Pad

Abstract

An intermediate layer (1) for arranging between a railway sleeper and a rail running in a longitudinal direction (LR) is provided. The intermediate layer (1) has at least one supporting region (2) with at least one main supporting element (4) projecting from the intermediate layer (1), wherein the supporting region (2) extends in a first direction (R1) which is substantially transverse to the longitudinal direction (LR). The intermediate layer (1) has at least one secondary region (3) which is provided so as to adjoin the supporting region (2), wherein the secondary region (3) differs from the supporting region (2).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an intermediate layer, in particular a rail intermediate layer.

[0002] It is known to provide spacers between a track or rail and an underlying (railway) sleeper. This allows the rail to be decoupled from the sleeper. The forces absorbed by the rail are transferred via the spacer into the sleeper, with forces occurring in both vertical and horizontal directions relative to the underside of the rail. This allows the rail to vibrate largely freely. However, this vibration can generate rail noise that is perceived as unpleasant.

[0003] To address the problem of noise generation, very stiff rail pads (K SP > 600 kN / mm) are sometimes used in the current technology. These pads can keep rail noise to a low level. However, elastic decoupling between the rail and the sleeper is limited.

[0004] From DE 10 2008 007 495 A1, an injection-molded plate for rails made of an elastomer or rubber-elastic material is known, which has elevations on a surface thereof, wherein the elevations are evenly distributed.

[0005] Furthermore, DE 10 2016 108 097 A shows an intermediate layer having a raised web running along a rail direction.

[0006] However, the elastic decoupling of the rail and the sleeper while simultaneously reducing noise is not yet optimal.

[0007] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an intermediate layer which enables both sufficient elastic decoupling between rail and sleeper and also provides a reduction in rail noise.

[0008] This object is achieved by an intermediate layer having the features of claim 1. Further advantages and features emerge from the subclaims as well as the description and the attached figures.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, an intermediate layer is provided. The intermediate layer can be arranged between a railway sleeper and a rail running in a longitudinal direction. The intermediate layer can have at least one support region with at least one main support element, in particular protruding from the intermediate layer, wherein the support region extends in a first direction that is substantially transverse to the longitudinal direction. In other words, the support region extends in a direction transverse to the rail longitudinal direction (in an assembled state of the intermediate layer). The intermediate layer can have at least one secondary region provided adjacent to the support region, wherein the secondary region differs from the support region.

[0010] According to one aspect, the present invention differs from the prior art in that the support region extends transversely to the rail direction when the intermediate layer is installed between a rail and a railway sleeper. This can increase the track decay rate at, for example, 1000 Hz by a factor of two. This can provide improved elastic decoupling between rail and sleeper, as well as reduce rail vibration. For example, the support region and the secondary region can form a continuous or flat surface that can come into contact with the sleeper or the track. In this case, the support region and the secondary region can differ in their respective design and / or material properties.

[0011] The intermediate layer can have a substantially rectangular or square shape in a plan view. Furthermore, the intermediate layer can have a plate-like shape. In a plan view of the intermediate layer, the intermediate layer can extend in the longitudinal direction and in a transverse direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. A thickness of the intermediate layer can extend in a thickness direction. The thickness direction can be orthogonal to the longitudinal direction and to the transverse direction of the intermediate layer. The extension of the intermediate layer in the thickness direction can be significantly smaller than the extension of the intermediate layer in the transverse direction and / or in the longitudinal direction.

[0012] When the rail pad is mounted on a railway sleeper, the transverse direction can extend along the longitudinal direction of the sleeper or be parallel to it. The longitudinal direction in which the rail extends can be a direction that follows the general extension of the rail.

[0013] The intermediate layer may have a first side and a second side. More specifically, the intermediate layer may have a first side and a second side in the thickness direction. The intermediate layer may be in contact with the rail or railway sleeper either with the first side or with the second side. The support region may be a region on the first and / or second side of the intermediate layer. The secondary region may be a region on the first and / or second side of the intermediate layer.

[0014] The main support element can be provided on the first side and / or from the second side of the intermediate layer. The main support element, which is provided in the support region, can protrude from the first side and / or from the second side of the intermediate layer. The support element can represent a stiffener, which means that rail noise can be reduced with the intermediate layer. According to a preferred embodiment, the side of the intermediate layer which does not have a support element, i.e. is smooth or flat, for example, faces the underside of the rail in the mounted position. For example, the at least one main support element can be provided on the first side of the intermediate layer, with the first side of the intermediate layer being oriented towards the sleeper. Accordingly, the second side of the intermediate layer can have a smooth or flat surface oriented towards the rail.According to an alternative embodiment, both the first side and the second side of the intermediate layer can each be provided with at least one main support element. It may be advantageous for both the first side of the intermediate layer and the second side of the intermediate layer to have the same arrangement and / or configuration of the main support elements. However, both sides can also be configured differently. Thus, the support area and / or the secondary area on one side of the intermediate layer can differ from the support area and / or the secondary area on the other side of the intermediate layer.

[0015] Furthermore, the support region can extend substantially parallel to the first direction. Here, "extend" expediently refers to the greatest extent of the support region. "Substantially" can mean that the support region also extends on the intermediate layer at an inclination of up to 15° with respect to the first direction. Preferably, the support region extends over the entire extent of the intermediate layer in the first direction or transverse direction of the intermediate layer. In other words, the support region can extend from one edge in the first direction of the intermediate layer to an opposite edge in the first direction of the intermediate layer. This can ensure that, in a plan view, a rail or track intersects or crosses the support region. Thus, the vibration- and noise-damping effect of the intermediate layer can be ensured.

[0016] Furthermore, the intermediate layer can have a secondary region, which can be provided adjacent to the support region. The secondary region is designed differently with respect to the support region. Preferably, the secondary region extends from one edge of the intermediate layer in the first direction or transverse direction to an opposite edge of the intermediate layer. "Extend" here expediently means the greatest extent of the secondary region. The intermediate layer can have at least three adjacent regions in the longitudinal direction. More precisely, the intermediate layer can have the support region, the secondary region, and a further support region in the transverse direction. The support regions can adjoin an edge of the intermediate layer in the longitudinal direction.In particular, the different arrangement and / or design of the support area and the secondary area can ensure that a dynamic load introduced by the rail into the intermediate layer can be transferred particularly advantageously.

[0017] If a force is exerted on the rail pad, the pad can generate a counterforce. More precisely, a rail can exert a dynamic force on the rail pad, which then generates a dynamic reaction force in the pad. Because the support area and the secondary area are different, the reaction forces caused in the secondary area and the support area can be different. For example, the support area can be designed to absorb 25% to 95% of the force exerted by the rail on the rail pad. The remaining force can be absorbed by the secondary area. Therefore, the support area can take on a large part of the supporting and damping effect. It has been found that this effect is particularly suitable for achieving elastic decoupling of rail and sleeper.It has proven particularly advantageous to provide two support areas extending in the transverse direction of the intermediate layer. The secondary area can be located between the support areas.

[0018] The support region and the secondary region can differ in their material properties and / or a design of support elements and / or an arrangement of support elements. The support region and the secondary region can be formed from foamed material. For example, the intermediate layer can have a base body (details below) on which a main support element made of a foamed material is provided in one support region and a secondary support element made of a foamed material is provided in a secondary region. The support elements can each be provided over the entire surface of the respective regions. In this case, the support region and the secondary region can differ in terms of the porosity of the support elements. Furthermore, in this case the support elements can form a flat surface (i.e. without depressions).By providing an intermediate layer with foamed support elements, manufacturing processes for the intermediate bearings can be particularly simple, which increases production efficiency.

[0019] The support region can be formed from a foamed first material. Preferably, the support region is predominantly formed from the foamed first material. The first material can comprise a polyurethane (PUR) or an ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM). The secondary region can be formed from a foamed second material. Preferably, the secondary region is predominantly formed from the foamed second material. The first material can have lower damping and / or lower stiffness than the second material. With different damping and / or stiffness of the first material and the second material, improved vibration-damping properties of the intermediate layer can be provided. The foamed material offers improved adaptability of the intermediate layer to a substrate and a rail. The intermediate layer preferably has a constant thickness.The thickness of the intermediate layer can be an extension of the intermediate layer orthogonal to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction. In other words, the support region and the secondary region can have the same thickness.

[0020] According to one aspect of the invention, the secondary region is provided on two opposite sides of the support region. Preferably, the secondary regions are provided adjacent to the support region in the longitudinal direction. This allows for the provision of an axially symmetric intermediate layer. This can simplify the manufacture of the intermediate layer.

[0021] According to a further aspect, only one secondary region can be provided adjacent to the support region. In other words, only one secondary region can be provided. The one secondary region can be arranged longitudinally on the support region. This allows a particularly advantageous decoupling between the rail and the sleeper to be achieved, especially on high-speed lines. The secondary region and the support region can have the same thickness.

[0022] According to a further aspect, the at least one secondary region and the support region can have a different thickness. In other words, the secondary region can have a greater or smaller extent in the thickness direction (i.e., orthogonal to the longitudinal direction and to the first direction) compared to the support region. As a result, loading of the secondary region and the support region can be realized differently. Consequently, stress on the secondary region and the support region can be realized differently, thereby providing improved vibration damping. In other words, upon initial loading of the intermediate layer, primarily the secondary region or the support region can be stressed. If the load then increases further, both the support region and the secondary region are loaded substantially evenly. As a result, the increase in load can be better absorbed.Such an intermediate layer is particularly suitable for highly stressed areas. The at least one secondary area is preferably provided adjacent to the support area in the longitudinal direction.

[0023] The support region preferably differs from the secondary region with regard to the arrangement and / or design of the main support element. Thus, the main support element can be provided exclusively in the support region. In contrast, no support element at all can be provided in the secondary region. Alternatively, a support element different from the main support element can be arranged in the secondary region. Thus, the support element in the secondary region can have a different shape. Additionally or alternatively, a support element can be provided in a different way in the secondary region. For example, more support elements per area can be provided in the support region than in the secondary region. The different design of the support region and the secondary region can provide particularly advantageous vibration-damping properties of the intermediate layer.More specifically, this allows the rail pad to be tailored to a desired application. For example, on lines primarily used by heavy freight traffic, it may be advantageous to provide a greater difference in the number of support elements in the secondary and support areas to achieve even better elastic decoupling between the rail and the sleeper.

[0024] The main support element is preferably elastically deformable. This means that the main support element can change its shape under load and return to its original shape once the load is removed. The main support element preferably has a different elasticity than the rest of the intermediate layer. Additionally or alternatively, the different elasticity of the main support element can be achieved by shaping the main support element and / or using different materials (e.g. with different material properties such as stiffness). This makes it possible to achieve elastic decoupling between the track and the railway sleeper. Furthermore, it is conceivable for the main support element to have a different elasticity than at least one further support element (e.g. at least one secondary support) that can be provided in the secondary region. This means that the intermediate layer can be adapted even better to specific areas of application.

[0025] Preferably, the support area is made of a different material than the secondary area. Thus, the secondary area can be made of a softer and more cost-effective material, whereas the support area can be made of a stiffer and / or more cushioning material. This allows for a good distribution of the support properties and the cushioning properties between the support area and the secondary area.

[0026] The intermediate layer preferably has a first edge fastening region and a second edge fastening region, wherein the edge fastening regions extend in a transverse direction and are designed to secure the intermediate layer to a railway sleeper. When mounted on a railway sleeper, the first edge fastening region and the second edge fastening region can extend in a sleeper longitudinal direction. In other words, the edge fastening regions can extend along a main extension of a sleeper. The edge fastening regions can have a projecting strip-like structure that can be engaged with the sleeper. Thus, the intermediate layer can be positively secured to the sleeper. More specifically, this can prevent the intermediate layer from being displaced in the longitudinal direction of a rail or in the transverse direction of the sleeper.The edges of the spacer that are aligned orthogonally to the edge fastening areas (i.e., extending in the longitudinal direction of the spacer) can be designed to contact an angled guide plate. Thus, the spacer can be secured to the railway sleeper by angled guide plates. This can prevent displacement of the spacer in the longitudinal and / or transverse directions of a sleeper.

[0027] The first edge fastening region and the second edge fastening region are preferably located on two opposite edges of the intermediate layer. The intermediate layer can have a substantially angular shape in a plan view. The intermediate layer preferably has four edges, of which two non-adjacent edges can comprise the first edge fastening region and the second edge fastening region. Thus, the intermediate layer can be positively secured to a railway sleeper. In other words, the intermediate layer can at least partially surround or encompass the railway sleeper on at least three sides of the railway sleeper. This allows the intermediate layer to be securely held to the railway sleeper.

[0028] Preferably, the at least one main support element transitions into at least one longitudinal web, the length of which, transverse to a main direction of extension of the main support element, is greater than that of the main support element in the same direction. Thus, the intermediate layer can be specifically reinforced in a central region through a special shape, namely the longitudinal web web. In a preferred embodiment, several longitudinal web webs are provided so that the intermediate layer can be disproportionately reinforced in this region. Thus, rail vibrations can also be specifically prevented in a longitudinal direction of the rail. Preferably, the at least one main support element has a longitudinal web web in its central region. This allows the main support element to have a "T-shape" in a plan view.

[0029] Preferably, the at least one longitudinal web web is delimited by one or more transverse recesses and / or longitudinal recesses. In other words, the at least one longitudinal web web can be defined by recesses in the intermediate layer. The longitudinal recesses can extend in the longitudinal direction of the intermediate layer. The transverse recesses can extend in the transverse direction of the intermediate layer. Analogously, the main support element can be formed by recesses. The recesses can be cuts in the intermediate layer.

[0030] Preferably, the depth of the depressions in relation to the total thickness of the intermediate layer is approximately in a ratio of 0.1 to 0.8. In preferred embodiments, the width of the depressions is in a range of approximately 2 mm to 10 mm, preferably approximately 3 mm to 6 mm, particularly preferably approximately 5 mm. The depressions preferably have a substantially trapezoidal shape in cross-section. For example, with the trapezoidal shape, a width of approximately 6 mm can be provided on the corresponding top or bottom side of the intermediate layer and a width of approximately 1 mm to 8 mm, preferably approximately 2 mm to 5 mm, and particularly preferably approximately 4 mm at the base of the depression. With these dimensions, sufficient freedom of movement of the support element can be ensured, so that loads along the direction of extension of the rail can also be efficiently dampened.

[0031] The at least one main support element has its greatest extension parallel to the first direction. This ensures that the main support element runs in an area where the rail intersects or crosses the intermediate layer. This allows a particularly preferable damping effect of the intermediate layer to be achieved.

[0032] Preferably, a ratio of the total length of the intermediate layer transverse to the first direction to the extension of the main support element transverse to the first direction is greater than 3.0, preferably in a range between 3.0 and 10.0, more preferably between 4.0 and 7.0. The ratio of at least 3.3 offers the advantage that the intermediate layer has a sufficiently large main support element in the transverse direction (i.e., transverse to the first direction) so that sufficient elastic decoupling can be provided between the rail and the railway sleeper. The range from 3.3 to 7.5 offers the advantage that not only sufficient elastic decoupling can be provided, but also a reduction in rail vibration can be achieved by the intermediate layer. In other words, particularly good rail noise prevention can be provided with this ratio.The last ratio offers particularly advantageous rail damping for a rail vibration of e.g. 1000 Hz.

[0033] The secondary support element preferably has dimensions that differ from the main support element. Thus, a total of at least two support elements can be provided on the intermediate layer. The secondary support element is preferably arranged in the secondary region. The secondary support element can have an orientation on the intermediate layer that differs from the main support element. For example, the secondary support element can extend in the longitudinal direction, so that a main extension of the secondary support element is greater in the longitudinal direction than in the first direction. Thus, the intermediate layer can also be used for sections subject to high dynamic loads. Dimensioning can be understood, for example, to mean a different cross-section of the main support element and the secondary support element and / or the use of a second material that differs from a first material, in particular with regard to its material properties.The at least one main support element can be formed from the first material and the at least one secondary support element from the second material. For example, the main support element can have a circular cross-section with a first radius and the secondary support element a circular cross-section with a second radius. Furthermore, the first radius can be larger or smaller than the second radius. Thus, the support region can differ from the secondary region by different diameters of the support elements. Alternatively, the main support element can have an angular shape in cross-section (e.g., square or rectangular), whereas the secondary support element can have an angular shape with different edge lengths.

[0034] Preferably, a main extension direction of the at least one secondary support element is inclined relative to a main extension direction of the at least one main support element. In other words, the secondary support element and the main support element can extend with a different orientation on the intermediate layer. Thus, requirements for alternating loads can be met.

[0035] Preferably, a main extension direction of the at least one secondary support element is orthogonal relative to a main extension direction of the at least one main support element. Thus, the at least one main support element and the at least one secondary support element can be arranged parallel to one another on the intermediate layer. In this case, particularly high elastic vibration damping can be provided because the contact surface between the railway sleeper and the intermediate layer or between the rail and the intermediate layer is raised. Furthermore, transverse loads on the rail, such as those encountered during curved travel, can be advantageously absorbed.

[0036] The at least one secondary support element has a smaller extent in a direction transverse to the first direction than the at least one main support element. In other words, the at least one secondary support element can have a smaller extent in the first direction than the at least one main support element. This offers the advantage that a load introduced into the intermediate layer by the at least one secondary support element is distributed over a shorter length in the first direction in the intermediate layer. Thus, a higher strength of the intermediate layer can be provided in a region around the at least one secondary support element. This can result in improved elastic decoupling between the rail and the railway sleeper.

[0037] Preferably, no support element is provided in the first edge fastening region and / or in the second edge fastening region. This prevents loads from being introduced into the intermediate layer in the edge fastening regions. This can be disadvantageous because elastic countermovement of the intermediate layer may compromise the fastening to the railway sleeper or may impair it. In other words, a positive connection between the intermediate layer and the railway sleeper may be impaired by elastic springback due to the action of an external force.

[0038] Preferably, the at least one secondary support element is arranged at least partially in the secondary region. In other words, the secondary support element does not have to be provided entirely in the secondary region. For example, the at least one secondary support element can also be provided partially in the support region. This allows for a customized design of the intermediate layer according to the intended area of ​​application.

[0039] Preferably, the at least one secondary support element has recesses. For example, the secondary support element can have a rod-like and / or elongated shape that has recesses at regular or irregular intervals along its extension. Thus, the secondary support element can be more easily elastically deformed in two directions parallel to the intermediate layer. For example, the secondary support element can be formed by depressions (see above). The recesses can have a smaller depth in the thickness direction of the intermediate layer than the depressions by which the secondary support element can be formed. Thus, not only can improved elastic mobility of the at least one secondary support element be provided, but the strength of the secondary support element can also be ensured.

[0040] Preferably, the at least one secondary support element is made of a different material than the main support element. Overall, the stiffness of the intermediate layer can be set according to standard EN 13481-2 Class C or according to EN 13146-9 such that the static stiffness (= K SP ) is ≤ 600 KN / mm. The intermediate layer preferably has a static stiffness K SP of approximately 60-250 KN / mm for typical dimensions of the intermediate layer, in particular with a length of L~180 mm, a width of B~150 mm and a thickness of d~10 mm. A ratio of a dynamic stiffness K LFP to the static stiffness K SP , i.e. a stiffening of the intermediate layer K LFP 10Hz / K SP (tested according to EN 13481-2-C or EN 13146-9), is set in preferred embodiments such that the ratio is ≥ 1.5. Furthermore, the stiffness can be influenced by choosing different materials for the secondary support element and the main support element.For example, the secondary support element can be injection-molded or molded onto the intermediate layer using a two-component process made from a different material. Additionally or alternatively, the secondary support element can be porous. This allows for the intermediate layer to meet individual requirements.

[0041] Preferably, the at least one main support element is at least partially arranged on an edge extending in the transverse direction of the intermediate layer. In other words, the at least one main support element can be arranged on the edge of the intermediate layer. This offers the advantage that when, for example, two main support elements are arranged, the distance between the two main support elements on the intermediate layer can be as high as possible. Both main support elements can be provided separately from one another on the intermediate layer. In other words, the two main support elements can have no direct contact with one another. This can achieve improved vibration damping. In other words, when two main support elements are provided, both can be provided at the very edge of the intermediate layer in the longitudinal direction of the intermediate layer, such that the distance between the two main support elements is maximized.In this case, it may be advantageous for a web provided in the edge fastening area to have a greater extension in the thickness direction of the intermediate layer than the at least one main support element. This ensures that the intermediate layer is reliably held to the railway sleeper.

[0042] Preferably, the first edge fastening region and the second edge fastening region each have a smaller area than the secondary region and / or support region. In other words, the edge fastening regions can have the smallest area of ​​all regions of the intermediate layer in a plan view of the intermediate layer. The edge fastening regions can be defined by the web-like structure that secures the intermediate layer to the sleeper. Furthermore, the edge fastening regions can have no support elements. By using relatively small edge fastening regions, the extension of the intermediate layer in a rail direction can be kept compact. Thus, an efficient intermediate layer can be provided.

[0043] The intermediate layer preferably has at least one recess in the first direction. Thus, the intermediate layer can have the recess on at least one edge that extends in the longitudinal direction. This allows the intermediate layer to engage even more reliably against an angled guide plate or alternative lateral support elements. Preferably, the intermediate layer has a recess on two opposite edges. This can result in an H-shaped geometry in a plan view of the intermediate layer. This also allows a fastening that secures the angled guide plate to a railway sleeper to be provided such that it is at least partially surrounded by the intermediate layer. This can further secure the intermediate layer against slipping in the transverse direction and / or in the longitudinal direction.

[0044] Preferably, the at least one main support element has recesses. The recesses of the main support element can interrupt a general course of the main support element in the main extension direction of the main support element. Thus, analogous to the recesses of the at least one secondary support element, better elastic deformability of the main support element in a plane parallel to the intermediate layer can be provided. The recesses can have a smaller extension (i.e., depth) in the thickness direction of the intermediate layer than the depressions that define the main support element. This can ensure the strength of the main support element.

[0045] Preferably, a plurality of secondary support elements are provided. By providing a plurality of secondary support elements, the individual size of the secondary support elements can be small relative to the surface area of ​​the intermediate layer. This can ensure improved elastic deformability of the secondary support elements. Furthermore, a relatively large contact surface can be provided between the secondary support elements and the railway sleeper and / or the rail without impairing the elastic deformability of the secondary support elements. This can improve the overall elastic decoupling effect of the intermediate layer.

[0046] Preferably, the secondary support elements have a substantially circular cross-section. In other words, the secondary support elements can protrude from the intermediate layer in a columnar or cylindrical manner in the thickness direction. This ensures homogeneous elastic deformability in a plane parallel to the intermediate layer. Thus, loads in the transverse and / or longitudinal directions of the intermediate layer can also be evenly absorbed.

[0047] Preferably, a plurality of main support elements are arranged in the support area. In other words, a plurality of similar or different main support elements can be provided in the support area. Thus, a contact surface between the intermediate layer and the railway sleeper and / or the rail can be increased, while ensuring elastic deformability of the support elements.

[0048] Preferably, a plurality of main support elements are arranged in the support region and preferably, a plurality of secondary support elements are arranged in the secondary support region, wherein an arrangement density of the main support elements in the support region is greater than an arrangement density of the secondary support elements in the secondary region. In other words, the number of support elements in the main region can be greater than the number of secondary support elements in the secondary region. Furthermore, a distance between the secondary support elements can be greater than the distance between the main support elements. Thus, a contact surface between the intermediate layer and the railway sleeper and / or the rail can be larger in the support region than in the secondary support region. As a result, the support region (or the support elements in the support region) can absorb the greatest loads, whereas the support elements in the secondary region provide an additional supporting effect, for exampleduring curve travel. Furthermore, the at least one secondary support element can have a greater extension (ie, height) in a direction away from the intermediate layer (ie, in the thickness direction of the intermediate layer) than the at least one main support element. The height of the support elements can be defined in a direction orthogonal to the transverse direction and to the longitudinal direction. This can provide both improved decoupling between the rail and the railway sleeper, as well as a particularly good damping effect.

[0049] Preferably, the ratio between the total area of ​​the at least one support region and the projected total area of ​​the intermediate layer, as seen from a top view of the intermediate layer, is in a range from 0.1 to 0.8, preferably in a range from 0.2 to 0.6. The top view can be understood as a view of the top or bottom side of the intermediate layer. The projected total area of ​​the intermediate layer can be the product of the length and width of the intermediate layer. In the case of one support region, the total area of ​​the support region can be the product of the length and width of the support region. In the case of several support regions, the total area of ​​the at least one support region can be the sum of the areas (i.e. the product of the length and width of the respective support regions) of the support regions. The total area of ​​the at least one support region can be the projected total area of ​​the at least one support region in a top view of the intermediate layer.A ratio of 0.1 to 0.2 offers the advantage of achieving particularly good elastic decoupling of the rail. A ratio of 0.6 to 0.8 offers the advantage of a good damping effect. A ratio of 0.2 to 0.6 has been found to achieve both sufficiently good elastic decoupling of the rail from the sleeper and high damping of rail vibration.

[0050] The intermediate layer preferably has a base body on which the at least one main support element is arranged, and wherein the base body and / or the secondary support elements are formed from a different material than the at least one main support element. For example, the main support element can be injection-molded onto the base body using a 2K process. This allows the base body to be manufactured as a unit, whereas the support bodies (for example the main support element) can be injection-molded individually according to the respective requirements of the intermediate layer. Furthermore, the base body can be manufactured from a cost-effective material which, for example, does not have to meet requirements for elastic deformability and the like, whereas the support element can be manufactured from a more cost-intensive material in accordance with the requirements for deformability and elasticity.This allows for an individual design of the intermediate layer adapted to the respective application situation as well as for efficient production of the intermediate layer.

[0051] Preferably, the ratio of the maximum thickness of the intermediate layer to the minimum thickness of the intermediate layer is in a range of 0.1 to 0.8. A minimum thickness of the intermediate layer can be present, for example, in a region of a recess and / or a depression. According to various embodiments, the total thickness of the intermediate layer can be in a range of approximately 4 mm to 20 mm. This ensures sufficient strength of the intermediate layer without compromising elasticity in a plane parallel to the intermediate layer.

[0052] Preferably, the at least one support region has a smaller area than the at least one secondary region. In other words, the region of the intermediate layer that primarily absorbs an externally applied force can be smaller than a region that absorbs a smaller force or no force at all. Thus, the main region, which is designed to absorb an applied force, can be smaller than the secondary region, which is designed to exert a damping effect. According to a further aspect of the present invention, a use of an intermediate layer according to one of the above embodiments for damping vibrations between a rail and a railway sleeper is provided.According to a further aspect of the present invention, a railway track system comprising at least one rail for guiding a rail vehicle, at least one sleeper for supporting the at least one rail, and an intermediate layer according to one of the above embodiments is provided, wherein the intermediate layer is arranged between the rail and the sleeper.

[0053] Individual features or embodiments can be combined with other features or other embodiments to form new embodiments. The embodiments and advantages mentioned in connection with the individual features then also apply analogously to the new embodiments. Advantages and embodiments mentioned in connection with the device also apply analogously to the use. Preferred embodiments are described in detail below using examples and the attached figures. They show: Figure 1a schematic plan view of an intermediate layer. Figure 2 a schematic plan view of an intermediate layer. Figure 3 a schematic plan view of an intermediate layer according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 a schematic plan view of an intermediate layer. Figure 5 a schematic perspective view of an intermediate layer Figure 6 a schematic plan view of an intermediate layer according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 a schematic plan view of an intermediate layer.

[0054] Figure 1is a schematic view of an intermediate layer 1. The intermediate layer 1 has a substantially rectangular basic shape. Furthermore, the intermediate layer 1 of the present embodiment has a support region 2 adjacent to each of the two edges extending in the transverse direction QR. The support region 2 extends in a first direction R1, which is substantially parallel to the transverse direction QR. A secondary region 3 is arranged between the support regions 2. In the present embodiment, the secondary region 3 does not have a support element. Therefore, the support regions 2 differ from the secondary region 3. The longitudinal direction LR of the intermediate layer 1 extends orthogonally to the first direction R1 (see arrows in Figure 1 ). A thickness direction of the intermediate layer 1 extends in Figure 1 into the plane of the figure. A rail that comes into contact with the intermediate layer 1 runs in the Figure 1shown intermediate layer from the bottom of the image to the top of the image (ie in the longitudinal direction).

[0055] Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of an intermediate layer. The Figure 2 The intermediate layer shown essentially corresponds to Figure 1illustrated intermediate layer with the difference that the secondary region 3 has two secondary support elements 7. Furthermore, the intermediate layer 1 has a first edge fastening region 5 and a second edge fastening region 6. The first edge fastening region 5 and the second edge fastening region 6 are arranged on opposite edges of the intermediate layer 1. The intermediate layer 1 can be fastened to a railway sleeper (not shown) using the edge fastening regions 5, 6. For this purpose, the edge fastening regions 5, 6 have a strip projecting from the intermediate layer 1. The intermediate layer 1 can thus be fastened to a railway sleeper in a form-fitting manner. The edge fastening regions 5, 6 extend in the transverse direction QR. The secondary support elements 7 have different dimensions than the main support element 4.More specifically, the secondary support elements 7 have a smaller cross-sectional area in a plan view than the main support element 4 and therefore a lower spring stiffness.

[0056] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view of an intermediate layer 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 The intermediate layer shown essentially corresponds to the previous embodiments, with the difference that secondary support elements 7 are provided as cylindrical projections in the secondary region 3. In other words, a plurality of secondary support elements are provided in the secondary region 3.

[0057] Figure 4 is a schematic plan view of an intermediate layer 1. The Figure 4The intermediate layer 1 shown essentially corresponds to the previous embodiments with the difference that various auxiliary support elements 7 are provided in the auxiliary region 3. Furthermore, a longitudinal web 9 is provided which extends from one main support element 4 to the other main support element 4. The longitudinal web extends in the longitudinal direction LR. Firstly, in the present embodiment, four auxiliary support elements 7 which are angular in cross-section extend along one edge of the intermediate layer 1 in the longitudinal direction LR. In the direction of a center of the intermediate layer 1, two elongated auxiliary support elements 7 are provided which extend in the longitudinal direction LR of the intermediate layer 1. Two of the elongated auxiliary support elements 7 are provided adjacent to the longitudinal web 9. The longitudinal web 9 is designed analogously to the adjacent auxiliary support elements 7 with the difference that its ends open or end in the main support elements 4.In other words, the longitudinal web 9 is a web that connects the two main support elements 4. The two other secondary support elements 7 extend in the longitudinal direction LR next to the centrally arranged longitudinal web 9.

[0058] Figure 5 is a schematic and perspective view of the Figure 4 shown intermediate layer 1. In Figure 5 It can be seen that both the main support elements 4 and the secondary support elements 7 are defined by recesses on a first side (underside) of the intermediate layer 1. In other words, in the present embodiment, the support elements 4, 7 face the railway sleeper in an assembled state. Furthermore, in Figure 5 the web-like projection of the edge fastening areas 5,6 can be seen, by which the intermediate layer is held in a defined place between the rail and the sleeper.

[0059] In a further embodiment not shown, the support elements are provided on a second side (top side) of the intermediate layer 1, so that they come into contact with the rail in an assembled state. The edge fastening areas 5, 6 always protrude toward the first side (bottom side) of the intermediate layer 1, so that they can come into contact with the railway sleeper in a form-fitting manner.

[0060] Figure 6 is a schematic plan view of an intermediate layer according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6The embodiment shown essentially corresponds to the previous embodiment with the difference that the main support elements 4 completely fill the support regions 2. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a plurality of secondary support elements 7 are provided. The secondary support elements 7 are arranged in the secondary region 3. A centrally arranged longitudinal web 9 is arranged in the secondary region 3 such that it connects the two main support elements 4 to one another. Six further secondary support elements 7 are arranged adjacent to the central longitudinal web 9 in the secondary region 3. The secondary support elements 7 have a rectangular cross-section.

[0061] The Figure 7 The embodiment shown corresponds to the one in Figure 1 illustrated embodiment with the difference that recesses 8 are arranged on two opposite edges of the intermediate layer 1.

[0062] More precisely, the recesses 8 form recesses in the transverse direction QR of the intermediate layer 1.

[0063] Figure 8 is a schematic plan view of an intermediate layer 1.

[0064] The Figure 8 The embodiment shown differs from the previous embodiments in that the main support elements 4 are not formed over the entire area of ​​the support area 2. Furthermore, two secondary support elements 7 are provided in the present embodiment. Furthermore, a longitudinal web in the longitudinal direction LR connects the two main support elements 4. The secondary support elements 7 arranged at the edge of the intermediate layer 1 extend, adapted to the respective main support element 4, over the support area and into the secondary area 3. Adjacent to the longitudinal web 9, a secondary support element 7 is arranged on each side, which has a rectangular shape in cross section.

[0065] Figure 9is a schematic plan view of an intermediate layer 1.

[0066] The present embodiment differs from the previous embodiments in that both the secondary support elements 7 and the main support elements 4 protrude from the intermediate layer 4 as rod-like or cylindrical projections (e.g., pins or knobs). The main support elements 4 are arranged in the two support regions 2. The secondary support elements 7 are arranged in the secondary region 3. A plurality of support elements is provided in each of the two regions. The support elements arranged in the secondary region 3 differ from the support elements arranged in the support regions 2 in that the arrangement density of the secondary support elements 7 in the secondary region is lower than the arrangement density of the main support elements 4 in the support region 2. In other words, fewer secondary support elements 7 are arranged per area in the secondary region 3 than main support elements in the support region 2. List of reference symbols

[0067] 1Intermediate layer 2Support area 3Secondary area 4Main support element 5First edge fastening area 6Second edge fastening area 7Secondary support element 8Recess 9Longitudinal web R1First direction LRLongitudinal direction QRTransverse direction

Claims

1. Intermediate layer (1) for arrangement between a railroad sleeper and a rail running in a longitudinal direction (LR), wherein the intermediate layer (1) has at least one support area (2) with at least one main support element (4), in particular projecting from the intermediate layer (1), wherein the support area (2) extends in a first direction (R1) which is substantially transverse to the longitudinal direction (LR), wherein the intermediate layer (1) has at least one secondary area (3) which is provided adjacent to the support area (2), wherein the secondary area (3) differs from the support area (2), and wherein the at least one main support element (4) has its largest extension parallel to the first direction (R1), wherein the intermediate layer (1) further comprises at least one secondary support element (7), wherein the secondary support element (7) has a smaller extension in a direction transverse to the first direction (R1) than the at least one main support element (4).

2. Intermediate layer (1) according to claim 1, wherein the support area (2) differs from the secondary area (3) with respect to an arrangement and / or design of the main support element (4).

3. Intermediate layer (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the support area (2) and the secondary area (3) differ in their material properties.

4. Intermediate layer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a ratio between the total area of the at least one supporting area (2) and the projected total area of the intermediate layer (1) as seen in a plan view of the intermediate layer (1) is in a range from 0.1 to 0.8, preferably in a range from 0.2 to 0.6.

5. Intermediate layer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one main supporting element (4) merges into at least one longitudinal web (9), the length of which transverse to a main direction of extension of the main supporting element (4) is greater than that of the main supporting element (4) in the same direction.

6. Intermediate layer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one main supporting element (4) is delimited by recesses.

7. Intermediate layer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a ratio of the total length of the intermediate layer (1) transverse to the first direction (R1) to the extension of the main support element (4) transverse to the first direction (R1) is greater than 3.3, preferably in a range between 3.3 and 7.5, more preferably between 4.0 and 6.0.

8. Intermediate layer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the secondary support element (7) has a different dimensioning from the main support element (4).

9. Intermediate layer (1) according to claim 8, wherein the at least one secondary support element (7) is arranged at least partially in the secondary area (3).

10. Intermediate layer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate layer (1) comprises a first edge fastening area (5) and a second edge fastening area (6), wherein the edge fastening areas (5, 6) extend in a transverse direction (QR) and are designed to fix the intermediate layer (1) to a railroad sleeper.

11. Intermediate layer according to claim 10, wherein the first edge fastening area (5) and the second edge fastening area (6) each have a smaller area than the secondary area (3) and / or the support area (2).

12. Intermediate layer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a plurality of secondary support elements (7) is provided.

13. Intermediate layer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a plurality of main support elements (4) is arranged in the support area (2).

14. Intermediate layer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate layer (1) comprises a base body on which the at least one main supporting element (4) is arranged, and wherein the base body is formed of a different material than the at least one main supporting element (4).

15. Intermediate layer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate layer (1) comprises at least one recess in the first direction (R1).

16. Intermediate layer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one main supporting element (4) comprises recesses.

17. Intermediate layer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a plurality of main support elements (4) is arranged in the support area (2), wherein a plurality of secondary support elements (7) is arranged in the secondary area (3), and wherein an arrangement density of the main support elements (4) in the support area (2) is greater than an arrangement density of the secondary support elements (7) in the secondary area (3).

18. Intermediate layer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one supporting area (2) has a smaller area than at least one secondary area (3).

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