Carriage for transferring sleepers and associated railway vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a sleeper transfer wagon (100) intended to equip a railway vehicle of the type comprising equipment for laying new sleepers (21) and / or removing worn sleepers (22), the transfer wagon (100) comprising a chassis (110) supported by at least one set of wheels (112), the transfer wagon (100) being notable in that it comprises at least one transfer unit (50) supported by a frame (60), the frame (60) being supported by the chassis (110) and fixed relative to the chassis (110), the transfer unit (50) being configured to transfer sleepers from at least one receiving area (Z1, Z2) to at least one conveying platform (P2).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates, in general, to the technical field of construction and renewal trains consisting of laying equipment necessary for the construction of railway tracks or, in the case of renewal, replacing all or part of the constituent materials of the tracks, namely the rails and sleepers, as well as the ballast which ensures the stability of the track on its platform, when these materials are degraded.

[0002] The invention relates more specifically to a sleeper transfer wagon intended to equip a railway vehicle such as an associated railway vehicle. PREVIOUS STATE OF THE ART

[0003] Railway construction and network operators regularly need to build new tracks or renovate existing ones, which means replacing some of their components such as rails and sleepers, as well as fastening systems and other accessories. Much of this need for renewal stems from the age and wear of the tracks, but it can also involve replacing older models with newer ones to improve performance.

[0004] In the most comprehensive case of track renewal or construction, such operations are carried out using a railway convoy, such as a so-called renewal or replacement train, or construction train, respectively, comprising multiple specialized machines to perform the various replacement or construction operations. A typical renewal operation uses specialized railway convoys with machines capable of sequentially performing the following operations: ballast removal, ballast screening and removal of ballast material, either by conveyor belts onto wagons for unloading or by direct dumping onto the embankment; replacement of the renewed track (rails and sleepers); ballasting and track raising; leveling and alignment; rail welding; stress release; further leveling and alignment; trackside adjustment; and shoulder cleaning.

[0005] Whether for construction or renewal, such a railway convoy includes several wagons for transporting sleepers, at least new and, where appropriate, old ones, to supply specialized machines such as equipment for laying new sleepers and possibly removing worn sleepers.

[0006] It is known to equip on such a set of wagons, a continuous track for a gantry which, during its back-and-forth movements, takes new sleepers from a first storage wagon, places them on a second wagon, in particular on a conveyor belt to the laying equipment, and if necessary takes back on the return worn sleepers accumulated on a third wagon, which may possibly correspond to the second wagon, and places them on a fourth storage wagon which may possibly correspond to the first wagon.

[0007] The use of such a gantry is not without its drawbacks. In particular, the gantry's back-and-forth movement along its track at relatively high speed alongside several wagons requires special precautions and attention to avoid potential accidents to people located near or on the train during the installation and removal of new and worn sleepers.

[0008] Furthermore, document WO2019129678A1 illustrates a pallet transfer wagon between an upper conveyor located on a higher level of the wagon and a lower conveyor located on a lower level of the wagon, the two conveyors being superimposed and having opposite directions of travel. The transfer is carried out by an elevator having a purely vertical movement between an upper receiving area located at the exit of the upper conveyor and a conveying platform located at the entrance of the lower conveyor, directly below the upper conveyor. Document FR 2 299 459 A1 discloses a transfer wagon according to the preamble of claim 1. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The invention aims to remedy all or part of the disadvantages of the prior art by proposing in particular a solution enabling the transfer of the crossbeams while avoiding the disadvantages linked to the movement of this gantry along its running path.

[0010] To this end, according to a first aspect of the invention, a sleeper transfer wagon is proposed for equipping a railway vehicle such as a train or a trainset, the transfer wagon comprising a chassis supported by at least one set of wheels, and further comprising a group of one or more receiving areas including at least one sleeper receiving area and a group of one or more conveying platforms including at least one sleeper conveying platform, the transfer wagon being notable in that it comprises at least one transfer mechanism supported by a frame, the frame being supported by the chassis and fixed relative to the chassis, the transfer mechanism being configured to transfer sleepers from the receiving area to the conveying platform located away from the receiving area along a longitudinal direction of the transfer wagon, the transfer mechanism being situated, relative to the longitudinal direction of the transfer wagon,between the receiving area and the conveyor platform.

[0011] By transshipment, we mean here to transport, by lifting and moving it in the air, a load consisting here of one or more crossbeams, from one point to another, here from the receiving area to the conveying platform.

[0012] A sleeper transfer wagon incorporating this combination of features allows for the local consolidation of sleeper transfer operations. This transfer operation is therefore concentrated on a single wagon and carried out by at least one transfer unit whose frame is fixed relative to the wagon's chassis. This ensures the safety of personnel near the wagon and eliminates the constraints associated with moving a conventional gantry crane. Furthermore, the transfer unit's positioning relative to the receiving area and the conveying platform allows it to transfer the sleepers along the wagon's longitudinal axis in the same direction as their transport along the rail vehicle. Each sleeper is thus conveyed and transferred continuously in the same direction of both transport and transfer.The direction of transport and transfer can depend on several aspects, including whether the sleepers are new or worn, and depending on the positioning of the sleeper storage areas relative to other wagons.

[0013] The reception area and the platform are preferably located at different heights.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the sleeper transfer wagon is intended to equip a railway vehicle of the type comprising equipment for laying new sleepers, the transfer wagon further comprising: a first receiving and unstacking area for new sleepers, belonging to the group of one or more receiving areas, configured to receive new sleepers from a railway vehicle storage area; a second conveying platform for new sleepers, belonging to the group of one or more conveying platforms, from which said new sleepers can be conveyed to the new sleeper laying equipment, the second conveying platform for new sleepers being distant from the first receiving and unstacking area for new sleepers along the longitudinal direction of the transfer wagon; The transfer unit is configured to transfer the new sleepers from the first receiving area to the second conveying platform. This allows for the local consolidation of the operations for transferring the new sleepers from the first receiving area and unstacking them to the second conveying platform.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the transfer wagon is intended to equip a railway vehicle of the type comprising equipment for removing worn sleepers, said transfer wagon comprising: a first worn sleeper conveying platform, belonging to the group of one or more conveying platforms, from which said worn sleepers can be conveyed to a railway vehicle storage area; a second worn sleeper receiving area, belonging to the group of one or more receiving areas, configured to receive worn sleepers from the worn sleeper removal equipment, the second worn sleeper receiving area being distant from the first worn sleeper conveying platform along the longitudinal direction of the transfer wagon; The transfer unit is configured to transfer worn sleepers from the second receiving area to the first conveying platform. This allows for the local consolidation of transfer operations from the second receiving area for worn sleepers to the first conveying platform for worn sleepers, preferably in combination with the transfer of new sleepers from the first receiving area and the new sleeper stacking area to the second conveying platform for new sleepers.

[0016] In one embodiment, the frame supporting the transfer wagon is contained within a volume delimited laterally and longitudinally by a gauge of the sleeper transfer wagon, preferably by a gauge of its chassis. The width and length dimensions of the frame are therefore constrained by those of the wagon, or even the chassis, which allows for compliance with safety criteria while maintaining a certain compactness, free from the space constraints for movement along a railway track that might be related to the external environment of the track. The length here corresponds to a dimension taken along the longitudinal direction of the wagon, i.e., in the direction of travel along the railway track, and the width corresponds to a dimension taken along the lateral or transverse direction of the wagon, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0017] Preferably, the transfer station is entirely contained within a volume delimited by a predetermined railway gauge such as a gauge recognized by the International Union of Railways (UIC), for example the international gauge (PPI) or other gauges such as the GA, GB or GC gauge.

[0018] According to the invention, the transfer unit is unique. This feature offers a simple design while allowing the implementation of both transfer flows, new sleepers, and preferably also worn sleepers.

[0019] In one embodiment, the transfer unit comprises a gripping system for at least one crossbeam suspended from a lifting system movable relative to the frame. The gripping system preferably includes a spreader bar configured to transport a plurality of crossbeams grouped into bundles. As the gripping system is suspended from a lifting system movable relative to the frame, the movable part of the transfer unit is elevated above the chassis to further ensure safety.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the lifting system is carried by a shuttle moving in translation relative to the frame, preferably following a translation parallel to a reference axis corresponding to a longitudinal direction of the wagon.

[0021] To avoid hindering the movement of the transfer station, while ensuring safety during its use, the frame includes guide rails and support rails for the mobile shuttle, located above at least one receiving area and at least one conveying platform, preferably above the first receiving area and the second conveying platform, and preferably also above the second receiving area and the first conveying platform.

[0022] In one embodiment, the first conveying platform is located at a higher height than the first receiving zone. Alternatively or complementarily, the second conveying platform is located at a higher height than the second receiving zone.

[0023] In one embodiment, the first conveying platform and the first receiving area are closer to one end of the transfer car than the second conveying platform and the second receiving area. In a particular configuration, said first end of the car corresponds to the front end of said car. In such a configuration, the first conveying platform and the first receiving area are located at the front of the car, with the second conveying platform and the second receiving area preferably located at the rear of the car relative to the direction of travel of the rail vehicle.Such an arrangement allows for optimization of the workspace of the transfer wagon, particularly when the transfer wagon is placed between storage wagons on one side, and at least one work wagon on the other, which carries equipment for laying new sleepers and / or equipment for removing worn sleepers.

[0024] In one embodiment, the transfer wagon includes a lifting mechanism in at least one of the receiving areas, preferably in the first receiving and unstacking area for new sleepers, configured to position at least one sleeper, preferably a bundle of sleepers, at a predetermined height. Such a lifting mechanism allows the bundles of sleepers to be brought to a position facilitating handling by the transfer car, thereby reducing sequence times and increasing speed. The lifting mechanism can also be operated while the transfer car is moving.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the transfer wagon includes at least part of a sleeper stack moving mechanism to move said sleeper stacks in translation towards at least one of the receiving areas, preferably towards the first receiving and unstacking area for the new sleepers, the moving mechanism preferably comprising trolleys configured to be placed on a guide track located under the sleeper stacks.

[0026] In one embodiment, the transport mechanism is configured to move each trolley back and forth, preferably with a step length greater than the length of a stack of sleepers. The transport mechanism is configured so that each trolley carries a stack of sleepers along a forward path and is configured to travel a return path, the reverse of the forward path, while unloaded, without moving the sleepers. This configuration eliminates the need for a trolley storage system at the end of the travel, as well as a long and cumbersome return path for the trolleys.

[0027] In one embodiment, the transfer wagon includes a third conveying device, for example for conveying material such as ballast, located vertically above the transfer car. This material can be used ballast, new ballast, or treated ballast derived from used ballast after it has undergone a treatment enabling its recycling.

[0028] According to another aspect of the invention, it relates to a railway work vehicle of the type comprising, for example, equipment for laying new sleepers and / or removing worn sleepers, the railway vehicle comprising at least one sleeper storage wagon including a sleeper storage area, one or more wagons comprising equipment for laying new sleepers and / or removing worn sleepers from a railway track, characterized in that it further comprises a transfer wagon as described above.

[0029] In one embodiment, the railway vehicle comprises a used sleeper stacking wagon, which includes a sleeper stacking transfer unit for transferring the used sleepers from the transfer wagon. The stacking transfer unit is supported by an associated frame fixed relative to the used sleeper stacking wagon. In this way, the stacking transfer unit also ensures the safety of persons who may be in its vicinity.

[0030] In one embodiment, the railway vehicle comprises: a first evacuation conveying device to convey worn sleepers from the worn sleeper removal equipment to the second worn sleeper reception area; and a second evacuation conveying device to convey worn sleepers from the first worn sleeper conveying platform to a railway vehicle storage area; and / or a first delivery conveying device to convey new sleepers from a railway vehicle storage area to the first new sleeper reception and unstacking area; and a second delivery conveying device to convey new sleepers from the second new sleeper conveying platform to the new sleeper laying equipment; the railway vehicle comprising a third conveying device, for example for conveying material such as ballast, located vertically above the first and second evacuation conveying devices and / or the first and second delivery conveying devices.

[0031] According to another aspect, the invention also relates to a sleeper transfer method intended to equip a railway vehicle of the type comprising, for example, equipment for laying new sleepers and / or removing worn sleepers, the transfer wagon comprising a chassis supported by at least one set of wheels, and further comprising a group of one or more sleeper receiving areas including at least one sleeper receiving area and a group of one or more conveying platforms including at least one sleeper conveying platform, the transfer method being characterized in that it comprises at least one step of transferring at least one sleeper from the receiving area to the conveying platform located at a distance from the receiving area along a longitudinal direction of the transfer wagon, by at least one transfer unit supported by a frame, the frame being supported by the chassis and fixed relative to the chassis,The transfer station is located, relative to the longitudinal direction of the transfer wagon, between the receiving area and the conveying platform.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the transfer wagon comprises: a first receiving and unstacking area for new sleepers, belonging to the group of one or more receiving areas, configured to receive new sleepers from a railway vehicle storage area; a second conveying platform for new sleepers belonging to the group of one or more conveying platforms, from which said new sleepers can be conveyed to the new sleeper laying equipment, the second conveying platform for new sleepers being distant from the first receiving and unstacking area for new sleepers along the longitudinal direction of the transfer wagon and, where appropriate, at a different height from the first receiving and unstacking area for new sleepers; the transfer stage including a transfer stage of at least one new sleeper from the first receiving area to the second conveying platform, by the transfer truck.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the sleeper transfer wagon comprises: a first worn sleeper conveying platform belonging to the group of one or more conveying platforms, from which said worn sleepers can be conveyed to a storage area of ​​the railway vehicle; and a second worn sleeper receiving area belonging to the group of one or more receiving areas, configured to receive the worn sleepers from the worn sleeper removal equipment, the second worn sleeper receiving area being distant from the first worn sleeper conveying platform along the longitudinal direction of the transfer wagon and, where appropriate, at a different height from the first worn sleeper conveying platform; the transfer stage including a transfer stage of at least one worn sleeper from the second receiving area to the first conveying platform by the transfer truck. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0034] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, with reference to the attached figures, which illustrate: [ Fig. 1 ] : a profile view of a railway vehicle according to a first embodiment of the invention; [ Fig. 2 ] : a side view of a transfer wagon according to this first embodiment of the invention; [ Fig. 3 ] : a side view of a transfer wagon according to a second embodiment of the invention; [ Fig. 4 ] : a side view of a storage wagon according to an embodiment of the invention; [ Fig. 5 ] : a side view of a wagon for stacking worn railway sleepers according to an embodiment of the invention; [ Fig. 6 ] : a top view of a junction between two conveyors; ] Fig. 7 ] : a simplified cross-sectional view of a storage wagon of a railway vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0035] For clarity, identical or similar elements are identified by identical reference symbols across all figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A METHOD OF IMPLEMENTATION

[0036] With reference to the figure 1 A railway vehicle is illustrated 1 of the type including installation equipment 11 new sleepers 21 and deposit 12 of worn sleepers 22 These are the installation and removal tools for sleepers. 21 , 22 Their main function is the repair of railway tracks, for example by replacing worn sleepers 22 or to replace them with newer models and thus improve the performance of the railways.

[0037] The railway vehicle 1 , for example a renewal train as illustrated on the figure 1A train is made up of a series of wagons linked together, usually in an articulated fashion, forming a railway convoy and pulled by a locomotive. 1 During operation, the renewal unit moves along a forward direction, and each wagon extends along a longitudinal direction. X and features a front end AV oriented in the direction of train travel and a rear end AR opposite longitudinally at the front end AV .

[0038] With reference to figures 1 to 7 the train 1 the renewal is equipped with a transfer wagon 100 of sleepers 21 , 22. The transfer wagon 100 is intended to be positioned in relation to the train 1 renewal, between on the one hand, at least one wagon including installation equipment 11 new sleepers 21 and deposit 12 of worn sleepers22 and, on the other hand, storage wagons 300 ( figure 4 ) new sleepers 21 and worn sleepers 22 The function of the transfer wagon 100 is to ensure the continuity of flows between: an evacuation flow C1 worn sleepers 22 from the equipment for removing worn sleepers 22 to a rail vehicle storage area 1 capable of extending over several storage wagons, the evacuation flow C1 being oriented along the longitudinal direction of the transfer wagon and in a first direction; and a supply flow C2 new sleepers 21 from a train storage area to the equipment for laying the new sleepers 21 the supply flow C2 being oriented along the longitudinal direction of the transfer wagon and in a second direction, opposite to the first direction.

[0039] In the configuration illustrated in the figures, the installation equipment 11 new sleepers 21 and deposit 12 of worn sleepers 22 are located at the rear of the railway vehicle 1 compared to the transfer wagon 100 of sleepers 21, 22 and the storage wagons 300 are located at the front of the railway vehicle 1 compared to the transfer wagon 100 of sleepers 21 , 22 The reverse arrangement is, however, conceivable.

[0040] The transfer wagon 100 , like the other wagons of the railway vehicle 1 includes a chassis 110 supported by two bogies 111 , located at the two front and rear ends of the chassis 110 , and each equipped with one or more sets of wheels 112For this purpose, it is preferable that each bogie comprises a bogie frame and at least two sets of wheels. 112 and at least one suspension between the two wheel assemblies and the bogie frame. The transfer wagon 100 is located between the flows C1 And C2 that is to say, at the intersection of the two evacuation flows C1 worn sleepers 22 on the one hand, and supply C2 new sleepers 21 On the other hand. The transfer wagon 100 understand : a first area Z1 receiving and unloading the new sleepers 21 configured to receive the new sleepers 21 from a storage area 300 of the railway vehicle 1 a first platform P1 for conveying worn railway sleepers 22 from which the said worn sleepers 22can be conveyed to a storage area 300 of the railway vehicle 1 ; a second zone Z2 receiving worn sleepers 22 configured to receive worn sleepers 22 from the equipment for removing worn sleepers 22 a second platform P2 transport of the new sleepers 21 from which the said new crossbeams 21 can be conveyed to the equipment for laying the new sleepers 21 .

[0041] The transfer wagon 100 includes at least one ferry 50 supported by a frame 60 the framework 60 being supported by the chassis 110 and fixed in relation to the chassis 110. The transporter 50 ensures the transshipment of the new sleepers from the first receiving area Z1 towards, and up to, the second platformP2 convoying, as well as the transshipment of worn sleepers from the second zone Z2 receiving to, and up to, the first platform P1 of conveying. Transshipment here refers to the transport, by lifting and moving it in the air, of a load consisting in this case of one or more crossbeams, from one point to another, in this case from the receiving area to the conveying platform. The first and second conveying platforms P1, P2 are each distant from the first and second reception zones Z1 , Z2 , along a longitudinal direction X from the transfer wagon 100 The transporter 50 is located, relative to the longitudinal direction X from the transfer wagon 100 , between the reception area Z1 , Z2 and the conveyor platform P1 , P2 In this way, the implementation of the transporter 50ensures the continuity of drainage flows C1 worn sleepers 22 and supply C2 new sleepers 21.

[0042] The path of the worn sleepers 22 is as follows: the removal equipment 12 of worn sleepers 22 extract worn sleepers one by one, repeatedly and successively 22 then, they place them on a first evacuation conveyor system A1; these worn sleepers 22 are then transported by the first evacuation conveyor system A1 up to the second zone Z2 receiving worn sleepers 22 where they are taken care of by the ferry 50 which moves them to the first platform P1 for conveying worn railway sleepers 22, from which the said worn sleepers 22are conveyed to a rail vehicle storage area 1 by a second evacuation conveying device A2. In other words, the first platform P1 for conveying worn railway sleepers 22 is configured to receive worn sleepers 22 by the ferry 50 to be transported to the rail vehicle storage area 1.

[0043] The first and second evacuation conveyor devices A1, A2 These are chain conveyor devices. 70, preferably metallic, mounted on support and drive devices 71 incorporating idler wheels such as sprockets and freewheels. Often, these devices also include tensioning mechanisms (not shown) designed to properly tension the chain(s). 70.Preferably, each of the first and second evacuation conveying devices A1, A2 includes at least two parallel chain drive paths, the worn crossbeams 22 The sleepers are then conveyed while resting on both parallel chains simultaneously. A chain drive path can be formed by a single chain running continuously in a closed loop, or by a succession of continuous chains running in closed loops arranged successively along this sleeper drive path. When several chains or chain drive paths are mounted in parallel and convey the same sleepers, all or part of the support and drive devices, such as idler wheels and sprockets, can be shared. Of course, various conveying devices can be used.

[0044] The second zone Z2receiving worn sleepers 22 receiving the worn sleepers 22 from the drop-off equipment 12 worn sleepers 22 as well as the first platform P1 for conveying worn railway sleepers 22, from which the said worn sleepers 22 are conveyed to a rail vehicle storage area 1, each include, or are each constituted by, one end of the first and second evacuation conveying devices A1, A2, respectively. As an alternative, or even as a complement, the second zone Z2 receiving worn sleepers 22 may include a buffer zone located in the extension of the first evacuation conveyor device A1 and allowing for the temporary storage of a plurality of worn sleepers 22before being handled together, in batches. Such a buffer zone includes, for example, an area devoid of any drive system or an area with one or more free or disengaged chains, that is, without a drive system engaged with the chains that could constrain the rotating chains on this section, known as the buffer, of the conveyor. In such a configuration, each worn sleeper 22 It then completes its journey on the conveyor belts of the evacuation system and comes into contact and rests against the worn crossbeam. 22 positioned in front of her and pushes her, pulling her along in its movement.

[0045] In parallel with the evacuation flow C1 worn sleepers 22, the route of the new railway sleepers 21 fueling the supply flow C2 The new sleepers are as follows: the new sleepers 21are transported in stacks from a storage area of ​​the rail vehicle 1 up to the first zone Z1 receiving and unloading the new sleepers 21 by a first conveying and transport system B1 where they are taken care of by the ferry 50 which moves the new sleepers 21 up to the second platform P2 transport of the new sleepers 21 from which the said new crossbeams 21 are conveyed to the installation equipment 11 new sleepers 21 by a second conveying and transport device B2. In other words, the second platform P2 transport of the new sleepers 21 is configured to receive the new sleepers 21 by the ferry 50 to be transported to the installation equipment 11. The transporter50 The person who performs these operations is the same one who carries out the operations of transferring the evacuation flow. C1 worn sleepers 22. A single, unified transporter 50 therefore implements the flows C1 And C2.

[0046] The second platform P2 the conveying system includes, or is constituted by, one end of the second conveying system. B2. This second conveying and transport system B2 possibly a chain conveyor(s) 70 as described with reference to evacuation conveying devices A1, A2.

[0047] The first conveying and transport device B1 includes, or is made up of, a displacement mechanism 130 batteries 21' new sleepers 21 to move said piles 21'of traverses in step-by-step translation towards and up to the first zone Z1 receiving and unloading the new sleepers 21. The displacement mechanism 130 preferably includes trolleys 131 configured to be placed on a guide track 132, each cart 131 being configured to support a stack 21' new sleepers 21.

[0048] The displacement mechanism 130 is configured to move each cart 131 back and forth with a step p corresponding to a distance greater than a length l from a stack of new sleepers 21, taken in the longitudinal direction, preferably slightly higher. Each trolley 131 carries a battery 21' new sleepers 21 by raising it along a path of advancement and moving it one step ptowards the first area Z1 receiving and unloading the new sleepers 21, then travels a return path, the reverse of the forward path, having been discharged, therefore without moving a stack 21 '. More generally, the back-and-forth movement of a cart 131 The given value is therefore an alternating movement along the same path, in a direction of advancement, carrying a stack 21 ', 22 'of sleepers 21 , 22 and in a return direction, opposite to the direction of advancement, and discharged, that is to say, they do not carry a battery 21 ', 22 'of sleepers 21 , 22 Each cart 131 It therefore moves like a shuttle between two positions. Following an advantageous characteristic, the carts 131 are linked in an articulated fashion by groups of several trolleys 131 , for example in groups of three trolleys 131In this way, the transfer of a stack can be easily managed. 21 'new sleepers' 21 between two wagons.

[0049] More specifically, the new sleepers 21 are stored by batteries 21' on a load-bearing structure attached to the chassis 110 by means of jacks such as double-acting hydraulic jacks, said load-bearing structure having two support beams, each located on either side of the carriages 131. The trolleys 131 travel on the guidance track 132 and are free to move in either longitudinal direction, forwards or backwards, without manipulating the new crossbeams. 21 when the supporting structure is in a vertically mounted position at a level higher than that of the trolleys 131. The trolleys 131 travel on the guidance track 132 and each carry a battery 21' new sleepers21 when the supporting structure is in a lowered vertical position and is located under a support plane for the trolleys 131. A sequence of moving stacks of new sleepers 21 by the displacement mechanism 130 For example, the following applies: the supporting structure is lowered by the jacks, all the trolleys 131 each place themselves simultaneously under a pile 21' new sleepers 21, carry the pile 21' new sleepers 21 ; move the stack 21' new sleepers 21 with a step p predetermined, then the stack 21' moved from new sleepers 21 is lifted by the supporting structure, which is operated by the jacks, then by the trolleys 131 They return empty or discharged, then return to their starting position to be positioned under another stack 21' cross 21,which has also just been moved during the sequence. The cyclical repetition of the sequence allows for the movement of the stacks 21' new sleepers 21 step by step towards the first area Z1 receiving and unloading the new sleepers 21.

[0050] The transfer wagon 100 includes a lifting mechanism 120 in the first area Z1 receiving and unloading the new sleepers 21 towards which converge, one by one, the stacks of sleepers moved by the moving mechanism 130. This lifting mechanism 120 allows, as a stack 21' of new sleepers 21 is stacked, to be able to raise the stack 21' of a predetermined height so that the new sleepers 21located on an upper end layer of the stack, are positioned at a predetermined height and can be more easily handled by the transfer truck 50 and improve the speed of movement of said transporter 50.

[0051] In this embodiment, the transporter 50 is unique. The frame 60 which supports it includes a plurality of amounts 62 erected vertically and supporting at least two horizontal beams 63 on which rails are arranged 61 guidance and support of a shuttle 53 mobile in longitudinal translation relative to the frame 60. The frame uprights are fixed relative to the chassis 110 from the transfer wagon 100. The shuttle 53 The mobile unit forms a horizontal structure moving along the two guide tracks formed by the rails. 61, said shuttle 53comprising at least one transverse beam, that is to say extending transversely between the two rails 61, and preferably two beams, forming a rolling bridge and guided by rails 61 guidance and support.

[0052] The transporter 50 It also includes a gripping system 51 of at least one crossbeam 21, 22 suspended by a lifting system 52 to the shuttle 53. The lifting system 52 is a cable lifting system. The gripping system 51 preferably includes a spreader bar configured to carry a plurality of crossbeams 21, 22 grouped into packages. A mode of operation in which the transfer station 50 move the sleepers 21, 22 in single-layer bundles, meaning that during their transfer, the sleepers 21, 22 are not superimposed, but placed side by side.

[0053] The gripping system 51 includes a spreader bar formed of one or more beams joined together and comprising at its transverse ends, and facing each other, jaws, for example in the shape of an "L", each jaw being articulated by its end to the spreader bar, and being controlled in pivoting by a jack (not illustrated).

[0054] The work of the transporter 50, in particular the shuttle 53, of the lifting system 52 and the gripping system 51, is generally located within a volume delimited by the framework 60 with the chassis 110 from the transfer wagon 100. Furthermore, regardless of the work route of the transporter 50, This is contained, for any position along its trajectory, within a volume delimited laterally by a template of the transfer wagon. 100 crossbeams, preferably using a template of its chassis 110,preferably still by the volume delimited by the framework 60. In this way, at the same time as ensuring the safety of people on the sides of the transfer wagon 100, the wagon has a footprint that does not exceed that of a conventional wagon.

[0055] The first platform P1 conveyor belt and the first zone Z1 receiving points are closer to a first end 101 from the transfer wagon 100 that the second platform P2 convoying and the second zone Z2 reception. In particular, the first platform P1 conveyor belt and the first zone Z1 The receiving points are close to the front end. 101 from the transfer wagon 100, while the second platform P2 convoying and the second zone Z2 receiving are closer to a second end 102 from the transfer wagon 100,namely from the rear end.

[0056] Furthermore, and although located at different heights, the first platform P1 The conveyor is closer to the first end 101 from the transfer wagon 100 that the first area Z1 reception. Similarly, the second platform P2 The conveyor is closer to the second end 102 from the transfer wagon 100 that the second zone Z2 reception. Generally speaking, longitudinal offsets between the first and second platforms P1, P2 and the first and second zones Z1, Z2 allow access via the transporter bridge 50 along the same axis, corresponding to its axis of translation along the frame 60.

[0057] In the implementation of Figures 1 And 2 in particular, the first platform P1the conveyor is located at a higher height than the first zone Z1 reception and the second platform P2 the conveyor is located at a higher height than the second zone Z2 receiving platform. By positioning the first platform P1 conveying to a height greater than that of the first zone Z1 receiving, and in relation to the storage wagons 300, the second evacuation conveyor system A2 is positioned above the first conveying and routing device B1. The sleepers are stored in stacks and are placed under the second evacuation conveyor. A2which transports the sleepers in single-layer bundles, meaning without overlapping sleepers. This allows the center of gravity to be placed as low as possible, thus ensuring better stability for the various wagons, such as the transfer wagon. 100 and the storage wagons 300 .

[0058] Due to the layout of the first platform P1 of conveying in relation to the first area Z1 reception, of the second platform P2 of conveying in relation to the second zone Z2 of reception, these evacuation flows C1 and supply C2 are crossed here. The transporter bridge 50 being the only one to operate both flows, namely the evacuation flow C1 worn sleepers 22 and the supply flow C2 new sleepers 21,The transfer steps are implemented in a sequential manner.

[0059] Along a longitudinal axis X, the first and second platforms P1, P2 and the first and second zones Z1, Z2 are located so that the transporter 50 is capable of traversing the paths of evacuation flows C1 and supply C2 when it translates longitudinally relative to the frame 60 following a single round trip between two extreme longitudinal positions. Generally, the vertical projections of the first and second platforms P1, P2 and the first and second zones Z1, Z2 the first and second platforms are aligned along the same longitudinal axis P1, P2 and the first and second zones Z1, Z2 which can be located at different levels or heights. In this first embodiment, the transfer wagon 100includes along a longitudinal direction X From back to front: the first platform P1 the first transport zone Z1 reception, the second zone Z2 receiving and then the second platform P2 for conveying.

[0060] With reference to the figure 3 This second embodiment of the invention differs from the first in that the second area Z2 The receiving platform is located at a higher height than the second platform. P2 of conveying. Furthermore, in this second embodiment, the second zone Z2 The receiving end is closer to a second end 102 from the transfer wagon 100 that the second platform P2 of convoy so that the transfer wagon 100 includes, following a longitudinal direction from back to front: the first platform P1 the first transport zone Z1reception, the second platform P2 convoying and then the second zone Z2 reception.

[0061] The railway vehicle 1 also includes a wagon 200 stacking of worn railway sleepers 22, illustrated on the figure 5 This wagon 200 The stacking area is located directly after the storage wagons. 300, themselves located directly after the transfer wagon 100 in the direction of the rear AR forwards AV of the railway vehicle 1. The wagon 200 stacking system includes a stacking transfer unit 250 which transfers the worn sleepers 22 from a third zone Z3 receiving worn sleepers 22 from the transfer car 100 after being transported by the second evacuation conveyor system A2, until they are placed on a pile 22'of worn sleepers 22 to be stacked. This stacking area Z4 is located on the supporting structure above the guide track 132 trolleys 131. In this way, once the battery 22' of worn sleepers 22 supplemented by the 250 transfer unit, it can be moved forward by the displacement mechanism 130 at a certain pace p predetermined, corresponding to the step p the relocation of the stack of new sleepers 21' towards the first area Z1 reception. These operations are simultaneous given that the railway vehicle 1 lays the groundwork for so many new sleepers 21 that it does not deposit worn sleepers 22. In this way, when a stack of new sleepers 21 is emptied at the front of the storage area, in the first area Z1 receiving stack 22' of worn sleepers 22is completed at the rear of the storage area, in the stacking area Z4. The stacking area Z4 and the first area Z1 The receiving end forms the two longitudinal ends of the first conveying device. B1.

[0062] The third zone Z3 the receiving area includes, or is constituted by, one end of the second evacuation conveying device A2, opposite the end constituting the first platform P1 for conveying. A buffer zone (not shown) may also be provided to receive the sleepers.

[0063] The stacking transfer unit 250, unique, is supported by an associated 260 reinforcement, said reinforcement 260 being supported by the chassis and fixed relative to said chassis. This stacking transfer unit 250 may be of a similar design to that of the transporter bridge 50of transfer, but may be of smaller dimensions given that the path to be traveled is shorter.

[0064] The wagon 200 The stacking system also includes a rotating platform system (not shown) allowing at least one stack of sleepers to be rotated, for example, 90° , in order to facilitate their handling by a means of handling external to the machine.

[0065] There figure 6 illustrates an intersection 72 or overlap in the same horizontal plane of two pairs of chains 70 of a chain conveyor system 70. This interlocking of two pairs of chains, each continuous and circulating in a closed loop, arranged successively along the drive path, ensures continuous movement in the conveying of the sleepers. 21, 22 Furthermore, this interlacing of the end portions of the two pairs of chains 70is designed to provide sufficient predetermined spacing to allow minimal articulation between the two conveyor sections, each formed by a pair of chains. Such a configuration is particularly advantageous at the intersection of two wagons and ensures perfect conveying of the sleepers. 21, 22 without being affected by the curves of the railway track on which the train travels 1.

[0066] There figure 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a storage wagon 300 according to one embodiment. A third conveying device is particularly visible in this figure. D1 configured to transport materials such as ballast. This cross-sectional view illustrates, in particular, the positioning of the third conveying device. D1 which is located vertically above the first evacuation conveyor device B1and the second evacuation conveyor system A2. The illustrated wagon is located here upstream of the transfer wagon. 100 relative to the direction of travel of the train. On a section located downstream of the transfer car 100 In this case, a positioning of the third conveying device will be chosen in relation to the direction of travel of the train. D1 which is located vertically above the second conveying device B2 and the first evacuation conveying device A1. In this case, to ensure continuity of the conveying on the third conveying device D1, the said third conveying device will be placed D1 vertically above the conveyor 50 at the level of the transfer wagon 100.Naturally, the invention described above is by way of example. It is understood that a person skilled in the art is capable of carrying out different embodiments of the invention without departing from its scope.

[0067] The first evacuation conveyor system B1 This can, if necessary, be made up of a conveyor belt. Alternatively, a conveyor on trolleys can also be considered. 131, including the trolleys 131 move step by step with the batteries 21' new sleepers 21 from the storage wagons 300 up to the first zone Z1 receiving and unloading the new sleepers 21 to then be evacuated by the ferry 50 to the first platform P1 for conveying worn railway sleepers 22, from which the carts 131can be conveyed with the worn sleepers 22 to the rail vehicle storage area 1 where they are reused for the storage of worn railway sleepers 22.

Claims

1. Transfer car (100) for sleepers which is intended for a railway vehicle (1) such as a train or a set of railway cars comprising equipment (11) for laying new sleepers (21), equipment (12) for removing worn sleepers (22) and a sleeper storage zone, the transfer car (100) comprising an underframe (110) supported by at least one wheel set (112), the transfer car (100) comprising: - a frame (60) supported by the underframe (110) and fixed relative to the underframe (110); - a first zone (Z1) for receiving and unstacking new sleepers (21) which is configured to receive the new sleepers (21) from the storage zone of the railway vehicle (1); - a first platform (P1) for conveying worn sleepers (22), from which the worn sleepers (22) can be conveyed to the storage zone of the railway vehicle (1); - a second zone (Z2) for receiving worn sleepers (22), which is configured to receive the worn sleepers (22) from the equipment (12) for removing worn sleepers (22), the second zone (Z2) for receiving worn sleepers (22) being remote from the first platform (P1) for conveying worn sleepers (22) along the longitudinal direction (X) of the transfer car (100); - a second platform (P2) for conveying new sleepers (21), from which the new sleepers (21) can be conveyed to the equipment (11) for laying new sleepers (21), the second platform (P2) for conveying new sleepers (21) being remote from the first zone (Z1) for receiving and unstacking new sleepers (21) along a longitudinal direction (X) of the transfer car (100); the transfer car (100) being characterized in that it comprises a single traverser (50) supported by the frame (60), the traverser (50) being located, with respect to the longitudinal direction (X) of the transfer car (100), between the first receiving zone (Z1) and the second platform (P2), and between the first platform (P1) and the second receiving zone (Z2), the traverser (50) being configured to transport new sleepers, by lifting and moving them in the air, from the first receiving zone (Z1) to the second conveying platform (P2), and to transport the worn sleepers, by lifting and moving them in the air, from the second receiving zone (Z2) to the first conveying platform (P1) along a single axis, corresponding to its axis of translation along the frame (60).

2. Sleeper transfer car (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the conveying platform (P1, P2) and the receiving zone (Z1, Z2) are located at different heights.

3. Sleeper transfer car (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the frame (60) supporting the traverser (50) is contained in a volume delimited laterally by a gauge of the sleeper transfer car (100), preferably by a gauge of its underframe (110).

4. Sleeper transfer car (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the traverser (50) comprises a system (51) for gripping at least one sleeper (21, 22) suspended from a lifting system (52) which is movable relative to the frame (60), the gripping system (51) preferably comprising a lifting beam which is configured to transport a plurality of sleepers (21, 22) grouped together in a pack.

5. Sleeper transfer car (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that the lifting system (52) is supported by a shuttle (53) which is translatably movable relative to the frame (60).

6. Sleeper transfer car (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that the frame (60) comprises rails (61) for guiding and supporting the movable shuttle (53), located above the at least one receiving zone and the at least one conveying platform, preferably above the first receiving zone (Z1) and the second conveying platform (P2), and also preferably above the second receiving zone (Z2) and the first conveying platform (P1).

7. Sleeper transfer car (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first conveying platform (P1) is located at a greater height than that of the first receiving zone (Z1) and / or in that the second conveying platform (P2) is located at a greater height than that of the second receiving zone (Z2).

8. Sleeper transfer car (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first conveying platform (P1) and the first receiving zone (Z1) are closer to a first end (101) of the transfer car (100) than the second conveying platform (P2) and the second receiving zone (Z2).

9. Sleeper transfer car (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a hoisting mechanism (120) in at least one of the receiving zones (Z1, Z2), preferably in the first zone (Z1) for receiving and unstacking new sleepers (21), configured to position at least one sleeper (21), preferably a pack of sleepers (21), at a predetermined height.

10. Sleeper transfer car (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least part of a sleeper stack movement mechanism (130) for translatably moving said stacks of sleepers toward at least one of the receiving zones (Z1, Z2), preferably toward the first zone (Z1) for receiving and unstacking new sleepers (21), the movement mechanism (130) preferably comprising carts (131) which are configured to be placed on a guide track (132) located beneath the stacks of sleepers (21).

11. Sleeper transfer car (100) according to claim 10, characterized in that the movement mechanism (130) is configured to move each cart (131) back and forth, preferably by a spacing (p) corresponding to a distance greater than a length (l) of a stack of sleepers (21), the movement mechanism (130) being configured so that each cart carries a stack of sleepers along an advancement path, and configured to travel a return path, in the opposite direction to the advancement path, while being unloaded, without moving the sleepers.

12. Sleeper transfer car (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a third conveying device (D1), for example for conveying material such as ballast, located vertically above the traverser (50).

13. Railway work vehicle (1) comprising at least one sleeper storage car (300) comprising a sleeper storage zone, one or more cars comprising equipment (11) for laying new sleepers and / or removing worn sleepers (22) from a railway track, characterized in that it further comprises a transfer car (100) according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. Method for transferring sleepers implemented on a transfer car (100) according to one of claims 1 to 12, intended for a railway vehicle (1) comprising equipment (11) for laying new sleepers (21), equipment for removing worn sleepers (22) and a sleeper storage zone, the transfer car (100) comprising an underframe (110) supported by at least one wheel set (112), the transfer method comprising at least a step of transferring at least one new sleeper (21) from the first receiving zone (Z1) to the second conveying platform (P2), and a step of transferring at least one worn sleeper (22) from the second receiving zone (Z2) to the first conveying platform (P1), by means of a single traverser (50) supported by the frame (60), the traverser (50) being located, with respect to the longitudinal direction (X) of the transfer car (100), between the first receiving zone (Z1) and the second platform (P2), and between the first platform (P1) and the second receiving zone (Z2).

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