Railway vehicle dynamic weight management system maintenance equipment and tool system

Abstract

Apparatus and / or tool systems for maintaining a dynamic weight management (DWM) system on a railway vehicle are provided. In embodiments, the devices may include dedicated devices or tools for removing and / or installing various DWM components. In embodiments, the disassembly / assembly device may include a DWM cover plate disassembly device, a DWM crank and shaft disassembly device, and / or a DWM bushing maintenance device. In embodiments, a DWM cover plate removal device may be configured to remove a cover plate of a DWM system attached to a railway vehicle bogie assembly frame, a DWM crank and shaft removal device may be configured to remove a DWM main shaft and / or a DWM chain crank from the DWM system, and a DWM bushing maintenance device may be configured to install and / or remove a frame bushing at a frame bushing opening within the frame of the DWM system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to maintenance tools and, more particularly, to apparatus and tool systems for maintaining dynamic weight management (DWM) systems on railway vehicles. Background Art

[0002] Trains enable us to transport large quantities of supplies, goods, and / or people over long distances at a relatively low cost. A typical train includes a locomotive engine that provides power to move the train cars attached thereto on railroad tracks. A typical railway vehicle may include a body that sits atop one or more bogie assemblies. The bogie assembly may include various components that enable the train cars to travel on railroad tracks. For example, a typical bogie assembly may include multiple axle assemblies to which wheels may be attached, enabling the locomotive to roll on the railroad tracks. A typical configuration may include the following: each bogie assembly has three axle assemblies, and each railway vehicle has two bogie assemblies (e.g., a front bogie assembly and a rear bogie assembly).

[0003] In some embodiments, at least one axle assembly of the truck assembly includes a dynamic weight management (DWM) system that can dynamically manage vehicle weight distribution between the axle assemblies of the truck assembly by adjusting the amount of force applied by the DWM system. The DWM system can improve the performance of the railway vehicle by providing a mechanism to control weight distribution and / or power changes.

[0004] However, maintaining DWM systems has proven to be a challenge. For example, maintenance of the individual components of a DWM system can be tedious, difficult, and in some cases even dangerous. This is because removing and installing the individual components of a DWM system can be difficult, especially when the DWM system components may be defective (e.g., due to wear or defects) or may become stuck within the system.

[0005] Currently, there are no special tools for maintaining the DWM system. For example, there are no special tools for disassembling and / or installing the various components of the DWM system. Therefore, workers who maintain the DWM system need to manually disassemble and / or install the various components without the help of special tools or tool systems. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present disclosure achieves technical advantages as an apparatus and / or tool system for maintaining a dynamic weight management (DWM) system for a railway vehicle. In an embodiment, the apparatus and / or tool system may include specialized equipment or tools configured for removing and / or installing various DWM components. In some embodiments, the removal / installation equipment may include a DWM cover removal device, a DWM crank and axle removal device, and / or a DWM bushing maintenance device. In an embodiment, a DWM cover removal device may be configured to remove a cover of a DWM system attached to a railway vehicle bogie assembly frame, a DWM crank and axle removal device may be configured to remove a DWM spindle and / or a DWM chain crank from a DWM system, and a DWM bushing maintenance device may be configured to install and / or remove a frame bushing from a frame bushing opening within a frame of a DWM system.

[0007] In a specific embodiment, a DWM cover removal device is provided. The DWM cover removal device may include an actuator configured to provide a driving force. In some embodiments, the actuator may include one or more hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic actuators, electromechanical actuators, and electromagnetic actuators. In an embodiment, the DWM cover removal device may include a base coupled to the actuator. The base has one or more key slots for inserting one or more keys to fix the base to a cover attached to a frame of a truck assembly. In an embodiment, the base may have a central opening configured to align with a spindle of a DWM system passing through the cover opening. In an embodiment, the DWM cover removal device may include at least one spindle disposed in the central opening of the base. The at least one spindle may have a distal end for contacting the spindle of the DWM system, and a proximal end for receiving a driving force from the actuator. In an embodiment, the driving force from the actuator may cause the at least one spindle to push the spindle of the DWM system in a first direction, and may cause the base to pull away from the spindle of the DWM system in a second direction opposite to the first direction, thereby causing the cover to be separated from the frame of the truck assembly.

[0008] In another embodiment, a DWM crank and shaft removal device is provided. The DWM crank and shaft removal device may include an actuator for providing a pulling force. In some embodiments, the actuator may include one or more hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic actuators, electromechanical actuators, and electromagnetic actuators. In an embodiment, the DWM crank and shaft removal device may include a base coupled to the actuator. In an embodiment, the base may have a proximal end that can be coupled to the actuator and a distal end that can be attached to the DWM system frame. In an embodiment, the DWM crank and shaft removal device may include a puller configured to be securely attached to the main shaft of the DWM system at the distal end and operably connected to the actuator at the proximal end. In an embodiment, the puller may receive a pulling force from the actuator, which may cause the puller to pull the main shaft of the DWM system away from the frame of the DWM system in a first direction, thereby causing the main shaft of the DWM system to be removed from the DWM system.

[0009] In another embodiment, a DWM bushing maintenance device is provided. The DWM bushing maintenance device may include an actuator configured to provide thrust. In some embodiments, the actuator may include one or more hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic actuators, electromechanical actuators, and electromagnetic actuators. In an embodiment, the DWM bushing maintenance device may include a base coupled to the actuator. In an embodiment, the base may have one or more openings configured to insert one or more fasteners to ensure that the base is fixed to the frame of the DWM system of the truck assembly of the railway vehicle. In an embodiment, the base may define a central opening that allows a push drive to extend therethrough, and the push drive has a proximal end that can be operatively coupled to the actuator to receive thrust from the actuator. In an embodiment, the DWM bushing maintenance device has a spindle, the proximal end of the spindle is connected to the distal end of the push drive, and the distal end can push the frame bushing through the frame bushing opening in the DWM system frame. In an embodiment, the spindle can receive thrust from the push drive, which can cause the spindle to push the frame bushing through the frame bushing opening in the DWM system frame.

[0010] The features and technical advantages of the present disclosure have been broadly outlined above so that the detailed description of the present disclosure below can be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the present disclosure will be described below, which constitute the subject matter of the claims of the present disclosure. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the disclosed concepts and specific embodiments can be easily used as a basis for modifying or designing other structures to achieve the same purpose of the present disclosure. It should also be recognized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as described in the appended claims. The novel features of the organization and operation methods that are considered to be characteristic of the present disclosure, as well as further objects and advantages, can be better understood through the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, it should be clearly understood that each figure is used for illustration and description purposes only and does not represent a definition of the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] In order to more fully understand the present disclosure, please refer to the following description and understand it in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

[0012] Figure 1A An exemplary dynamic weight management (DWM) maintenance system configured with capabilities and functionality for performing maintenance of a railway vehicle DWM system is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 1B A typical installation example of a DWM system in a railway vehicle is shown.

[0014] Figure 1C A structural example of a DWM system is shown.

[0015] Figure 2A An example of a DWM cover removal device implemented according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0016] Figure 2B An example of two mandrels configured in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure is shown.

[0017] Figures 3A-3C Different views of the DWM system cover removal device during operation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0018] Figures 4A-4E The figure shows a configuration example of various components of the DWM system cover removal device configured according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 5A and 5B Various views of an example of a DWM crank and shaft removal apparatus implemented in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure are shown.

[0020] Figures 6A-6DVarious views of a DWM crank and shaft removal device during operation are shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figures 7A-7D An example of the configuration of the various components of a DWM crank and shaft removal device configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0022] Fig. 8A An example of a DWM bushing maintenance device implemented according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0023] Figure 8B An example configuration of a spindle for frame bushing installation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0024] Figure 8C An example configuration of a spindle for frame bushing installation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0025] Figures 9A-9C Various views of a DWM bushing maintenance device during a frame bushing removal operation are shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figures 10A-10C Various views of a DWM bushing maintenance device during a frame bushing installation operation are shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figures 11A-11C An example of the configuration of the various components of the DWM bushing maintenance device configured according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0028] Fig.12 A flowchart showing an overview of the operation of a DWM system cover removal apparatus configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure for removing a DWM cover from a frame of a bogie assembly.

[0029] Fig.13 A flow chart showing an overview of the operation of a DWM crank and axle removal apparatus configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure for removing a DWM spindle and / or a DWM chain crank from a DWM system installed in a bogie assembly of a railway vehicle is shown.

[0030] Fig.14A A flow chart showing an overview of the operation of a DWM bushing maintenance device configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure for removing a frame bushing from a frame of a DWM system installed in a bogie assembly of a railway vehicle is shown.

[0031] Fig. 14B A general flow chart of the operation of a DWM bushing maintenance device configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure for installing a frame bushing into a frame of a DWM system installed in a truck assembly of a railway vehicle is shown.

[0032] Fig.15 An exemplary flowchart of the operations of manufacturing a DWM system cover removal device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein the device is capable of removing a DWM cover from a frame of a bogie assembly.

[0033] Fig.16 An exemplary flowchart of operations for manufacturing a DWM crank and axle removal apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, which is capable of removing a DWM spindle and / or a DWM chain crank from a DWM system installed in a truck assembly of a railway vehicle.

[0034] Fig.17 An exemplary flow chart of operations for making a DWM bushing maintenance device capable of removing a frame bushing from a DWM system installed in a truck assembly of a railway vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0035] It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and that the disclosed embodiments are sometimes shown in diagrammatic form and in partial view. In some cases, details that are not necessary for understanding the disclosed methods and apparatus or that render other details difficult to understand may have been omitted. Of course, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments shown herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The disclosure and its various features and advantageous details set forth in the following written description will be more fully explained with reference to the non-limiting examples included in the accompanying drawings and the contents detailed in the specification. Descriptions of well-known components are omitted herein so as not to unnecessarily obscure the main features described herein. The following examples are intended to facilitate understanding of the implementation and practice of the disclosure. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand the disclosure as meaning that any suitable combination of the following functions or exemplary embodiments can be combined to achieve the claimed subject matter. The disclosure includes the number of representative species within the genus, or structural features common to members of the genus, so that one of ordinary skill in the art can identify members of the genus. Therefore, these examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0037] A person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that any system claim set forth herein encompasses all elements and limitations disclosed therein, and therefore requires that each system claim be considered as a whole. Any reasonably foreseeable item that has a functional relationship with a claim also falls within the relevant scope. After thoroughly understanding the disclosure and claims in the proposed application, the examiner searched for prior art disclosed in patents and other published documents (i.e., non-patent literature). Therefore, as evidenced by the issuance of this patent, the prior art fails to disclose or teach the elements and limitations set forth in the claims supported by the specification and drawings, and therefore the proposed claims are patentable under the applicable laws and rules of this jurisdiction.

[0038] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to apparatus and / or tool systems for performing maintenance on a dynamic weight management (DWM) system on a railway vehicle, and / or methods of making and / or using apparatus and / or tool systems that include functionality for performing maintenance on a dynamic weight management (DWM) system on a railway vehicle. In certain embodiments, the apparatus and / or tool systems may include specialized equipment or tools for removing and / or installing various DWM components. In some embodiments, the removal / installation apparatus may include a DWM cover plate removal tool, a DWM crank and shaft removal tool, and / or a DWM bushing maintenance tool.

[0039] Figure 1A An exemplary DWM maintenance system 100 configured according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, which has the capability and functionality to perform maintenance on a DWM system on a railway vehicle. Figure 1A As shown, the DWM maintenance system 100 may include a DWM cover removal tool 110, a DWM crank and shaft removal tool 120, and a DWM bushing maintenance tool 130. In an embodiment, the components of the DWM maintenance system 100 may include various components and / or configurations to provide the functions described in the various embodiments of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, each of the DWM cover removal device 110, the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120, and the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 can represent a separate device or tool for performing specific maintenance, for example, removing and / or installing specific components of the DWM system as described herein. It should be understood that the DWM maintenance system 100 and / or the various devices of the DWM maintenance system 100 can provide special tools for maintaining the DWM system, particularly special tools for removing and / or installing various components of the DWM system, which are not currently available. Therefore, the devices and systems described herein represent a significant improvement in the field of railway vehicle maintenance.

[0040] like Figure 1AAs shown, the DWM system 150 may include various components. For example, the DWM spindle 125 may be connected to the DWM chain crank 127. One end of the DWM spindle 125 may be attached to the frame 151 via a frame bushing 135, and the frame bushing 135 may be mounted to the frame 151. The other end of the DWM spindle 125 may extend through an opening of the DWM cover plate 115, thereby providing support for the DWM spindle 125. The DWM cover plate 115 may be attached to the frame 151 (e.g., using bolts or screws). In an embodiment, the DWM cover removal device 110 can be used to remove the DWM cover, such as removing the DWM cover 115 from the frame 151, the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 can be used to remove the DWM spindle and / or DWM chain crank, such as the DWM spindle 125 and / or the DWM chain crank 127, and the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 can be used to install and / or remove the frame bushing 135, such as installing and / or removing the frame bushing 135 in the frame 151.

[0041] To illustrate the functions, operations, and structure of the DWM system 150 and the various components of the DWM system 125, the following description of the DWM system 150 is provided, with reference to Figure 1B and 1C . Figure 1B Figure 2 shows a typical installation example of a DWM system in a railway vehicle. Figure 1B As shown, the railway vehicle 170 includes two bogie assemblies, namely a front bogie assembly and a rear bogie assembly. The front bogie assembly 175 includes three axle assemblies 171-173. Specifically, the axle assembly 172 located at the middle position between the bogie assemblies 171 and 173 is configured with the DWM system 150. In this case, the DWM system 150 can be installed in the axle assembly 172, and can be operated to dynamically manage the vehicle weight distribution between the axle assemblies 171-173.

[0042] Figure 1CAn example of a structure of a DWM system is shown. Specifically, the DWM system 150 can be installed within the frame of a truck assembly, such as the frame 151 of the truck assembly 172 of the railway vehicle 170. The DWM system 150 can include a DWM spindle 125, which can allow the DWM chain crank 127 to rotate. For example, one end of the DWM spindle 125 can be inserted into the frame bushing 135, and the other end of the DWM spindle 125 can be inserted into the opening 159 of the DWM cover plate 115 (and pass through the DWM chain crank bearing 154). In this way, the DWM spindle 125 can be supported by the frame bushing 135 and the DWM cover plate 115 while allowing the DWM spindle 125 to rotate about its longitudinal axis. The DWM chain crank 127 can be attached to the DWM spindle 125 so that the DWM spindle 125 can be inserted into the DWM chain crank 127. In this manner, the DWM chain crank 127 can be caused to rotate about the DWM spindle 125. The DWM chain crank 127 can also include one or more DWM chain crank bushings 158 attached to a chain arm into which the DWM chain crank pin 157 can be inserted. The DWM chain crank pin 157 can provide a point to which the DWM chain 156 can be connected. In this manner, when the DWM chain crank 127 rotates, the DWM chain 156 can be pulled, thereby reducing weight. In this embodiment of the DWM system 150, the DWM chain crank 127 can be attached to a T-bar 152, and the T-bar 152 includes a central shaft that can slide through a T-bar bearing 153 mounted in an opening 159 of the DWM cover plate 115. In this manner, the T-bar 152 can rotate about the opening 159 of the DWM cover plate 115. When the T-bar 152 is rotated about the opening 159 of the DWM cover plate 115 , the rotation of the T-bar 152 may cause the DWM chain crank 127 to rotate, which in turn may cause the DWM chain 156 to be pulled, thereby providing a lifting mechanism that may be used to distribute weight.

[0043] Reference again Figure 1A , the DWM cover removal device 110 can be used to remove the DWM cover 115 from the frame 151. As described above, the frame 151 can be the frame of the carriage, and the DWM system 150 can be installed therein. In some cases, it may be difficult to remove the DWM cover 115 from the frame 151 because the DWM cover 115 is often "stuck" to the frame 151. In some cases, the DWM cover 115 may be "stuck" to the DWM spindle 125. For example, as described above, and with reference to Figure 1C, the DWM cover 115 can be attached to the DWM spindle 125 by inserting the DWM spindle 125 into the opening 159 of the DWM cover 115. In some cases, the connection point between the DWM cover 115 and the DWM spindle 125 may be too tight (e.g., due to rust, debris, etc.) to make it difficult to remove the DWM cover 115. In these cases, the DWM cover removal device 110 can be used to remove the DWM cover 115 from the frame 115.

[0044] Figure 2A 1 shows an example of a DWM cover removal device 110 implemented according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, the DWM cover removal device 110 can remove the DMV cover 115 from the frame 151, such as Figure 1A and 1C As shown in Figure 2A As shown, the DWM cover removal device 110 may include an actuator 210, a base 212, a spindle 216, and one or more keys 214a and 214b. In an embodiment, the actuator 210 may provide an extension drive force. The extension drive force may include a thrust generated by the extension of the drive shaft. In an embodiment, the extension drive force may include a contraction pull generated by the contraction of the drive shaft. For example, the actuator 210 may include one or more hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic actuators, electromechanical actuators, electromagnetic actuators, and / or any other components or devices that provide an extension drive force.

[0045] In an embodiment, the base 212 can be coupled to the actuator 210. For example, the base 212 can be coupled to the actuator 210 by providing threads in the base 210 into which the actuator 210 can be screwed. In some embodiments, the base 212 can be coupled to the actuator 210 using adhesives, soldering, brazing, cable ties, screws, bolts, and / or any other suitable mechanism for fastening the base 212 to the actuator 210. In an embodiment, the base 212 can be constructed of a strong and / or sturdy material such as steel or a stronger material. For example, in some embodiments, the base 212 can be made of 1045 steel.

[0046] In an embodiment, the base 212 may include one or more key slots (e.g., key slots 215a and 215b) configured to receive one or more keys (e.g., keys 214a and 214b). In an embodiment, each key slot 215a and 215b may allow one of the keys 214a and 214b to be inserted therein. The ends of the keys 214a and 214b inserted into each key slot 215a and 215b may extend through each key slot 215a and 215b. During operation, the keys 214a and 214b may be inserted into each key slot 215a and 215b so that the keys 214a and 214b may pass through each key slot 215a and 215b into the opening of the DWM cover plate (e.g., DWM cover plate 115) to be removed. In this manner, the cooperative function of the keyways 215 a and 215 b and the keys 214 a and 214 b can secure the base 121 to the DMV cover 115 to be removed.

[0047] In an embodiment, the keys 214a and 214b can be inserted into one or more key slots (e.g., key slots 215a and 215b) and provide a secure connection between the base 212 and the DWM cover 115. In an embodiment, for example, during operation, the keys 214a and 214b can provide a mechanism to pull the DWM cover 115 away from the frame 151 (e.g., by sliding on the DWM spindle 125) in response to a driving force from the actuator 210. In an embodiment, each key 214a and 214b can include two parts, namely an outer part and an inner part. The inner part can be configured to penetrate the key slot, and the outer part can be configured to abut against the base 212 when the key is inserted into the key slot. In this way, the outer part can prevent the key from being fully inserted into the key slot. In some embodiments, the outer part has a circular cross-section, and the inner part has an oblong cross-section. In an embodiment, the keys 214a and 214b can be made of a strong and / or sturdy material (e.g., steel) or a stronger material. For example, in some embodiments, the base 212 can be made of heat-treated steel, which can provide sufficient strength to prevent the keys 214a and 214b from shearing or breaking during operation (eg, when the DWM cover 115 is pulled away from the frame 151).

[0048] In an embodiment, the base 212 may define a central opening 213. The central opening 213 may be located around the protruding bushing channel of the DWM cover plate 115. For example, referring to Figure 1C In some implementations of the DWM system 150, the opening 159 of the DWM cover plate 115 can be configured as a protruding bushing channel into which the DWM spindle 135 can be inserted. Figure 2A, the central opening 213 of the base 212 can accommodate the protruding bushing channel of the DWM cover plate 115, so that the central opening 213 of the base 212 can surround the protruding bushing channel of the DWM cover plate 115. In some embodiments, the protruding bushing channel of the DWM cover plate 115 can have one or more key slots, and the keys 214a and 214b can be inserted into these key slots during operation. For example, the keys 214a and 214b can be inserted into each key slot 215a and 215b, so that each key 214a and 214b can pass through one of the key slots 215a and 215b into a corresponding one of the one or more openings in the protruding bushing channel of the DWM cover plate 115.

[0049] In an embodiment, the central opening 213 of the base 212 can be aligned with the DWM spindle 125 of the DWM system 150. For example, when the base 212 is attached to the DWM cover plate 115, the central opening 213 can be configured so that the DWM spindle 125 is positioned approximately in the center of the central opening 213. In this way, as described below, the DWM spindle 125 can be aligned with the spindle 216 so that the spindle 216 can push against the DWM spindle 125 during operation.

[0050] In an embodiment, the spindle 216 can transmit the extension driving force from the actuator 210 to the DWM spindle 125 to push the DWM spindle 125. The pushing action on the DWM spindle 125 may produce a reaction, which may pull the base 212 away from the frame 151, thereby causing the DWM cover 115 that may be attached to the base 212 to separate from the frame 151. For example, the spindle 216 may include a shaft arranged in the central opening 213. The proximal end of at least one spindle 216 may contact the drive shaft of the actuator 210 and may receive the extension driving force from the actuator 210. The distal end of the spindle 216 may be connected to the DWM spindle 125. In this way, when the drive shaft of the actuator 210 extends through the actuator 210 toward the DWM main shaft 125, the drive shaft of the actuator 210 can push the proximal end of the spindle 216 and cause the distal end of the spindle 216 to push the DWM main shaft 125, which can trigger a reverse movement to pull the base 212 away from the frame 151, thereby causing the DWM cover 115 to separate from the frame 151.

[0051] In some embodiments, mandrel 216 may include more than one mandrel. Figure 2B An example of two mandrels 216a and 216b configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2BAs shown, the length of the spindle 216a can be shorter than the length of the spindle 216b. In embodiments, the length of the spindle 216a is sufficient in most cases to remove the DWM cover plate 115 from the frame 115. For example, in most cases, the spindle 216a can allow the DWM cover plate 115 to slide along the DWM main shaft 125 a certain distance, which may be sufficient to "unscrew" the DWM cover plate 115 from the DWM main shaft 125 and allow manual removal (e.g., by hand) of the DWM cover plate 115. The proximal end 220 of the spindle 216a can contact the drive shaft of the actuator 210 by connection, coupling, or other means. The distal end 221 of the spindle 216a can contact the DWM main shaft 125 by connection, coupling, or other means.

[0052] In embodiments, the length of the spindle 216b may be longer than the length of the spindle 216a. In embodiments, the length of the spindle 216b may allow the DWM cover plate removal device 110 to remove the DWM cover plate and allow for manual removal of the DWM cover plate 115 when removal using the spindle 216a may not be sufficient to "loosen" the DWM cover plate 115 from the DWM spindle 125. In these cases, the longer length of the spindle 216b may allow the DWM cover plate 115 to "travel" a longer distance through the DWM spindle 125 and completely separate from the DWM spindle 125. The proximal end 221 of the spindle 216a may contact the drive shaft of the actuator 210 by connection, coupling, or other means. The distal end 223 of the spindle 216a may contact the DWM spindle 125 by connection, coupling, or other means.

[0053] Reference again Figure 2A In some embodiments, the base 212 may include a lifting element 218. The lifting element 218 may allow or facilitate lifting (e.g., using a powered lifting mechanism) the DWM system cover removal device 110 during operation. In some embodiments, the lifting element 218 may include an eyelet, a loop, a hook, and / or any other mechanism suitable for attaching to the base 212 and allowing the DWM system cover removal device 110 to be lifted.

[0054] The operation of the DWM system cover removal device 110 will now be discussed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, referring to Fig.12 ,as well as Figures 3A-3C . Figures 3A-3C Various views of the DWM system cover removal device 110 during operation are shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.12 A flow chart 1200 illustrating an overview of the operations of a DWM system cover removal apparatus configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure for removing a DWM cover from a frame of a bogie assembly.

[0055] like Figure 3A, which shows the DWM system after the T-bar has been removed, the DWM cover 115 can be attached to the frame 115. The DWM cover 115 may include a protruding bushing channel 320 through which the DWM spindle 125 can be mounted. In this example, the protruding bushing channel 320 may include one or more pin slots 321 (e.g., may include one pin slot 321 on each side of the protruding bushing channel 320). As described above, it may not be possible to remove the DWM cover 115 manually (e.g., by hand), or removal may be too difficult or dangerous. In this case, it may be decided to remove the DWM cover 115 from the frame 115 using a DWM system cover removal device (e.g., the DWM system cover removal device 110).

[0056] During operation, at block 1202, the DWM system cover removal device 110 may be installed onto the DWM cover 115. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figure 3B As shown, installing the DWM system cover removal device 110 onto the DWM cover 115 includes installing the spindle 216 into the central opening of the base 212 and positioning the distal end of the spindle 216 on the drive shaft 235 of the actuator 210. The base 212 can then be positioned around the protruding bushing channel 320 of the DWM cover 115 together with the spindle 216. At least one key 214 (including keys on each side of the base 212 in some embodiments) can be inserted into the keyway (e.g., keyways 215a and 215b) of the base 212 and can pass through the keyway into one or more pin slots 321 of the protruding bushing channel 320 of the DWM cover 115, which can securely attach the base 212 to the DWM cover 115.

[0057] In some embodiments, the actuation medium source 330 can be attached to the actuator 210. In embodiments, the actuation medium source 330 can include a source that can provide a medium that the actuator 210 can use to provide an extension drive force. For example, depending on the type of the actuator 210, the actuation medium source 330 can include a hydraulic fluid source, an electrical source, a pneumatic source, etc.

[0058] During operation, at block 1204, the DWM system cover removal device 110 may be activated. Activating the DWM system cover removal device 110 includes activating the actuator 210 to provide an extension drive force. In an embodiment, the actuator 210 may provide an extension drive force by causing the spindle 216 to push against the DWM spindle 225. For example, referring to Figure 3C, the actuator 210 may cause the drive shaft 235 to extend outward from the actuator 210 in direction 250 and push against the proximal end of the spindle 216. The extension pushing action of the drive shaft 235 on the spindle 216 may cause the spindle 216 to push against the DWM spindle 225. When the spindle 216 pushes against the DWM spindle 225 in direction 250, an opposite reaction force (e.g., a pulling force in direction 252) may be generated. The pulling force may cause the base 212 to be pulled in direction 252. Since the base 212 is firmly connected to the DWM cover 115 (e.g., by inserting the key 214 into the protruding bushing channel 320 of the DWM cover 115), the DWM cover 115 may be pulled by the base 212 in direction 252, thereby causing the DWM cover 115 to separate from the frame 151 and slide over the DWM spindle 125 in direction 252.

[0059] In an embodiment, the DWM system cover removal device 110 can be removed from the DWM system 150 and the DWM cover 115 can be removed from the DWM spindle 125 by, for example, manual removal (e.g., by hand). In some embodiments, the DWM cover 115 may not be manually removable from the DWM spindle 125. In this case, a different spindle (e.g., Figure 2B The longer spindle 216b) shown is installed in the DWM system cover plate removal device 110 and steps 1202 and 1204 are repeated. In these embodiments, the longer spindle can allow the DWM cover plate 115 to slide completely off the DWM spindle 125 because the longer spindle can allow the DWM cover plate 115 to pass through the DWM spindle 125 until it falls off the end of the DWM spindle 125.

[0060] A method for manufacturing a DWM system cover removal device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will now be discussed, with reference to Fig.15 ,as well as Figures 4A-4E . Figures 4A-4E An example of the configuration of the various components of the DWM system cover removal device is shown. Fig.15 The following is an exemplary flowchart of manufacturing a DWM system cover removal device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the device has the function of removing the DWM cover from the frame of the bogie assembly. Fig.15 The steps shown in the example are to make Figures 1A-3C DWM system cover removal device 110.

[0061] At block 1502, a base may be formed having one or more keyways into which one or more keys may be inserted to secure the base to a cover plate of a DWM system attached to a frame of a truck assembly of a railway vehicle and defining a central opening aligned with a main axis of the DWM system. Figure 4A, the base 212 may include a component 410 and a component 412. The component 410 may be coupled to an actuator (e.g., Figure 2A The actuator 210 of FIG. 4 and the component 412 may be coupled to the cover plate (eg, Figure 1A DWM cover plate 115). In an embodiment, component 410 has a generally circular cross-section with a diameter D1 ranging from 3 to 5 inches and a length L1 ranging from 3 to 5 inches. In an embodiment, component 410 is internally threaded for attachment to an actuator. In an embodiment, the threaded interior length T1 of component 410 is 2 to 4 inches.

[0062] In an embodiment, component 412 has a generally circular cross-section with opposing circular portions cut off. Component 412 has a diameter D2 ranging from 5 to 10 inches and a length L2 ranging from 3 to 6 inches. In an embodiment, component 412 may be coupled to component 410 using a tapered region with a length L3 ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 inches. Figure 4B As shown, the part 412 of the base 212 can be composed of a part 414, whose length L4 ranges from 2 to 4 inches and whose diameter can be less than D2. One or more keyways are generally oblong, whose diameter DO ranges from 0.3 to 0.7 inches and whose length LO ranges from 0.4 to 1 inch. In some embodiments, the diameter of the central opening of the base 212 can be 2 to 5 inches.

[0063] At block 1504, an actuator may be coupled to the base. In an embodiment, the actuator may provide a driving force. At block 1506, one or more keys may be formed to be inserted into one or more keyways. Figure 4C and 4D In an embodiment, the key can be made of heat treated steel and have a generally oblong distal end with a length L6 ranging from 1.5 to 3 inches, a diameter KD2 ranging from 0.2 to 0.8 inches, a width KW2 ranging from 0.5 to 1.2 inches, and a proximal length L5 ranging from 1.2 to 3.2 inches and a diameter D3 ranging from 0.7 to 1.3 inches.

[0064] At block 1508, one or more spindles may be formed. In an embodiment, the one or more spindles may be arranged within the central opening of the base to contact the main shaft of the DWM system at the distal end of the one or more spindles and receive a driving force from the actuator at the proximal end of the one or more spindles. As described above, the one or more spindles may include more than one type of spindle. Figure 4E An example configuration of one or more mandrels is shown. Figure 4E, each of the one or more mandrels includes a proximal end having a diameter D5 in the range of 1-2 inches and a length L7 in the range of 1-2 inches. In an embodiment, the proximal end can be separated from the distal end by a transition portion having a diameter D6 in the range of 2-3 inches and a width W1 in the range of 0.1 to 0.5 inches. In an embodiment, the distal end diameter D4 of each of the one or more mandrels ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 inches. In an embodiment, the length L6 of the distal end of the one or more mandrels may vary based on the type of mandrel. For example, the length L6 of a first type of mandrel ranges from 3 to 6 inches, and the length L6 of a second type of mandrel ranges from 0.5 to 2 inches.

[0065] Reference again Figure 1A and Figure 1C , the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 can remove the DWM spindle 125 and / or the DWM chain crank 127 from the DWM system 150. In some embodiments, the DWM spindle 125 and / or the DWM chain crank 127 can be removed from the DWM system 150 after the DWM cover plate 115 is removed (e.g., using the DWM system cover plate removal device 110). In some cases, it may be very difficult to remove the DWM spindle 125 from the DWM system 150, especially when the DWM spindle 125 may be "stuck" to the DWM system 150, which makes it extremely difficult or even impossible to pull the DWM spindle 125 out of the DWM system 150. In some cases, the DWM spindle 125 may be "stuck" to the DWM chain crank 127, making it impossible for the DWM spindle 125 to be easily removed from the DWM chain crank 127. This may occur when the DWM chain crank pin 157 breaks. In these cases, the DWM spindle 125 is typically not removable from the DWM chain crank 127. In these cases, the DWM crank and axle removal device 120 may be used to remove the DWM spindle 125 and / or the DWM chain crank 127 from the DWM system 150.

[0066] Figure 5A and 5B 1 shows different views of an example of a DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 implemented according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 can remove a DWM spindle 125 and / or a DWM chain crank 127, such as Figure 1A and 1C As shown in Figure 5A, the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 may include an actuator 510, a base 512, a puller 520, and a puller shaft 525. In an embodiment, the actuator 510 may provide a pulling force through the puller 520, and the puller 520 may pull the DWM spindle 125 away from the DWM system 150. In an embodiment, the base 512 may be mounted on the frame 151 and may provide a lever action against the pulling force from the actuator 510, which may allow the puller 520 to pull the DWM spindle 125. In an embodiment, the actuator 510 may include one or more hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic actuators, electromechanical actuators, electromagnetic actuators, and / or any other components or devices that provide a pulling drive force.

[0067] In embodiments, the base 512 may be coupled to the actuator 510 at a proximal end of the base 512. For example, the base 512 may be coupled to the actuator 510 by providing threads in the base 512 into which the actuator 510 may be screwed. In some embodiments, the base 512 may be coupled to the actuator 510 using adhesives, soldering, brazing, cable ties, screws, bolts, and / or any other suitable mechanism for fastening the base 512 to the actuator 510. In embodiments, the base 512 may be constructed of a strong and / or sturdy material such as steel or a stronger material. For example, in some embodiments, the base 512 may be made of 1018 steel.

[0068] In an embodiment, the distal end of the base 512 may include one or more openings 514a and 514b (opening 514b such as Figure 5B ), these openings can be inserted with one or more fasteners, thereby allowing the distal end of the base 512 to be mounted to the frame 151. For example, in some embodiments, the fasteners 517a and 517b can include bolts or screws, which can be used to securely attach the base 512 to the frame 151.

[0069] In an embodiment, the base 512 can define an interior space 513. The interior space 513 can accommodate the operation of the puller 520 by defining a space within which the puller 520 can move in response to the traction drive force from the actuator 510. In an embodiment, the interior space 513 can be aligned with the DWM spindle 125 of the DWM system 150. For example, the interior space 513 can allow the DWM spindle 125 to be located in the approximate center of the interior space 513 when the base 512 is attached to the frame 151. In this way, as described below, the DWM spindle 125 can be aligned with the puller 520 so that the puller 520 can pull the DWM spindle 125 away from the DWM system 150 during operation.

[0070] In an embodiment, Figure 5B, the base 512 may include an opening 530 that may provide space to position the DWM chain crank 127 without interfering with the operation of the DWM crank and axle removal device 120. In an embodiment, the opening 530 may allow the base 512 to be mounted to the frame 151 around the DWM chain crank 127. In this manner, the DWM crank and axle removal device 120 may be operated to remove the DWM spindle 125 and / or the DWM chain crank 127 while the DWM chain crank 127 may protrude from the interior of the frame 151.

[0071] In an embodiment, the puller 520 can be securely attached to the DWM spindle 125 and transmit the traction drive force from the actuator 510 to allow the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 to pull the DWM spindle 125 and / or the DWM chain crank 127 out of the DWM system 150. In an embodiment, the distal end of the puller 520 can include a collet component 521 that is positioned around the DWM spindle 125. For example, the collet component 521 can include a central opening that can be inserted into the DWM spindle 125 so that the central opening of the collet component 521 can surround the DWM spindle 125. In some embodiments, the collet component 521 can include one or more openings 517a and 517b that can be inserted into fasteners 515a and 515b to securely connect the puller 520 to the DWM spindle 125. For example, the fasteners 515 a and 515 b may include bolts, screws, etc., which may be inserted into the DWM spindle 125 through the openings 517 a and 517 b to securely attach the puller 520 to the DWM spindle 125 .

[0072] In embodiments, the proximal end of the puller 520 may be coupled, connected, or otherwise contacted with a puller shaft 525. The puller shaft 525 may transmit a traction drive force from the actuator 510 to the puller 520. For example, the puller shaft 525 may have a distal end 527 and a proximal end 526, the distal end 527 may be connected (e.g., by a threaded connection, a screw connection, or other fixed connection mechanism) to the puller 520, and the proximal end 526 may be connected to a fastening element 528. In embodiments, the actuator 510 may provide a traction drive force to pull the puller shaft 525 in a direction 550, which is a direction away from the frame 151 and the DWM system 150. In embodiments, the pulling force applied to the puller shaft 525 may be transmitted to the puller 520, and the puller 520 may be securely connected to the DWM spindle 125, thereby causing the DWM spindle 125 to be pulled out of the DWM system 150 in the direction 550. In embodiments where the DWM chain crank 127 may be "stuck" to the DWM spindle 125, a pulling force in direction 550 may cause the DWM spindle 125 and the DWM chain crank 127 to be pulled together in direction 550. In this manner, the DWM crank and axle removal device 120 may remove the DWM spindle 125 and / or the DWM chain crank 127.

[0073] In some embodiments, the base 512 may include a lifting element 518. The lifting element 518 may allow or facilitate lifting (e.g., using a powered lifting mechanism) the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 during operation. In some embodiments, the lifting element 518 may include an eyelet, a ring, a hook, and / or any other mechanism suitable for attaching to the base 512 and allowing the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 to be lifted.

[0074] The operation of the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 will now be discussed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to Fig.13 ,as well as Figures 6A-6D . Figures 6A-6D A view of a DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 during operation is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.13 A flow chart 1300 illustrating an overview of the operation of a DWM crank and axle removal apparatus configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure for removing a DWM spindle and / or a DWM chain crank from a DWM system installed in a truck assembly of a railway vehicle is shown.

[0075] like Fig. 6AAs shown, the figure shows the DWM system after the DWM cover plate is removed, the DWM spindle 125 can be connected to the DWM chain crank 127, and the DWM spindle 125 and the DWM chain crank 127 can both be located within the frame 151. As described above, it may not be possible to manually (e.g., by hand) remove the DWM spindle 125 and / or the DWM chain crank 127, or the DWM spindle 125 may be stuck on the DWM chain crank 127. In this case, it may be decided to remove the DWM spindle 125 and / or the DWM chain crank 127 from the DWM system 150 using a DWM crank and shaft removal device (e.g., the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120).

[0076] During operation, at block 1302, the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 can be mounted to the frame 151. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figure 6B , mounting the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 to the frame 151 includes positioning the distal end of the base 512 on the frame 151 and connecting at least one fastener through the openings 514a and 514b to secure the base 512 to the frame 151. In an embodiment, mounting the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 to the frame 151 includes positioning the collet 521 of the puller 520 around the DWM spindle 125. One or more fasteners can be inserted into the collet 521 to attach to the DWM spindle 125, thereby securing the puller 520 to the DWM spindle 125.

[0077] In some embodiments, an actuation medium source 532 can be attached to the actuator 510. In embodiments, the actuation medium source 532 includes a source that can provide a medium that the actuator 510 can use to provide a traction drive force. For example, depending on the type of actuator 510, the actuation medium source 532 can include a hydraulic fluid source, an electrical source, a pneumatic source, etc.

[0078] During operation, at block 1304, the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 may be activated. Activating the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120 includes activating the actuator 510 to provide a traction drive force. In an embodiment, the actuator 510 may provide a traction drive force by pulling the puller shaft 525 in a direction away from the frame 151 and transmitting the pulling force to the puller 520, which may pull the DWM spindle 225 in a direction away from the frame 151. For example, referring to Figure 6C, the actuator 510 can pull the pulling shaft 525 away from the frame 151 in the direction 550. Since the puller shaft 525 can be attached to the puller 520, the pulling force applied to the puller shaft 525 can be transmitted to the puller 520. In this way, the puller 520 can be pulled in the direction 550, and since the puller 520 can be firmly attached to the DWM spindle 125, the DWM spindle 125 can be pulled away from the frame 151 in the direction 550. Since the base 512 can be firmly attached to the frame 151, the base 512 can provide a lever to resist the pulling force from the puller 520 to the DWM spindle 125, which can allow the DWM spindle 125 to be pulled by the puller 520.

[0079] In this example, the DWM chain crank 127 may be "stuck" on the DWM spindle 125. In this case, the pulling force from the puller 520 to the DWM spindle 125 in the direction 550 may cause the DWM spindle 125 and the DWM chain crank 127 to be pulled together in the direction 550. In this way, the DWM crank and axle removal device 120 can remove the DWM spindle 125 and / or the DWM chain crank 127 from the DWM system 150. For example, Fig.6D , the DWM spindle 125 and the DWM chain crank 127 may be removed from the DWM system 150 together.

[0080] A method of manufacturing a DWM crank and shaft removal device will now be discussed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to Fig.13 ,as well as Figures 7A-7D . Figures 7A-7D An example of the configuration of the various components of the DWM crank and shaft removal device implemented according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Fig.16 An exemplary flowchart of the operation of manufacturing a DWM crank and axle removal device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, which is capable of removing a DWM spindle and / or a DWM chain crank from a DWM system installed in a bogie assembly of a railway vehicle. For example, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a DWM crank and axle removal device can be used to remove a DWM spindle and / or a DWM chain crank from a DWM system installed in a bogie assembly of a railway vehicle. Fig.16 The steps shown in the example are to make Figures 1A-3C DWM Crank and Shaft Removal Device 120 in.

[0081] At block 1602, a base may be formed having a proximal end configured to couple to an actuator and a distal end configured to attach to a frame of a DWM system. In an embodiment, the distal end of the base may include one or more openings into which one or more fasteners may be inserted to securely attach the base to the frame of the DWM system. For example, referring to Fig. 7A , the base 512 may include a distal end 710 and a proximal end 712. The proximal end 712 may be coupled to an actuator (e.g., Figure 5AThe actuator 510 of FIG. 1 ), and the distal end 710 may be coupled to a frame of the DWM system (eg, frame 151 of the DWM system 150 of FIG. 1 , such as Figure 1A and 5A ). In an embodiment, the proximal end 712 is generally trapezoidal in shape, wherein the base length L2 ranges from 10 to 14 inches, the length L1 ranges from 6 to 10 inches, and the height H1 ranges from 3 to 7 inches. In an embodiment, the distal end 710 is generally rectangular in shape, wherein the length L2 ranges from 10 to 14 inches, and the height H2 ranges from 3 to 7 inches.

[0082] In an embodiment, Figure 7B A top view of the base 512 is shown, with the base 512 having a length L4 ranging from 10 to 13 inches and a width W4 ranging from 10 to 13 inches. In an embodiment, the base 512 can define an opening 712 that provides space for placing a DWM chain crank without interfering with the operation of the DWM crank and axle removal device 120. In an embodiment, the opening 712 has a length L3 ranging from 5 to 9 inches and a width W3 ranging from 4 to 8 inches.

[0083] At block 1604, an actuator can be coupled to the base. In an embodiment, the actuator can provide a traction drive. At block 1606, a puller can be formed. Figure 7C An example configuration of a puller is shown. Figure 7C , the length L8 of the puller 520 ranges from 7 inches to 10 inches. The puller 520 can be composed of two parts, namely a collet 750 and a component 752. In an embodiment, the collet 750 can be attached to the DWM spindle of the DWM system, and the component 752 can be attached to the puller shaft, which can be attached to the actuator to receive the traction drive force. In an embodiment, the collet 750 is a generally circular shape with an outer diameter D1 ranging from 3 to 5.5 inches and a length L5 ranging from 2 to 4 inches. The collet 750 can have a central opening that is located around the DWM spindle. In an embodiment, the diameter D2 of the central opening ranges from 1.5 inches to 3 inches. In an embodiment, the collet 750 can have one or more openings, such as openings 517a and 517b, which can be inserted with fasteners for securely attaching the collet 750 to the DWM spindle. In an embodiment, the component 752 of the puller 520 has a generally circular cross-section with a diameter D3 ranging from 2 to 4 inches and a length L6 ranging from 4 to 6 inches.

[0084] In an embodiment, a puller shaft 525 may be formed. Fig.7D An example configuration of a puller shaft is shown. Fig.7D, the puller shaft 525 has a generally circular cross-section with a diameter D4 ranging from 0.5 to 2 inches and a length L8 ranging from 12 to 17 inches. In an embodiment, the length L9 of the distal threaded portion of the puller shaft 525 ranges from 3 to 7 inches, and the length L10 of the proximal threaded portion of the puller shaft 525 ranges from 0.5 to 2 inches.

[0085] Reference again Figure 1A and Figure 1C , the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 can be used to perform maintenance on the frame bushing 135. In some embodiments, the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 can be used to install the frame bushing 135 and / or remove the frame bushing 135 from the frame 151. In some embodiments, the frame bushing 135 can be removed from the DWM system 150 (e.g., using the DWM system cover plate removal device 110 and the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120) after removing the DWM cover plate 115, the DWM spindle 125, and the DWM chain crank 127. In these cases, the frame bushing 135 can be removed from the frame 151 using the DWM bushing maintenance device 130.

[0086] Fig. 8A 1 shows an example of a DWM bushing maintenance device 130 implemented according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 can remove the frame bushing 135 from the frame 151, such as Figure 1A and 1C As shown in Fig. 8A , the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 may include an actuator 810, a base 812, a collar 816, a push drive 830, and a spindle 850. In an embodiment, the actuator 810 may provide a thrust through the push drive 830. The actuator 810 may provide a thrust in a direction 860. In an embodiment, during operation, the spindle 850 may be attached to the push drive 830, and the thrust from the actuator 810 may be transmitted to the spindle 850, so that the spindle 850 may be pushed in the direction 860. In an embodiment, the base 812 may be mounted to the frame 151 and may provide a leverage effect against the thrust from the actuator 810, which may allow the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 to push the frame bushing 135 through the frame 151. In some embodiments, for example, during the operation of installing the frame bushing 135 on the frame 151, the base 812 may also provide stability to ensure that the frame bushing 135 is installed straight and correctly. In embodiments, the actuator 810 may include one or more hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic actuators, electromechanical actuators, electromagnetic actuators, and / or any other components or devices configured to provide thrust.

[0087] In an embodiment, the base 812 can be coupled to the actuator 810. For example, the base 812 can include threads to allow the actuator 810 to be screwed into the base 812. In some embodiments, the collar 816 can connect the base 812 to the actuator 810. For example, the collar 816 can surround the actuator 810 and one side of the base 812. In this way, the collar 816 can connect the base 812 to the actuator 810. In some embodiments, the collar 816 can include a lifting element 818. The lifting element 818 can allow or facilitate lifting (e.g., using a powered lifting mechanism) the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 during operation. In some embodiments, the lifting element 818 can include an eyelet, a ring, a hook, and / or any other mechanism suitable for attaching to the collar 816 and allowing the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 to be lifted. In an embodiment, the base 812 can be constructed of a strong and / or sturdy material (e.g., steel) or a stronger material. For example, in some embodiments, the base 812 can be made of hot rolled steel.

[0088] In an embodiment, the base 812 may include one or more openings (e.g., 814a and 814b) into which one or more fasteners may be inserted, thereby allowing the base 812 to be mounted to the frame 151. For example, in some embodiments, a bolt or screw may be inserted into the frame 151 through each of the openings 814a and 814b to securely connect the base 812 to the frame 151. In an embodiment, the base 812 may include one or more guide pins (e.g., guide pins 815a and 815b) that may be inserted into openings of the frame 151 (e.g., bolt or screw holes of the frame 151) to ensure that the base 812 remains aligned with the frame 151 during operation of the DWM bushing maintenance device 130. In an embodiment, ensuring that the base 812 remains aligned with the frame 151 during operation of the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 (e.g., during installation of the frame bushing 135 into the frame 151) can ensure that the frame bushing 135 is correctly installed and properly aligned into the frame 151.

[0089] In an embodiment, the base 812 can define a central opening 825. The central opening 825 can allow the push driver 830 to move through the base 812 during operation without interference. In an embodiment, the central opening 825 can be aligned with a space within the frame 151 where a frame bushing may be installed or will be installed (e.g., a frame bushing opening). For example, the central opening 825 can allow the space within the frame 151 where a frame bushing may be installed or will be installed to be approximately located in the center of the central opening 825 when the base 812 is attached to the frame 151. In this way, as described below, the mandrel 850 can be aligned with the space within the frame 151 where a frame bushing may be installed or will be installed during operation.

[0090] In an embodiment, the spindle 850 can receive the thrust from the push driver 830 and push the frame bushing 135 through the frame bushing opening in the frame 151 (e.g., a space in the frame 151 where the frame bushing can be installed or will be installed). In an embodiment, the spindle 850 can include a main shaft 853, a flange component 851, and a retaining component 852. In an embodiment, the main shaft 853 can be attached to the push driver 830 (e.g., attached to the distal end 854). For example, the push driver 830 can have a central opening that can be inserted into the distal end 854 of the spindle 850.

[0091] In an embodiment, the retaining member 852 may be inserted into the frame bushing 135, and the flange member 851 may provide a mechanism to prevent the frame bushing 135 from sliding over the mandrel 850, and in some embodiments, provide a mechanism to align the installation of the frame bushing 135 into the frame bushing opening of the frame 151. In an embodiment, the configuration of the retaining member 852 and the flange member 851 may be based on the type of mandrel 850. For example, the mandrel 850 may be a removal mandrel that is used with the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 to remove the frame bushing 135 from the frame 151. Figure 8B An example configuration of a spindle for frame bushing installation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Specifically, in this example, the flange component 851 of the spindle 850 can ensure that the flange component 851 can abut against the frame bushing 135, so that the flange component 851 can push against the frame bushing 135 to move the frame bushing 135 through the frame bushing opening where the frame bushing 135 is installed, while allowing the flange component 851 to pass through the frame bushing opening. In this way, as Figure 8B As shown, the spindle 850 can push the frame bushing 135 out of the frame bushing opening in which the frame bushing 135 is installed, thereby removing the frame bushing 135 from the frame 151.

[0092] In another example, the mandrel 850 may be an installation mandrel used with the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 to install the frame bushing 135 into the frame 151 . Figure 8C 850 for mounting a frame bushing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, in this example, the flange component 851 of the spindle 850 can ensure that the flange component 851 can abut against the frame bushing 135, so that the flange component 851 can push against the frame bushing 135 to move the frame bushing 135 through the frame bushing opening where the frame bushing 135 is mounted. However, in these embodiments, the flange component 851 can have a larger cross-sectional diameter than the flange component 851 of the spindle 850, such as Figure 8BIn this case, the flange member 851 may not be able to pass through the frame bushing opening. Therefore, when the frame bushing 135 is pressed into the frame bushing opening and the flange member 851 is flush with the frame 151, the flange member 851 cannot further enter the frame bushing opening, thereby ensuring that the frame bushing 135 is aligned and installed in the frame bushing opening.

[0093] The operation of the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 will now be discussed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 14 , and Figures 9A-9C . Figures 9A-9C Various views of the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 during a frame bushing removal operation are shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.14A A flow chart 1400 illustrating an overview of the operation of a DWM liner maintenance device configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure for removing a frame liner from a frame of a DWM system installed in a truck assembly of a railway vehicle.

[0094] like Fig. 9A , which shows the DWM system after the DWM cover, DWM spindle and DWM chain crank have been removed (for example, removed using the DWM system cover removal device 110 and the DWM crank and shaft removal device 120), the frame bushing 135 can be installed in the frame bushing opening on the inner surface of the frame 151.

[0095] During operation, at block 1402, the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 may be mounted to an outer surface of the frame 151. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9B , mounting the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 to the frame 151 includes positioning the base 812 on the frame 151, aligning the base 812 with the frame bushing 135 by inserting the guide pins 815a and 815b into the corresponding screw or bolt holes of the frame 151. Each of the one or more fasteners can be inserted into the corresponding openings 814a-814d to secure the base 812 to the frame 151. In an embodiment, mounting the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 to the frame 151 includes inserting the distal end of the spindle 850 into the frame bushing 135 until the flange member 851 abuts the frame bushing 135, and connecting the proximal end of the spindle 850 to the push driver 830.

[0096] In some embodiments, an actuation medium source 832 may be attached to the actuator 810. In embodiments, the actuation medium source 832 may include a source that may provide a medium that the actuator 810 may use to provide thrust. For example, depending on the type of actuator 810, the actuation medium source 832 may include a hydraulic fluid source, an electrical source, a pneumatic source, etc.

[0097] During operation, at block 1404, the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 may be activated. Activating the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 may include activating the actuator 810 to provide a thrust. In an embodiment, the actuator 810 may provide a thrust by causing the push drive 830 to be pushed in a direction toward the frame 151 and transmit the thrust to the spindle 850, which may push the frame bushing 135 through the frame bushing opening 910. For example, referring to Fig. 9C , the actuator 810 can cause the push driver 830 to be pushed toward the frame 151 in the direction 860. The thrust applied to the push driver 830 can be transmitted to the spindle 850 because the spindle 850 can be attached to the push driver 830. In this way, the spindle 850 can be pushed in the direction 860, and when the spindle 850 abuts against the frame bushing 135, the frame bushing 135 can be pushed into the frame bushing opening 910 in the direction 860. In this example, the flange component of the spindle 850 can pass through the frame bushing opening 910. In this way, when the spindle 850 pushes the frame bushing 135, the frame bushing 135 can be pushed through the other side of the frame bushing opening 910, and in this way, the frame bushing 135 can be removed from the frame bushing opening 910.

[0098] The operation of the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 will now be discussed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to Fig. 14B ,as well as Figures 10A-10C . Figures 10A-10C Various views of the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 during a frame bushing installation operation are shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 14B A flow chart 1450 illustrating an overview of the operations of a DWM bushing maintenance device configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure for installing a frame bushing into a frame of a DWM system installed in a truck assembly of a railway vehicle is shown.

[0099] like Fig. 10A The DWM system is shown with the DWM cover plate, DWM spindle, and DWM chain crank removed and a frame bushing (eg, frame bushing 135 ) to be installed within a frame bushing opening 910 in the inner surface of the frame 151 .

[0100] During operation, at block 1452, the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 can be mounted to the outer surface of the frame 151. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. Fig. 10B, mounting the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 to the frame 151 includes positioning the base 812 on the frame 151, aligning the base 812 with the frame bushing opening 910 by inserting guide pins 815a and 815b into corresponding screw or bolt holes of the frame 151. Each of the one or more fasteners can be inserted into the corresponding openings 814a-814d to secure the base 812 to the frame 151. In an embodiment, mounting the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 to the frame 151 includes inserting the frame bushing 135 onto the distal end 852 of the spindle 850 so that the frame bushing 135 abuts the side of the flange member 851. In an embodiment, the proximal end 854 of the spindle 850 can be connected to the push drive 830.

[0101] In some embodiments, an actuation medium source 832 may be attached to the actuator 810. In embodiments, the actuation medium source 832 may include a source that may provide a medium that the actuator 810 may use to provide thrust. For example, depending on the type of actuator 810, the actuation medium source 832 may include a hydraulic fluid source, an electrical source, a pneumatic source, etc.

[0102] During operation, at block 1545, the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 may be activated. Activating the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 includes activating the actuator 810 to provide a thrust. In an embodiment, the actuator 810 may provide a thrust by causing the push drive 830 to be pushed in a direction toward the frame 151 and transmit the thrust to the spindle 850, which may push the frame bushing 135 into the frame bushing opening 910. For example, referring to Fig. 10C , the actuator 810 may cause the push driver 830 to be pushed toward the frame 151 in the direction 860. The thrust applied to the push driver 830 may be transferred to the spindle 850 because the spindle 850 may be attached to the push driver 830. In this way, the spindle 850 may be pushed in the direction 860, and when the spindle 850 abuts against the frame bushing 135, the frame bushing 135 may be pushed into the frame bushing opening 910 in the direction 860. In this example, the flange component of the spindle 850 may be prevented from passing through the frame bushing opening 910. For example, the flange component of the spindle 850 may have a cross-sectional diameter that is larger than the diameter of the frame bushing opening 910, so that the flange component of the spindle 850 may be pressed against the inner surface of the frame 151 without entering the frame bushing opening 910, and in this way, the flange component of the spindle 850 may be flush with the frame 151, ensuring that the frame bushing 135 is aligned and installed in the frame bushing opening 910.

[0103] A method of manufacturing a DWM bushing maintenance device will now be discussed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to Fig.17 ,as well as Figures 11A-11C . Figures 11A-11CAn example of the configuration of the various components of the DWM bushing maintenance device configured according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Fig.17 An exemplary flowchart of the operation of manufacturing a DWM bushing maintenance device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, which is capable of removing a frame bushing from a DWM system installed in a bogie assembly of a railway vehicle. For example, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a Fig.17 The steps shown in the example are used to manufacture the DWM bushing maintenance device 130, refer to Figure 1A , 1C and 8A-10C.

[0104] At block 1702, a base can be formed. For example, referring to Fig.11A , the base 512 may be generally rectangular in shape with a width 1 ranging from 10 to 16 inches and a height H1 ranging from 3 to 8 inches. In an embodiment, the base 812 may include a central opening 825. The diameter D1 of the central opening may be 2 to 5 inches.

[0105] In an embodiment, the base 812 can be attached to the frame of the DWM system. For example, the base 812 can include one or more openings (e.g., openings 814a-814d) into which one or more fasteners can be inserted to securely attach the base 812 to the frame of the DWM system. In an embodiment, one or more guide pins (e.g., guide pins 815a and 815b) can be connected to the base 812.

[0106] In an embodiment, the base 812 can be attached to the actuator. For example, at block 1704, a collar can be formed. In an embodiment, the collar can couple the base 812 to the actuator. For example, the collar can wrap around the actuator and one side of the base 812. In this way, the collar can connect the base 812 to the actuator 810. Fig. 11B An example configuration of a collar according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Fig. 11B , the collar 816 can be annular with an inner diameter D2 ranging from 2 to 5 inches and an outer diameter D3 ranging from 4 to 7 inches. In embodiments, the collar 816 can be split, thereby allowing the collar 816 to be opened to facilitate positioning around the actuator 810. In some embodiments, the collar 816 can be configured with a slab 1120. In embodiments, the slab 1120 can be inserted into a lifting element (e.g., Fig. 8A A lifting element 818 in the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 is provided that allows or facilitates lifting (e.g., using a powered lifting mechanism) of the DWM bushing maintenance device 130 during operation.

[0107] At block 1704, an actuator can be coupled to the base. In an embodiment, the actuator can provide a thrust. At block 1706, a mandrel can be formed. In an embodiment, the mandrel can have a distal end that can push the frame bushing through the frame bushing opening, and a proximal end that can be attached to a push driver connected to the actuator. As described above, the configuration of the mandrel can be based on whether the mandrel is used to remove the frame bushing from the frame bushing opening or to install the frame bushing into the frame bushing opening. Fig. 11C An example configuration of a mandrel configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Fig. 11C , the mandrel 850 may include a main shaft 853, a flange component 851, and a retaining component 852. In an embodiment, the length L1 of the mandrel 850 may range from 10 to 13 inches. The main shaft 853 has a generally circular cross-section with a diameter D5 ranging from 1.5 to 3 inches. In an embodiment, the main shaft 853 may be configured with a distal end 854, which may be attached to a push drive. The distal end has a generally circular cross-section with a diameter D4 ranging from 1 to 2 inches and a length L2 ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 inches.

[0108] In an embodiment, the size of the flange component 851 and the retaining component 852 can be based on whether the mandrel is used to remove the frame bushing from the frame bushing opening or to install the frame bushing into the frame bushing opening. For example, in an application where the mandrel 850 can be used to remove the frame bushing from the frame bushing opening, the flange component 851 can have a generally circular cross-section with a diameter D7 ranging from 2 to 3.5 inches and a length L4 ranging from 1.5 to 3 inches, and the retaining component 852 can have a generally circular cross-section with a diameter D6 ranging from 1.5 to 3 inches and a length L5 ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 inches. In an application where the mandrel 850 can be used to install the frame bushing into the frame bushing opening, the flange component 851 can have a generally circular cross-section with a diameter D7 ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 inches and a length L4 ranging from 1.2 to 2.2 inches, and the retaining component 852 can have a generally circular cross-section with a diameter D6 ranging from 1.7 to 3 inches and a length L5 ranging from 0.5 to 1 inch.

[0109] Although the present disclosure and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various modifications, substitutions and changes may be made to the disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. In addition, the scope of the present application is not limited to the specific embodiments of the processes, machines, manufactures, material compositions, devices, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art can easily understand from the contents of the present disclosure, processes, machines, manufactures, material compositions, devices, methods or steps that are currently available or developed in the future and perform substantially the same functions as the corresponding embodiments described herein or achieve substantially the same results may be utilized according to the present invention. Therefore, the attached claims are intended to include these processes, machines, manufactures, material compositions, devices, methods or steps within their scope.

[0110] Furthermore, the description in this patent document should not be construed as implying that any particular element, step, or function is an essential or critical element that must be included within the scope of the claims. Furthermore, unless the exact words "means for" or "step for" are expressly used in a particular claim and followed by a participatory phrase identifying the function, no claim is intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. §112(f) for any additional claim or claim element. Terms used in the claims (such as (but not limited to) "mechanism," "module," "device," "unit," "component," "element," "member," "device," "machine," "system," "processor," "processing device," or "controller") should be understood and intended to refer to structures known to those skilled in the relevant art and further modified or enhanced by the features of the claims themselves, and are not intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. §112(f). Even under the broadest reasonable interpretation, in accordance with this paragraph of the specification, the claims are not intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. §112(f) in the absence of the above specific language.

[0111] The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential features. For example, each new structure described herein may be modified to accommodate specific local changes or requirements while retaining their basic configuration or structural relationship to each other, or while performing the same or similar functions described herein. Therefore, the present embodiments should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure may be determined by the appended claims rather than the above description. Therefore, all changes within the meaning and equivalent scope of the claims should be included in the claims. In addition, the various elements in the claims are not well-known, conventional or traditional. Instead, the claims are directed to the unconventional inventive concepts described in the specification.

Claims

1. A tool for removing the cover plate of a Dynamic Weight Management (DWM) system, comprising: an actuator for providing driving force; a base connected to the actuator, wherein the base has one or more keyways into which one or more keys can be inserted to fix the base to the cover plate of the DWM system attached to the frame of the bogie assembly of a railway vehicle, and wherein the base defines a central opening aligned with the main shaft of the DWM system; at least one mandrel located within the central opening of the base, configured to: contact the main shaft of the DWM system at the distal end of the at least one mandrel; and receive driving force from the actuator at the proximal end of the at least one mandrel, wherein the driving force from the actuator causes the at least one mandrel to push the main shaft of the DWM system in a first direction and causes the base to pull away from the main shaft of the DWM system in a second direction opposite to the first direction, thereby causing the cover plate to separate from the frame of the bogie assembly.

2. The tool for removing the cover plate of the DWM system according to claim 1, wherein, the actuator includes one or more of the following: a hydraulic cylinder; a pneumatic actuator; an electromechanical actuator; and an electromagnetic actuator.

3. The tool for removing the cover plate of the DWM system according to claim 1, wherein, the base includes an opening aligned with the chain crank of the DWM system.

4. The tool for removing the cover plate of the DWM system according to claim 1, wherein, one or more keyways can fix the base to the opening of the cover plate through which the main shaft of the DWM system can pass during the operation of the DWM system.

5. The tool for removing the cover plate of the DWM system according to claim 1, wherein, the base includes a lifting element that can facilitate the lifting of the tool for removing the cover plate of the DWM system.

6. The tool for removing the cover plate of the DWM system according to claim 1, wherein, the at least one mandrel includes a first mandrel configured to push the main shaft of the DWM system in a first direction, and the base pulls away from the main shaft of the DWM system in a second direction opposite to the first direction, thereby causing the cover plate to separate from the frame of the vehicle frame assembly and reach a point less than the end of the main shaft of the DWM system in the second direction through the main shaft of the DWM system.

7. The tool for removing the cover plate of the DWM system according to claim 1, wherein, the at least one mandrel includes a second mandrel configured to push the main shaft of the DWM system in a first direction, and the base pulls away from the main shaft of the DWM system in a second direction opposite to the first direction, thereby causing the cover plate to separate from the frame of the bogie assembly in the second direction and completely separate from the main shaft of the DWM system.

8. A device for removing the crank and shaft of a Dynamic Weight Management (DWM) system, comprising: an actuator for providing pulling force; a base having a proximal end coupled to the actuator and a distal end attached to the frame of the DWM system, wherein the base defines an internal space that can accommodate a puller; and a puller disposed within the internal space of the base, wherein the distal end of the puller is firmly attached to the main shaft of the DWM system, and the proximal end of the puller can be operatively connected to the actuator, and wherein the puller: Receive the pulling force from the actuator, wherein the pulling force from the actuator causes the puller to pull the main shaft of the DWM system away from the frame of the DWM system in the first direction, thereby causing the main shaft of the DWM system to be removed from the DWM system.

9. The DWM crank and shaft disassembly device according to claim 8, wherein, The base has one or more openings into which one or more fasteners can be inserted to fix the base to the frame of the DWM system.

10. The DWM crank and shaft disassembly device according to claim 8, wherein, The base includes an opening aligned with the chain crank of the DWM system.

11. The DWM crank and shaft disassembly device according to claim 10, wherein, The main shaft of the DWM system is attached to the chain crank of the DWM system.

12. The DWM crank and shaft disassembly device according to claim 10, wherein, The pulling force from the actuator causes the puller to pull the main shaft and the chain crank of the DWM system away from the frame of the DWM system in the first direction, thereby removing the main shaft and the chain crank of the DWM system together from the DWM system.

13. The DWM crank and shaft disassembly device according to claim 8, further comprising a pull shaft configured to: Be operably connected to the actuator at the proximal end and to the puller at the distal end; Receive the pulling force from the actuator; Transmit the pulling force from the actuator to the puller.

14. The DWM crank and shaft disassembly device according to claim 8, wherein, The actuator includes one or more of the following: Hydraulic cylinder; Pneumatic actuator; Electromechanical actuator; and Electromagnetic actuator.

15. The DWM crank and shaft disassembly device according to claim 8, wherein, The base includes a lifting element that facilitates lifting the DWM crank and shaft disassembly device during operation.

16. A dynamic weight management (DWM) frame bushing maintenance device, comprising: An actuator for providing a thrust force; A base coupled to the actuator, wherein the base has one or more openings into which one or more fasteners can be inserted to fix the base to the frame of the DWM system of the bogie assembly of a railway vehicle, wherein the base defines a central opening that allows a push drive to extend therethrough, the push drive having a proximal end that can be operably coupled to the actuator to receive the thrust force from the actuator; and A mandrel having a proximal end connected to the distal end of the push drive and a distal end for pushing a frame bushing through a frame bushing opening within the frame of the DWM system, wherein the mandrel: Receives the thrust force from the push drive, wherein the thrust force causes the mandrel to push the frame bushing through the frame bushing opening within the frame of the DWM system.

17. The DWM frame bushing maintenance device according to claim 16, wherein, The base includes one or more guide pins configured to align the base to the frame of the DWM system such that the mandrel is aligned with the frame bushing opening within the frame of the DWM system.

18. The DWM frame bushing maintenance device according to claim 16, further comprising a collar configured to surround the actuator and fix the actuator to the base.

19. The DWM frame bushing maintenance device according to claim 16, wherein, the mandrel removes the frame bushing from the frame bushing opening, and the flange part of the frame bushing passes through the frame bushing opening to push the frame bushing out of the frame bushing opening.

20. The DWM frame bushing maintenance device according to claim 16, wherein, the mandrel installs the frame bushing into the frame bushing opening, and the flange part of the frame bushing abuts against the frame without passing through the frame bushing opening to insert the frame bushing into the frame bushing opening.

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