Coupling component and coupling assembly having a coupling component, in particular a central buffer coupling

Abstract

The invention relates to a coupling component (1) for a coupling assembly (16) for mechanically coupling track-bound vehicles, having a main body (2) which extends in a longitudinal direction, in particular along a longitudinal axis (L), is formed as a single piece, and comprises a first axial end region (3), a second axial end region (4) and a shaft region (10) formed between the end regions (3, 4), the first axial end region (3) being designed to provide a receiving region (6) for receiving coupling elements (19) and to form at least one connection region (5) for connecting or fastening a face plate (17). The first axial end region (3) is formed by a fork structure (7), comprising a fork base (12) and at least two fork parts (8.1, 8.2), which extend from the fork base (12) at a distance from each other along both sides of the longitudinal axis and form, at the end region pointing away from the fork base (12), the at least one connection region (5) for fastening a face plate (17).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a coupling component for a coupling for the mechanical coupling of track-bound vehicles, in particular for a Scharfenberg type coupling, and furthermore to a coupling arrangement with such a coupling component.

[0002] Coupling arrangements for mechanically connecting track-bound vehicles are known in various designs from the prior art. The couplings comprise a coupling rod for at least indirect linkage and / or attachment to a car body and a coupling head with coupling elements, in particular a coupling lock. In Scharfenberg-type coupling arrangements, the coupling heads are characterized on the front by a profile consisting of a funnel and a cone. When coupling with a matching coupling head, the cones of the two coupling heads to be coupled fit into the opposing funnels of the respective mating coupling and connect the coupling heads to each other by means of the coupling locks arranged in the respective coupling heads.The coupling mechanism is designed as a rotary lock with a coupling eye and a frog, the frog being rotatable about a main axis at least between a coupling-ready position and a coupled position. The frog has a jaw for receiving a corresponding second end of a coupling eye of a mirror coupling head.

[0003] Such coupling arrangements are characterized by an at least partially modular design consisting of a coupling head with a coupling head housing and an attached end plate and coupling rod. In one embodiment, the coupling head is detachably connected to the coupling rod, for example, by means of a sleeve connection. To avoid the effort associated with this detachable connection, in an alternative embodiment according to 102020130561A1, the coupling head is at least partially integrally connected to the coupling rod by the integral design of the coupling head housing and coupling rod as a single-piece casting.

[0004] Coupling heads with a detachable end plate for a railway vehicle and associated assembly methods are disclosed in EP 1 632 414 A1 and WO 2006 / 027196 A1.

[0005] Document FR1577864A discloses a drawbar for a coupling. EP2594452B1 discloses a drawbar for a coupling, wherein the drawbar is integrally formed with a drawbar.

[0006] The coupling head housing is generally funnel-shaped and has a connection area, for example an end piece, on the side opposite the end plate, suitable for receiving a coupling rod. The coupling rod is, in turn, slidably and laterally or pivotably mounted on the vehicle so that the funnel-shaped design can accommodate the counterpart with appropriate tolerances. The coupling head housing has a first connection area for fixing the end plate and a second connection area, in particular a coupling element, for receiving the coupling rod. Inside the coupling head housing, the actual coupling element is arranged to create a fixed and detachable connection with another coupling element of a mating coupling. This coupling element is rigidly connected to the coupling housing. The coupling head housing is generally a cast part to which the coupling elements or coupling elements are attached.Clutch mechanism can be arranged.

[0007] As detailed in the two aforementioned publications, coupling heads with a modular design offer several advantages. This modular design is achieved by detachably connecting the end plate to the coupling head housing, thus optimizing the coupling head's properties and its overall manufacturing process. Different coupling head housings can be mounted on different end plates, eliminating the need for a single, integrated design and manufacturing process for the entire coupling head. Furthermore, the end plate can be removed from the coupling head housing for maintenance or repair work, providing service personnel with easier access to the uncoupling cylinders and other coupling components.

[0008] From publication DE102013218156 A1, a coupling head with a coupling head housing is known for reducing size and cost. This housing is designed and constructed as a forged component. It has at least two, preferably at least four, finger-like contact surfaces that can be detachably connected to the end plate via bolted connections. This provides defined and, above all, locally limited force application areas, enabling localized force transmission into the coupling head housing.

[0009] An alternative design with integral formation of the coupling head housing and coupling rod as a cast part is known from 102020130561A1.

[0010] The production of cast coupling head housings, or integral versions of coupling head housings and the adjoining shaft or coupling rod area, is very complex. Even during the manufacturing process, it is crucial to ensure that voids are avoided. To guarantee quality, appropriate quality control measures are necessary after production. For example, crack detection using fluorescent substances or X-ray inspection is required. The production time for such cast components is long and also necessitates additional post-processing. In particular, post-processing must be carried out on the coupling elements, specifically on the end face and, if the coupling head and coupling rod are formed separately, also on the connection side of the coupling rod.

[0011] In order to be able to absorb both compressive and tensile forces in the range of 1000 to 1500 kN with such a coupling head housing, the corresponding dimensions of the wall thicknesses and also of the geometry must be explicitly provided.

[0012] In certain applications, however, there is a need to transmit very high tensile and compressive forces, while at the same time the design, manufacture, and assembly should be as simple and, above all, cost-effective as possible. The object of the invention is therefore to design a coupling arrangement that, in addition to a high degree of versatility, allows for easy assembly and maintenance, is structurally simple and compact, and is cost-effective.

[0013] The solution according to the invention is characterized by the features of independent claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0014] The problem is solved by providing a one-piece coupling component for a mechanical coupling of track-bound vehicles according to claim 1, which combines the function of the coupling head housing and coupling rod in an integral component design, wherein the coupling head housing is characterized by a partially open design. For this purpose, a coupling component is provided with a longitudinally extending, one-piece base body comprising a first axial end region, a second axial end region, and a shaft region formed between the end regions, wherein the first axial end region is configured to provide a receiving area for receiving coupling elements and to form at least one connection region for attaching an end plate.The first axial end region is formed by a fork structure comprising a fork base and at least two fork sections extending from the fork base at intervals and on both sides of the longitudinal axis. These fork sections form at least one connection area for attaching an end plate at the end region pointing away from the fork base. The receiving area for the coupling elements is defined and limited by the at least two fork sections, in particular by their inner contour in the width and longitudinal directions of the base body. Viewed circumferentially around the longitudinal axis, the receiving area is not completely enclosed by the one-piece coupling component, but only laterally when viewed in the installed position.

[0015] The term "fork base" as used in the invention refers in particular to the area in which the fork parts arranged on both sides of the longitudinal axis are brought together or connected.

[0016] A shaft section is understood to be, in particular, a section characterized in the axial direction between the first and second axial end sections by an extension in this direction, i.e., along the longitudinal axis, which is designed and suitable to perform or assume at least the function of the coupling rod when used in coupling devices. In particular, at least a portion of the shaft section forms the coupling rod.

[0017] The solution according to the invention offers the advantage of providing a relatively simple and minimalist component for the main functions of the coupling head, in particular the coupling head housing and the coupling rod. Specifically, the fork parts integrally connected to the shaft area assume the function of the coupling head housing, namely providing the connection areas for the end plate and the receiving area for the coupling elements.

[0018] A coupling element within the meaning of the invention refers in particular to the coupling mechanism required for realizing the mechanical connection, especially the coupling lock. This is necessary for the mechanical connection. The design of a coupling lock as a rotary lock with a coupling eye and a frog, wherein the frog is rotatable about a main axis at least between a coupling-ready position and a coupled position, is generally known. The frog has a jaw for receiving a corresponding second end of a coupling eye of a mirror-image coupling head. The coupling head has a profile on its end face consisting of a coupling projection, in particular a cone, and a coupling opening, in particular in the form of a funnel.

[0019] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the one-piece base body is designed as a forged component. The basic idea is to design a coupling head housing and the adjoining coupling rod as a single, simpler component, thus simplifying both assembly and manufacturing. This is achieved by a different design for the section that functions as the coupling head housing, in contrast to the prior art. Starting from a forged component, this section has at least two separate, fork-like connection areas that can be detachably connected to the end plate via appropriate fastening devices.This defines and, above all, locally limited force application areas, enabling a locally limited force application into the integral design from the fork structure, which takes over the function of the coupling head housing, and the shaft area, which takes over the function of the subsequent coupling rod.

[0020] Since the clutch component is a one-piece forged component, the force lines within it are homogeneous and can thus be optimally transmitted via the clutch head housing or fork structure and subsequent shaft area.

[0021] In contrast to casting, the production time of a forged component is shorter. This is because complex quality assurance processes, such as X-ray inspection, porosity testing, or similar procedures, are eliminated. Furthermore, post-processing is shorter, particularly in areas where additional elements are attached. An even shorter production time is achieved by the fact that, especially when connecting to the end plate, the free end sections of the fork structure do not make full contact, but rather partial contact or, depending on the design of the fork structure and the number of fork sections, a point-like, finger-like contact, specifically at defined, localized areas. Because of this point-like contact with the end plate, and the coupling elements within the receiving area formed by the fork structure, the fork's contact is significantly reduced.If the coupling mechanism can be arranged such that its forces are transferred directly into the adjacent shaft area, the load paths and directions in the coupling assembly are separated in such a coupling component. This means that corresponding compressive forces are transferred via the support points or contact areas that are in contact with the end plate, whereas tensile forces are transferred directly via the coupling elements and the shaft area. Due to this force distribution, the fork structure that performs the function of the coupling head housing can be dimensioned more simply. This dimensioning also results in the advantage that the overall length of the coupling component, which performs the function of the coupling head housing and coupling rod, together with the end plate, is considerably shorter compared to the prior art.

[0022] In an advantageous embodiment, the fork structure is symmetrical with respect to a plane defined by the longitudinal axis and a perpendicular to it in the vertical direction. When installed in a coupling arrangement, the fork parts form the lateral boundary for the receiving area for the coupling elements.

[0023] Alternatively, an asymmetrical design of the fork structure is also conceivable, preferably in the vertical direction, for example to accommodate additional functions on the fork part.

[0024] In an advantageous further development of the aforementioned designs, the fork structure comprises a plurality of fork sections extending finger-like from the fork base, each forming connection areas at its free end regions for attaching an end plate. Whether in the embodiment with only two fork sections (one fork section on each side of the longitudinal axis and spaced apart from it) or with several fork sections extending finger-like from the fork base, the individual connection area provided on a fork section preferably comprises at least one contact surface or a plurality of contact surfaces for interacting with a surface on an end plate to be connected to the coupling component, wherein the individual contact surface lies in a plane that is arranged perpendicular to a plane describable in the vertical direction by the longitudinal axis and a perpendicular thereto.All contact surfaces can lie in a common plane or in different planes. For example, a contact surface area can also be stepped.

[0025] Advantageously, the individual connection area is equipped with devices for attaching an end plate. In the simplest case, these are through-holes or threaded openings which can interact with appropriate fastening elements to secure the end plate.

[0026] Regarding the integral design of the fork structure and shaft area, there are fundamentally two possibilities. According to a first embodiment, the fork base can be integrally connected to the shaft area, or according to a second embodiment, it can be formed by the shaft area in a functionally concentrated manner. The latter embodiment offers the particular advantage that portions of the shaft area can be used to accommodate coupling elements or the coupling mechanism. According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the fork structure is characterized by an arrangement area, located at least partially within the shaft area, for accommodating an actuating device for the coupling elements; in particular, an electromechanical, electrohydraulic, or electropneumatic actuating device can be housed here.

[0027] There are several options for connecting and attaching the coupling elements to the coupling component. The coupling component has at least one connection area for attaching the coupling elements to the fork structure itself or the shaft area.

[0028] In a first advantageous embodiment, the at least one connection area for attaching the coupling elements is arranged on or formed by the fork base. In a second embodiment, the connection area is provided on the fork parts themselves, which extend on both sides of the longitudinal axis, or on a connecting web integrally formed with, connected to, or attached to these parts. The latter embodiment offers the advantage of using the connecting web forming the connection area as a cover for further functions, in particular for partially closing off the receiving area of ​​the coupling elements in the vertical direction, and as a support element for additional components, such as an electrical contact coupling or an air line coupling.

[0029] The shaft section, which serves as the coupling rod, can be constructed in various ways as a forged part. Preferably, it is defined by two webs extending along the longitudinal axis and at least one central web connecting them.

[0030] The second axial end region is advantageously designed as a dome connection. This is preferably designed as an eyelet or through-opening for a hinge pin or pull bar.

[0031] A coupling arrangement for the mechanical coupling of track-bound vehicles, in particular a center buffer coupling comprising a coupling head and a coupling rod, can be designed to be particularly simple, compact and cost-effective if the coupling rod and parts of the coupling head are formed by a coupling component according to claims 1 to 14.

[0032] The end plate, which can be connected to the free end regions of the fork structure, has a frontally projecting coupling projection, in particular a coupling cone, and a coupling opening positioned next to the coupling cone in a top view of the front for receiving a coupling cone of a corresponding end plate. Furthermore, the coupling arrangement comprises a coupling closure connected to the fork structure or the shaft region and arranged in the receiving area bounded by the fork structure, wherein the coupling closure is designed as a rotary closure with a coupling eye and a frog. In particular, the coupling closure has the following structure: The frog is rotatable about a main axis between a ready-to-couple position, a coupled position, and an uncoupled position. The coupling eye is rotatably connected to the frog at a first end about a coupling eye axis and has a second free end.The frog has a jaw designed to receive the second end of a coupling eye of a corresponding coupling head, wherein the frog can be rotated from the coupled position to the uncoupled position against the force of a spring accumulator and from the uncoupled position to the coupled position by the force of the spring accumulator. Furthermore, a locking mechanism is provided, comprising a plunger displaceable against a spring force in the coupling direction of the drawbar coupling and a latch rod displaceable transversely or obliquely to the coupling direction. The latch rod is pivotally connected to the frog and, when the frog is rotated from the coupled position to the uncoupled position, can be moved by the frog into a detent position in which the latch rod blocks rotation of the frog from the uncoupled position to the coupled position.In a first position displaced against the spring force, the plunger blocks the latching rod in the detent position, and in a second position displaced by the spring force, it releases the latching rod from the detent position.

[0033] The coupling head housing, which is integrally formed with the shaft area, has connection areas at its free end for connecting to an end plate when viewed longitudinally. The opposite end area is integrally formed with the coupling rod, in particular the shaft area. The coupling head housing is designed as a single-piece forged component, and the first connection area on the coupling head housing is formed by at least two separately arranged contact surfaces for at least indirect support against partial surfaces of the end plate. The connection to an end plate is achieved in particular via force-fit or form-fit connections.

[0034] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the connection area to the end plate is formed by at least four finger-like or paired fork-like projections on the coupling head housing, which have contact surfaces.

[0035] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the contact surfaces of the connection area with the end plate are arranged on both sides of a plane whose position can be described by a longitudinal axis extending in the longitudinal direction of the coupling head and a perpendicular to it. Preferably, the arrangement is symmetrical. This design allows for simple manufacturing.

[0036] The connection between the coupling head housing and the end plate is either direct or via compensating elements. In the latter case, the coupling head housing is supported on the end plate by the compensating elements. This allows for the compensation of coupling play and manufacturing tolerances. The compensating elements can be individual components or a plate-like element whose end face is adapted to the contour of the end plate. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, at least one centering device is provided for centering the coupling head housing and optionally the end plate and / or the at least one compensating element. This significantly simplifies the alignment and assembly process.In the simplest case, the centering device comprises at least one pin-like element that engages in the opposing components – the coupling head and compensating element and / or end plate. The individual pin-like element can be formed integrally with one of the opposing components or connected to it.

[0037] The individual force-fit connection between the coupling component and the end plate is designed, for example, as a bolt connection or screw connection.

[0038] Preferably, in addition to the coupling component, the end plate is also designed as a forged component.

[0039] There are several possibilities regarding the end plates that can be combined with the coupling component. Besides the coupling projection and coupling opening, the end plate can be characterized by a flat front surface or by a design specifically adapted for winter conditions, which can be described by recessed areas on the surface that are open towards the edges of the end plate and the coupling opening, or by forming a closed receiving area that is connected to the interior of the coupling head housing via through-openings and / or the coupling opening.

[0040] Due to the relatively open structure of the clutch head housing caused by the fork structure, snow and dirt, especially snow and dirt entering the interior through the coupling opening, can easily be drained downwards out of the clutch head housing, even with a completely flat design of the front face of the end plate.

[0041] In a first embodiment, a front plate specially adapted to winter conditions has at least one end-face contact surface on its surface facing forward in the installation position and away from the fork structure for absorbing pressure forces when coupling a compatible front plate of a counter coupling, and the end-face contact surface is provided with at least one recess positioned outside the coupling elements and / or coupling projection and coupling opening, which is at least partially open at the edges, wherein the end-face contact surface comprises or is formed by a plurality of contact surface segments which are distributed on the front of the front plate and are raised compared to adjacent areas.

[0042] In a second embodiment, the end plate has at least one recessed surface on the front-facing end face, forming a recess which, viewed in a plane of the end plate, is completely enclosed in the circumferential direction by the at least one end-face contact surface, in particular the elevation forming the end-face contact surface or at least one end-face contact surface and at least a dome projection and / or one of the dome elements, in particular a cone and / or a coupling opening.

[0043] The use of a coupling component designed according to the invention in a coupling assembly offers the advantages of simple assembly, interchangeability, and an overall space-optimized, simple, and cost-effective design of the coupling head housing and coupling rod in an integral construction, free from the need for connecting and joining devices between the coupling head and coupling rod. A further advantage lies in the open design of the coupling head housing, which facilitates the removal of dirt and snow.

[0044] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description, the claims, and the drawing: It shows: Figure 1a, 1: first embodiment of a coupling component; Figure 2: first embodiment of a coupling component with machined contact surfaces and device for connecting the coupling elements; Figure 3: coupling arrangement with coupling component according to a first embodiment; Figure 4a, 4: second embodiment of a coupling component; Figure 5: second embodiment of a coupling component with machined contact surfaces and device for connecting the coupling elements; Figure 6a, 6: coupling arrangement with coupling component according to a second embodiment.

[0045] Figure 1a Figure 1 shows in perspective view an exemplary first embodiment of a coupling component 1 designed in one piece according to the invention with integral design of coupling rod and parts of a coupling head for use in a coupling for mechanically connecting two track-bound vehicles. Figure 1b shows the coupling component 1 according to Figure 1a in a top view. Figure 2 shows the coupling component 1 according to Figures 1a and 1b with fully machined surfaces, in particular the connection areas for fastening and supporting the coupling elements and an end plate. To better illustrate the individual directions, a coordinate system is applied to the coupling component 1. The X-axis corresponds to the longitudinal direction and coincides with or is parallel to the longitudinal axis L. The Y-direction describes the lateral direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L, and the Z-direction the vertical direction. When installed in a coupling in a rail vehicle, the X-direction corresponds to the longitudinal direction of the rail vehicle, the Y-direction to the lateral direction, and the Z-direction to the vertical direction. These directional specifications apply to all figures.

[0046] The coupling component 1 comprises a base body 2 extending along a longitudinal axis L and having a first axial end region 3 and a second axial end region 4 at its opposite ends. The base body 2 is designed and configured in the first axial end region 3 to provide a receiving area 6 for receiving coupling elements or coupling components and connection areas 5 for connecting or fastening a coupling element. Figure 1The coupling component 1 has a coupling connection 9 in its second axial end region 4. In the illustrated case, this connection is designed as a bearing describing an eyelet or eye for receiving a coupling bolt, coupling bracket, or other coupling connection. The region of the base body 2 connecting the axial end regions 3 and 4 is designed as a rod- or shaft-shaped component region and is referred to as the shaft region 10, whereby the cross-sectional profile of this component region is not necessarily defined.

[0047] The first axial end region 3 is formed by a fork structure 7. This connects integrally to the shaft region 10 of the base body 2 and comprises at least two fork parts 8.1, 8.2, which are arranged extending apart from each other on both sides of the longitudinal axis L. The fork parts 8.1, 8.2 extend from a fork base 12, which is integrally formed with or created by the shaft 10. The free end regions have connection areas 5 for connecting or attaching an end plate (not shown). The fork structure 3 is open at the front, and the fork parts 8.1, 8.2 describe with their inner contour 11.1, 11.1.2 a spatial area in the X-direction, Y-direction and, viewed over the extension of the fork parts in the vertical direction, also in the Z-direction, which corresponds to the receiving area 6 for receiving coupling elements, in particular coupling elements of a Scharfenberg type coupling, such as coupling lock consisting of frog, coupling eye, main bolt, spring, etc.

[0048] To accommodate the coupling elements, the base body has two connection areas 13 for fastening or supporting the coupling components. This represents the absolute minimum version of a coupling component 1 designed according to the invention. The design of the coupling component 1 according to the invention integrates the function of the coupling rod and parts of the coupling head into a single component.

[0049] The entire coupling component 1 is designed as a forged component.

[0050] According to the Figures 1a, 1bIn the first embodiment shown, the connection area 13 for the coupling elements is placed directly in the fork base 12, or the fork base forms the fork base. The arrangement is preferably in a plane that can be described by the longitudinal and lateral directions and lies vertically within the extent of the shaft section 10 or the fork parts 8.1, 8.2 in this direction. In the illustrated case, the connection area 13 is formed by a connecting flange between the fork parts 8.1, 8.2 in the fork base 12.

[0051] Figure 1a, 1b Figure 1 shows a design of the fork structure 1 with two fork parts 8.1, 8.2. It is also conceivable - but not shown here - several fork parts arranged in pairs on both sides of the longitudinal axis L, which are joined directly at the shaft area 10 or a fork base 12 integrally formed with it.

[0052] In the Figure 2 The dome component 1 will be constructed according to Figure 1Figures a and 1b are shown, however, the connection areas 5 in the region of the free fork ends for the end plate are machined. In the illustrated case, contact surfaces 14.1, 14.2 are formed on the free end areas of the fork parts 8.1, 8.2, which, in the completed state for coupling, point towards the end plate. These contact surfaces form the connection areas 5 for attaching an end plate. In the illustrated case, the individual contact surface 14.1, 14.2 extends vertically along the end face of each individual fork part 8.1, 8.2 and is formed as a single closed surface on each individual fork part. The contact surfaces 14.1, 14.2 of the two fork parts 8.1, 8.2 preferably lie in a plane that can be described by the Y and Z directions and that is oriented perpendicular to a plane that can be described by the longitudinal axis L and the width direction (Y direction).

[0053] In the illustrated case, 5 devices 24 are provided in the connection area for attaching an end plate (not shown here). These devices include openings for receiving and preferably also fixing fastening elements.

[0054] In connection area 13, a device 15 is provided for fastening or storing the dome elements.

[0055] The Figure 3Figure 1 shows a coupling 16 in its assembled state with a coupling head 18 comprising the coupling elements 19 and the coupling rod 20, which is integrally formed with the coupling head 18. The coupling head 18 consists of a coupling head housing 21 and an end plate 17 that can be connected to the coupling head housing 21 at its end face. At least one compensating element for coupling play and manufacturing tolerances can be provided between the coupling head housing 21 and the end plate 17, although this is not shown here. The compensating element can be designed as a spacer plate.

[0056] The coupling head housing 21 and the end plate 17 are connected to each other by at least one positive-locking or force-locking detachable connection 22, which is preferably designed as a bolted connection. The bolted connections provide for the use of screws 6, which are inserted through bores provided on the coupling head housing 21 and engage either in a spacer plate (not shown here) or at least in threads provided in the end plate 17 (not shown in detail in the drawings).

[0057] This creates a detachable connection between the coupling head housing 21 and the end plate 17. The connection between the end plate 17 and the coupling head housing 21 is made via a first connection area of ​​the coupling head housing 21, in particular the connection area 5 on the fork structure 7. The connecting elements or means are arranged within this first connection area.

[0058] The coupling head housing 21 is designed such that it has two contact surfaces 14.1, 14.2 on its side facing the end plate 17.

[0059] The contact surfaces 14.1 and 14.2 are designed such that they only bear on a portion of the end plate 17, while the remaining portion has a recess. The individual contact surfaces 14.1 and 14.2 are thus separate from one another and are not connected to each other in the connection plane. This means that the coupling head housing 21 is fork-shaped and supported on the end plate 17 in two areas, where it is connected accordingly.

[0060] The coupling head housing 21 is therefore not enclosed circumferentially around its longitudinal axis. The coupling head housing 21 consists only of the fork sections 8.1 and 8.2 of the coupling part 9, but can be closed with appropriate cover plates above and / or below the coupling elements 19. However, the open structure without a cover offers the advantage that snow and dirt can fall out more easily.

[0061] The fork structure 7 thus forms at least components of the clutch head housing 21. The clutch part 9, with its shaft area 10 and the second axial end area 4, forms the clutch rod 20. The clutch component 1 therefore forms the clutch rod 20 and, integrally with it, components of the clutch head housing 21.

[0062] The end plate 17 is designed according to the operational requirements. It has an end face 23 on which a coupling projection 32 or cone, which protrudes in a frontal direction from the end plate 17, and a coupling opening 33 for receiving a coupling projection of corresponding elements of a compatible end plate of a counter coupling is provided.

[0063] The part of the end face 23 surrounding the coupling projection 32 and coupling opening 33 can be formed by a flat frontal end face, i.e., facing the counter coupling and thus pointing away from the fork structure, or, as in the case shown, by at least one edge-opening recess 27 in the surface, whereby the end plate 17 forms contact surface areas 28 on the frontal surface, which interact with the end plate of a counter coupling when coupling.

[0064] The coupling elements or coupling components 19 necessary for the coupling process are arranged within the coupling head housing 21, in particular the receiving area 6 of the fork structure 7.

[0065] The coupling head housing 21 itself is not subjected to any or only minimal tensile stress on the coupling elements 19. Due to its design and the corresponding contact surfaces, the coupling head housing 21 does not require a large installation depth, which is why the entire coupling head 18 is smaller in its dimensions compared to the prior art.

[0066] Due to the redesign of the coupling rod 20 and the coupling head housing 21 as an integral forged component and the reduction to individual, in particular at least two, contact surfaces 14.1, 14.2, which form a corresponding connection with the end plate 17, a very compact coupling head 18 has been created, which is reduced in its entire length of the component.

[0067] When executed according to Figures 1a to 3The coupling rod 21, formed by the shaft section 10 and the second connection section 4, is preferably composed of two side webs 25 connected to each other via a connecting web 26. The forged component also has through-openings in the shaft section 10, bounded by the side webs 25 and the central web 26. The fork structure 7 adjoins the shaft section 10; that is, the fork base 12, which also forms the connection section 13 for the coupling elements 19, is integrally connected to the shaft section 10.

[0068] The Figures 4a and 4b Figure 1 shows an alternative embodiment of a coupling component according to the invention. The same principles apply as for the embodiment shown in Figure 2. Figures 1 to 3 , only the design of the fork base 12 and the design of the connection area 13 for the coupling elements 19 and accordingly also the fork structure 7 is different here. Figure 4ashows a perspective view, Figure 4bThe coupling component 1 is shown in a top view. The fork base 12 of the fork structure 7 is integrated into the shaft section 10. Part of the fork sections 8.1 and 8.2 also forms part of the shaft section 10. Thus, the shaft section 10 functionally forms part of the fork structure 7. The function of the fork base 12 is fulfilled here by the central web 26 of the shaft section 10, in particular the connection between the side webs 25.1 and 25.2. The side webs 25.1 and 25.2 extend into the fork sections 8.1 and 8.2. Here too, the fork structure 7 and the shaft section 10 are formed as a single unit or integrally. Again, the free end regions of the fork sections 8.1 and 8.2 form the connection areas 5 for attaching an end plate. However, the connection areas for attaching the dome elements 19 are formed by the fork parts 8.1, 8.2, in particular by the vertically pointing surface areas 30 on these.The additional installation space 31 gained in the axial direction in the shaft area 10 up to the central web 26 forms a receiving area for arranging an actuating device associated with the coupling elements 19, in particular a coupling and uncoupling device 29. The coupling connection 19 is designed analogously as described in the previous figures.

[0069] Figure 5 shows for a design according to the Figures 4a and 4bThe coupling component 1, after machining, is fitted with the devices 15 for fastening and supporting the coupling elements 19. These are arranged above and below the fork parts 8.1 and 8.2, respectively, and are attached to them via fastening devices. The connection is made via the connection areas 13, which are located on the vertically oriented surface areas of the fork parts 8.1 and 8.2. The devices 15 include bearing-supporting connecting webs between the fork parts 8.1 and 8.2, in particular for receiving a main bolt of a coupling rotary lock.

[0070] The Figures 6a and 6b show the coupling arrangement 16 with the one according to Figure 5 machined coupling component 1 forming a coupling rod 20 and a coupling head housing 21 with attached end plate 17 and coupling elements 19 as well as the coupling and uncoupling device 29 arranged in the receiving area 31 in the shaft area 10 in two views. Figure 6a shows the coupling arrangement 16 in perspective view, Figure 6b In the top view. The devices for attaching the coupling elements 19 are designed such that, after assembly with the end plate 17, they do not completely enclose the receiving area for the coupling elements. This allows dirt and snow that enters the coupling head housing through the coupling opening to be more easily drained downwards out of the coupling head housing 21.

[0071] The connection areas 5 on the fork sections 8.1 and 8.2 each form two separate, spaced-apart contact surface areas 14.11, 14.12 and 14.21, 14.22. The individual fork sections 8.1 and 8.2 are thus designed in a finger-like manner at their free axial end regions and form individual contact surfaces 14.11, 14.12 and 14.21, 14.22 in conjunction with an end plate. The individual contact surfaces 14.11, 14.12, 14.21, 14.22 are therefore separate from one another and are free of any connection to each other in the connection plane. This means that the coupling head housing 21, or the fork sections 8.1, 8.2 that partially form it, is supported finger-like at four areas on the end plate 17 and is connected there accordingly. The remaining recesses are preferably semicircular in shape.This is due, firstly, to the design, since in this case it is a forged component, but also, secondly, to the force flow, whereby the force is transferred from the end plate 17 to the fork structure 7, which takes over the function of the clutch head housing 21, via the finger-like contact surfaces and is directed accordingly to the shaft area 10.

[0072] The contact surfaces are arranged outside the area where the forces transmitted via the coupling elements are introduced. For this purpose, the contact surfaces 14.11, 14.12, 14.21, 14.22 are preferably arranged on both sides of the coupling elements 19. The arrangement is based on a theoretical longitudinal axis L, which coincides with the coupling axis, and is preferably symmetrical with respect to a plane formed by the coupling longitudinal axis and a perpendicular to it. The forces introduced via the contact surfaces are transferred into the shaft area 10 via the fork structure 7.

[0073] The coupling arrangements 16 according to the Figures 3 and 6 These are Scharfenberg-type couplings. They feature a conical coupling projection 32 on the front of the end plate 17 and a coupling opening 33 positioned next to the coupling projection (as seen from above) for receiving a coupling cone of a corresponding end plate. The coupling elements 19 are formed by a coupling closure consisting of a coupling eye, frog, and latch rod.

[0074] The coupling component 1 according to the invention can be combined with any end plate design. However, due to the relatively open design of the area forming the coupling head housing 21, it is particularly suitable in combination with a winter-proof end plate 17. Such a design is available in the following versions. Figures 3 and 6The end plate 17 is provided on its front-facing surface, which is opposite the fork structure 7, with at least one end-face contact surface 28 for absorbing compressive forces when coupling a compatible end plate of a counter-coupling, wherein the end-face contact surface is provided with at least one recess 27, which is positioned outside the coupling elements 19 and outside the coupling projection 32 and coupling opening 33 and is at least partially open at the edges. Thus, the end-face contact surface 28 comprises or is formed by a plurality of contact surface segments, which are distributed across the front of the end plate 17 and are raised above adjacent areas.The open-edged recess 27 allows snow trapped between the end plates 17 and scraped or compressed during the coupling process to escape into the at least one recess 27 and over its open-edged section, thus escaping from the engagement area of ​​the two end plates 17 and the coupling elements. Furthermore, snow can escape into the recessed areas on the end plate 17 when the coupling engages with a mating coupling, and the snow introduced into the coupling head housing 21 via the coupling opening 33 can also escape downwards through the open structure.

[0075] In one embodiment, not shown in detail here, the end plate can have at least one recessed surface on its front-facing end face, forming a recess which, viewed in the plane of the end plate, is completely enclosed in the circumferential direction by the at least one end-face contact surface, in particular the raised portion forming the end-face contact surface, or at least one end-face contact surface and at least one of the coupling elements, in particular the cone and coupling opening. Additionally, openings can be provided in the receiving area thus formed on the end face, connecting the end face to the receiving area 6 for the coupling elements. Reference symbol list

[0076] 1 Coupling component 2 Base body 3 First axial end region 4 Second axial end region 5 Connection region for connecting to an end plate 6 Receiving region for receiving coupling elements 7 Fork structure 8.1, 8.2 Fork parts 9 Coupling connection 10 Shaft region 11 Inner contour 12 Fork base 13 Connection regions for attaching the coupling elements 14.1, 14.2 Contact surfaces on the fork parts 15 Device for attaching and storing the coupling elements 16 Coupling arrangement 17 End plate 18 Coupling head 19 Coupling elements 20 Coupling rod 21 Coupling head housing 22 Detachable connection coupling head housing-end plate 23 End face 24 Devices for attaching the end plate 25.1, 25.2 Side webs 26 Connecting web 27 Open-edged recess 28 Contact surface areas 29 Coupling and uncoupling device 30 Surface area 31 Receiving area 32 Coupling projection 33 Coupling opening Longitudinal axis X, Y, Z directions

Claims

1. Coupling component (1) for a coupling assembly (16) for mechanically coupling railway vehicles, with integrally configured coupling rod and parts of a coupling head, having an integrally formed main body (2) extending in the longitudinal direction, in particular along a longitudinal axis (L), comprising a first axial end region (3), a second axial end region (4) and a shaft region (10) which is formed between the end regions (3, 4) and forms the coupling rod, characterized in that the first axial end region (3) is designed to provide a receptacle region (6) for receiving coupling elements (19) and to form at least one connection region (5) for connecting or fastening an end plate (17) of the coupling head; wherein the first axial end region (3) is formed by a fork structure (7) forming the parts of the integral configuration of the one coupling head, wherein the fork structure comprises a fork base (12) and at least two fork parts (8.1, 8.2) which extend from the fork base (12) at a mutual spacing on both sides of the longitudinal axis, and which on the end region pointing away from the fork base (12) form the at least one connection region (5) for fastening the one end plate (17) of the coupling head.

2. Coupling component (1) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the main body (2) is designed as a forged component.

3. Coupling component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fork structure (7) is formed symmetrically with respect to a plane that can be defined by the longitudinal axis (L) and a perpendicular thereto in the vertical direction.

4. Coupling component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fork structure (7) comprises a plurality of fork parts (8.1, 8.2) which extend in the manner of fingers away from the fork base (12) and form in each case on their free end regions connection regions for fastening an end plate (17).

5. Coupling component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the individual connection region (5) provided on a fork part (8.1, 8.2) comprises at least one contact surface (14.1, 14.2,) or a plurality of contact surfaces (14.11, 14.12, 14.21, 14.22) for interaction with a surface on an end plate (17) to be connected to the coupling component (1), wherein the individual contact surface (14.1, 14.2, 14.11, 14.12, 14.21, 14.22) is in each case in a plane which is disposed perpendicularly to a plane that can be defined by the longitudinal axis (L) and a perpendicular thereto in the vertical direction.

6. Coupling component (1) according to Claim 5, characterized in that provided in the individual connection region (5) are devices (24) for fastening, in particular in a force-fitting manner, an end plate (17).

7. Coupling component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fork structure (7) at the fork base (12) is disposed so as to integrally adjoin the shaft region (10).

8. Coupling component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a sub-region of the fork structure (7) of the shaft region (10), in particular the fork base (12) and optionally a sub-region of the fork parts (8.1, 8.2), is formed by the shaft region (10).

9. Coupling component (1) according to Claim 8, characterized in that the fork structure (7) has a receptacle region (6), disposed at least partially in the shaft region (10), for receiving coupling elements (19) and / or activation devices (29) interacting with the latter.

10. Coupling component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one connection region (13) is provided for fastening the coupling elements (19) to the fork structure (7) and / or the shaft region (10).

11. Coupling component (1) according to Claim 10, characterized in that at least one connection region (13) is provided for fastening the coupling elements (19) to the fork base (12) or a web which connects the fork parts (8.1, 8.2) disposed on both sides of the longitudinal axis (L) and is formed integrally with the latter.

12. Coupling component (1) according to Claim 10, characterized in that at least one connection region (13) is provided for fastening the coupling elements (19) to the fork parts (8.1, 8.2), in particular to the surface regions (30) aligned in the vertical direction of the fork parts (8.1, 8.2).

13. Coupling component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shaft region (10) has two webs (25.1, 25.2) and at least one central web (26) connecting the latter.

14. Coupling component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second axial end region (4) of the main body (2) forms a coupling connection (9), in particular an eyelet or opening for receiving a pin or pull bow.

15. Coupling assembly (16) for mechanically coupling railway vehicles, in particular central buffer coupling, comprising a coupling head (18) having a coupling head housing (21) and an end plate (17) which terminates the latter at the end side and is releasably connected to the coupling head housing (21), and a coupling rod (20) connected to the coupling head (18), characterized in that the coupling rod (20) and parts of the coupling head housing (21) or the entire coupling head housing (21) are formed by a coupling component (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 14.

16. Coupling assembly (16) according to Claim 15, characterized in that the individual connection between the first axial end region (3) of the coupling component (1) and the end plate (17) is embodied as a form-fitting or force-fitting connection and is formed by a pin connection or a screw connection.

17. Coupling assembly (16) according to one of preceding Claims 15 and 16, characterized in that the contact surfaces (14.1, 14.2, 14.11, 14.12, 14.21, 14.22) of the coupling component (1) are supported directly on subregions of surfaces of the end plate (17), in particular on the side of the end plate (17) facing the fork structure (7), or in that at least one compensating element is disposed between the end plate (17) and the coupling component (1) and the coupling head housing is supported on the contact surfaces via the at least one compensating element on the end plate (17).

18. Coupling assembly (16) according to one of Claims 15 to 17, characterized in that it comprises a coupling protrusion (32) which projects on the front side of the end plate (17) of the coupling head (18), and a coupling opening (33), which is positioned next to the coupling protrusion (32) when viewed in a top view onto the front side, for receiving a coupling protrusion of a mating end plate, a coupling closure which is connected to the fork structure (7) or the shaft region (10) and is disposed in the receptacle region delimited by the fork structure (7), wherein the coupling closure is embodied as a rotary closure having a coupling eyelet and a centrepiece.

19. Coupling assembly (16) according to one of Claims 15 to 18, characterized in that the end plate (17) has on its surface facing towards the front and facing away from the fork structure (7) at least one end-side contact surface (28) for receiving compressive forces when coupling to a compatible end plate of a mating coupling, and the end-side contact surface (28) is provided with at least one clearance (27) which has open peripheries at least in portions and is positioned outside the coupling protrusion (32) and the coupling opening (33) and the coupling elements (19), wherein the end-side contact surface (28) comprises a multiplicity of contact surface segments, or is formed by the latter, which are positioned so as to be distributed on the front side of the end plate (17) and are raised in relation to adjacent regions.

20. Coupling assembly (16) according to one of Claims 15 to 18, characterized in that provided on the end plate (17), on the end side facing towards the front, is at least one surface which is recessed in relation to the at least one contact surface while forming a clearance, and which, when viewed in an end plate plane, is in the circumferential direction completely enclosed by the at least one end-side contact surface, in particular by the elevation forming the end-side contact surface, or by at least one end-side contact surface and at least one of the coupling element, in particular the coupling protrusion (32) and the coupling opening (33).

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