Panels, supporting ribs and long beams

Abstract

A light mass transit vehicle sidewall assembly and associated long girders are provided that are lightweight, strong, safe, and easily adaptable to include panels in the assembly, and that are lighter than typical long girders while maintaining adequate stiffness and strength required to support the roof and associated components attached to the roof and securely connect to the light mass transit vehicle sidewall assembly.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to light mass transit vehicles. This disclosure relates particularly, but not exclusively, to sidewall assemblies and associated long girders for light mass transit vehicles. A further, non-exclusive object of this disclosure is to provide a sidewall assembly for a light mass transit vehicle and an improved long girder that is light, strong, safe, easily adaptable to include panels in the sidewall assembly, and that is lighter than typical long girders while maintaining adequate stiffness and strength required to support and securely connect a roof and associated components attached to the roof to the sidewall assembly of the light mass transit vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] Light mass transit vehicles (including light rail and ultra-light rail vehicles) are typically designed as lighter versions of mainline (heavy) mass transit vehicles, running at lower speeds with lower payloads. Light mass transit vehicles may be self-powered with on-board batteries. Self-powered light mass transit vehicles may not require roof-mounted devices such as pantographs, bow collectors or trolley poles. This allows them to operate on dedicated light mass transit infrastructure and maintain connectivity with mainlines. Light mass transit vehicles may reopen unused rural and suburban lines and ensure the continued operation of lines that are not yet electrified.

[0003] Considerations when designing a light mass transport vehicle are the desired payload and / or the available infrastructure. These considerations may depend on the length of the light mass transport vehicle. For example, some light mass transport vehicles may be long in length to carry a higher payload, but these vehicles may be too long for the available infrastructure.

[0004] The sidewall panels of a light mass transit vehicle are a length element of the vehicle and are typically formed as a single carriage component made from aluminum sheet that is secured to the sidewall framework. Additionally, the sidewall panels typically support the roof of the light mass transit vehicle and any equipment mounted thereon. US Pat. No. 5,399,433 discloses an example of a light rail car body with sidewall panels.

[0005] Adding and / or removing panels from the sidewall assemblies to form vehicles of different lengths while maintaining the structural integrity of the vehicle can be difficult. Additionally, because the roof support members are no longer required to support roof mounted equipment, current roof support members and sidewall assemblies may not be suitable to support the reduced loads.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need to provide a light mass transportation vehicle that can accommodate desired payloads on available infrastructure while maintaining safety and structural standards, and that alleviates one or more of the problems associated with the prior art.

[0007] Furthermore, roof support members (e.g. long girders) are typically known as parts of metal or timber strips that support the roof of a railway carriage or other such elongated vehicle. An example of such a long girder is disclosed in Australian Patent Application No. 30064 / 89. The structural requirements of a long girder typically include sufficient strength and stiffness to support the roof and associated components typically found on the roof, such as pantographs, bow collectors, trolley poles, etc. Typical long girders are therefore made of high strength steel or aluminium alloys and may include additional iron joint inserts as disclosed in US Pat. In light mass transit vehicles, these structures result in a relatively large overall vehicle weight, reducing the overall vehicle efficiency (higher moving mass) and reducing the vehicle stability (higher centre of gravity). Furthermore, the long girders typically need to be supported along the length of the carriage, typically by the carriage's side walls. It may be difficult to remove or add carriage side walls for maintenance or assembly etc. without compromising the roof support structure.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need to provide a long beam that alleviates one or more of the problems associated with the prior art. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] WO2018146083 [Patent Document 2] AU30064 / 89 Summary of the Invention

[0010] Thus, a panel of a sidewall assembly for a light mass transport vehicle according to the first aspect includes a first side including one or more connecting members, a second side including one or more connecting members, an upper portion separating the first and second sides and including a plurality of protrusions configured to couple with a roof support member of the vehicle, each protrusion extending substantially from the first side to the second side, and a bottom portion configured to be connected to a base support member of the vehicle.

[0011] The connecting member may be configured to connect to the mounting member of the support rib.

[0012] The one or more connecting members on the first side may be three or more connecting members and may be spaced apart into three different groups.

[0013] The one or more connecting members on the second side may be three or more connecting members and may be spaced apart into three different groups.

[0014] The three different groups may include two groups each having one connection member and one group having more than one connection member.

[0015] A group having more than one connecting member may include eight connecting members.

[0016] Each protrusion may further include one or more recesses.

[0017] The plurality of lobes may be three lobes.

[0018] The three protrusions may be equally spaced from one another.

[0019] The multiple protrusions may emanate from a common plane.

[0020] The top portion may further include one or more openings for fastening means for a roof support member.

[0021] A central axis of at least one of the one or more apertures may extend through at least one of the plurality of protrusions.

[0022] The bottom may further include one or more openings for fastening means of a base support member.

[0023] Three or more of the one or more apertures may be disposed in a row at an angle of 35 to 55 degrees to the vertical.

[0024] The panel may further include a seat rail extending substantially from the first side to the second side.

[0025] The panel may further include a trapezoidal window having an upper base longer than a lower base.

[0026] The connecting members may be keyed for insertion into the mounting members of the support ribs.

[0027] A support rib for a sidewall assembly of a light mass transport vehicle according to a second aspect includes a first side including one or more mounting members, a second side including one or more mounting members, an upper portion separating the first and second sides and including a plurality of protrusions configured to connect with a roof support member of the vehicle, each protrusion extending from the first side to the second side, and a bottom portion configured to be connected to a base support member of the vehicle.

[0028] The mounting member may be configured to be attached to a connecting member of the panel.

[0029] The first and second sides may further include any of the features on the first and second sides of the panel for connecting the support rib to the panel.

[0030] The top portion may further include any of the features of the top of the panel for connecting to a roof support member.

[0031] The bottom may further include one or more openings for fastening means of a base support member.

[0032] The mounting members may be keyed to receive the connecting members of the panel.

[0033] A single support rib may be configured to connect to two of the panels.

[0034] A vehicle according to a third aspect includes a panel and a support rib.

[0035] A fourth aspect of a light mass transport vehicle girder according to the present invention, wherein a first portion of the girder includes a plurality of recesses or protrusions that respectively engage with a plurality of protrusions or recesses of the sidewall assembly and extend along the length of the girder, and wherein two or more of the recesses or protrusions of the girder are connected to an internal support rib of the girder such that stresses acting on the first portion of the girder are distributed to a second portion of the girder.

[0036] The plurality of recesses or protrusions may be in the form of a key.

[0037] The recess or protrusion may be trapezoidal.

[0038] The interior angle of the trapezoidal recess or protrusion may be 35 to 55 degrees or 125 to 145 degrees.

[0039] The interior angles of the trapezoidal recesses or protrusions may be 45 degrees or 135 degrees.

[0040] The spar may further include a plurality of interior chambers defined by the support ribs.

[0041] The long beams may be formed from metal or fiber reinforced composite materials.

[0042] The metal may be aluminum or the fibre reinforced composite material may be CFRP.

[0043] The multiple recesses or protrusions may be three recesses or protrusions on a single long beam.

[0044] The three recesses or protrusions may be equally spaced from one another on the first surface of the long beam.

[0045] A computer readable medium according to a fifth aspect includes instructions that, when executed, direct a material deposition apparatus to form a long beam.

[0046] A light mass transport vehicle body according to a sixth aspect includes at least one panel of a sidewall assembly of the light mass transport vehicle and at least one long beam of the light mass transport vehicle, the panel includes a first side including one or more connection members, a second side including one or more connection members, a top separating the first and second sides and including a plurality of protrusions or recesses configured to couple with a roof support member of the vehicle, each protrusion or recess extending substantially from the first side to the second side, and a bottom configured to be connected to a base support member of the vehicle, a first portion of the long beam including a plurality of recesses or protrusions that respectively engage with the plurality of protrusions or recesses of the sidewall assembly and extend along the length of the long beam, the two or more recesses or protrusions of the long beam being connected to an internal support rib of the long beam such that stresses acting on the first portion of the long beam are distributed to a second portion of the long beam, the long beam being a roof support member and configured to couple with the panel via complementary protrusions or recesses.

[0047] The carbody may further include at least one support rib for a sidewall assembly of the light mass transport vehicle, the support rib including an upper portion, the upper portion including a protrusion or recess, and configured to couple with the at least one long beam.

[0048] A light mass transport vehicle according to a seventh aspect includes a vehicle body.

[0049] A light mass transport vehicle according to an eighth embodiment includes at least one panel.

[0050] A light mass transport vehicle according to a ninth aspect includes at least one support rib.

[0051] A light mass transport vehicle according to a tenth aspect includes a girder. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0052] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0053] [Figure 1] 1 shows a perspective view of a light mass transit vehicle including a panel of a sidewall assembly. [Diagram 2] 1 shows an internal perspective view of a panel and support rib of a sidewall assembly of a light mass transport vehicle. [Diagram 3] 1 illustrates an exterior perspective view of a panel and support rib of a sidewall assembly of a light mass transport vehicle. [Figure 4] FIG. 1(a) shows a side view of a panel of a sidewall assembly of a light mass transport vehicle, and FIG. 1(b) shows an interior front view thereof. [Diagram 5] (a) shows the top of a panel or support rib that interfaces with a roof support member of a light mass transit vehicle, and (b) shows the bottom of the panel or support rib that connects to a base support member of a light mass transit vehicle. [Figure 6] (a) shows an interface between a panel and a window, (b) shows an interface between two panels and a single support rib, and (c) shows another interface between two panels and a single support rib. [Figure 7]1A shows an example of a light mass transport vehicle, and FIG. 1B shows a roof portion of the light mass transport vehicle. [Figure 8] 1 shows an example of a roof support structure for a light mass transit vehicle. [Figure 9] An example of an improved long beam is shown below. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0054] Referring initially to FIG. 1, a light mass transit vehicle (1) is shown including a panel (2) of a sidewall assembly. The panel (2) may be one of a plurality of panels (2) in the sidewall assembly. The panel (2) may be generic for use at the front or rear end of the light mass transit vehicle (1). Increasing or decreasing the number of panels included in the sidewall assembly of the light mass transit vehicle may be advantageous to increase or decrease the payload capacity of the light mass transit vehicle. It may further be advantageous to meet the demands of the infrastructure available for the light mass transit vehicle.

[0055] The mass transport vehicle (1) may be a light rail vehicle or an ultra light rail vehicle. Additionally, the mass transport vehicle (1) may be a wheeled vehicle.

[0056] 2, 3 and 4, the panel (2) includes a first side (220). The first side (220) may span an edge of the panel (2). The edge may be a vertical edge. The first side (220) may include a flange. The first side (220) includes one or more connecting members (221, 222, 223). The connecting members (221, 222, 223) may be located at least partially in the flange. Providing a connecting member on the first side of the panel may be advantageous in providing a means for aligning and connecting the panel to another panel in a sidewall assembly. This may further increase the speed and ease of assembly of light mass transport vehicles while ensuring a strong and secure connection.

[0057] The panel (2) further includes a second side (240). The second side (240) may span an edge of the panel (2). The edge may be a vertical edge. Furthermore, the second side (240) may include a flange. The second side (240) includes one or more connecting members (241, 242, 243). The connecting members (241, 242, 243) may be located at least partially on the flange. The second side (240) may be an edge of the panel (2) that is parallel to an edge of the first side (220). It may be advantageous to include the second side with connecting members so that the panel can be aligned and connected to two further panels on either side of the sidewall assembly. This may further improve the speed and ease of assembly of the light mass transport vehicle while ensuring a strong and secure connection.

[0058] The one or more connection members (221, 222, 223) on the first side (220) may be three or more connection members. Providing more connection members may be advantageous to improve ease of alignment and security of the connection. Furthermore, the one or more connection members may be spaced apart into three different groups (221, 222, 223). Spacing the connection members into groups may further be advantageous to distribute stress points when a load is applied to the one or more connection members on the first side.

[0059] The one or more connection members (241, 242, 243) of the second side (240) may be three or more connection members. Providing more connection members may be advantageous to improve the security of the connection. Furthermore, the one or more connection members may be spaced apart into three different groups (241, 242, 243). Spaced apart the connection members in groups may further be advantageous to distribute stress points when a second load is applied to the one or more connection members of the second side.

[0060] The three different groups (241, 242, 243) may include two groups (222, 223, 242, 243) each having one connecting member, and one group (221, 241) having more than one connecting member. For example, one group (221, 241) having more than one connecting member may include eight connecting members. For areas where the first and / or second sides are subject to higher stresses or loads compared to other areas, it may be advantageous to include more than one connecting member in a group.

[0061] One or more of the connection members (221, 222, 223, 241, 242, 243) may be configured as a male connector. The male connector may include a protrusion. The protrusion may be for insertion into a female connector. This may be advantageous in providing a secure connection. Each protrusion may include an angled portion to aid in alignment during connection of the panels.

[0062] Further examples of connecting members may include keys, engagement members, catches, catches, and / or hooks. A key may include a connecting member defined in a particular shape to provide connection and / or alignment of the panels. One example of a key may be a keyway 221.

[0063] The panel (2) further includes a top (210). The top (210) may span an edge of the panel (2). The edge may be an edge that is horizontal to the first and second portions (220, 240). The top (210) separates the first and second sides (220, 240). The top (210) may be located at a common end of the first and second sides (220, 240). The top (210) may include a flat surface. The flat surface may span from the first portion (220) to the second portion (240). Providing a flat surface on the top member may be advantageous in providing surface feature data and a uniform mating surface.

[0064] The top portion (210) may include one or more openings (212). For example, the one or more openings (212) may be 12 openings. Each opening may extend through the panel (2) from the outside to the inside of the panel (2). The one or more openings (212) may be grouped into sets of three openings. Each group may include three openings (212) that are vertically aligned. Thus, the top portion (210) may include four sets of three openings (212). The four sets of three openings (212) may be evenly spaced on the top portion (210). Providing the openings may be advantageous to provide fastening means to fasten the top portion to a support member of the light mass transport vehicle. Fastening means may include bolts / nuts, rivets, screws, etc.

[0065] The panel (2) further includes a bottom (230). The bottom (230) may span an edge of the panel (2). The edge may be an edge that is horizontal to the first and second portions (220, 240). Furthermore, the edge of the bottom (230) may be parallel to the edge of the top portion (210). The bottom (230) may separate the first and second sides (220, 240). The bottom (230) may be located at a common edge of the first and second sides (220, 240). The common edge may be different from the edge of the top portion (210). The bottom (230) may include a flat surface. The flat surface may span from the first portion (220) to the second portion (240). Providing a flat surface on the bottom member may be advantageous in providing a datum for surface features and a uniform mating surface.

[0066] The bottom may further include one or more openings (231, 232). For example, the one or more openings (231, 232) may include 12 openings. Three or more of the one or more openings may be arranged on a vertical line (231). Three or more of the one or more openings may be arranged in a row at an angle of 35 to 55 degrees with respect to the vertical line (232). In particular, three or more of the one or more openings may be arranged in a row at an angle of 45 degrees with respect to the vertical line (232). The one or more openings (231, 232) may include four groups of three openings. The four groups of three openings may include two groups in which the openings are arranged on the vertical line (231) and two groups in which the openings are arranged at an angle of 35 to 55 degrees with respect to the vertical line (232). An imaginary line passing through a group of three or more apertures arranged in a row at an angle of 35-55 degrees to the vertical line (232) may intersect with an imaginary line passing through a second group of three or more apertures arranged in a row at an angle of 35-55 degrees to the vertical line (232). The two groups arranged at an angle of 35-55 degrees to the vertical line (232) may be located between the two groups arranged on the vertical line (231). It may be advantageous to arrange one or more apertures in this manner so that stress points are distributed in use.

[0067] The panel (2) may also include a seat rail (260). The seat rail (260) may extend substantially from the first side (220) to the second side (240). The seat rail (260) may be for supporting a seat assembly for use by a passenger of the light mass transport vehicle (1). The seat rail (260) may be located closer to the bottom (230) than to the top (210).

[0068] The panel may include a trapezoidal window (250). The trapezoidal window (250) may include two bases and two legs. The trapezoid may be an inverted trapezoid. The top base may be longer than the bottom base. It may be advantageous to provide a stronger and more sturdy window and / or a stronger and more sturdy panel. The intersection of the base and legs may include a curved portion. For example, the trapezoidal window (250) may include four curved corners. Providing curved corners may be advantageous to improve the strength of the window and / or panel.

[0069] The panel (2) may be formed substantially of a first material. The first material may be a fiber reinforced composite material. Fiber reinforced composite materials include carbon fiber. The fiber reinforced composite material may provide a light, strong, raised material with a means for storing wiring, pipes and / or other components of the sidewall assembly within the panel. Additionally, it may be advantageous to provide a lighter weight sidewall assembly suitable for supporting reduced loads since roof support members are no longer required to support roof mounted equipment such as pantographs, bow collectors or trolley poles.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 5, the upper portion (210) includes a number of protrusions (211). The protrusions (211) are configured to couple with the roof support member (5). The roof support member (5) may include a number of recesses to receive the protrusions (211). The roof support member (5) may extend the entire length of the light mass transport vehicle (1). The protrusions (211) may be in the form of a key. The protrusions (211) may be trapezoidal. This may be advantageous to align the upper portion with the roof support member and / or improve the security of the fixation between the panel and the roof support member. This facilitates assembly of the panel and ensures a strong and secure connection of the panel during use of the light mass transport vehicle.

[0071] The interior angle of the trapezoidal projection may be between 35 and 55 degrees, or between 125 and 145 degrees. In particular, the interior angle of the trapezoidal projection (211) may be 45 degrees or 135 degrees, which may be advantageous in relieving localized stresses and providing a stronger connection of the panel to the roof support member.

[0072] The roof support member (5) may include a plurality of internal chambers. The roof support member (5) may be a long beam. The roof support member may be formed of metal or fiber reinforced composite material. The metal may be aluminum. It may be advantageous to reduce the weight of the roof support member. Furthermore, it may be advantageous to provide a lighter roof support member suitable for supporting reduced loads since the roof support member will no longer need to support roof mounted equipment such as pantographs, bow collectors or trolley poles.

[0073] Each of the plurality of protrusions (211) extends substantially from the first side (220) to the second side (240). Further, each of the plurality of protrusions (211) may extend from the first side (220) to the second side (240). Thus, the plurality of protrusions (211) may span the entire length of the panel (2). It may be advantageous for the panel to couple with the roof support member along the entire length of the panel to provide a more secure connection.

[0074] The plurality of protrusions (211) may be three protrusions. The three protrusions may be equally spaced from one another. The three protrusions may be vertically spaced apart. This may be advantageous in providing a more secure connection.

[0075] The plurality of protrusions (211) may originate from a common plane. The common plane may be located on a flat surface of the top portion (210). Three or more of the plurality of protrusions (211) may protrude from the common plane by the same amount.

[0076] A central axis of at least one of the one or more openings (212) may pass through at least one of the plurality of protrusions (211). The one or more openings (212) may provide a fastening means to the roof support member (5). Thus, the fastening means may extend through the top portion (210) and the plurality of protrusions (211) into the roof support member (5). The fastening means may be combined with an adhesive layer (402). The adhesive layer (402) may cover the mating surface of the top portion (210). This may be further advantageous in providing a secure and safe fastening of the panel (2) to the roof support member (5).

[0077] With particular reference back to FIG. 4(b), the bottom portion (230) is configured to be connected to a base support member (6). The base support member (6) may extend the entire length of the light mass transport vehicle (1). The base support member (6) may be hollow. The base support member (6) may be a side beam. The base support member (6) may be formed of a second material. The second material may be a metal. The metal may be steel or a steel alloy. Providing the base support member that is heavier than the sidewall and / or roof support members may be advantageous in providing a strong and rigid foundation for supporting the sidewall and / or roof support members. Additionally, a heavier base support member may provide a lower center of gravity, providing a more sturdy light mass transport vehicle.

[0078] One or more openings (231, 232) in the bottom (230) may provide a fastening means for the base support member (6). The fastening means may extend through the bottom (230) and into the base support member (6). The fastening means may be combined with an adhesive layer (402). The adhesive layer (402) may cover the mating surface of the bottom (210). The mating surface of the bottom (230) may be a flat surface. This may be further advantageous in providing a secure and safe fastening of the panel (2) to the base support member (6).

[0079] Referring to (a) of FIG. 6, a trapezoidal window (250) may be connected to a panel (2). The panel (2) may include a window recess for the trapezoidal window (250). The trapezoidal window (250) may be secured to the panel (2) using an adhesive (402). The adhesive may cover a surface of the window recess. The panel (2) may include a window chamfer or curve (251). This may be advantageous in providing a safer and more sturdy window.

[0080] With reference to FIG. 6(b), 2, 3 and 4, the connecting members (221, 222, 223, 241, 242, 243) may be configured to be connected to the mounting members (31, 32, 33) of the support rib (3).

[0081] A support rib (3) for a sidewall assembly of a light mass transit vehicle (1) is provided. The support rib (3) may be one of a plurality of support ribs (3) in the sidewall assembly of the light mass transit vehicle (1). The support rib (3) may be generic so that it can be used at the front or rear end of the light mass transit vehicle (1). Increasing or decreasing the number of support ribs included in the light mass transit vehicle may be advantageous to increasing or decreasing the number of panels included in the sidewall assembly of the light mass transit vehicle. It may further be advantageous to meet the demands of the infrastructure available for light mass transit vehicles.

[0082] The support rib (3) includes a first side (320). The first side (320) includes one or more attachment members (31, 32, 33). The attachment members (31, 32, 33) may be configured to be attached to the connecting members (221, 222, 223, 241, 242, 243) of the panel (2). The first side (320) may straddle an edge of the support rib (3). The edge may be a vertical edge. Providing an attachment member on the first side of the support rib may be advantageous in providing a means for aligning and connecting the support rib to a panel in a sidewall assembly. This may further increase the speed and ease of assembly of the light mass transport vehicle while ensuring a strong and secure connection.

[0083] The support rib (3) further includes a second side (340). The second side (340) includes one or more attachment members (31, 32, 33). The second side (340) may straddle an edge of the support rib (3). The edge may be a vertical edge. The second side (340) may be an edge of the support rib (3) that is parallel to an edge of the first side (320). It may be advantageous to include a second side with an attachment member so that the support rib can be aligned and connected to two panels on either side of the sidewall assembly. This may further improve the speed and ease of assembly of the light mass transport vehicle while ensuring a strong and secure connection.

[0084] The first and second sides (320, 240) of the side rib (3) may further include any of the features of the first and second sides (220, 240) of the panel (2) for connecting the support rib (3) to the panel (2), which may be advantageous in providing a more secure connection between the panel and the support rib.

[0085] Compared to the top portion (210) of the panel (2), the support rib (3) further includes a top portion (310). The top portion (310) separates the first and second sides (320, 240) of the support rib (3). The top portion (310) includes a plurality of protrusions (211). The protrusions (211) are configured to couple with the roof support member (5). The roof support member (5) may be the same as the roof support member (5) for the panel (2). Each protrusion (211) extends from the first side (320) to the second side (340). The top portion (310) of the support rib (3) may further include any of the features of the top portion (210) of the panel (2) for connecting the support rib (3) to the roof support member (5).

[0086] Compared to the bottom (230) of the panel (2), the bottom (330) of the support rib (3) is configured to be connected to a base support member (6). The base support member (6) may be the same as the base support member (6) for the panel (2). The bottom (330) may further include one or more openings for fastening means of the base support member (6). The fastening means may be the same as that used for the panel (2).

[0087] One or more of the attachment members (31, 32, 33) may be configured as a female connector. The female connector may include a recess. The recess may be for receiving a male connector. This may be advantageous in providing a secure connection.

[0088] The support rib (3) may be formed of a first material and a second material. The first material may be a fiber reinforced composite material. The second material may be a metal. The metal may include aluminum and / or steel. The fiber reinforced composite material may provide a lightweight, strong, raised material with a means for storing wiring, pipes and / or other components of the sidewall assembly within the support rib.

[0089] A single support rib (3) may be configured to connect to two of the panels (2). One or more connecting members (221, 222, 223) on the first side (220) of the first panel (2) may be connected to the attachment members (31, 32, 33) on the first side (320) of the support rib (3). Additionally, one or more connecting members (241, 242, 243) on the second side (240) of the second panel (2) may be connected to the attachment members (31, 32, 33) on the second side (340) of the support rib (3).

[0090] An adhesive layer (402) may be applied to the support rib (3). The adhesive layer (402) may be applied at three locations on the support rib (3). The three locations may be locations where the panel (2) mates with another panel (2) and / or the support rib (3). The connection members and / or flanges of the first and second panels (2) may then be inserted into the support rib (3). The first and second panels (2) may be fixed to the support rib (3) via the adhesive layer (402). Further fixing means, such as bolts, rivets and / or screws, may be used to further fix the panels (2) to the support rib (3). The connection may be a rigid connection. This may be advantageous to provide a quick, easy and reliable assembly of panels in a sidewall assembly of a light mass transport vehicle (1).

[0091] Referring to FIG. 6(c), another interface may be provided between the two panels (2) and the single support rib (3). A seal (7) may further be provided between the panel (2) and the support rib (3). The seal (7) may be weatherproof. Providing a seal may be advantageous in limiting the number of contaminants entering the light vehicle. Furthermore, the seal may reduce the level of noise entering the interior of the light mass transport vehicle. The seal may be formed of an elastomer.

[0092] Also provided is a vehicle 1 including a panel 2 and a support rib 3. The vehicle 1 may include a plurality of panels 2 and support ribs 3. The support ribs 3 may be configured to connect to a head module and / or a tail module of the vehicle 1.

[0093] Additionally, alternating panels (2) and support ribs (3) may be included to form the sidewall assembly of the vehicle (1). The vehicle (1) may include two symmetrical sidewall assemblies.

[0094] The vehicle (1) may be a light rail vehicle or an ultra-light rail vehicle. Additionally, the vehicle (1) may be a wheeled vehicle. It may be advantageous to provide a strong and safe sidewall assembly where the number of panels included in the assembly can be easily adapted. In particular, it may be advantageous to provide an adaptable wheeled vehicle that does not require existing infrastructure.

[0095] It will be appreciated that the panel (2) may include a first side (220) including one or more connecting members (221, 222, 223, 241, 242, 243) and a second side (240) including one or more attachment members (31, 32, 33). A seal (7) may be included between the connecting member of the first panel and the attachment member of the second panel. It may be advantageous to directly connect a panel to another panel without the need for support ribs.

[0096] 7, there is shown a light mass transport vehicle (1001). The light mass transport vehicle (1001) may include a roof portion (1002). The roof portion may include a roof sheeting (1003), an interior ceiling trim (1004), and a roof framework 1005 therebetween.

[0097] An example of a roof framework (1005) is shown in Figure 8. The roof framework (1005) may include one or more girders (1051). Figure 8, for example, includes two girders (1051). The girders (1051) may extend along the length of the light mass transport vehicle (1001). The girders (1051) may have a uniform cross-section along the length of the light mass transport vehicle (1001).

[0098] Now referring to FIG. 9, a cross section of a girder (1051) adjacent to a roof sheet (1003) and a sidewall assembly (1006) is shown. A first portion (1052) of the girder (1051) includes a plurality of recesses or protrusions (1053). For example, FIG. 9 shows the recesses. The recesses or protrusions (1053) are for engaging with a plurality of protrusions or recesses, respectively, on the sidewall assembly (1006). FIG. 9 shows the protrusions of the sidewall assembly, for example. Each recess or protrusion (1053) extends along the length of the girder (1051). Each recess or protrusion (1053) may also extend the entire length of the girder (1051). Two or more of the recesses or protrusions (1053) of the girder are connected to a support rib (1054) of the girder (1051). Two or more recesses or protrusions (1053) in the girders are connected to supporting ribs (1054) of the girders (1051) such that stress acting on a first portion (1052) of the girders (1051) is distributed to a second portion (1055) of the girders (1051). The girders may be advantageous in distributing stress and reducing stress concentrations, meaning that lighter girders are provided since less material is needed to provide adequate strength and stiffness.

[0099] The recesses or protrusions (1053) may be keyed to be mutually exclusive and may be trapezoidal in shape, facilitating assembly of the panels and ensuring a strong and secure connection of the sidewall assembly (1006).

[0100] The interior angle of the trapezoidal recess or protrusion (1053) may be between 35 and 55 degrees, or between 125 and 145 degrees. In particular, the interior angle of the trapezoidal recess or protrusion (1053) may be 45 degrees or 135 degrees, which may be advantageous in reducing localized stresses and providing a stronger connection to the sidewall assembly (1006).

[0101] The girder (1051) may include multiple internal chambers. The girder (1051) may be formed of metal or fiber reinforced composite material. The metal may be aluminum. The fiber reinforced composite material may be a carbon fiber reinforced composite material, for example CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer). It may be advantageous to reduce the weight of the girder. Furthermore, it may be advantageous to provide a lighter roof support member suitable for supporting reduced loads, since light mass transport vehicles will no longer need to support roof mounted equipment such as pantographs, bow collectors or trolley poles.

[0102] The multiple recesses or protrusions (1053) may be three recesses or protrusions (1053) on a single long beam (1051), although it will be understood that other numbers of recesses or protrusions (1053) that provide a similar technical effect may be used. The three recesses or protrusions (1053) may be equally spaced apart from one another. The three recesses or protrusions (1053) may be perpendicularly spaced apart relative to the length of the long beam (1051), which may be advantageous in providing a more secure engagement.

[0103] The plurality of recesses or protrusions (1053) may arise from a common plane of the long beam (1051). The common plane may be located on a flat outer surface of the long beam (1051). Three or more of the plurality of recesses or protrusions (1053) may each protrude or be recessed from the common plane by the same amount.

[0104] The central axis of at least one of the one or more openings (not shown) may pass through at least one of the recesses or protrusions (1053). The one or more openings may provide a fastening means to the roof support member (1005), for example using known mechanical means. The fastening means may thus extend through the sidewall assembly (1006) and the recesses or protrusions (1053) into the long beam (1051), in particular into the internal chamber of the long beam (1051). The fastening means may be combined with an adhesive layer covering a portion of the long beam including the recess or protrusion (1053). The adhesive layer may cover a mating surface of the long beam (1051) for mating with the sidewall assembly (1006). This may be further advantageous to securely and safely fasten the long beam (1051) to the sidewall assembly.

[0105] It will be appreciated that the examples disclosed above may be provided in a digital form embodying the invention, for example as a computer-aided design or computer-aided manufacturing file, which can be converted by known means into an executable file for instructing a material deposition device, for example a 3D printer, to form a physical example embodying the invention.

[0106] 5(a) and 9, in an embodiment, the roof support member (5) may be a long beam (1051). Similarly, the plurality of protrusions (211) may be a plurality of recesses or protrusions (1053), and the panel (2) of the sidewall assembly or the support rib (3) may be the sidewall assembly (1006).

[0107] It will be appreciated that in use, the combination of the girders (1051) with the sidewall assembly panels (2) and support ribs (3) may provide a means of constructing a lighter, more modular light mass transportation vehicle while maintaining the rigidity, security and strength necessary to support the roof and associated components secured to the roof.

[0108] Thus, an example may include a body of a light mass transit vehicle, the body of the light mass transit vehicle including at least one panel of a sidewall assembly of the light mass transit vehicle, and at least one long beam of the light mass transit vehicle, the panel including a first side including one or more connecting members, a second side including one or more connecting members, a top separating the first and second sides and including a plurality of protrusions or recesses configured to couple with a roof support member of the vehicle, each protrusion or recess extending substantially from the first side to the second side, and a bottom configured to be connected to a base support member of the vehicle, a first portion of the long beam including a plurality of recesses or protrusions that respectively engage with the plurality of protrusions or recesses of the sidewall assembly, two or more recesses or protrusions of the long beam connected to an internal support rib of the long beam such that stresses acting on the first portion of the long beam are distributed to a second portion of the long beam, the long beam being a roof support member and configured to couple with the panel via complementary protrusions or recesses.

[0109] In examples and embodiments, a skeletal structure may be formed that includes one or more head modules, long beams or roof support members, and a base support member. This may define the length of the light mass transportation vehicle. Sections of the skeletal structure may be easily removed or added, which may be advantageous to create a desired length and / or position doors in a desired manner. Multiple sidewall panels and ribs may be added as needed to further facilitate assembly and provide flexibility in assembly design. A roof assembly may then be added that is supported by two or more long beams and sidewall assemblies. In contrast, current methods typically extrude an entire body shell that is limited in length after manufacture, and there are manufacturing limitations in forming the entire body shell.

[0110] While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative or exemplary and not restrictive, and the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments.

[0111] Those skilled in the art can understand and realize other variations of the disclosed embodiments, by studying the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, when practicing the claimed invention. Each feature of the disclosed embodiments may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless otherwise stated. Thus, unless otherwise stated, each feature disclosed is only one example of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[0112] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope thereof.

Claims

1. A panel for the side wall assembly of a light mass transport vehicle, A first side portion including one or more connecting members, A second side portion including one or more connecting members, An upper part comprising a plurality of protrusions configured to separate the first side and the second side and to connect to the roof support member of the vehicle, wherein each protrusion substantially extends from the first side to the second side, A panel including a bottom portion configured to be connected to the base support member of the vehicle.

2. The panel according to claim 1, wherein the connecting member is configured to be connected to the mounting member of the support rib.

3. The panel according to claim 1, wherein the one or more connecting members of the first side are three or more connecting members spaced apart into three different groups.

4. The panel according to claim 1, wherein the one or more connecting members of the second side are three or more connecting members spaced apart into three different groups.

5. The panel according to claim 3, wherein the three distinct groups include two groups each having one connecting member and one group having more than one connecting member.

6. The panel according to claim 5, wherein one group having more than one connecting member includes eight connecting members.

7. The panel according to claim 1, wherein each protrusion further includes one or more recesses.

8. The panel according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of protrusions are three protrusions.

9. The panel according to claim 8, wherein the three protrusions are spaced equally apart from each other.

10. The panel according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of protrusions arise from a common plane.

11. The panel according to claim 1, wherein the upper part further includes one or more openings for means of fixing the roof support member.

12. The panel according to claim 11, wherein the central axis of at least one of the one or more openings penetrates at least one of the plurality of protrusions.

13. The panel according to claim 1, wherein the bottom portion further includes one or more openings for means of fixing the base support member.

14. The panel according to claim 13, wherein three or more of the one or more openings are arranged in a line at an angle of 35 to 55 degrees with respect to a vertical line.

15. The panel according to claim 1, further comprising a seat rail substantially extending from the first side to the second side.

16. The panel according to claim 1, further comprising a trapezoidal window whose upper base is longer than its lower base.

17. The panel according to claim 2, wherein the connecting member is keyed for insertion into the mounting member of the support rib.

18. Support ribs for the side wall assembly of a light mass transport vehicle, A first side portion including one or more mounting members, A second side portion including one or more mounting members, An upper part comprising a plurality of protrusions configured to separate the first side and the second side and to connect to the roof support member of the vehicle, wherein each protrusion extends from the first side to the second side, A support rib, including a bottom portion configured to be connected to the base support member of the vehicle.

19. The support rib according to claim 18, wherein the mounting member is configured to be attached to the panel connecting member.

20. The support rib according to claim 18, wherein the first and second sides further include the features of the first and second sides according to claim 2 for connecting the support rib to a panel.

21. The upper part further includes the features of the upper part according to claim 7, for connecting to the roof support member, as described in claim 18.

22. The support rib according to claim 18, wherein the bottom portion further includes one or more openings for means of fixing the base support member.

23. The support rib according to claim 19, wherein the mounting member is keyed to receive the connecting member of the panel.

24. The support rib according to claim 18, wherein a single support rib is configured to connect to two of the panels according to claim 1.

25. A vehicle comprising the panel described in claim 1 and the support rib described in claim 18.

26. A long girder for a light mass transport vehicle, The first portion of the long girder includes a plurality of recesses or protrusions, each engaging with a plurality of protrusions or recesses of the side wall assembly and extending along the length of the long girder, A long girder, wherein two or more recesses or protrusions of the long girder are connected to internal support ribs of the long girder such that the stress acting on the first part of the long girder is distributed to the second part of the long girder.

27. The long girder according to claim 26, wherein the plurality of recesses or protrusions are in the form of keys.

28. The long girder according to claim 26, wherein the recess or projection is trapezoidal.

29. The long girder according to claim 28, wherein the interior angle of the trapezoidal recess or projection is 35 to 55 degrees or 125 to 145 degrees.

30. The long girder according to claim 29, wherein the interior angle of the trapezoidal recess or projection is 45 degrees or 135 degrees.

31. The long girder according to claim 26, further comprising a plurality of internal chambers defined by the support ribs.

32. The long girder according to claim 26, which is formed of a metal or fiber-reinforced composite material.

33. The long girder according to claim 32, wherein the metal is aluminum, or the fiber-reinforced composite material is CFRP.

34. The long girder according to claim 26, wherein the plurality of recesses or protrusions are three recesses or protrusions on a single long girder.

35. The long girder according to claim 34, wherein the three recesses or protrusions are spaced equally apart from each other on the first surface of the long girder.

36. A computer-readable medium containing instructions that, when executed, instruct a material deposition apparatus to form a long girder according to any one of claims 26 to 35.

37. The body of a light mass transport vehicle, The light mass transport vehicle includes at least one panel of the side wall assembly and at least one long girder of the light mass transport vehicle, The panel includes a first side portion including one or more connecting members, a second side portion including one or more connecting members, an upper portion including a plurality of protrusions or recesses configured to separate the first and second side portions and to connect to a roof support member of the vehicle, wherein each protrusion or recess extends substantially from the first side portion to the second side portion, and a bottom portion configured to connect to a base support member of the vehicle. The first portion of the long girder includes a plurality of recesses or protrusions, each engaging with a plurality of protrusions or recesses of the side wall assembly, and extending along the length of the long girder. A vehicle body wherein two or more recesses or protrusions of the long girder are connected to internal support ribs of the long girder such that stress acting on the first part of the long girder is distributed to the second part of the long girder, and the long girder is the roof support member and is configured to be connected to the panel via complementary protrusions or recesses.

38. The vehicle body according to claim 37, further comprising at least one support rib of a side wall assembly of a light mass transport vehicle, wherein the support rib includes an upper portion, the upper portion includes the projection or recess, and is configured to connect to at least one of the long girders.

39. A light-weight transport vehicle comprising the body described in claim 37 or 38.

40. A light transport vehicle comprising at least one panel as described in claim 1.

41. A light-weight transport vehicle comprising at least one support rib as described in claim 18.

42. A light mass transport vehicle comprising a long girder as described in any one of claims 26 to 35.

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