Coupling head for a coupling assembly of a multi-carrier rail vehicle, coupling assembly and method for removing a coupling head

Abstract

A coupler head (1) for a (Zhan) coupler assembly of a multi-car rail vehicle comprises a coupler head body (10), a knuckle pin (12) and a knuckle (11) rotatable about the knuckle pin relative to the coupler head body between a coupled position and a non-coupled position. The first lock is configured to prevent rotation of the knuckle (11) when the knuckle (11) is in the coupled position. The second lock (20) is configured to prevent rotation of the knuckle (11) when the knuckle (11) is in the uncoupled position. The second lock (20) is further configured to unlock when a predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to rotate the knuckle (11) towards the coupled position is exceeded such that the second lock (20) no longer obstructs the rotation of the knuckle (11) towards the coupled position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a coupler head of a coupler assembly for a multi - car rail vehicle, a coupler assembly, and a method of retrofitting a coupler head of a coupler assembly of a multi - car rail vehicle with a safety device. Background Art

[0002] More specifically, the present invention relates to couplers for multi - car rail vehicles, in particular Janney couplers, also known as AAR (Association of American Railroads), CBC (Centre Buffer Coupler) or simply knuckle couplers. The Janney coupler combines a drawbar and a buffer device, enabling it to transmit both tensile and compressive forces. There are various types of Janney couplers, such as the basic Type E coupler, the Type F interlocking coupler including an interlocking head and mainly used for freight trains, and the Type H tightly locked coupler with an even tighter interlocking head and mainly used for passenger trains. The Type H tightly locked coupler is particularly suitable for being designed as an automatic coupler, through which hydraulic and electrical lines can also be automatically connected. Although the specific embodiments disclosed herein relate to the Type H tightly locked coupler, the present invention can be used in combination with all types of knuckle couplers.

[0003] The common basic structure of these couplers is a coupler head including a coupler head body, a knuckle, and a knuckle pin, where the knuckle pin connects the knuckle to the coupler head body such that the knuckle is rotatable relative to the coupler head body about a vertical axis defined by the knuckle pin. The coupler also includes a lock. When two couplers move relative to each other during the coupling process, the knuckle of one coupler collides with the knuckle of the other coupler, causing it to rotate behind the knuckle of the corresponding other coupler. In this case, the lock falls into a locked position, in which the lock blocks the knuckle, keeping the two coupler heads in a coupled state. Then, the tensile force between adjacent cars of the multi - car vehicle is transmitted through the knuckle. To unlock the two couplers again, the lock of at least one coupler is lifted, for example, by a manual operating lever, so that the coupler heads can be moved apart. In this case, the lock in the lifted position rests on the ledge of the knuckle until the knuckle is rotated back to its coupled position again.

[0004] Although it is sufficient for one of the mating knuckles to be in the open position before the start of the coupling process, it is advantageous when the knuckles of the two coupler heads are always open in their uncoupled state. This can avoid forced contact that may occur when the knuckles of the two coupler heads are both in the closed position, which will ultimately cause serious damage to the couplers and the coupler device.

[0005] US 7497345 B2 discloses a device for automatically pivoting and holding a knuckle in a fully open position when a decoupling mechanism is actuated. To this end, one end of a helical torsion spring capable of continuously applying a predetermined force is attached to a coupler head body, and the corresponding other end is attached to the knuckle, thereby generating a torque on the knuckle to pivot the knuckle and hold the knuckle in the fully open position.

[0006] However, this may pose a risk that if the decoupling mechanism is inadvertently actuated, thus lifting the lock of the coupler head, the lock cannot fall back to its locked position because it abuts against the flange of the knuckle pushed by the torsion spring. Generally, devices that can support the inadvertent opening of the coupler should be avoided. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to overcome the deficiencies of the prior art.

[0008] Accordingly, a first aspect of the present disclosure relates to a coupler assembly for a multi-carriage rail vehicle, particularly a coupler head for the coupler assembly. The coupler head includes a coupler head body, a knuckle configured to cooperate with a corresponding knuckle of another coupler head, and a knuckle pin having a knuckle pin axis. The knuckle pin is mounted to the coupler head body, and the knuckle is mounted to the knuckle pin such that the knuckle is rotatable relative to the coupler head body about the knuckle pin axis between a "coupled position" and a "decoupled position". The coupled position relates to a state of the knuckle in which the knuckle rotates inwardly to a closed position, while the decoupled position relates to a state of the knuckle in which the knuckle rotates outwardly to an open position. In the open or decoupled position of the knuckle, the coupler head is generally ready to couple. A first lock is configured to move to a locked position when the knuckle is in the coupled position, in which position it prevents the knuckle from rotating about the knuckle pin axis toward the decoupled position.

[0009] In addition, a second lock is provided. The second lock is configured to prevent the knuckle from rotating about the knuckle pin axis toward the coupled (i.e., closed) position of the knuckle when the knuckle is in its decoupled (i.e., open) position, and it is further configured to automatically unlock when a predetermined force is exceeded, the predetermined force acting on the knuckle to cause the knuckle to rotate about the knuckle pin axis toward the coupled position. In this unlocked state, the second lock no longer impedes the rotation of the knuckle about the knuckle pin axis toward its coupled position.

[0010] Thus, unlike the torsion spring proposed in US 7497345 B2 for automatically pivoting the knuckle and holding it in a fully open position when two coupler heads are decoupled, the second lock of the present disclosure does not impede the rotation of the knuckle once it is unlocked. Instead, the second lock can enter its locked state and, therefore, assume its locking function only after the knuckle has reached its open position, and then it automatically unlocks when a predetermined force acting on the knuckle in the direction of closing the knuckle is exceeded. This can occur when two coupler heads with their knuckles in the closed position are forced into contact with each other, such as during a collision between two multi-carriage vehicles. However, when the knuckles are held in their respective open positions by the second lock and the second lock automatically unlocks during such a collision, the coupler heads will automatically couple, such that the compressive force is perfectly transmitted between the coupler heads and the coupler assembly in the same manner as when two already-coupled carriages collide. In this way, the energy absorption device typically provided in the coupler assembly can absorb energy in a proper manner, rather than being damaged due to misaligned forces acting between the coupler devices. That is, when the force applied to the knuckle coupler during a collision acts on an axis different from the axis previously tested and simulated, the safety components of the coupler, especially the energy absorption components such as deformation units, are likely to fail to work adequately and in a controlled manner, resulting in serious damage.

[0011] To correctly implement this function, the second lock should not unlock under normal driving conditions of the multi-carriage vehicle and, therefore, withstand the accelerating and decelerating forces acting on the knuckle, but it should not unnecessarily impede the coupling during a collision or a normal coupling process. Preferably, automatic unlocking should occur when a force of 250 N to 800 N, more preferably about 400 N, acts frontally on the knuckle, i.e., in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the coupler head or the coupler assembly.

[0012] In a generally preferred arrangement for preventing the knuckle from rotating about the knuckle pin axis towards the coupling position of the knuckle, the second lock can simply connect the knuckle to the coupler head body and hold the knuckle in a predetermined relative position with respect to the coupler head body when the knuckle is in the uncoupled position.

[0013] Preferably, the second lock is visible from the outside of the coupler head when the knuckle is in the uncoupled position and in a state where the second lock prevents the knuckle from rotating about the knuckle pin axis towards the coupling position. This allows for a remote visual inspection of the safe open state of the coupler head.

[0014] Furthermore, when the knuckle is in its non-connected position and in a state where a second lock prevents the knuckle from rotating about the knuckle pin axis towards the connected position, the second lock is preferably accessible from the outside of the coupler head. In this way, the arrangement can enable the second lock to be easily unlocked, for example removed from the coupler head, in order to put the coupler head into normal operation without the need to disassemble the coupler head. The removal can be an automatic removal by remote control and / or (preferably) a manual removal. The overall intention is to remove the second lock before a normal or controlled connection process, not only to avoid damaging the second lock, but also to increase the likelihood of a successful connection without having to overcome spring forces during the connection process, as in the case of US 7497345 B2 mentioned above.

[0015] Further preferably, the second lock can be arranged on the top side of the coupler head to improve its visibility and accessibility and to minimize any possibility of the second lock becoming loose due to the influence of gravity.

[0016] Even more preferably, at least a part of the second lock can be configured to deform, and thus, when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle to cause the knuckle to rotate about the knuckle pin axis towards the connected position is exceeded, it is automatically unlocked due to this deformation. The automatic unlocking of the second lock by deformation can be achieved in different ways, roughly divided into "breaking locks" and "elastic locks".

[0017] I. Break Lock

[0018] Thus, according to the first way, the second lock includes a locking element that is configured to break when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle to cause the knuckle to rotate about the knuckle pin axis towards the connected position is exceeded. Once broken, the lock no longer hinders the rotation of the knuckle about the knuckle pin axis towards the connected position (i.e., its closed position), where connection may occur.

[0019] Preferably, the locking element is made of a brittle material, such as bronze or a hard polymer, such that it does not deform but breaks. Although the locking element can be entirely composed of such a brittle material, it may be sufficient if it includes a limited breaking part that is configured to break when the predetermined force is exceeded.

[0020] The locking element can include a locking pin that is configured to engage into at least one hole when the knuckle is in the non-connected open position. Thereby, the rotation of the knuckle about the knuckle pin axis towards the connected position is prevented. Preferably, the locking pin is removable from the hole without damaging the locking pin in order to unlock the second lock. In this way, the locking pin can be reused.

[0021] The minimum inner diameter of the hole into which the locking pin engages is preferably between 4 mm and 8 mm, more preferably between 5 mm and 7 mm, and most preferably about 6 mm. Accordingly, the locking pin can have a corresponding diameter between 4 mm and 8 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 7 mm, and more preferably about 6 mm that engages into at least one hole.

[0022] I.a Locking Pin Extending Through Two Holes

[0023] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the coupler head, at least one hole for the locking pin includes a first hole provided in the coupler head body and a second hole provided in the knuckle. This arrangement allows the locking pin to engage into both the first hole and the second hole simultaneously when the knuckle is in the uncoupled position. When the predetermined force is exceeded, the locking pin will break into at least two pieces, and the knuckle will rotate towards its closed position. Once broken, all or part of the locking pin may fall out of one or more holes due to gravity.

[0024] Preferably, the locking pin has a weakened portion configured to break when the predetermined force is exceeded, and when the locking pin engages into at least one hole, the weakened portion is preferably located between the first hole and the second hole. This is the area where the force acting on the locking pin (i.e., the shear force) becomes the strongest, such that the locking pin will surely break at this weakened portion.

[0025] The locking pin can be fixed in the hole in various ways, for example, by a clamping plate, a screw thread portion, a press fit, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the second lock includes an elastic safety element through which the locking pin can be fixed in the hole. The elastic safety element provides an elastic force. It can be in the form of a leaf spring. Preferably, the elastic safety element is fixedly connected to the coupler head body or the knuckle and engages with the locking pin when the knuckle is in the open, uncoupled position. Alternatively, the elastic safety element can be fixedly connected to the locking pin and elastically engages with the coupler head body or the knuckle. In this way, accidental removal of the locking pin from at least one hole can be prevented, and at the same time, due to its elasticity, the elastic safety element can be easily disengaged from the locking pin manually, i.e., by acting on the elastic safety element to overcome the elastic force, thereby allowing the locking pin to be removed from at least one hole without damage.

[0026] The coupler head may further include a locking pin retainer on the coupler head body, the knuckle, or the knuckle pin to hold the locking pin when the locking pin is in a state of being removed from at least one hole. In this way, the locking pin can be easily reused.

[0027] To this end, the second lock may further include a safety cable, through which the locking pin is connected to the coupler head body, the knuckle pin or the knuckle. The safety cable has a sufficient length, which allows the locking pin to engage into at least one hole and be held in the locking pin retainer while the locking pin is connected to the coupler head body, the knuckle pin or the knuckle through the safety cable.

[0028] I.b Locking Pin Connected to the Plunger

[0029] In another preferred embodiment, the locking element further includes a plunger, to which the locking pin is connected. The plunger is detachably connected to the knuckle or the coupler head body, and at least one hole engaged by the locking pin is arranged on the corresponding other one of the knuckle and the coupler head body. Then, removing the locking pin from at least one hole without damaging the locking element requires detaching the plunger from the knuckle or the coupler head body respectively.

[0030] Once the plunger has been detached from the knuckle or the coupler head body, it can be reconnected to the knuckle or the coupler head body in a different orientation, in which it does not hinder the rotation of the knuckle around the knuckle pin axis towards its closed or coupled position. This can be achieved by rotating the plunger by about 180° and reattaching it at the same connection point as before detachment. Thus, after reattachment, the plunger with the locking pin connected to it faces backward or upward, such that the locking pin does not get in the way during the subsequent coupling process.

[0031] The locking pin may have a weakened portion, which is configured to break when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle to rotate the knuckle around the knuckle pin axis towards the coupled position is exceeded. When the locking pin engages into at least one hole, the weakened portion is preferably located at a position outside at least one hole, that is, between the plunger and the hole. This is the area where the force acting on the locking pin (i.e., the shear force) becomes the strongest, such that the locking pin will surely break at this weakened portion.

[0032] When the locking pin engages into at least one hole, an elastic or rubber sleeve may be provided between the outer surface of the locking pin and the inner surface of at least one hole. This will prevent the clicking noise from occurring when the rail vehicle is running.

[0033] Couplers generally must meet certain standards. The Janney coupler usually has a so-called "flag hole" at the front end of the knuckle. The flag hole generally extends vertically through the knuckle. In the above embodiments, the hole for the locking pin can advantageously be formed by the flag hole of the knuckle.

[0034] II. Elastic Lock

[0035] According to the second method, the second lock includes a locking element configured to elastically move away rather than break when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle to rotate the knuckle about the knuckle pin axis towards the coupling position is exceeded. Once the locking element moves away, the lock no longer impedes the rotation of the knuckle about the knuckle pin axis towards the coupling position (i.e., its closed position), where the coupling can occur. The advantage of the elastic lock over the breakable lock lies in the reusability of the elastic lock.

[0036] Thus, the second lock may include an elastic element and a locking element. The elastic element is arranged to provide an elastic force when the knuckle is in the uncoupled position, which pushes the locking element into the locking position, in which the locking element prevents the knuckle from rotating about the knuckle pin axis. And, the locking element is arranged to move out of such a locking position when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle to rotate the knuckle about the knuckle pin axis towards the coupling position is exceeded, overcoming the elastic force of the elastic element. Thus, in a car body collision where two sections face each other with their respective couplings, the locking elements of the coupling heads move out of their locking positions overcoming the elastic forces of the corresponding elastic elements, thereby allowing their knuckles to rotate and ultimately couple. After that, when the couplings have been uncoupled again, the knuckles can be held in the open, uncoupled position again by means of the same locking elements being pushed into their locking positions by the associated elastic elements.

[0037] The elastic element of the second lock may be attached to the coupling head body or the knuckle pin, or attached to the knuckle, while the locking element may be configured to engage with the corresponding other one of the coupling head body / knuckle pin and the knuckle when the knuckle is in the uncoupled position. In this way, the knuckle can be held in a fixed position relative to the coupling head body until the predetermined force acting on the knuckle is exceeded and the elastic force of the elastic element is overcome.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment, the locking element may engage a recess or a hole when the knuckle is in the uncoupled position. Preferably, the marking hole of the knuckle that is not normally used is used as the hole, so that retrofitting an existing coupling with the second lock remains relatively simple.

[0039] In this case, the locking element may preferably have an inclined surface through which the locking element engages the hole or recess when the knuckle is in the uncoupled position. Thus, damage to the locking element can be prevented when the locking element is forcibly removed from the recess or hole.

[0040] II.a Leaf Spring

[0041] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the elastic element takes the form and function of a leaf spring. The advantage of a leaf spring over other spring elements is that the manufacturing of a leaf spring is relatively simple and the required installation space is relatively small. In particular, the locking element can be easily integrated as part of the leaf spring, such that the locking element and the elastic element form an integral unit.

[0042] II.b Plunger with Compression Spring

[0043] Alternatively, the elastic element may include a compression spring disposed on a plunger. For example, the plunger may be mounted to the coupler head body or possibly to the knuckle pin. In any case, the compression spring may be arranged to push the locking element into its locked position. For example, the compression spring may push the locking element into a marking hole in the knuckle or a different hole or recess in the knuckle until the predetermined force acting on the knuckle is exceeded.

[0044] III. Modification Method

[0045] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of retrofitting a coupler head of a coupler assembly of a multi-carriage rail vehicle with a safety device. The purpose of the safety device is to hold the knuckle of the knuckle coupler in the open position under normal conditions, i.e., driving conditions. Thus, the safety device may take the form of the second lock described above. Accordingly, the coupler head to be retrofitted with the safety device includes a coupler head body, a knuckle configured to mate with a corresponding knuckle of another coupler head, and a knuckle pin having a knuckle pin axis, wherein the knuckle pin is mounted to the coupler head body and the knuckle is mounted to the knuckle pin such that the knuckle is rotatable relative to the coupler head body about the knuckle pin axis between a coupled position and a non-coupled position. The coupler head further includes a first lock configured to move to a locked position when the knuckle is in the coupled position, in which locked position it prevents the knuckle from rotating about the knuckle pin axis towards the non-coupled position.

[0046] Then, the method includes the following steps:

[0047] - providing a safety device in the form of a (second) lock, and

[0048] - mounting the (second) lock on the coupler head such that when the knuckle is in the non-coupled position, the second lock is capable of:

[0049] (a) preventing the knuckle from rotating about the knuckle pin axis towards the coupled position, and

[0050] (b) unlocking when a predetermined force acting on the knuckle to cause the knuckle to rotate about the knuckle pin axis towards the coupled position is exceeded, such that the second lock no longer impedes the rotation of the knuckle about the knuckle pin axis towards the coupled position.

[0051] As described above, the predetermined force may be a force acting positively on the steering knuckle, i.e., a force acting in the longitudinal axis direction of the coupler head or the coupler assembly, and this force may be in the range between 250 N and 800 N, preferably about 400 N. As already explained in connection with the above-mentioned coupler head, the safety device may be arranged on the coupler head to hold the steering knuckle in a predetermined relative position with respect to the coupler head body when the steering knuckle is in its non-connected position.

[0052] Furthermore, the second lock may be arranged such that when the steering knuckle is in the non-connected position and the second lock is in its state of preventing the steering knuckle from rotating towards the connected position about the steering knuckle pin axis, the second lock is preferably visible from the outside of the coupler head.

[0053] Furthermore still, the second lock may be arranged such that when the steering knuckle is in its non-connected position and the second lock is in its state of preventing the steering knuckle from rotating towards the connected position about the steering knuckle pin axis, the second lock is preferably accessible and unlockable from the outside of the coupler head without disassembling the coupler head.

[0054] In particular, for the above reasons, the second lock may be arranged on the top side of the coupler head.

[0055] As described above, when the predetermined force acting on the steering knuckle to cause the steering knuckle to rotate towards the connected position about the steering knuckle pin axis is exceeded, at least a part of the second lock may be configured to deform, such as break or bend.

[0056] III.1 Break Lock

[0057] According to the first mode, the second lock may include a locking element configured to break when the predetermined force acting on the steering knuckle to cause the steering knuckle to rotate towards the connected position about the steering knuckle pin axis is exceeded. Specifically, the locking element may include a locking pin, and the method may include the step of drilling at least one hole in the coupler head. In this case, the locking pin may be configured to engage into at least one hole when the steering knuckle is in the non-connected position to prevent the steering knuckle from rotating towards the connected position about the steering knuckle pin axis. Furthermore, the locking pin may be removable from at least one hole without damaging the locking pin in order to unlock the second lock. Specifically, the at least one hole may be drilled to have an inner diameter between 4 mm and 8 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 7 mm, more preferably about 6 mm.

[0058] III.1.a Locking Pin Extending Through Two Holes

[0059] The step of drilling at least one hole may include drilling a first hole in the coupler head body and a second hole in the steering knuckle, and the locking pin may be configured to engage into both the first hole and the second hole simultaneously when the steering knuckle is in the non-connected position.

[0060] An elastic safety element providing elastic force can be fixedly connected to one of the coupler head and the knuckle in such a way that when the knuckle is in the uncoupled position, the elastic safety element can perform two functions, namely (a) engaging with the locking pin to prevent the accidental removal of the locking pin from at least one hole, and (b) disengaging from the locking pin by acting on the elastic safety element to overcome the elastic force to allow the removal of the locking pin from at least one hole.

[0061] In addition, the locking pin retainer can be fixedly connected to the coupler head body, the knuckle or the knuckle pin, where the locking pin retainer is configured to hold the locking pin in a state where the locking pin is removed from the first hole and the second hole.

[0062] In addition, the method can include the following steps:

[0063] - Providing a safety cable, and

[0064] - Connecting the locking pin to the coupler head body, the knuckle pin or the knuckle by the safety cable,

[0065] wherein the safety cable is provided with a sufficient length which allows the locking pin to engage into the first hole and the second hole and allows the locking pin to be held in the locking pin retainer while the locking pin is connected to the coupler head body, the knuckle pin or the knuckle by the safety cable.

[0066] III.1.b Locking Pin Connected to the Plunger

[0067] Alternatively, in the case where the locking element includes a plunger and the locking pin is connected to the plunger, the modification method can include the following steps:

[0068] - Removably connecting the plunger to one of the knuckle and the coupler head body, and

[0069] - Drilling at least one hole in the corresponding other one of the knuckle and the coupler head body, where the arrangement is such that removing the locking pin from at least one hole without damaging the locking element requires disassembling the plunger from the knuckle or the coupler head body respectively.

[0070] In particular, the locking pin can have a weakened portion which is configured to break when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle to rotate the knuckle about the knuckle pin axis towards the coupled position is exceeded. In this case, preferably, the arrangement is such that when the locking pin engages into at least one hole, the weakened portion is located outside at least one hole between the plunger and the hole.

[0071] The method may further include the step of providing an elastic or rubber sleeve on the outer surface of the locking pin or the inner surface of at least one hole, such that the elastic or rubber sleeve is disposed between the outer surface of the locking pin and the inner surface of at least one hole when the locking pin engages into at least one hole. Preferably, the at least one hole is the reference hole of the knuckle.

[0072] III.2 Elastic Lock

[0073] According to the second manner, the second lock may include an elastic element and a locking element. In this case, the method may include the following steps:

[0074] - Disposing the elastic element such that when the knuckle is in the non-connected position, the elastic force of the elastic element pushes the locking element into the locking position, in which the locking element prevents the knuckle from rotating about the knuckle pin axis, and

[0075] - Disposing the locking element such that when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle to rotate the knuckle about the knuckle pin axis towards the connected position is exceeded, the locking element moves out of its locking position against the elastic force of the elastic element.

[0076] The elastic element of the second lock may be attached to one of the coupler head body and the knuckle pin on one hand and to the knuckle on the other hand, such that the locking element of the second lock can engage with the corresponding other of the coupler head body and the knuckle pin on one hand and with the knuckle on the other hand when the knuckle is in the non-connected position.

[0077] In particular, the step of disposing the locking element may be such that the locking element can engage a recess or a hole when the knuckle is in the non-connected position, where the hole is preferably the reference hole of the knuckle. Also, for the reasons stated above, the locking element may have an inclined surface through which the locking element engages the hole or the recess when the knuckle is in the non-connected position.

[0078] III.2.a Leaf Spring

[0079] In one embodiment, the elastic element may be provided as a leaf spring, where preferably, the locking element is provided as a component forming part of the leaf spring.

[0080] III.2.b Plunger with Compression Spring

[0081] In another embodiment, the elastic element may include a compression spring disposed on a plunger, where the arrangement of the elastic element is preferably such that the compression spring can push the locking element into the locking position.

[0082] IV. Coupler Assembly

[0083] Finally, a coupler assembly for a multi-car rail vehicle is provided. The coupler assembly includes a coupler head as described above, and further includes an energy absorption device configured to absorb energy when the coupler head collides with a corresponding coupler head of another car of the multi-car vehicle. The energy absorption device generally forms part of a drawbar, through which the coupler head is attached to the car of the multi-car vehicle. In the case where the force acting on the coupler head in the frontal direction is not coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the drawbar, the drawbar, in particular the energy absorption device provided therein, may be damaged. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0084] The above-described invention content and the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, reference is made to the drawings. However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed in the drawings. In the drawings:

[0085] Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B are different perspective views of a coupler assembly according to a first embodiment,

[0086] Figure 2 is Figure 1A and Figure 1B an enlarged perspective view of a part of the coupler head of the coupler assembly shown, showing the (second) lock,

[0087] Figure 3 shows Figure 2 a partial cross-section of the coupler head and the (second) lock of

[0088] Figure 4 showing the locking pin of the (second lock), Figure 3 for holding the locking pin of the (second) lock shown in

[0089] Figure 5 shows the safety cable, Figure 3 and Figure 4 through which the locking pins shown in

[0090] Figure 6 are connected to the coupler head,

[0091] Figure 7 shows a coupler head with a (second) lock according to a second embodiment, Figure 6 showing separately the (second) lock of the second lock of the second embodiment,

[0092] Figure 8 shows a coupler head with a (second) lock according to a third embodiment,

[0093] Figure 9Shows a coupler head with a (second) lock according to the fourth embodiment,

[0094] Figure 10 Shows a coupler head with a (second) lock according to the fifth embodiment,

[0095] Figure 11 Shows in detail Figure 10 the locking element of the (second) lock. Detailed description of the preferred embodiments

[0096] Figure 1A and Figure 1B are different perspective views of a coupler assembly that includes a coupler head 1 and a draw gear 2. The draw gear 2 connects the coupler head 1 to the car body of a car of a multiple-car vehicle via a mounting plate 3. The draw gear is designed to absorb stresses during coupling and train acceleration and employs certain energy-absorbing means for this purpose. In this example, this includes hydraulic dampers, rubber bearings, and deformation tubes. The coupler head 1 includes a coupler head body 10 and a knuckle 11, as well as a further knuckle pin 12. The knuckle pin 12 is fixed in the coupler head body 10 by two splints located at the top and bottom ends of the knuckle pin 12, respectively. The knuckle pin 12 has a knuckle pin axis A and is mounted to the coupler head body 10 such that the knuckle pin axis A is vertical. The knuckle 11 is mounted on the knuckle pin 12 to be rotatable about the knuckle pin axis A between Figure 1A and Figure 1B the open position and the closed position shown. In the open position, the coupler head 1 is ready for coupling because it can receive another knuckle of a corresponding coupler head, which can be in the open or closed position. During coupling, the other knuckle of the corresponding coupler head pushes against the tail 11A of the knuckle 11, causing the knuckle 11 to rotate about the knuckle pin axis A until the knuckle 11 (or possibly the knuckles of both coupler heads) reaches its closed position. In this position, a first lock located within the coupler head body 10 behind a pressure plate 13 (and thus not visible here) and resting against a knuckle bracket 11B drops under the force of gravity, thereby preventing any rotation of the knuckle 11 back to its open position. In this closed position (not shown), the knuckles 11 of the two couplers are interlocked behind each other and are prevented from further rotation, which constitutes the coupled state of the coupler head. Uncoupling is effected by a coupler lock lifter (not shown) that, in a first step, raises the first lock above the knuckle bracket 11B and, in a second step, pushes the knuckle 11 via a knuckle thrower (not shown) to cause the knuckle 11 to rotate towards its open position.

[0097] As can be seen from a protective arm 14 on the side of the coupler head body 10, Figure 1A and Figure 1BThe connector head shown is an H-type locking connector head. The protective arm 14 is received in the corresponding recess 15 on the corresponding other side of the connector head body 10.

[0098] Figure 2 is Figure 1A and Figure 1B An enlarged perspective view of a part of the connector head 1 shown, and showing the second lock 20 according to the first embodiment. The second lock 20 is configured to prevent the knuckle 11 from rotating about the knuckle pin axis A towards its connected or closed position when the knuckle 11 is in the unconnected position (the position as Figure 2 shown). This is illustrated in more detail in Figure 3 , Figure 3 which shows a partial cross-section of the connector head body 10 and the second lock 20. More specifically, in all embodiments described herein, the second lock 20 is configured to lock the knuckle 11 to the connector head body 10 and hold the knuckle 11 in a predetermined relative position with respect to the connector head body 10 when the knuckle 11 is in the unconnected position. For this purpose, according to this first embodiment, the second lock 20 includes a locking pin 21 that extends through a first hole 22 in the connector head body 10 and a second hole 23 in the knuckle 11. As can be seen, the locking pin 21 is arranged on the top side of the connector head and extends from the connector head body 10 such that it is both visible and accessible from outside the connector head. In this way, it is possible to easily verify whether the second lock 20 is in place to prevent rotation of the knuckle 11, and the locking pin 21 can be easily removed from the connector head 1 without the need to disassemble the connector head 1, thereby unlocking the second lock 20.

[0099] At least the locking pin 21 of the second lock 20 is spaced apart from the vertical midplane of the connector head 1, where the vertical midplane intersects the longitudinal central axis of the connector assembly. This is the case for the locking elements of all embodiments disclosed herein.

[0100] The core feature of the second lock 20 of this embodiment is that the second lock 20 (more specifically a part thereof) can break, namely the locking pin 21. That is, when a predetermined force acting on the knuckle 11 to cause the knuckle 11 to rotate about the knuckle pin axis A towards the connected position (not shown) of the knuckle exceeds, the locking pin 21 will break. Therefore, preferably, the locking pin 21 is made of a brittle material, such as bronze or a hard polymer. For most applications, also relevant to other embodiments disclosed herein, when the force acting on the knuckle 11 frontally is in the range of 250 N to 800 N (or higher), the second lock 20 should unlock, here "break", and the preferred predetermined breaking force is about 400 N.

[0101] The locking pin 21 is preferably closely fitted in the first hole 22 and the second hole 23, wherein the holes 22, 23 may have an inner diameter between 4 mm and 8 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 7 mm, and more preferably about 6 mm. Accordingly, the diameter of the locking pin 21 is substantially the same as the diameter of the holes 22, 23 and may be slightly smaller than the diameter of the holes 22, 23 to allow easy removal of the locking pin 21 from the coupler head 1.

[0102] In this first embodiment, the locking pin 21 is provided with a weakening portion 21A which is configured to break when the predetermined force is exceeded. The weakening portion 21A is located between the first hole 22 in the coupler head body 10 and the second hole 23 in the knuckle 11. In the region of the weakening portion 21A, the diameter of the locking pin 21 is correspondingly reduced.

[0103] The second lock 20 further includes an elastic safety element 24 that provides an elastic force. In the illustrated embodiment, the elastic safety element 24 is in the form of a leaf spring. The elastic safety element 24 is fixedly connected to the coupler head body 10 at one end 24A thereof and engages with the locking pin 21 at the corresponding other end 24B thereof. Alternatively, the elastic safety element 24 may be fixedly connected to the knuckle 11. A recess 21B is provided at the top end of the locking pin 21 extending from the coupler head body 10, and the elastic safety element 24 engages with such recess 21B at its free end 24B to prevent the locking pin 21 from being accidentally removed from the holes 22, 23. The elastic safety element 24 can be easily disengaged from the locking pin 21 by laterally pushing the free end 24B of the elastic safety element 24 against the elastic force, so that the locking pin 21 can be removed from the holes 22, 23 without damaging the locking pin 21. This is done prior to the intentional coupling process.

[0104] Since the locking pin 21 should be reused and placed back into the holes 22, 23 after the next decoupling process, it can be held in the locking pin holder 25 simultaneously. As Figure 4 shown, the locking pin holder 25 is provided on the side of the coupler head body 10. Accordingly, the locking pin holder 25 can hold the locking pin 21 in a state when the locking pin 21 is removed from the first hole 22 and the second hole 23.

[0105] In addition, the second lock 20 may further include a safety cable 25A, as Figure 1A and 1B shown, and more specifically as Figure 5 shown, Figure 5 is Figure 1APartial view. The safety cable 25A connects the locking pin 21 to the coupler head body 10, but alternatively, it can also connect the locking pin 21 to the knuckle pin 12 or the knuckle 11. The safety cable 25A has sufficient length to allow the locking pin 21 to engage in the first hole 22 and the second hole 23, and to allow the locking pin 21 to be held in the locking pin retainer 25 on the side of the coupler head body 10. In the illustrated embodiment, two locking pins 21 are shown, one positioned in the first hole 22 and the second hole 23, and one held in the locking pin retainer 25.

[0106] It should be noted that in all embodiments disclosed herein, the second lock 20 can be retrofitted to an existing coupler head, i.e., in this first embodiment, by drilling the first hole 22 and the second hole 23 in the coupler head body 10 and the knuckle 11 respectively, attaching the elastic safety element 24 with its first fixed end 24A to the top of the coupler head body 10, and attaching the locking pin retainer 25 to the side of the coupler head body 10.

[0107] Figure 6 A coupler head with a second lock 20 according to a second embodiment is shown. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment only in the second lock 20. In this case, the second lock 20 includes a plunger 26 having a fixed end 26A and a free end 26B, and the fixed end 26A is mounted on the top of the coupler head body 10. The locking pin 21 is connected to the free end 26B of the plunger 26 and extends into the marking hole 11C of the knuckle 11. Most, if not all, standardized knuckle couplers have such a marking hole 11C. The marking hole 11C extends straight through the knuckle 11 parallel to the knuckle pin axis A. The locking pin 21 can instead of extending into the marking hole 11C, extend into a different hole or recess in the knuckle 11, or extend inward along the inner side of the knuckle 11 to prevent the knuckle 11 from rotating inwardly towards its closed position. The fixed end 26A can alternatively be fixed to the knuckle 11, in which case the pin 21 attached to the free end 26B of the plunger 26 extends into a hole or recess in the coupler head body 10. The locking pin can be shorter than Figure 6 that shown.

[0108] As Figure 6As shown, the fixed end 26A of the plunger 26 is fixedly attached to the top of the coupler head body 10 by means of latches 27, more specifically by two latches on opposite sides of the coupler head body 10. The latches are in turn mounted and can be retrofitted on the coupler head body 10. By loosening the latches 27 on each side of the coupler head body 10, the plunger 26 can be removed together with the locking pin 21 without damaging any part of the second lock 20. Once unlocked, the locking element, i.e., the plunger 26 with the locking pin 21, can simply be rotated 180° about the vertical axis and reattached at the same connection points where it was originally attached to the coupler head body 10, i.e., using the same latches 27.

[0109] Importantly, this arrangement causes the second lock 20 (i.e., a part thereof) to break when it is in its locked position (as Figure 6 shown) and collides with the corresponding coupler head of the second car body, thus allowing the two coupler heads to be coupled. More specifically, the locking pin 21 can have a weakened portion (not shown), similar to the weakened portion of the locking pin 21 of the first embodiment, such that when a predetermined force acting on the knuckle 11 is exceeded, the locking pin 21 breaks at the weakened portion. To this end, the weakened portion of the locking pin 21 can be located outside the marking hole 11C, between the plunger 26 and the marking hole 11C.

[0110] Figure 7 The second lock 20 is shown separately. As shown, the second lock 20 includes a plunger 26, a locking pin 21, and two latches 27 on both sides of the fixed end 26A of the plunger 26. The locking pin 21 can be shorter than shown, since it suffices for it to extend into the marking hole 11C. The outer diameter of the locking pin 21 corresponds to or is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the marking hole 11C. The entire plunger 26 and the locking pin 21 are made of a brittle material, such as bronze or a hard polymer, or at least the parts thereof that should break in the event of a collision should be made of such a material.

[0111] Figure 8Shows a coupler head body 10 with a second lock 20 according to the third embodiment. The second lock 20 of the third embodiment is similar to the second lock 20 of the second embodiment in that it includes a plunger 26 having a fixed end 26A and a free end 26B, wherein a locking pin 21 is attached to the free end 26B of the plunger 26 and extends vertically upward into the marking hole 11C. It is different from the second lock 20 of the second embodiment in that, in addition to the substantially smaller size of the plunger 26, the plunger 26 is screwed at its fixed end 26A to the top of the coupler head body 10, and more importantly, on the other hand, it includes an elastic or rubber sleeve 28 disposed between the outer surface of the locking pin 21 and the inner surface of the marking hole 11C. The elastic or rubber sleeve 28 can be fixedly attached to the locking pin 21 or installed in the marking hole 11C. Alternatively, the elastic or rubber sleeve 28 can be completely separate from the locking pin 21 and the marking hole 11C. The purpose of the elastic or rubber sleeve 28 is to avoid the clicking noise when the multi-carriage vehicle is running.

[0112] Similarly, the plunger 26 can be detached from the coupler head body 10 to unlock the second lock 20. By rotating the plunger 180° about the vertical axis or even about the horizontal axis and re-attaching it to the same connection point 26C to which it was attached when the plunger 26 was in its locked position (as Figure 8 shown), the plunger 26 can be reconnected to the coupler head body 10.

[0113] Similarly, when a predetermined force acting on the knuckle 11 is exceeded, the second lock 20 should break. Therefore, the locking pin 21 of this third embodiment also has a weakened portion 21A with a reduced diameter at the position between the free end 26B of the plunger 26 and the marking hole 11C.

[0114] Figure 9 Shows a coupler head body 10 with a second lock 20 according to the fourth embodiment. This embodiment is different from the above-described embodiments in that the second lock 20 is not expected to break. Instead, the second lock 20 includes an elastic element 29 and a locking element 30. The elastic element 29 has a fixed end 29A and a free end 29B, and the fixed end 29A is connected to the top of the coupler head body 10, and the locking element 30 (here: integrally) is connected to the free end 29B. As Figure 9 shown, as Figure 8In contrast, the elastic element 29 is similar to the plunger 26 of the third embodiment, except that its purpose is to be flexible when being mounted to the coupler head body 10 at the connection point 26C by means of screws or the like. Thus, the plunger or elastic element 29 basically has the function of a leaf spring. The locking element 30 at the free end 29B of the elastic element 29 projects into the reference hole 11C (or any other hole or recess) of the knuckle 11. However, different from the locking pin 21 in the above embodiments, the locking element 30 has an inclined surface through which it engages with the reference hole 11C. Therefore, when a force acts on the knuckle 11 directly, the knuckle 11 is pushed to rotate about the knuckle pin axis A, thereby generating a force on the inclined surface 31 of the locking element 30, which force includes a vertical force component that ultimately causes the elastic element 29 to bend upward and make way for the rotation of the knuckle 11 towards its closed position. Thus, the second lock 20 automatically unlocks when the predetermined force is exceeded, without any part of it breaking. Therefore, in the case of an accidental collision of the two coupler heads, no part of the second lock 20 of this fourth embodiment needs to be replaced. In addition, there is no need to disassemble and reattach the elastic element 29 in order to unlock and lock the second lock 20 respectively.

[0115] Figure 10 Fig. shows a coupler head body 10 with a second lock 20 according to a fifth embodiment. The fifth embodiment is basically functionally corresponding to the fourth embodiment. However, different from the elastic element 29 in the fourth embodiment, the plunger 26 is not elastic. Instead, the plunger 26 is basically rigid, and the locking element 30 is movably attached to its free end 26B, and the inclined surface 30A of the locking element 30 extends into the reference hole 11C. This is shown in more detail in Figure 11 which, according to this figure, the pin 30B of the locking element 30 is vertically movable within the free end 26B of the plunger 26 and is held in its lower vertical position by an elastic element 29, which elastic element 29 can take the form of a compression spring, as Figure 11 shown. Again, any force acting directly on the knuckle 11 is transmitted to the inclined surface 30A of the locking element 30, thereby generating a vertical force component that vertically pushes the pin 30B upward against the elastic force of the elastic element 29 (compression spring). Once the predetermined force acting on the knuckle 11 is exceeded, the locking element 30 will be lifted out of the reference hole 11C, thus providing freedom for the rotation of the knuckle 11 towards its closed position.

[0116] Preferred aspects of the present disclosure are described in the following paragraphs, while the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims:

[0117] 1. A coupler head (1) for a coupler assembly of a multi-carriage rail vehicle, comprising:

[0118] - A coupler head body (10), a knuckle (11) configured to cooperate with a corresponding knuckle (11) of another coupler head (1), and a knuckle pin (12) having a knuckle pin axis (A), wherein the knuckle pin (12) is mounted to the coupler head body (10), and the knuckle (11) is mounted to the knuckle pin (12) such that the knuckle (11) is rotatable about the knuckle pin axis (A) relative to the coupler head body (10) between a coupled position and a non-coupled position, and

[0119] - A first lock configured to move to a locked position when the knuckle (11) is in the coupled position, in which locked position it prevents the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the non-coupled position,

[0120] characterized by a second lock (20) configured to prevent the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupled position when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupled position, wherein the second lock is further configured to unlock when a predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to cause the knuckle (11) to rotate about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupled position is exceeded, such that the second lock (20) no longer impedes the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupled position.

[0121] 2. The coupler head (1) according to paragraph 1, wherein the second lock (20) is configured to connect the knuckle to the coupler head body (10) and to hold the knuckle (11) in a predetermined relative position relative to the coupler head body when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupled position.

[0122] 3. The coupler head (1) according to paragraph 1 or 2, wherein the second lock (20) is visible from the outside of the coupler head (1) when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupled position and the second lock (20) is in its state of preventing the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupled position.

[0123] 4. The coupler head (1) according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, wherein the second lock (20) is accessible and unlockable from the outside of the coupler head (1) without disassembling the coupler head (1) when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupled position and the second lock (20) is in its state of preventing the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupled position.

[0124] 5. The coupler head (1) according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, wherein the second lock (20) is arranged on the top side of the coupler head (1).

[0125] 6. The connector head (1) according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, wherein at least a part of the second lock (20) is configured to deform when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to rotate the knuckle (11) about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupling position is exceeded.

[0126] I. Fracture lock

[0127] 7. The connector head (1) according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, wherein the second lock (20) includes a locking element (30) configured to fracture when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to rotate the knuckle (11) about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupling position is exceeded.

[0128] 8. The connector head (1) according to paragraph 7, wherein the locking element (30) includes a fracture portion configured to fracture when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to rotate the knuckle (11) about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupling position is exceeded, wherein at least the fracture portion of the locking element (30) is made of bronze or a hard polymer.

[0129] 9. The connector head (1) according to paragraph 7 or 8, wherein the locking element (30) includes a locking pin (21) configured to engage into at least one hole (11C; 22, 23) when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupling position, thereby preventing the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupling position, wherein the locking pin (21) is removable from at least one hole without damaging the locking pin (21) in order to unlock the second lock (20).

[0130] 10. The connector head (1) according to paragraph 9, wherein, in the case where the locking pin (21) engages into at least one hole (11C; 22, 23), the minimum inner diameter of at least one hole is between 4 mm and 8 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 7 mm, and more preferably about 6 mm.

[0131] I.a Locking pin extending through two holes

[0132] 11. The connector head (1) according to paragraph 9 or 10, wherein at least one hole (22, 23) includes a first hole (22) provided in the connector head body (10) and a second hole (23) provided in the knuckle (11), and wherein the locking pin (21) is configured to engage into both the first hole (22) and the second hole (23) simultaneously when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupling position, and fractures when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to rotate the knuckle (11) about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupling position is exceeded.

[0133] 12. The coupler head (1) according to paragraph 11, wherein the locking pin (21) has a weakened portion (21A) configured to break when exceeding the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to rotate the knuckle (11) about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupling position, and wherein when the locking pin (21) engages with the first hole (22) and the second hole (23), the weakened portion (21A) is located between the first hole (22) and the second hole (23).

[0134] 13. The coupler head (1) according to paragraph 11 or 12, wherein the second lock (20) further includes an elastic safety element (24) providing an elastic force, wherein the elastic safety element (24) is fixedly connected to one of the coupler head body (10) and the knuckle (11), and is configured to engage with the locking pin (21) to prevent the locking pin (21) from being accidentally removed from the first hole (22) and the second hole (23) when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupling position, and wherein the elastic safety element (24) is further configured to disengage from the locking pin (21) by acting on the elastic safety element (24) to overcome the elastic force, to allow the removal of the locking pin (21) from the first hole (22) and the second hole (23).

[0135] 14. The coupler head (1) according to any one of paragraphs 11 to 13, further comprising a locking pin retainer (25) located on the coupler head body (10), the knuckle (11) or the knuckle pin (12), wherein the locking pin retainer (25) is configured to hold the locking pin (21) when the locking pin (21) is in a state of being removed from the first hole (22) and the second hole (23).

[0136] 15. The coupler head (1) according to paragraph 14, wherein the second lock (20) further includes a safety cord (25A), and the locking pin (21) is connected to the coupler head body (10), the knuckle pin (12) or the knuckle (11) through the safety cord, wherein the safety cord (25A) has a sufficient length that allows the locking pin (21) to engage with the first hole (22) and the second hole (23) while the locking pin (21) is connected to the coupler head body (10), the knuckle pin (12) or the knuckle (11) through the safety cord (25A), and allows the locking pin (21) to be held in the locking pin retainer (25).

[0137] I.b Locking pin connected to the plunger

[0138] 16. The coupler head (1) according to paragraph 9 or 10, wherein the locking element (30) further includes a plunger (26), the locking pin (21) is connected to the plunger, wherein the plunger (26) is detachably connected to one of the knuckle (11) and the coupler head body (10), and at least one hole (11C) is arranged on the corresponding other of the knuckle (11) and the coupler head body (10), wherein removing the locking pin (21) from the at least one hole (11C) without damaging the locking element (30) requires correspondingly detaching the plunger (26) from the knuckle (11) or the coupler head body (10).

[0139] 17. The coupler head (1) according to paragraph 16, wherein the plunger (26) is configured to be reconnected to the knuckle (11) or the coupler head body (10) in a manner that does not impede the rotation of the knuckle (11) about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupling position by rotating the plunger (26) by approximately 180° and reattaching it at the same connection point (26C) as the connection point (26C) before detachment once it is detached from the knuckle (11) or the coupler head body (10).

[0140] 18. The coupler head (1) according to paragraph 16 or 17, wherein the locking pin (21) has a weakened portion (21A), the weakened portion being configured to break when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to rotate the knuckle (11) about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupling position is exceeded, wherein when the locking pin (21) engages in the at least one hole (11C), the weakened portion (21A) is located outside the at least one hole (11C) between the plunger (26) and the at least one hole (11C).

[0141] 19. The coupler head (1) according to any one of paragraphs 16 to 18 further includes an elastic or rubber sleeve (28), the elastic or rubber sleeve being disposed between the outer surface of the locking pin (21) and the inner surface of the at least one hole (11C) when the locking pin (21) engages in the at least one hole (11C).

[0142] 20. The coupler head (1) according to any one of paragraphs 16 to 19, wherein the at least one hole (11C) is a marking hole of the knuckle (11).

[0143] II. Elastic lock

[0144] 21. The coupler head (1) according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, wherein the second lock (20) comprises an elastic element (29) and a locking element (30), wherein the elastic element (29) is arranged to provide an elastic force when the knuckle (11) is in a non-coupled position, the elastic force pushing the locking element (30) into a locking position, in which the locking element (30) prevents the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A), and wherein the locking element (30) is arranged to move out of the locking position against the elastic force of the elastic element (29) when a predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to rotate the knuckle (11) about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupled position is exceeded.

[0145] 22. The coupler head (1) according to paragraph 21, wherein the elastic element (29) of the second lock (20) is attached on the one hand to one of the coupler head body (10) and the knuckle pin (12), and on the other hand to the knuckle (11), and wherein the locking element (30) of the second lock (20) is configured to engage, when the knuckle (11) is in a non-coupled position, with the corresponding other of the coupler head body (10) and the knuckle pin (12) on the one hand, and with the knuckle (11) on the other hand.

[0146] 23. The coupler head (1) according to paragraph 21 or 22, wherein the locking element (30) engages a recess or hole (11C) when the knuckle (11) is in a non-coupled position.

[0147] 24. The coupler head (1) according to paragraph 23, wherein the hole (11C) is a reference hole of the knuckle (11).

[0148] 25. The coupler head (1) according to paragraph 23 or 24, wherein the locking element (30) has an inclined surface (30A), and the locking element engages the hole (11C) or the recess through the inclined surface when the knuckle (11) is in a non-coupled position.

[0149] II.a Leaf spring

[0150] 26. The coupler head (1) according to any one of paragraphs 21 to 25, wherein the elastic element (29) is a leaf spring.

[0151] 27. The coupler head (1) according to paragraph 26, wherein the locking element (30) forms part of the leaf spring.

[0152] II.b Plunger with compression spring

[0153] 28. The coupler head (1) according to any one of paragraphs 21 to 25, wherein the elastic element (29) comprises a compression spring arranged on a plunger (26).

[0154] 29. The coupler head (1) according to paragraph 28, wherein the elastic element (29) is configured to push the locking element (30) into the locked position.

[0155] III. Retrofit method

[0156] 30. A method of retrofitting a coupler head (1) of a coupler assembly of a multi - car rail vehicle with a safety device, wherein the coupler head (1) comprises:

[0157] - a coupler head body (10), a knuckle (11) configured to cooperate with a corresponding knuckle (11) of another coupler head (1), and a knuckle pin (12) having a knuckle pin axis (A), wherein the knuckle pin (12) is mounted to the coupler head body (10) and the knuckle (11) is mounted to the knuckle pin (12) such that the knuckle (11) is rotatable relative to the coupler head body (10) about the knuckle pin axis (A) between a coupled position and a non - coupled position, and

[0158] - a first lock configured to move to a locked position when the knuckle (11) is in the coupled position, in which locked position it prevents the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the non - coupled position,

[0159] The method is characterized by the following steps:

[0160] - providing a safety device in the form of a second lock (20), and

[0161] - mounting the second lock (20) on the coupler head (1) such that when the knuckle (11) is in the non - coupled position, the second lock is capable of:

[0162] (a) preventing the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupled position, and

[0163] (b) unlocking when a predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to cause the knuckle (11) to rotate about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupled position is exceeded, such that the second lock (20) no longer impedes the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupled position.

[0164] 31. The method according to paragraph 30, wherein the safety device can be mounted on the coupler head (1) to hold the knuckle (11) in a predetermined relative position relative to the coupler head body (10) when the knuckle (11) is in the non - coupled position.

[0165] 32. The method according to paragraph 30 or 31, wherein the second lock (20) is arranged such that when the knuckle (11) is in the non-connected position and the second lock (20) is in its state of preventing the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the connected position, the second lock (20) is visible from the outside of the coupler head (1).

[0166] 33. The method according to any one of paragraphs 30 to 32, wherein the second lock (20) is arranged such that when the knuckle (11) is in the non-connected position and the second lock (20) is in its state of preventing the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the connected position, the second lock (20) is accessible and unlockable from the outside of the coupler head (1) without the need to disassemble the coupler head (1).

[0167] 34. The method according to any one of paragraphs 30 to 33, wherein the second lock (20) is arranged on the top side of the coupler head (1).

[0168] 35. The method according to any one of paragraphs 30 to 34, wherein at least a part of the second lock (20) is configured to deform when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to cause the knuckle (11) to rotate about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the connected position is exceeded.

[0169] III.1 Breakage lock

[0170] 36. The method according to any one of paragraphs 30 to 35, wherein the second lock (20) includes a locking element (30), the locking element being configured to break when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to cause the knuckle (11) to rotate about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the connected position is exceeded.

[0171] 37. The method according to paragraph 36, wherein the locking element (30) includes a locking pin (21), and the method includes the step of drilling at least one hole (11C; 22, 23) in the coupler head (1), wherein the locking pin (21) is configured to engage in at least one hole (11C; 22, 23) when the knuckle (11) is in the non-connected position to prevent the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the connected position, and wherein the locking pin (21) is removable from at least one hole (11C; 22, 23) without damaging the locking pin (21) in order to unlock the second lock (20).

[0172] 38. The method according to paragraph 37, wherein at least one hole (11C; 22, 23) is drilled to have an inner diameter between 4 mm and 8 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 7 mm, more preferably about 6 mm. III.1.a Locking pin extending through two holes

[0173] 39. The method according to paragraph 37 or 38, wherein the step of drilling at least one hole (22, 23) includes drilling a first hole (22) in the connector head body (10) and a second hole (23) in the knuckle (11), wherein the locking pin (21) is configured to engage both the first hole (22) and the second hole (23) simultaneously when the knuckle (11) is in the unconnected position.

[0174] 40. The method according to paragraph 39, including the step of fixedly connecting an elastic safety element (24) providing an elastic force to one of the connector head (1) and the knuckle (11), such that when the knuckle (11) is in the unconnected position, the elastic safety element (24) can:

[0175] (a) engage with the locking pin (21) to prevent the locking pin (21) from being accidentally removed from the first hole (22) and the second hole (23), and

[0176] (b) disengage from the locking pin (21) by acting on the elastic safety element (24) to overcome the elastic force, to allow the locking pin (21) to be removed from the first hole (22) and the second hole (23).

[0177] 41. The method according to paragraph 39 or 40, including the step of fixedly connecting a locking pin retainer (25) to the connector head body (10), the knuckle (11), or the knuckle pin (12), wherein the locking pin retainer (25) is configured to hold the locking pin (21) when the locking pin (21) is in a state of being removed from the first hole (22) and the second hole (23).

[0178] 42. The method according to any one of paragraphs 39 to 41, including the following steps:

[0179] - providing a safety cord (25A), and

[0180] - connecting the locking pin (21) to the connector head body (10), the knuckle pin (12), or the knuckle (11) by the safety cord (25A),

[0181] wherein the safety cord (25A) is provided with a sufficient length that allows the locking pin (21) to engage in the first hole (22) and the second hole (23) while the locking pin (21) is connected to the connector head body (10), the knuckle pin (12), or the knuckle (11) by the safety cord (25A), and allows the locking pin (21) to be held in the locking pin retainer (25).

[0182] III.1.b Locking pin connected to the plunger

[0183] 43. The method according to paragraph 37 or 38, wherein the locking element (30) includes a plunger (26), the locking pin (21) is connected to the plunger, and the method includes the following steps:

[0184] - detachably connecting the plunger (26) to one of the knuckle (11) and the coupler head body (10), and

[0185] - drilling at least one hole (11C) in the corresponding other one of the knuckle (11) and the coupler head body (10),

[0186] wherein the arrangement is such that removing the locking pin (21) from the at least one hole (11C) without damaging the locking element (30) requires correspondingly detaching the plunger (26) from the knuckle (11) or the coupler head body (10).

[0187] 44. The method according to paragraph 43, wherein the locking pin (21) has a weakened portion (21A), the weakened portion being configured to break when exceeding the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to rotate the knuckle (11) about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupling position, and wherein the arrangement is such that when the locking pin (21) engages in the at least one hole (11C), the weakened portion (21A) is located outside the at least one hole (11C) between the plunger (26) and the hole.

[0188] 45. The method according to paragraph 43 or 44, further comprising the step of providing an elastic or rubber sleeve (28) on the outer surface of the locking pin (21) or the inner surface of the at least one hole (11C) such that the elastic or rubber sleeve (28) is disposed between the outer surface of the locking pin (21) and the inner surface of the at least one hole (11C) when the locking pin (21) engages in the at least one hole (11C).

[0189] 46. The method according to any one of paragraphs 43 to 45, wherein the at least one hole (11C) is a marking hole of the knuckle (11).

[0190] III.2 Elastic lock

[0191] 47. The method according to paragraph 35, wherein the second lock (20) includes an elastic element (29) and a locking element (30), and the method includes the following steps:

[0192] - arranging the elastic element (29) such that when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupled position, the elastic force of the elastic element (29) pushes the locking element (30) into the locking position, in which the locking element (30) prevents the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A), and

[0193] - Arrange the locking element (30) such that when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to rotate the knuckle (11) around the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupling position is exceeded, it moves out of the locking position against the elastic force of the elastic element (29).

[0194] 48. The method according to paragraph 47, including the step of attaching the elastic element (29) of the second lock (20) on the one hand to one of the connector head body (10) and the knuckle pin (12), and on the other hand to the knuckle (11), such that the locking element (30) of the second lock (20) can engage with the corresponding other of the connector head body (10) and the knuckle pin (12) on the one hand, and with the knuckle (11) on the other hand when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupling position.

[0195] 49. The method according to paragraph 47 or 48, wherein the step of arranging the locking element (30) is such that the locking element (30) can engage a recess or hole (11C) when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupling position.

[0196] 50. The method according to paragraph 49, wherein the hole (11C) is a marking hole of the knuckle (11).

[0197] 51. The method according to paragraph 49 or 50, wherein the locking element (30) has an inclined surface (30A), and the locking element engages with the hole (11C) or the recess through the inclined surface when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupling position.

[0198] III.2.a Leaf spring

[0199] 52. The method according to any one of paragraphs 47 to 51, wherein the elastic element (29) is provided as a leaf spring.

[0200] 53. The method according to paragraph 52, wherein the locking element (30) is provided to form part of the leaf spring.

[0201] III.2.b Plunger with compression spring

[0202] 54. The method according to any one of paragraphs 47 to 51, wherein the elastic element (29) includes a compression spring arranged on the plunger (26).

[0203] 55. The method according to paragraph 54, wherein the elastic element (29) is arranged such that the compression spring can push the locking element (30) into the locking position.

[0204] IV. Connector assembly

[0205] 56. A coupler assembly for a car body of a multi-carriage rail vehicle, comprising a coupler head (1) according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 29, and further comprising an energy absorption device configured to absorb energy when the coupler head (1) collides with a corresponding coupler head (1) of another car body of the multi-carriage vehicle.

Claims

1. A coupling head (1) for a coupling assembly of a multi-carriage railway vehicle, comprising: A coupling head body (10), a steering knuckle (11) configured to cooperate with a corresponding steering knuckle (11) of another coupling head (1), and a steering knuckle pin (12) having a steering knuckle pin axis (A), wherein the steering knuckle pin (12) is mounted to the coupling head body (10), and the steering knuckle (11) is mounted to the steering knuckle pin (12), so that the steering knuckle (11) is rotatable relative to the coupling head body (10) about the steering knuckle pin axis (A) between a coupled position and a non-coupled position, and a first lock configured to move to a locked position when the knuckle (11) is in the coupled position, wherein the first lock prevents the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) toward the uncoupled position, The invention is characterized in that the second lock (20) is configured to prevent the steering knuckle (11) from rotating around the steering knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupling position when the steering knuckle (11) is located in the non-coupling position, wherein the second lock (20) is further configured to be unlocked when a predetermined force acting on the steering knuckle (11) to rotate the steering knuckle (11) around the steering knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupling position is exceeded, so that the second lock (20) no longer hinders the steering knuckle (11) from rotating around the steering knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupling position.

2. The coupling head (1) according to claim 1, wherein: The second lock (20) is configured to connect the steering knuckle to the coupling head body (10) and to maintain the steering knuckle (11) at a predetermined relative position relative to the coupling head body (10) when the steering knuckle (11) is in the uncoupled position.

3. The coupling head (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The second lock (20) is visible from the outside of the coupling head (1) when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupled position and the second lock (20) is in a state in which it prevents the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupled position.

4. The coupling head (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: When the knuckle (11) is in the uncoupled position and the second lock (20) is in a state in which it prevents the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupled position, the second lock (20) is accessible from the outside of the coupling head (1) and can be unlocked without disassembling the coupling head (1).

5. The coupling head (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The second lock (20) is arranged on the top side of the coupling head (1).

6. The coupling head (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: At least a portion of the second lock (20) is configured to deform when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) is exceeded to rotate the knuckle (11) about the knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupled position.

7. The coupling head (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The second lock (20) comprises a locking element (30) configured to break when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to rotate the knuckle (11) about the knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupled position is exceeded, wherein preferably at least one of the following: The locking element (30) includes a breaking portion configured to break when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) to rotate the knuckle (11) about the knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupled position is exceeded, wherein at least the breaking portion of the locking element (30) is made of bronze or a hard polymer; and The locking element (30) comprises a locking pin (21), which is configured to engage in at least one hole (11C; 22, 23) when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupled position, thereby preventing the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupled position, wherein the locking pin (21) is removable from the at least one hole (11C; 22, 23) without damaging the locking pin (21) so as to unlock the second lock (20), wherein preferably, when the locking pin (21) is engaged in the at least one hole (11C; 22, 23), the minimum inner diameter of the at least one hole (11C; 22, 23) is between 4 mm and 8 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 7 mm, and more preferably about 6 mm.

8. The coupling head (1) according to claim 7, wherein: The at least one hole (22, 23) comprises a first hole (22) provided in the coupling head body (10) and a second hole (23) provided in the steering knuckle (11), and wherein the locking pin (21) is configured to simultaneously engage in both the first hole (22) and the second hole (23) when the steering knuckle (11) is in the uncoupled position, and to break when the predetermined force acting on the steering knuckle (11) to rotate the steering knuckle (11) about the steering knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupled position is exceeded, wherein preferably at least one of the following: The locking pin (21) has a weakened portion (21A) configured to break when the predetermined force acting on the steering knuckle (11) to rotate the steering knuckle (11) about the steering knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupling position is exceeded, wherein when the locking pin (21) is engaged in the first hole (22) and the second hole (23), the weakened portion (21A) is located between the first hole (22) and the second hole (23); The second lock (20) further comprises an elastic safety element (24) providing an elastic force, wherein the elastic safety element (24) is fixedly connected to one of the coupling head body (10) and the steering knuckle (11), and is configured to engage with the locking pin (21) when the steering knuckle (11) is located in the non-coupled position to prevent the locking pin (21) from being accidentally removed from the first hole (22) and the second hole (23), and wherein the elastic safety element (24) is further configured to disengage from the locking pin (21) by overcoming the elastic force by acting on the elastic safety element (24) to allow the locking pin (21) to be removed from the first hole (22) and the second hole (23); and A locking pin retainer (25) is provided on the coupling head body (10), the steering knuckle (11) or the steering knuckle pin (12), wherein the locking pin retainer (25) is configured to retain the locking pin (21) when the locking pin (21) is in a state of being removed from the first hole (22) and the second hole (23), wherein preferably, the second lock (20) further comprises a safety cable (25A), and the locking pin (21) is connected to the coupling head body (10) through the safety cable ), the knuckle pin (12) or the knuckle (11), wherein the safety line (25A) has a sufficient length to allow the locking pin (21) to engage with the first hole (22) and the second hole (23) and to allow the locking pin (21) to be retained in the locking pin retainer (25) while the locking pin (21) is connected to the coupling head body (10), the knuckle pin (12) or the knuckle (11) via the safety line (25A).

9. The coupling head (1) according to claim 7, wherein: The locking element (30) further comprises a plunger (26) to which the locking pin (21) is connected, wherein the plunger (26) is detachably connected to one of the knuckle (11) and the coupler head body (10), and the at least one hole (11C) is arranged on the respective other of the knuckle (11) and the coupler head body (10), wherein removal of the locking pin (21) from the at least one hole (11C) without damaging the locking element (30) requires disassembly of the plunger (26) from the knuckle (11) or the coupler head body (10), respectively, wherein preferably at least one of the following: The plunger (26) is configured to, once removed from the knuckle (11) or the coupler head body (10), be reconnected to the knuckle (11) or the coupler head body (10) in a manner that does not hinder the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupled position by rotating the plunger (26) approximately 180° and reattaching it at the same connection point (26C) as the connection point (26C) before removal; The locking pin (21) has a weakened portion (21A) configured to break when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) is exceeded to rotate the knuckle (11) about the knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupled position, wherein when the locking pin (21) is engaged in the at least one hole (11C), the weakened portion (21A) is located outside the at least one hole (11C) between the plunger (26) and the at least one hole (11C); When the locking pin (21) is engaged in the at least one hole (11C), an elastic or rubber sleeve is disposed between an outer surface of the locking pin (21) and an inner surface of the at least one hole (11C); and The at least one hole (11C) is a marking hole of the steering knuckle (11).

10. The coupling head (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the second lock (20) comprises an elastic element (29) and a locking element (30), wherein: The elastic element (29) is configured to provide an elastic force when the steering knuckle (11) is located in the non-coupled position, and the elastic force pushes the locking element (30) into a locked position, in which the locking element (30) prevents the steering knuckle (11) from rotating around the steering knuckle pin axis (A), and wherein the locking element (30) is configured to overcome the elastic force of the elastic element (29) and move out of the locked position when the predetermined force acting on the steering knuckle (11) to rotate the steering knuckle (11) around the steering knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupled position is exceeded, wherein preferably at least one of the following is true: The resilient element (29) of the second lock (20) is attached to one of the coupler head body (10) and the knuckle pin (12) on the one hand and to the knuckle (11) on the other hand, and wherein the locking element (30) of the second lock (20) is configured to engage with the respective other of the coupler head body (10) and the knuckle pin (12) on the one hand and engage with the knuckle (11) on the other hand when the knuckle (11) is in the uncoupled position; The locking element (30) engages a recess or hole (11C) when the steering knuckle (11) is in the non-coupled position, wherein preferably, the hole (11C) is a marking hole of the steering knuckle (11); and The locking element (30) has an inclined surface (30A) through which the locking element engages with the hole (11C) or the recess when the steering knuckle (11) is in the non-coupling position.

11. The coupling head (1) according to claim 10, wherein the elastic element (29) is a leaf spring, wherein preferably the locking element (30) forms an integral part of the leaf spring.

12. The coupling head (1) according to claim 10, wherein: The elastic element (29) comprises a compression spring arranged on the plunger (26), wherein preferably, the elastic element (29) is configured to push the locking element (30) into the locking position.

13. A method of retrofitting a coupler head (1) of a coupler assembly of a multi-car rail vehicle with a safety device, wherein the coupler head (1) comprises: A coupling head body (10), a steering knuckle (11) configured to cooperate with a corresponding steering knuckle (11) of another coupling head (1), and a steering knuckle pin (12) having a steering knuckle pin axis (A), wherein the steering knuckle pin (12) is mounted to the coupling head body (10), and the steering knuckle (11) is mounted to the steering knuckle pin (12), so that the steering knuckle (11) is rotatable relative to the coupling head body (10) about the steering knuckle pin axis (A) between a coupled position and a non-coupled position, and a first lock configured to move to a locked position when the knuckle (11) is in the coupled position, wherein the first lock prevents the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) toward the uncoupled position, Characterized in that the method comprises the following steps: providing a safety device in the form of a second lock (20), and The second lock (20) is mounted on the coupling head (1) so that when the steering knuckle (11) is in the non-coupled position, the second lock (20) is able to: (a) preventing the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupled position, and (b) unlocking when a predetermined force acting on the steering knuckle (11) to rotate the steering knuckle (11) about the steering knuckle pin axis (A) toward the connection position is exceeded, so that the second lock (20) no longer hinders the steering knuckle (11) from rotating about the steering knuckle pin axis (A) toward the connection position.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein at least one of the following: The safety device is mounted on the coupling head (1) to maintain the steering knuckle (11) in a predetermined relative position relative to the coupling head body (10) when the steering knuckle (11) is in the non-coupling position; The second lock (20) is arranged so that when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupled position and the second lock (20) is in a state in which it prevents the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) towards the coupled position, the second lock (20) is visible from the outside of the coupling head (1); The second lock (20) is arranged so that when the knuckle (11) is in the non-coupled position and the second lock (20) is in a state in which it prevents the knuckle (11) from rotating about the knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupled position, the second lock (20) is accessible from the outside of the coupling head (1) and can be unlocked without disassembling the coupling head (1); The second lock (20) is arranged on the top side of the coupling head (1); and At least a portion of the second lock (20) is configured to deform when the predetermined force acting on the knuckle (11) is exceeded to rotate the knuckle (11) about the knuckle pin axis (A) toward the coupled position.

15. A coupling assembly for a carriage of a multi-carriage railway vehicle, comprising a coupling head (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, and further comprising an energy absorbing device, the energy absorbing device being configured to absorb energy when the coupling head (1) collides with a corresponding coupling head (1) of another carriage of the multi-carriage vehicle.

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