Turnout or crossbar components with detachable connectors, and methods and components for monitoring detachable connectors.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a turnout or crossing component (200) comprising a base component (202), a replaceable component (206), at least one detachable connection (216, 218, 220) by means of which the replaceable component (206) can be connected to the base component (202), and at least one sensor (244) for monitoring the quality of the detachable connection, wherein the sensor (244) generates a signal representing the quality of the detachable connection when a rail vehicle passes over the turnout or crossing component (200). To reliably identify a detached connection, the sensor (244) is arranged in the base component (202) and securely connected to the base component.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a turnout or crossing component, particularly a slotted track turnout or crossing component, such as a frog or tongue rail assembly, comprising a base component, such as a frog block or tongue rail adapter, or a tongue rail assembly in an integral structural form with a tongue rail base (Zungenbett) present in its upper component or upper section; replaceable components, such as frog inserts or tongue rails; at least one detachable connection (Verbindung, sometimes also called a connecting structure), such as a tightening part (Verschraubung) and / or a clamping part (Klemmung), which is connected to the base component by means of its replaceable components, particularly in a force-fitting and / or form-fitting manner; and at least one sensor for monitoring the quality of the detachable connection, particularly in terms of force transmission and / or form fit, wherein a signal representing the quality of the detachable connection is generated in the sensor when a rail vehicle passes over the turnout or crossing component. Background Technology

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method for monitoring a detachable connection of a turnout or crossing component, particularly a slotted track turnout or crossing component, such as a frog or tongue rail device, wherein a replaceable component, such as a frog insert or tongue rail, is secured to a base component, such as a frog block or tongue rail adapter, or a tongue rail device in an integral structure with a tongue rail base present in its upper component or upper section, by means of a detachable connection, for example, a clamping connection, and wherein a signal is acquired by means of a sensor for checking the quality of the detachable connection, particularly the force transmission or form fit, the signal being generated when a rail vehicle passes over the turnout or crossing component and representing the quality of the detachable connection.

[0003] The present invention also relates to a component for performing the method.

[0004] FR 2 745 543 A1 describes a remote monitoring system for a railway network for monitoring the operating parameters of at least one turnout facility. The system is configured such that each turnout facility includes a set of sensors, which are matched accordingly to measure characteristic values ​​representing a feature. The sensors are connected to a data acquisition unit, where an algorithm for managing the acquired measurement data is stored. Furthermore, devices are provided for comparing the measurement data with at least one threshold, which represents a limit value for the corresponding operating parameter.

[0005] Known devices include, for example, replaceable components in the form of wheel guides, which are connected to a base component in the form of a track via a detachable connector. A sensor is provided to monitor the clamping force applied to the wheel guide at the track via the detachable connector. This sensor is located within the wheel guide, which means that the sensor must also be replaced or removed when the wheel guide is replaced. This results in increased cost.

[0006] In this method, the clamping quality of the wheel guide is further configured to be monitored using a measurement signal provided by an acceleration sensor that acquires the impact generated by the wheel at the wheel guide.

[0007] DE 200 16674U1 relates to an assembly for measuring the movement of the frog tip of a turnout. The assembly is characterized by a solid-state acoustic sensor fixed to a wing rail screwed to the frog of the turnout. The sensor at the wing rail is freely accessible and therefore subject to the risk of contamination and damage. In the case of tracks typically covered in the tram sector, the sensor is inaccessible.

[0008] If the wing rail needs to be replaced, the sensor is removed at the same time.

[0009] DE 10 2004 014 282 B4 describes a method for diagnosis and condition monitoring in the overflow area of ​​turnouts and / or crossings and / or crossovers on railway lines. When a train passes the turnout and / or crossing and / or crossover in a defined direction, the acceleration of the turnout or crossing at at least one location in at least one spatial direction at a rigid frog or intersection is measured, generated by the train passing the frog or intersection. Detachable connections are not monitored.

[0010] EP 2 103 738 B1(D1) relates to a frog having a frog insert. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The present invention is based on the objective of improving a turnout or crossing component, method, or assembly of the type mentioned at the beginning, such that the detachable connections, such as fixings or clamps, of replaceable components are simplified and improved by means of a sensing device for monitoring. Loose screws and / or clamps should be reliably signaled / identified.

[0012] The replacement of damaged, replaceable parts should also be possible without significant cost, especially when the sensing device or sensor is not replaced.

[0013] According to the invention, this task is further solved generally by a turnout or crossing component, such as a frog or tongue rail device, comprising: a base component, such as a frog block or tongue rail adapter; a replaceable component, such as a frog insert or tongue rail or a tongue rail device in an integral form with a tongue rail base present in its upper component or upper section; at least one detachable connection, such as a tightening part and / or a clamping part, which can be connected to the base component, particularly force-transmitting and / or form-fitting, by means of its replaceable component; and at least one sensor for monitoring the quality of the detachable connection, particularly force-transmitting and / or form-fitting, wherein a signal is generated in the sensor when a rail vehicle passes over the turnout or crossing component, particularly the replaceable component, the signal representing the quality of the detachable connection, i.e., the sensor is arranged in the base component and securely connected to the base component.

[0014] Typically, replaceable parts are placed facetically on the base components and driven over by rail vehicles.

[0015] In particular, the basic component is a frog block or tongue rail adapter or a tongue rail device in the form of an integral structure with a tongue rail base present in its upper component or upper section, wherein at least one sensor is integrated or securely connected thereto.

[0016] In particular, at least one sensor is arranged in a gap in the base component, which is covered by a replaceable component.

[0017] In order to make it possible to replace the replaceable parts of the trough track in a simple way, that is, without damaging the track cover or without removing the intact sensor from the part to be replaced, the sensor is arranged in the base component and securely connected to the base component.

[0018] In cases where replaceable parts are being replaced, not only the sensor but also the replacement leads (Zuleitung, sometimes called input lines) are kept out of contact, because the sensor and the replaceable parts are not in contact.

[0019] According to an advantageous improvement, the sensor is preferably configured as an acceleration sensor or a solid-state sound sensor.

[0020] Preferably, the sensor is arranged in the base component to transmit acceleration and mechanical vibration, i.e., it acquires at least one impact as acceleration and / or mechanical vibration exerted by the not-fully-secured replaceable component on at least one detachable connection and / or base component in cases where a rail vehicle, in particular, passes over a not-fully-secured replaceable component.

[0021] A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the turnout or crossing component is a frog, wherein the base component is a frog block and the replaceable component is a frog insert, which is connected to the frog block by means of a detachable, preferably screw-on, clamping connection.

[0022] Particularly preferably, the frog insert is arranged in an accessible, non-destructive gap in the frog block when covered by the frog, wherein the sensor is arranged in the gap, preferably vertically below the replaceable frog insert, and preferably covered by the frog insert without contacting the sensor.

[0023] The sensor is arranged in a groove constructed in the bottom of the void, wherein the groove forms at least one section of the drain and leads to the outlet.

[0024] Furthermore, the sensor has leads that are preferably led out from the frog block to a cable shaft connected to the frog via an outlet constructed in the bottom of the gap, preferably as a vertical borehole, and / or via a channel constructed transversely to the direction of travel in the frog block. The sensor with leads is waterproof.

[0025] Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that the turnout or crossing component is a tongue rail device, wherein the basic component is a tongue rail adapter and the replaceable component is a tongue rail, which is connected to the tongue rail adapter by means of a detachable connection in the form of a screw-on clamping connection.

[0026] The detachable connection preferably has at least one clamping wedge, which is penetrated by a clamping threaded fastener that can be screwed into a thread, preferably a blind thread, constructed in the base component.

[0027] Preferably, at least one clamping washer, and more particularly two clamping washeres, are arranged between the head of the clamping threaded fastener and the top surface of the clamping wedge, which causes pre-tightening. A sealing element, particularly a closed-hole sealing element, such as sponge rubber, is arranged between the bottom surface of the clamping wedge and the base component. This sealing element enables a seal between the threaded fastener element penetrating the clamping wedge and the internally threaded drilled hole in the base component, thereby preventing the intrusion of moisture and thus preventing corrosion.

[0028] Furthermore, it is emphasized that the base component can be a tongue rail device with a tongue rail base located in its upper component or upper section, forming an integral structure. An integral structure means that the tongue rail device has a one-piece block with a tongue rail base as the upper component, in which the tongue rail is slidably arranged in an adjustable manner. Here, the upper component of the tongue rail device with the tongue rail base (Zungenbett) is particularly made of material with a preferred strength up to 1600 N / mm². 2 Or higher strength, especially at 1200 N / mm 2 Up to 1600 N / mm 2 It is constructed of high-strength steel with a strength between that of steel. Known steels such as Dillidur, Xar, Hardox, or Baitit may be mentioned as examples. The upper component of the tongue rail assembly is supported by a lower component, which may also be constructed in a block shape or as a support. The lower component of the tongue rail assembly is preferably constructed of structural steel.

[0029] Clearly, both the upper and lower components can be unique single-piece main bodies.

[0030] Here, the tongue rail device can be constructed such that the tongue rail base extends through the entire length of the tongue rail. In this regard, the structure known from EP 2 569485B1 can be referenced.

[0031] To clamp the tongue rail, a drilled hole with internal threads is provided in the upper component, into which a threaded fastener, passing through a clamping wedge (Klemmkeil) for clamping the tongue rail, can be screwed. In the area of ​​the clamping wedge, at least one sensor is thus arranged in the upper component of the integral tongue rail assembly, by means of which a signal is generated for checking the quality of the connection, such as the clamping part.

[0032] To prevent liquid from accumulating in the area of ​​the sensor's connection, the connection extends into an opening that transitions into an outlet opening extending into the lower part of the integral tongue rail assembly.

[0033] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for monitoring a detachable connection of a turnout or crossing component, such as a frog or tongue rail device, wherein a replaceable component, such as a frog insert or tongue rail, is secured to a base component, such as a frog block or tongue rail adapter, or a tongue rail device in an integral structural form with a tongue rail base present in its upper component or upper section, by means of the detachable connection, and wherein a signal is acquired by means of a sensor for checking the quality of the detachable connection, particularly the force transmission and / or form fit, the signal being generated when a rail vehicle passes over the turnout or crossing component, particularly the replaceable component, and representing the quality of the detachable connection.

[0034] According to the invention, the signal is generated by an impact applied by at least one of the replaceable components to the detachable connection and / or base component when the rail vehicle passes over the replaceable component, and is acquired therein by means of a sensor arranged in the base component.

[0035] In a preferred method, the signal generated by the relative movement or displacement of the replaceable component and / or by the replacement component shifting from its optimal position relative to the detachable connection and / or base component in the event of a rail vehicle passing by is evaluated.

[0036] The test is indicated as follows: characteristic acceleration and / or characteristic solid-borne sound are induced by relative movement or displacement between components due to insufficiently clamped connections. Therefore, an acceleration sensor or a solid-borne sound sensor is preferably used as the sensor, wherein the sensor acquires at least one characteristic acceleration or characteristic solid-borne sound exerted by the insufficiently secured replaceable component on at least one detachable connection and / or base component when the rail vehicle passes over the replaceable component.

[0037] One improved scheme involves comparing the signal generated by the passing of a rail vehicle as an actual value signal with a reference signal or limit value to facilitate the identification of signals with characteristic acceleration or characteristic solid-borne sounds. In cases where the actual value signal deviates from the reference signal or limit value, a notification message (Meldung) is generated regarding insufficient quality in the force transmission and / or form fit of the detachable connection.

[0038] To eliminate interference signals, such as those generated by flat spots at the wheels of a rail vehicle, the following settings are made: at least two measurements are performed when a rail vehicle passes by or when two rail vehicles pass by consecutively, and a prompt message is triggered only when at least two events are detected each time a rail vehicle passes by or when two rail vehicles pass by consecutively, wherein the event is the detection of a characteristic signal.

[0039] Furthermore, the present invention relates to an assembly for monitoring a detachable connection of a turnout or crossing component, such as a frog or tongue rail device, wherein a replaceable component, such as a frog insert or tongue rail, is connected by means of the detachable connection to a base component, such as a frog block or tongue rail adapter, or a tongue rail device in an integral structural form with a tongue rail base present in its upper component or upper section, and wherein the assembly has a sensor connected to an evaluation unit for monitoring the quality of the detachable connection, particularly force transmission and / or form fit, by means of which a signal is acquired when a rail vehicle passes over the replaceable component and represents the quality of the detachable connection.

[0040] According to the invention, the component is characterized in that the sensor is connected only to or integrated into the base component and is constructed such that it acquires a signal generated by an impact applied to the base component by at least one removable connection and / or replaceable component.

[0041] At least one sensor is connected to the evaluation unit via a lead. The evaluation unit preferably has a computing unit with a comparator for comparing the acquired sensor signal with a reference signal or limit value.

[0042] Furthermore, replaceable components for tramway switches, such as detachable connections for frogs or tongue rails, such as clamping or tightening parts, can also be considered core to the invention. These include frog blocks or tongue rail adapters or basic elements in the form of tongue rail devices with tongue rail bases present in their upper components or upper sections, in an integral structural form. The detachable clamping includes at least one clamping wedge (Spannkeil) connected to a clamping threaded fastener in the basic element, such as the frog block or tongue rail adapter, and has a sensor, preferably an acceleration sensor, configured to collect the acceleration applied to the clamping or tightening part when the tram passes over a component that is not sufficiently clamped, such as a frog or tongue rail being replaced.

[0043] The invention is further characterized by a method for monitoring a detachable connection of a turnout or crossing component, such as a frog or tongue rail device, wherein a replaceable component, such as a frog insert or tongue rail, is secured to a base component, such as a frog block or tongue rail adapter, or an upper component of a tongue rail device in an integral structural form, by means of the detachable connection, and wherein a signal for checking the quality of the detachable connection, particularly force transmission or form fit, is acquired by means of a sensor, the signal being generated when a rail vehicle passes over the turnout or crossing component and representing the quality of the detachable connection, characterized in that, in the case of a rail vehicle passing over the replaceable component, the signal is generated by at least one impact applied by the replaceable component to the detachable connection and / or the base component, and is acquired therein by means of a sensor arranged in the base component. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Further details, advantages, and features of the invention will be apparent not only from the claims and the features therefrom (individually and / or in combination), but also from the following description and explanation of the preferred embodiments as known from the accompanying drawings.

[0045] in:

[0046] Figure 1 A top view of the frog facing the releasable connection for the replaceable frog insert is shown.

[0047] Figure 2a The data along section line AC-AC is shown. Figure 1 The cross section of the fork.

[0048] Figure 2b A cross-section through one embodiment of the clamping device is shown.

[0049] Figure 3 The following is shown without the frog insert. Figure 1 A top view of the fork.

[0050] Figure 4 Showing according to Figure 1 Perspective diagram of a fork

[0051] Figure 5 The assembly for inspecting the removable connection of the frog is shown.

[0052] Figure 6 A perspective view of the tongue rail adapter is shown.

[0053] Figure 7a Showing according to Figure 6 Side view of the tongue rail adapter.

[0054] Figure 7b The cross-section shows one embodiment of the clamping element passing through the tongue rail adapter.

[0055] Figure 8 Showing according to Figure 6 Side view of the tongue rail adapter.

[0056] Figure 9 Showing according to Figure 6 A top view of the tongue rail adapter.

[0057] Figure 10 Another preferred embodiment of the clamping element for clamping and connecting replaceable components to the base component is shown.

[0058] Figure 11 A top view of the tongue rail device, which is in the form of an integral structure, is shown.

[0059] Figure 12 This shows the area where the tongue rail is clamped and fixed in the tongue rail device according to Figure 11 The cross-section,

[0060] Figure 13 Showing along Figure 12 The cross section of line AA in the middle, and

[0061] Figure 14 Showing according to Figure 13 Section B. Detailed Implementation

[0062] Figure 1 A first embodiment of a turnout or crossing component in the form of a grooved track frog 10 is shown in top view, comprising a base component in the form of a frog block 12 with crossing grooves 14, 16. A replaceable component in the form of a frog insert 20 is arranged in the frog intermediate region 18, which is clamped and secured in the frog block 12 in the use position.

[0063] Figure 2a The fork 10 is shown along the path according to Figure 1 The cross-sectional view is shown along section line AC-AC. The frog insert 20 (hereinafter also referred to as the replaceable frog) is placed in the gap 22, which is constructed in the top surface 24 of the frog block 12. Here, the top surface 26 of the replaceable frog 20 and the top surface 24 of the frog block 12 are arranged in the same plane. The replaceable frog 20 is secured to the frog block 12 via at least one releasable connection 28, 30, 32, 34. The releasable connections 28, 30, 32, 34 respectively include clamping wedges 34, 36, 38, 40, which are fastened to corresponding blind hole seats or blind hole threads 50, 52, 54, 56 in the frog block 12 by clamping threaded fasteners 42, 44, 46, 48.

[0064] Due to its structure, the transition area in frog 12 is subjected to particularly high loads. To ensure that the service life of the entire frog 12 is independent of the service life of the transition area, the transition area, in the form of frog insert 20, is designed to be replaceable. Furthermore, the replaceable frog 20 makes it possible to replace the transition area of ​​frog 10 without damaging the cover plate connection. This minimizes costs and ensures as little disruption as possible to rail or tram traffic. Similarly, downtime can be extended and maintenance time reduced.

[0065] The releasable clamping parts 28, 30, 32, 34 can be loosened by applying alternating loads to the releasable connecting parts 28, 30, 32, 34 when the vehicle passes over the fork insert 20. Therefore, the releasable connecting parts 28, 30, 32, 34 must be periodically controlled.

[0066] According to the present invention, the monitoring of the detachable connections 28, 30, 32, 34 used to fasten the replaceable frog 20 to the frog block 12 is achieved by means of a sensing device or sensor 58. The sensing device 58 acquires a signal generated when a rail vehicle passes over a replaceable component in the form of the replaceable frog 20, representing the mass of force transmission of the detachable connections 28, 30, 32, 34. If the mass of force transmission falls below a limit value, the detachment of the connection or the loosening of the detachable connections 28, 30, 32, 34 is signaled and the operator of the rail facility is notified.

[0067] Figure 2b A cross-section through a first embodiment of the clamping device 34 with a clamping wedge 40 is shown exemplarily, wherein the clamping wedge 40 is penetrated by a clamping threaded fastener 48, which is tightened into a threaded bore 56 (e.g., a blind hole threaded bore) constructed in the base component 12. At least one clamping washer 41 is arranged between the head 48.1 of the clamping threaded fastener 48 and the top surface 40.1 of the clamping wedge 40, and, if necessary, a first sealing ring 43. During operation, the clamping washer 41 prevents undesirable loosening of the clamping threaded fastener 48 by elastic preload. Furthermore, a second sealing ring 45 is preferably arranged between the bottom surface 40.2 of the clamping wedge and the base component. This seal should ensure that the tightened portion, i.e., the clamping threaded fastener 41 in the blind hole, is protected from corrosion, so that the base component can be reused as frequently as possible in cases of replacement of replaceable components (i.e., the turnout insert 20).

[0068] Depend on Figure 10 A particularly noteworthy and inventive clamping device is available, which is used in implementing the teachings according to the invention. The releasable connection, as in... Figure 2b In the case of clamping wedges 340, which are clamped by threaded fasteners 348 and can be tightened into threaded holes 356 constructed in the base component 312.

[0069] In order to prevent the screwed-in clamping threaded fastener 348 from coming loose, two clamping washers 341.1 and 341.2 are arranged between the bottom surface of the head 348.1 of the clamping threaded fastener 348 and the support surface 340.1 extending from the recess of the clamping wedge 340.

[0070] A sealing element is arranged between the bottom surface 340.2 of the clamping wedge 340 and the top surface 312.1 of the base component 312 to surround the clamping threaded fastener 340. The sealing element is made of a closed-hole sealing material (e.g., sponge rubber) so that when the threaded fastener 348 is tightened, the sealing material closely adheres to the shank of the clamping threaded fastener 348 and seals the drill hole with internal thread 356.

[0071] Therefore, it is essential to ensure that liquid does not enter borehole 356, thereby preventing corrosion.

[0072] Figure 3 Showing according to Figure 1A top view of the frog 10, wherein the replaceable frog 20 is not in use. According to the invention, the sensing device 58 preferably includes an acceleration sensor arranged in a base component in the form of the frog block 12 and configured such that it acquires at least one acceleration applied by the replaceable frog 20, which is not necessarily sufficiently secured, to the detachable connections 28, 30, 32, 34 and / or the base component (i.e., the frog block 12) when a rail vehicle passes by.

[0073] Sensor 58 is securely connected to frog block 12 in the bottom region 68 of gap 22 such that the sensor acquires a signal generated by a force applied to frog block 12 by at least one releasable connection 28, 30, 32, 34 and / or replaceable frog 20. Sensor 58 is not in direct contact with replaceable components in the form of replaceable frog 20.

[0074] A sensor, such as an accelerometer 58, is arranged in a groove 64 extending along the longitudinal axis 62 in the frog block 12, i.e., in the area that restricts the gap 22 on the bottom surface. A connecting wire 66 for the sensor 58 can be implemented on the bottom surface through a drilled hole 68 constructed in the vertical direction, i.e., along the vertical axis 70 of the frog block 12. Alternatively, the connecting wire 66 can be led out laterally from the frog block 12 via a channel 72 extending along the transverse axis 74 of the frog block 12.

[0075] This arrangement ensures that the sensor 58 and the connecting wire 66 are only connected to the frog block 12 and are spaced apart from replaceable components in the form of the replaceable frog 20.

[0076] By positioning the sensor 58 below the replaceable frog 20, effective force transmission from the replaceable frog 20 or the detachable connection to the sensor 58 is ensured.

[0077] Sensor 58 can be accessed non-destructively within the covered track via replaceable frog insert 20. In the illustrated embodiment, gap 22 and borehole 68 are simultaneously configured as drainage outlets for frog block 12.

[0078] Figure 4 A perspective view of the frog 10 with the inserted frog insert 20 is shown. To protect the removable connecting portions 28, 30, 32, 34, they are covered by covers 76, 78. Covers 76, 78 lie in the plane opened by the top surface 24 of the frog block 12 and the top surface 26 of the frog insert 20. These top surfaces should be in a common plane.

[0079] Figure 5An assembly 80 is shown comprising detachable connections 28, 30, 32, 34 for monitoring the frog 10, wherein a replaceable component in the form of a frog insert 20 can be connected to a base component in the form of a frog block 12 by means of the detachable connections 28, 30, 32, 34. A sensor 58, securely integrated into or connected to the frog block 12, is connected to an evaluation unit 82 via a connecting wire 66.

[0080] Sensor 58, configured or to be configured as an acceleration sensor, can acquire acceleration in at least one direction, preferably in three directions, that is, in the directions of the longitudinal axis 62, the transverse axis 74 and the vertical axis 70 of the turnout 12.

[0081] The present invention is based on the idea that a loose, i.e., not sufficiently clamped, replaceable component impacts the base component (i.e., the frog block 12) and / or the detachable connecting parts 28, 30, 32, 34 when a rail vehicle passes by, generating or causing a characteristic acceleration, which is measured by sensor 58 and subsequently evaluated by evaluation unit 82, particularly by comparison with a limit value. Depending on the comparison between the measured signal and a stored reference signal, a warning signal is generated if the limit value is exceeded, indicating that the connecting parts 28, 30, 32, 34 are not sufficiently clamped or are loose.

[0082] Figure 6 A perspective view shows a second embodiment of a turnout component in the form of a tongue rail device 200. The tongue rail device 200 includes a base component in the form of a tongue rail adapter 202, to which a replaceable component in the form of a tongue rail 206 is secured (e.g., clamped) by means of a detachable connecting part 204. For example, the tongue rail adapter 202 is fixed to the bottom 208 of a connecting slotted rail 210, which is aligned with the tongue rail 206 along the longitudinal axis 212, for example by welding. An integral construction of the tongue rail adapter 202 and the slotted rail 210 is also possible.

[0083] Figure 7a A side view of the tongue rail assembly 200 is shown. The tongue rail 206 is force-applied against the stop 214 of the tongue rail adapter 202 by means of a releasable connection 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the releasable connection 204 includes three clamping elements 216, 218, 220, correspondingly composed of clamping wedges 222, 224, 226, which are clamped against the stop 234 of the tongue rail adapter 202 and the side 236 of the tongue rail by means of threaded fasteners 228, 230, 232. The threaded fasteners 228, 230, 232 are correspondingly received in blind hole threads 238, 240, 242.

[0084] Since the detachable connection 204, composed of the various clamping elements 216, 218, 220, may become detached during operation, the tightening or clamping parts must be periodically controlled. According to the invention, a sensor 244 for monitoring the force transmission or clamping force applied by the detachable connection is integrated into the tongue rail adapter 202. The invention is based on the idea that, due to an insufficiently clamped connection 204, a loose or insufficiently tightened tongue rail 206 impacts the tongue rail adapter 202 and / or the detachable connection 204 when a rail vehicle passes by, causing a characteristic acceleration, which is measured by the sensor and compared with a limit value by an evaluation unit.

[0085] Sensor 244 is configured as an accelerometer and measures acceleration in terms of direction and magnitude in a coordinate system spanned by axes 212, 246, and 248.

[0086] Figure 7b A detailed cross-section of the clamping element 216 with clamping wedge 222 is shown, wherein the clamping wedge 222 is penetrated by a clamping threaded fastener 228, which is tightened into a threaded bore 238 (e.g., a blind bore threaded bore) constructed in the base component 202. A clamping washer 223 and a first sealing ring 225 are arranged between the head 228.1 of the clamping threaded fastener 228 and the top surface 222.2 of the clamping wedge 222. During operation, the clamping washer 223 prevents undesirable loosening of the clamping threaded fastener by elastic preload. Furthermore, a second sealing ring 227 is preferably arranged between the bottom surface 228.2 of the clamping wedge 222 and the base component 202. This seal should ensure that the tightened portion, i.e., the clamping threaded fastener 228 in the blind bore, is protected from corrosion, so that the base component can be reused as frequently as possible when replacing replaceable parts.

[0087] However, preferably, the detachable connection part corresponds to Figure 10 To construct, as previously described, its creative content.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, sensor 244 is arranged along axis 250 (see Figure 7 and...). Figure 8 The sensor 244 extends parallel or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 212 of the track, or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the clamping elements 216, 218, 220 (releasable connection 204). Alternatively, the sensor 244 may also be arranged below the tongue rail 206 in the tongue rail adapter 202, or below the releasable connection 204.

[0089] Such as combination Figure 5As described, the signal acquired by sensor 244 is supplied to the evaluation device. The evaluation device includes a calculation unit and a comparator, wherein the signal acquired by the sensor is compared as an actual value signal with a reference signal, wherein a prompt message is generated in the event of exceeding a limit value, which notifies at least one of the connecting part 204 or clamping devices 216, 218, 202 of loosening.

[0090] Depend on Figures 11 to 14 It can be understood that another embodiment of the teachings of the present invention, which has inventive content, is to be emphasized.

[0091] Therefore, this embodiment relates to a tongue rail device 500 with an integral structure, that is, it is composed of an integral upper part 502 and a lower part 504, which can also be constructed integrally. If necessary, the lower part 504 can also be in the form of a support, as can be known, for example, from EP 2 569 485 B1.

[0092] Here, the upper component of the tongue rail device, which has a tongue rail base, is particularly made of material with a preferred strength up to 1600 N / mm. 2 Or higher strength, especially at 1200 N / mm 2 Up to 1600 N / mm 2 It is composed of high-strength steel with a strength between that of steel. Known steels such as Dillidur, Xar, Hardox, or Baitit may be mentioned as examples.

[0093] In the upper component 502, the tongue rail base 506 is machined, for example by thermal cutting (such as gas cutting, plasma cutting, or laser cutting) or by CNC milling, in which the tongue rail 508 can be slidably adjusted. The tongue rail base 506 is limited by the base rail 510 and the guard rail 512, and is therefore also an integral part of the upper component 502.

[0094] To connect the tongue rail 506 to the section of the connecting rail 514 integrally constructed in the upper part 502, a clamping wedge is used, such as its special engagement Figure 10 Described and also passed Figure 13 and Figure 14 To illustrate.

[0095] Therefore, the upper component 502 has drilled holes 516, 518, 520 with internal threads into which clamping threaded fasteners 522, 524, 526 can be screwed. The clamping threaded fasteners themselves pass through the clamping wedges 528, 530, 532 so that when the threaded fasteners 522, 524, 526 are tightened, they can be moved along the inclined extension of the tongue rail and clamped securely between the clamping wedges 528, 530, 532 and the connecting rail 514 or the guard rail 512.

[0096] Below the clamping threaded fasteners 522, 524, 526, the lower part 504 of the tongue rail device 500 has a corresponding clearance. Furthermore, the upper part 502 is planarly placed on the lower part 504 and connected thereto, particularly by welding.

[0097] like Figure 14 As shown in detail diagram B, each clamping wedge 530 has a gap with a bottom support surface 534 extending from the top surface.

[0098] The shank of the threaded fastener 524 passes through two clamping washers 536 and 538, extending between the head 50 of the threaded fastener and the support surface 534 during the tightening of the threaded fastener 524. A preload is generated by tightening the threaded fastener 524 and through the clamping washers 536 and 538, which should prevent the threaded fastener 524 from loosening.

[0099] To prevent liquid from entering the threaded bore 518, the clamping rod is surrounded by a sealing material that closes the bore. When the threaded fastener 524 is tightened, a seal is achieved between the rod and the threaded bore 518. Therefore, liquid cannot enter and corrosion is avoided. Thus, another structure emerges, such as one that can be made of… Figure 10 As we have learned.

[0100] In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a sensor 558 is integrated in the upper component 502, which is connected to the evaluation unit via a coupling portion 560. The coupling portion 560 extends in the lower component 504 of the tongue rail device 500 in a gap 562 extending below the clamping threaded fasteners 516, 518, 520, and is itself connected to an outlet opening penetrating the lower component 504, thereby preventing liquid accumulation.

[0101] In the bottom wall of the upper component 502, there are gaps 566, 568, 570, 572 in the area of ​​the clamping wedges 528, 530, 532, in which ejector blocks with internal threads are arranged. Therefore, when the threaded fasteners are screwed in, they are lifted from the bottom wall of the gaps 566, 568, 570, 572, thus making it possible for the clamping wedges and, consequently, the tongue rail 508 to be released.

[0102] It should be noted that the replaceable parts are specifically placed on the base components and are driven over by rail vehicles.

Claims

1. A turnout or crossing component comprising a base component; replaceable components; and at least one detachable connection portion, by virtue of which the replaceable components can be connected to the base component. Its features are, The turnout or crossing component includes at least one sensor suitable for monitoring the quality of the detachable connection, the at least one sensor being disposed in and securely connected to the base component, and the sensor being configured to generate a signal representing the quality of the detachable connection when a rail vehicle passes over the turnout or crossing component.

2. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor is configured as an accelerometer or a solid-state sound sensor.

3. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sensor is connected to the base component in such a way that it can transmit acceleration and mechanical vibration, i.e., when the rail vehicle passes over a replaceable component that is not sufficiently secured, the sensor can detect at least one impact as acceleration and / or mechanical vibration applied by the replaceable component that is not sufficiently secured to at least one detachable connection and / or the base component.

4. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The turnout or crossing component is a frog, wherein the basic component is a frog block and the replaceable component is a frog insert, which is connected to the frog block by means of a detachable connection in the form of a screw-on clamping connection.

5. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 4, characterized in that, The fork insert is arranged in a gap in the fork block that is accessible without damage when the fork is covered, and the sensor is arranged in the gap.

6. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 5, characterized in that, The sensor is arranged in a groove in the region at the bottom of the fork block that limits the gap.

7. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 5, characterized in that, The sensor has a cable connection that is led out of the fork block through an outlet constructed in the region at the bottom of the fork block that limits the gap and / or through a channel constructed in the fork block transverse to the direction of travel.

8. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The turnout or crossing component is a tongue rail device, wherein the basic component is a tongue rail adapter and the replaceable component is a tongue rail, which is connected to the tongue rail adapter by means of at least one detachable connection in the form of at least one screw-on clamping connection.

9. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 8, characterized in that, The detachable connection has at least one clamping wedge, wherein the clamping wedge is penetrated by a clamping threaded fastener that can be screwed into a threaded hole constructed in the base component.

10. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The turnout or crossing component is a tongue rail device in the form of an integral structure with a tongue rail base for sliding adjustment of the tongue rail constructed in an upper component or upper section of the one-piece structure. The tongue rail can be fastened in the upper component or upper section by clamping wedges, which themselves can be fastened by clamping threaded fasteners screwed into the upper component or upper section, and the sensor is arranged in the upper component or upper section.

11. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor is arranged in a region of the base component, which is at least partially covered by a replaceable component.

12. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The replaceable component is connected to the base component via a detachable connection, which includes a clamping wedge and a clamping threaded fastener that passes through the clamping wedge and can be screwed into the base component. The shank of the clamping threaded fastener is surrounded by a closed-hole sealing element that extends between the clamping wedge and the base component such that, in the case of a tightened wedge element, the shank is sealed relative to the bore in the base component that accommodates the shank.

13. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 12, characterized in that, At least one clamping washer that generates preload is arranged between the head of the clamping threaded fastener and the clamping wedge.

14. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The turnout or crossing component is a frog or tongue rail device.

15. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The basic component is a frog block or tongue rail adapter, or a tongue rail device in the form of an integral structure with a tongue rail base present in its upper component or upper section.

16. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The replaceable component is placed on the base component and is movable.

17. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The replaceable parts are the fork insert or the tongue rail.

18. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detachable connection is a screw-on part or a clamping part.

19. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The replaceable component can be forcefully and / or shape-fitted to the base component.

20. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 5, characterized in that, The sensor is arranged vertically in the gap below the replaceable turnout insert.

21. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 5, characterized in that, The sensor is covered by the fork insert without contacting the sensor.

22. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 6, characterized in that, The trench forms at least one section of the drainage outlet and leads to the outlet.

23. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 7, characterized in that, The cable connector is led out into a cable shaft connected to the turnout block.

24. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 9, characterized in that, The threaded hole is a blind threaded hole.

25. The turnout or crossing component according to claim 13, characterized in that, Two clamping washers that generate preload are arranged between the head of the clamping threaded fastener and the clamping wedge.

26. A method for monitoring the quality of a detachable connection of a turnout or crossing component, wherein, The replaceable components are secured to the base components by means of the removable connecting part. Its features are, A signal for checking the quality of the detachable connection is acquired by means of a sensor arranged in the base component. This signal is generated when a rail vehicle passes over the turnout or crossing component and represents the quality of the detachable connection. The signal is generated by at least one impact applied by the replaceable component to the detachable connection and / or the base component when the rail vehicle passes over the replaceable component.

27. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, The signal is generated by the relative movement of replaceable components and / or by replaceable components that shift from their optimal position relative to the detachable connection and / or the base component when the rail vehicle passes by.

28. The method according to claim 26 or 27, characterized in that, An acceleration sensor or a solid-state sound sensor is used as the sensor, wherein the sensor acquires at least one characteristic acceleration or characteristic solid-state sound applied by the not sufficiently secured replaceable component to at least one detachable connection and / or base component when the rail vehicle passes over the replaceable component.

29. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, The signal generated by the passing of the rail vehicle is compared with a reference signal or limit value as an actual value signal in order to identify signals with characteristic acceleration or characteristic solid sound.

30. The method according to claim 29, characterized in that, In cases where the actual value signal deviates from the reference signal or the limit value, a warning message is generated regarding the insufficient quality of the detachable connection.

31. The method according to claim 30, characterized in that, At least two measurements are performed in the case of a passing rail vehicle or in the case of two consecutive rail vehicles, and a prompt message is triggered only when at least two events are detected each time a rail vehicle passes or passes consecutively, wherein the events are the detection of characteristic signals.

32. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, The turnout or crossing component is a frog or tongue rail device.

33. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, The replaceable parts are the fork insert or the tongue rail.

34. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, The basic component is a frog block or tongue rail adapter, or a tongue rail device in the form of an integral structure with a tongue rail base present in its upper component or upper section.

35. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, The replaceable component is movable and placed on the base component.

36. The method according to claim 30, characterized in that, It generates a quality warning message regarding insufficient force transmission and / or form fit of the detachable connection.

37. An assembly having a turnout or crossing component according to claim 1, Its features are, The component has an evaluation unit connected to the sensor, wherein the sensor is connected only to the base component and is configured to acquire a signal generated by an impact applied to the base component by at least one removable connection and / or replaceable component.

38. The component according to claim 37, characterized in that, The evaluation unit is a computational unit equipped with a comparator for comparing the acquired sensor signal with a reference signal or limit value.

39. The component according to claim 37, characterized in that, The base component has an area that is at least partially covered by a replaceable component, and the sensor is arranged in the area.

40. The component according to claim 39, characterized in that, The area in question is a void.

41. The component according to claim 39, characterized in that, The area is completely covered by the replaceable component.

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