 160 and the lever portions 118”, 128” when the spring 160 is under tension.

[0078] like Figure 1B and Figure 9A As best shown, the retaining lever end 128 preferably also has an extension 210 that engages the spring pillar 170 when the retaining lever 120 is pivoted away from its substantially central position and when the retaining coupling end 122 is pivoted toward the spring pillar 170. Preferably, when the extension 210 engages the spring pillar 170, the coil spring 160 is restricted from further compression adjacent to the retaining lever end 128, and the retaining lever 120 is preferably restricted from further pivoting away from the substantially central position, so that the connecting device 100 is securely engaged with the second connecting member. The extension 210 preferably improves reliability when the range of motion of the connecting member 100 is limited within its housing. The extension 210 limits the travel, so that the lever arm 128 bottoms out on the pillar 170 earlier. Otherwise, if the range of motion of the lever arm 128 exceeds the range of motion of the joint 110 in the same direction, an accidental disengagement event may occur.

[0079] The extension 210 is preferably made of plastic and is adapted to be selectively removed by the user 80 when not needed, for example, if there is no risk of the lever arms 118, 128 contacting the inner wall of the connector box. If the box is wide enough and a greater range of motion is required, the plastic of the extension 210 can preferably be easily cut off from the connector 100. Furthermore, some embodiments of the invention preferably do not include the extension 210 on the retainer half 128.

[0080] like Figure 2 , Figures 8B-8C and Figures 9A-9B As best shown, the head rod 110 preferably has a connecting ridge 116. The retaining rod 120 preferably has a connecting tab 126. When the head coupling end 112 continues to pivot after the head rod 110 and the retaining rod 120 have pivoted into a closed configuration, the connecting ridge 116 preferably engages with the head rod 110 and pivots the retaining rod 120 together, as shown. Figure 9AAs shown. When the head connecting end 112 continues to pivot after the head rod 110 and retaining rod 120 have pivoted into the open configuration, the connecting ridge 116 preferably engages with the connecting tongue 126 together with the head rod 110 and pivots the retaining rod 120, as shown. Figure 9B As shown. When the retaining member connecting end 112 continues to pivot after the retaining member rod 110 and the head rod 120 have already pivoted into the open configuration, the connecting tongue 126 preferably engages with the retaining member rod 120 together with the connecting ridge 116 and pivots the head rod 110 (as shown). Figures 8B-8C (Possibly best shown). The ridge 116 bears the weight and helps to make the head rod 110 more robust. The ridge 116 and the tongue 126 effectively serve as mechanical interconnects between rods 110 and 120.

[0081] In some preferred embodiments, spring 160 and lever portions 118, 128 can be securely engaged with each other in such a way that spring 160 is substantially restricted from any rotation relative to the lever portion about its longitudinal spring axis "CC". (This may facilitate the "spring strut" described elsewhere herein or maintain the proper functioning of strut 170.)

[0082] Preferably, in embodiments of couplings 100, 100', 100" when couplings 112, 122 (and couplings 112" and 122") are in the closed configuration, spring 160 is in a stationary state (e.g., neither compressed nor stretched). Spring 160 is preferably not too short, otherwise it may push couplings 112, 122 toward the open configuration, and / or cause coupling 100' to fail to maintain a reliable connection with the mating coupling. Similarly, spring 160 is preferably not too long, otherwise it may (i) push couplings 112, 122 toward each other and / or abut against each other with the force of spring 160, (ii) increase the required connection force to exceed the lower threshold that may be required and / or desired for a prepared automatic connection, and / or (iii) interfere with magnetic disengagement if, when, and / or may be desired and / or required in some embodiments within the scope of the invention.

[0083] In both the short-lever and long-lever implementation schemes, the helical spring 160 is preferably divided in two by spring struts (or "holding struts") 170, 170', and 170" as follows: Figure 1B , Figures 6A-8B , Figures 8D-9B and Figure 12 As best shown. The operation of the retaining struts 170, 170', 170" is preferably a novel and inventive feature of the small-scale model railway vehicle coupling device, system, and method according to the present invention. It preferably helps to provide a self-centering mechanism for the couplings 100, 100', 100"

[0084] It is worth noting that, in Figure 1B , Figure 2 , Figures 7-8B , Figures 8D-9B In this configuration, the retaining strut 170 is a flange or plate member extending from the gasket member 172. The spring strut 170 preferably securely engages with and extends from the gasket member 172, such as... Figure 2 As best shown. The connector box 140 preferably has an inner sidewall 142. The gasket member 172 preferably securely engages the inner sidewall 142 (e.g. Figure 1B and Figure 7 (Possibly best shown) to securely hold the spring support 170 in a fixed position against the pushing of the coil spring 160 of the head rod 110 and retainer rod 120 toward the closed configuration. The gasket member 172 and the spring support 170 may be made of brass. The gasket member 172 may preferably allow the design to be adapted to existing models. The gasket member 172 may help make the coupling 100 more accessible and / or usable in a wider range of environments and applications. As mentioned above, the gasket member 172 preferably abuts against the inner sidewall 142 of the housing 140.

[0085] In some embodiments within the scope of this invention, the support column 170 may be integrally formed into the box 140 and / or its cover 150.

[0086] like Figure 10 and Figure 12 As shown, the retaining column 170' is a flanged or plate-like member that can alternately extend from the mounting block 174 provided on the railway vehicle 90. However, in Figures 6A-6B In the middle, the support column 170” is alternately arranged in the form of column members extending between the connector box 140” and the box cover 150.

[0087] Connecting components 112, 122 can preferably provide a considerable amount of lateral travel (in) Figures 9A-9B As shown in the lateral direction "E", for example, to help the model train 90 navigate curves, in a model railway environment, the radius of these curves may often be much smaller than the radius that existing model train designs (even theoretically) can traverse. When implementing lateral travel, a mechanism may be needed to center or recenter the coupling 100. Otherwise, the couplings 100, 100 may remain off-center after navigating a curve and / or may not be able to automatically connect adjacent model railway vehicles 90 to each other. Some existing designs may not provide any suitable mechanism to effectively self-center their couplings, and / or may be useless for "let-go" operation.

[0088] Without the self-centering retaining post 170, the coupling assembly 100 may tend to float laterally around the pivot post member 130. Furthermore, the coupling 100 may then be unable to easily engage with another railcar 90, at least not without realigning the coupling 100 (e.g., manually) back to its center position. Figure 9A and Figure 9B The retaining strut 170 shown (among others) may be pushed with only insufficient force to reliably engage with the joint 110 on the other retaining strut 100 when the couplings 100, 100 are pulled toward their respective retaining halves 120, i.e., at least when the force of the spring 160 is still low enough to reliably achieve automatic (e.g., manual-free) engagement.

[0089] like Figure 1B , Figures 6A-7 , Figure 8A , Figure 8D and Figure 12 The retaining struts 170, 170', and 170" are preferably located at the center of the spring 160. The retaining strut 170 is small, for example, in an N- or Z-proportion. It should be centered such that it divides the length of the spring 160 in half in the middle, thus having an equal amount of spring 160 on both sides. Figures 6A-6B In the illustrated embodiment, it is also preferably positioned in the middle of the spring 160 along the front / rear axis of the connector 100”, so that the spring 160 will fall evenly on the retaining post 170 without slipping over it. Preferably, in this way, the post 170 helps to retain the spring 160.

[0090] The retaining struts 170, 170', 170" (and the gasket member 172) are preferably made of a robust material and / or can withstand the forces applied to them. For example, they may preferably be made of brass, steel and / or bronze, for example, with a thickness of about 0.007 inches.

[0091] also, Figures 6A-6B The retaining strut (or retaining strut member) 170” shown is preferably “stitched” through the spring coil of spring 160 to help ensure that spring 160 cannot slip past strut 170”. The retaining strut 170” is preferably “stitched” through the spring coil of spring 160 by inserting strut 170” through two adjacent spring coil rings of spring 160.

[0092] The spring 160 with retaining post 170 effectively allows the two parts 110, 120 of the split rod connector 100 to operate substantially (or at least partially) independently of each other. For example, even with only one spring 160, it can preferably operate almost as if each half 110, 120 of the split rod were to bounce independently. Preferably, movement on either split rod part 110, 120 can be substantially (or at least partially) isolated from the other split rod part, and / or can be prevented from being transmitted to the other split rod part. The retaining post 170 can preferably limit the movement of the spring 160.

[0093] Preferably, in addition to reliably self-centering the connector 100, the retaining strut 170 can also limit the travel of the retaining half 120 of the split rods 110, 120, and / or enable it to withstand lateral forces on the connectors 100, 100 (e.g., when...). Figures 9A-9B The tension on the opposite connecting member 100 is gradually increased in the lateral direction “E” shown.

[0094] Advantageously, the spring 160 and the retaining strut 170 preferably have very small dimensions, which preferably helps to increase and / or maximize the amount of travel that the connecting parts 110, 120 can make, and / or helps the model railway vehicle 90 equipped with such connecting parts 100 to pass through sharper corners.

[0095] In the long lever embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the connector box 140” is shaped to define lever cutout portions 144, 144. As per... Figure 6B As can be best shown, the lever cutout portions 144, 144 of the housing 140” preferably provide sufficient clearance for the lever portions 118”, 128” of the connecting member 100” within the extended range of motion (e.g., relative to each other and / or around the pivot member 130”). The range of motion of the joint half 110 of the connecting member preferably matches the range of motion of the retaining half 120.

[0096] *Description of Connector Operation* Preferably, connectors 100, 100', and 100" can automatically connect two model railway vehicles 90 together without manual intervention and / or any intervention from operator 80. Connectors 100, 100', and 100" preferably remain connected as the railway vehicles traverse a model railway with various gradients and / or curves.

[0097] The joint half 110 of the connector 100 is preferably shaped and otherwise adapted to achieve and / or facilitate automatic coupling. Once the carriages 90 are connected, the carriages 90 are preferably also kept connected. The outer surface 112a of the joint half 110 is preferably beveled inward, and its inner surface preferably maintains the same beveled inward.

[0098] The helical spring 160 and the retaining post 170 interact during the connection process, for example, as Figures 8A to 8D As shown.

[0099] Preferably, such as Figures 8A to 8D As shown, when adjacent mating couplings 100, 100 are pushed together (e.g., coupling 100 on a moving rail vehicle 90 engages with an adjacent mating coupling 100 on a stationary rail vehicle 90), the inwardly inclined surfaces 112a of the joint heads 112 of the mating couplings engage with each other. With continued pushing toward each other, adjacent joint halves 110, 110 are preferably pushed outward and / or pivot about their respective pivot column members 130. Joint half 110 preferably transmits this force to its spring 160 via its lever arm 118. In this way, a portion of the spring 160 can preferably compress against the retaining strut 170 that divides it in two. Figure 8B As may be optimally shown, the joint head 110 preferably also engages the inner bearing surface 124 disposed on the retaining half 120 of the mating coupling 100. Preferably, in this way, the retaining half 120 is also pushed to pivot outward about its pivot post member 130, thereby transmitting force to its lever portion 128 and the other side of the spring 160 in a similar manner. The spring 160 resists this force. The spring 160 is preferably constructed to have a relatively low spring force. In this way, the spring 160 preferably achieves and / or facilitates automatic coupling, having an appropriate amount of force that may be encountered and / or required when the model railway vehicle is coupled.

[0100] Preferably, after the chamfered edges 112a of adjacent joint halves 110 are moved apart, the spring 160 forces the connecting member back to its original position (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 8D (As may be best shown). Then, preferably, the mating couplings 100, 100 are connected.

[0101] When the train is pulled or pushed, a force in the direction of motion (“D”) is applied to the joint 112 of the mating coupling 100 and is preferably transmitted via the pivot member 130 to the coupling box 140 and the railcar 90 itself. The inward slope of the mating surface of the joint preferably provides positive locking and helps to maintain the connection of adjacent cars. Furthermore, the retaining half 120 preferably helps to maintain the car connection, particularly, for example, when the train is not pulled and / or there is no tension on the inward slope of the joint. The spring 160 then preferably actuates the lever portion on the retaining half 120 in such a way that the inner bearing surface on the retaining half 120 engages with the joint portion 112 of the mating coupling and helps to maintain the joints 112, 112 engaged with each other.

[0102] When the model track vehicle 90 traverses a curved track, the mating couplings 100, 100 on adjacent carriages may no longer align. The couplings 100, 100 are preferably capable of lateral movement, for example, as... Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown, the connection is still maintained.

[0103] When the connecting member 100 is pulled in the direction of its articulated hook 112b, and when the curve of the railway causes its articulated half 110 to rotate about the pivot pin member 130, its lever portion 118 preferably presses the corresponding side of the spring 160 against the retaining post 170 (e.g., Figure 9B (As shown). Spring 160 is preferably held in place by retaining strut 170. Preferably, mating articulated hooks 112b, 112b then securely connect the carriages 90 to each other, as shown. Figure 9B As shown. Therefore, in this case, the carriages will still be connected to each other in a forward direction.

[0104] Sometimes, the railway turns in the opposite direction, causing the connecting parts 110, 120 to rotate about the pivot pin member 130 in another direction toward the retaining half 120, such as... Figure 9A As shown. Then, the joint half 110 of the first connecting member 100 engages with the retaining half 120 of the connecting member 100. Therefore, when the connecting members 112, 122 are pulled in the direction of the retaining half 120, the retaining half 120 moves together with the joint half 110. When the connecting member 100 rotates about the pivot pin member 130 in the direction of the retaining connection end 122, the retaining half 120 moves together with the joint half 110. When the retaining half 120 rotates about the pivot pin member 130, its lever portion 122 preferably presses the corresponding side of the spring 160 against the retaining post 170 (e.g., Figure 9A(As shown). Preferably, the more the coupling 100 rotates in this direction, the more the spring 160 is compressed, thereby increasing the force by which the inner bearing surface 124 of its retaining half 120 is pushed against the joint half 110 of the mating coupling. This force helps to keep the mating couplings 100, 100 firmly engaged with each other, especially, for example, when pulling a lighter load and / or when the hook-shaped ramps 112a, 112a of the joint halves 110, 110 may not reliably keep the joint halves 110, 110 engaged with each other. Preferably, according to the invention, the further the coupling 100 is from the center, the greater the force on the retaining half 120 of the coupling 100.

[0105] The joint half 110 of the connecting member 100 also preferably rotates about the pivot pin member 130 in the direction of the retaining half 120. Even Figure 9A and Figure 9B The narrower housing 140' and cover 150' shown are also preferably designed to provide sufficient clearance for the lever portions 118, 128 on the rods 110, 120 of the connector 100 within their extended range of motion. Therefore, the movement, stroke, and range of motion of the articulated half 110 of the connector 100 are preferably matched to the movement, stroke, and range of motion of its retaining half 120. For example, the extension 210 on the lever end 128 of the retaining rod, when engaged with the aforementioned spring support 170, preferably improves connection reliability through the partially restricted range of motion from the housing 140'.

[0106] Preferably, according to some embodiments of the invention (e.g., ... Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown), no additional clearance is required within the housing 140' for the lever portions 118 and 128. The gasket member 172' is preferably adapted to be installed inside the housing 140'.

[0107] Now, when the lever portions 118 and 128 of the rods 110 and 120 have traveled to their maximum extent, the spring 160 may be under tension relative to the retaining post 170. Therefore, the lever portions 118 and 128 of the rods 110 and 120 are preferably reliably and securely attached to the spring 160.

[0108] According to the invention, the model railway train vehicles 90 can be detached from each other in various ways. For example, a pointed tool (e.g., a bamboo skewer with a sharp tip) can be used to push the connecting parts 112, 122 apart, putting them in an open configuration. Alternatively, one of the vehicles 90 can be lifted vertically so that its connecting part 100 slides upward relative to the connecting part 100 of the adjacent vehicle 90, and moves away from / detaches from the connecting part 100 of the adjacent vehicle 90. And / or, in some embodiments of the invention (as described elsewhere herein), the model railway train vehicles 90 can be detached from each other by a magnetically actuated release pin 114 (e.g., as...). Figures 12-13 (As shown).

[0109] The retaining post 170 preferably enables the coil spring 160 to work effectively when used laterally in the aforementioned split rod connection design. The retaining post 170 effectively divides the single coil spring 160 in two, forming two spring parts that function independently of each other in many respects.

[0110] Preferably, the present invention helps to solve, eliminate and / or alleviate one or more problems associated with the prior art involving split rod connectors.

[0111] The device, system, and / or method according to the invention preferably provides benefits associated with a metal coil spring that operates in compression rather than rotation. The spring 160 itself is preferably easy to manufacture. It is preferably acted upon by coupling forces rather than any other train forces. It preferably does not have any undesirable "bouncy ring" effect. Preferably, only a relatively small force is required to automatically connect two model railway vehicles 90 to each other. The split-rod design of the device and system according to the invention is preferably scaled down well, for example to N-scale and Z-scale. According to the invention, the spring 160 is preferably invisible and / or substantially hidden within the housing 140, for example, it may be located below the model railway vehicle 90. Preferably, the device and / or system according to the invention can be easily manufactured using the spring 160, which is relatively common in the model railway coupling market.

[0112] This invention is intended for use in or in combination with coupling devices, systems, and methods (including split rod coupling designs) for small-scale model railway vehicles as described above. However, the invention is not limited thereto. Furthermore, other embodiments falling within the scope of this invention may be provided in any way. For example, some embodiments of the invention utilize their novel and inventive spring design (described elsewhere herein) in combination with an oversized split rod coupling, which can then advantageously be provided with a magnetically actuated release pin 114, for example as... Figures 12-13 As shown.

[0113] As described above, some embodiments of the connector 100 may preferably mechanically interconnect the retainer and the joint halves 110, 120, and allow them to rotate together when the joint halves rotate outward. Additionally or alternatively, such mechanical interconnection or rotation may be provided for aesthetic reasons and / or to achieve reliable magnetic disengagement.

[0114] In some preferred embodiments, according to the invention, the mounting method of the retaining post 170' is preferably different from that described elsewhere herein or shown in Figures 1 to 9B. In these embodiments—for example, as Figure 10 and Figure 12 As best shown, retaining strut 170' is preferably secured to train 90 by mounting block 174. It is preferably mounted such that it extends substantially from mounting block 174 in the longitudinal direction (i.e., relative to the intended direction of movement "D" of the model train). In some such embodiments, mounting block 174 is fitted into an existing coupling box, which is preferably easily retrofittable. Retaining strut 170' preferably still contributes to providing a self-centering mechanism for coupling 100—i.e., in a substantially the same and / or similar manner as described above. Retaining strut 170' is still preferably located at the center of spring 160, bisecting its length in the middle, thus having an equal amount of spring 160 on both sides. In such embodiments, spring 160 will fall evenly on retaining strut 170' without slipping over it.

[0115] In other embodiments, the connector may preferably be provided with two separate, smaller helical springs, rather than a single helical spring split in two by the strut.

[0116] With appropriate modifications of this kind (and, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the teachings and disclosure herein), the invention can preferably find advantageous practicality in relation to small-scale model railways.

[0117] The preceding description is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed.

[0118] Of course, given the teachings and disclosure herein, those skilled in the art will understand that alternative designs and / or embodiments of the invention are possible (e.g., replacing one or more components with another, employing alternative component constructions, etc.). Although some components, relationships, constructions, and / or steps according to the invention are not specifically referenced in conjunction with each other, they may be used in conjunction with each other and / or adapted to be used in conjunction with each other. All of the foregoing, as well as various other structures, constructions, relationships, utility, any possible descriptions and / or content based thereon, etc., may (but not necessarily) be incorporated into and / or implemented by the invention. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and without departing from the core, essence, and spirit of the disclosed invention, any one or more of the foregoing structures, constructions, relationships, utility, etc., may be implemented in the invention and / or by the invention independently and / or without reference to, consideration of, or similar to any other implementation of the foregoing structures, constructions, relationships, utility, etc., in various permutations and combinations.

[0119] Other modifications and alterations may be used in the design, manufacture and / or implementation of other embodiments of the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention (limited only by its claims).

Claims

1. A coupling device for use with a second coupling member and a pivot post secured to a small-scale model railway vehicle, wherein: The connecting device comprises: a head rod having a head coupling end and a head rod lever end; a retainer rod having a retainer coupling end and a retainer rod lever end; wherein the head rod and the retainer rod are stacked on top of each other and are each centrally and pivotally mounted on the pivot post; wherein the head rod and the retainer rod are selectively pivotable about the pivot post in opposite directions relative to each other between an open configuration and a closed configuration; wherein in the open configuration, the head coupling end is spaced apart from the retainer coupling end so that the coupling device can be selectively coupled to and disengaged from the second coupling member in the open configuration; wherein in the closed configuration, the head coupling end of the coupling device is adapted to be securely coupled to and engaged with the second coupling member; and wherein any loads from the second coupling member borne by the head coupling end and the retainer coupling end are transmitted to the small-scale railway vehicle via the pivot post; a coil spring defining a spring axis; wherein the coil spring engages and extends between the head rod lever end and the retainer rod lever end; wherein the spring axis is transverse to a forward / rearward direction of movement of the small-scale model railway vehicle; wherein the coil spring is compressed in the open configuration and biased toward the closed configuration; and a spring strut incorporating the coil spring and at least partially bisecting it and urging the head rod and retainer rod toward the closed configuration via the coil spring and urging the head coupling end and retainer coupling end in opposite lateral directions toward a substantially centered position relative to the small-scale model railway vehicle to secure the coupling engagement of the coupling device with the second coupling.

2. The coupling device according to claim 1, wherein: The head connection end has an inward bevel and an articulated hook, and the retaining member connection end has an inner bearing surface; wherein when the second connecting member is selectively pushed against the inward bevel and the inner bearing surface, the head rod and the retaining member rod pivot toward the open structure to promote automatic connection; wherein after the second connecting member passes through the inward bevel, the coil spring pushes the head rod and the retaining member rod toward the closed structure, at which time the articulated hook firmly engages the second connecting member to achieve the firmly connected engagement between the connecting device and the second connecting member.

3. The coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: When the head rod and the holder rod are stacked on top of each other as described above, the head rod is positioned above the holder rod.

4. A coupling arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a coupling box fixedly engaging the pivot post and fixedly mounted on the small-scale railway vehicle.

5. The coupling device of claim 4 further comprising a mounting screw that securely mounts the coupling box to the small-scale railway vehicle; and wherein the mounting screw passes through the coupling box and through the hole in the pivot post.

6. The coupling device of claim 4, further comprising a mounting screw that securely mounts the coupling box to the small-scale railway vehicle; and wherein the pivot post is secured to the small-scale railway vehicle via the coupling box.

7. The coupling device according to any one of claims 4 to 6 further includes a gasket member; wherein the spring strut is securely engaged with the gasket member and extends from the gasket member; wherein the coupling box has an inner side wall, and the gasket member is securely engaged with the inner side wall to securely fix the spring strut in a fixed position to resist the above-mentioned push of the coil spring of the head rod and the retainer rod toward the closed structure.

8. The coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The spring strut is fixed in a fixed position relative to the small scale model railway vehicle to resist the above-mentioned urging of the coil springs of the head rod and retainer rod toward the closed configuration.

9. The coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The head rod lever end and the retainer rod steel rod end each have a spring landing portion that is securely engaged with the coil spring; wherein the spring landing portion has a tapered diameter; wherein the widest point of the tapered diameter is wider than the inner diameter of the coil spring, and the narrowing point of the tapered diameter is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the coil spring; wherein the coil spring securely engages the narrowing point and is biased to prevent sliding past the widest point.

10. The coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The coil spring is secured to the head rod lever end and the retainer rod lever end by adhesive and / or mechanical attachment means.

11. The coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The retainer rod lever end has an extension that engages the spring strut when the retainer rod is pivoted away from the substantially centered position and the retainer coupling end is pivoted toward the spring strut; wherein, when the extension engages the spring strut, the coil spring is restricted from further compression adjacent to the retainer rod lever end and the retainer rod is restricted from further pivoting away from the substantially centered position to achieve the secure coupling engagement of the coupling device with the second coupling.

12. The coupling device according to claim 11, wherein: The extension is selectively removable.

13. A coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The head rod has a connecting ridge and the retaining member rod has a connecting tongue; wherein: (a) after the head rod and the retaining member rod have been pivoted to the closed structure, the head connecting end continues to pivot, and the connecting ridge engages and pivots the retaining member rod together with the head rod; (b) after the head rod and the retaining member rod have been pivoted to the open structure, the head connecting end continues to pivot, and the connecting ridge engages the connecting tongue together with the head rod and pivots the retaining member rod; and (c) after the retaining member rod and the head rod have been pivoted to the open structure, the retaining member connecting end continues to pivot, and the connecting tongue engages the connecting ridge together with the retaining member rod and pivots the head rod.

14. A coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein: The head coupling end has a magnetically actuated disengagement pin to enable selective magnetic movement of the head coupling end toward the open configuration.

15. A coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: The spring strut limits movement of the spring.

16. The coupling device according to claim 15, wherein: The spring strut enables selective compression and extension of the coil spring adjacent the lever end of the head rod, at least to a certain extent independently of any compression or extension of the coil spring on the other side of the spring strut adjacent the retainer rod.

17. A coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein: The spring strut includes a plate member, a flange member and / or a column member.

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