Wedge driver and method thereof

Abstract

A wedge driver and method are presented. The wedge driver can be operatively coupled to different ends of a link connection to push a wedge therebetween to form a single link. The wedge driver can also push a wedge out of the link connection. The present disclosure provides an advantage of enabling safe and effective removal of the link connection by preventing violent or forceful disconnection of the link connection. The wedge driver can include a main portion, a first protrusion, a second protrusion, a bolt, and a driver. The driver can be spring-activated such that the driver can retract into the main portion as the bolt exits the main portion. The bolt of the wedge driver can push the driver out of the main portion to axially push (or push) the wedge into the link connection without rotating the wedge.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to push-in wedges for use with link connectors. More specifically, in certain embodiments, the present disclosure relates to the installation or removal of link connectors in locomotive hand brake chains. [Background technology]

[0002] Connecting links or links are used in a variety of industries. Hammer links, such as hammerlock connecting links, are often used to join chain segments together, repair broken chains, or attach chains to other components. Generally, hammer links are operable to open to receive, for example, a chain link and another component (such as another chain link), and then securely close to connect the elements together. Some hammer links utilize wedges that can be pressed into the link to facilitate secure connection of the link to a given component. These types of hammer links, sometimes referred to as "link couplers," are often used in the railroad industry, such as in locomotive hand brake systems.

[0003] Locomotives are commonly fitted with the equivalent of a parking brake. These brakes are sometimes called hand brakes. As the name suggests, a locomotive's hand brake can be operated by hand. When the locomotive is "parked," the hand brake is engaged, preventing the locomotive from moving undesirably on the track. A locomotive's hand brake system typically includes several components, such as a handle, a brake lever, brake shoes / pads, and a brake cylinder. The handle may be located on the locomotive's gangway for access by the conductor. The handle may be operatively connected to a brake lever or levers located under the train. When engaged, the brake lever brings the brake shoes and / or pads into contact with the locomotive's wheels, facilitating the braking of the train. The brake cylinder operatively connects the brake lever and brake shoes and can hydraulically supplement the force the shoes apply to the wheels. To engage the gangway handle with the brake shoes, a chain often connects the handle to the brake lever. The chain is tensioned between the handle and the lever. When the handle is engaged, the chain is further tensioned and engages the brake lever, ultimately bringing the brake shoes into contact with the train wheels.

[0004] Like all other machinery, locomotives and their hand brake systems may require maintenance. For example, components rust or break, necessitating repair. For hand brake systems, the chains connecting the brake handles to the brake levers are no exception. When these chains break, require extension, or simply require replacement / removal to perform maintenance on other hand brake system components, the attachment and / or removal of linkages incorporated into the chains may be necessary. For example, linkages may function as chain links, such as when splicing in a new length of chain. In another example, linkages may facilitate the connection of the chain to a handle or lever. In either case, linkages often need to be attached to or detached from the brake chain when maintenance on the hand brake system is performed. Such work can be difficult and dangerous, even with slack chain (a lot of force is required to insert and remove the linkage wedges). Using a hammer or other device on the wedges can be dangerous for the personnel performing these tasks. These problems are greatly exacerbated when the brake chain is tensioned by hand. This is because removing a link connector can sometimes release tension in the chain violently, which can injure personnel or damage property.

[0005] Because of these issues, removing a link connection from a tensioned brake chain often requires two people: one to manually tension the chain so that the link connection is released, and one to open the link connection. However, even when working in pairs, human error is inevitable, making this a potentially dangerous task. Furthermore, attempting to drive a wedge out of a link connection while it is suspended on a length of chain, for example, can be stressful. As a result, railroad personnel often must disconnect the chain from the hand brake system to be able to attach or detach the link connection. This increases the time and expense of maintenance work on the locomotive. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present disclosure teaches technical advantages of a wedge driver and method thereof. The present disclosure provides for the installation or removal of link connectors or hammer links on a chain or other component. In one embodiment, a wedge driver can be operatively coupled to different ends of a link connector to wedges therebetween to form a single link. The wedge driver can also push wedges out of the link connector. The present disclosure provides an advantage of enabling safe and effective removal of a link connector by preventing violent or forced disconnection of the link connector so that the link connector does not need to be placed under tension. In another embodiment, the present disclosure can facilitate wedges being pushed in on link connectors that are not under tension, such as those installed on the untensioned brake chain of a locomotive. In another embodiment, the present disclosure can enable safe, one-person removal of an untensioned link connector, such as from an untensioned chain and by preventing forced disconnection of the link connector. In another example, the present disclosure can provide a driver that is mechanically movable up and down a longitudinal axis. This can increase the safety of the link connector wedge push-in. For example, the spring-activated driver can extend from the wedge driver's main opening by rotatably inserting a bolt rather than through the main opening, thereby mitigating the need for a person to insert their hand or fingers into the wedge driver opening to adjust the driver.

[0007] In another embodiment, the present disclosure can provide axial and stabilized wedges, for example, without the use of a hammer. For example, the present disclosure can provide for the conversion of torque, such as torque that may be applied to a bolt with a standard wrench head via an impact driver, wrench, or other mechanism, into axial pressure that may be concentrated and directed toward the wedge. In one embodiment, applying torque to the bolt can drive the bolt longitudinally through the bolt's threads. However, in another embodiment, such rotation of the bolt during driving is not damped and can cause unstable wedges, for example, because bolt rotation can interfere with axial wedges at the contact point between the bolt and the wedge. In another embodiment, engaging a bolt with a driver according to the principles of the present disclosure can dampen rotational movement of the driver about its longitudinal axis while also allowing the driver to be driven longitudinally, thereby achieving stabilized axial wedges.

[0008] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a wedge driver for inserting or removing a wedge from a link connector. Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a method for operating a link wedge. Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a safe method for installing or removing a link connector from a tensioned chain.

[0009] In another embodiment, the present disclosure may include a wedge driver. The wedge driver may include a main portion having a first main portion end, a second main portion end, and a main portion opening disposed therethrough from the first main portion end to the second main portion end, a first protrusion extending from a first side of the second main portion end, and a second protrusion extending from a second side of the second main portion end, a driver having a first driver end, a second driver end, a channel disposed along at least a portion of the driver, a driver cap coupled to the first driver end, and an adapter coupled to the second driver end, a spring disposed around at least a portion of the driver, a bolt having a first bolt end and a second bolt end, and a main portion cap removably coupled to the first end of the main portion, the main portion cap having a threaded bolt opening aligned with the main portion opening and configured to receive the bolt. In one embodiment, the driver may be disposed within the main portion opening. In another embodiment, the first protrusion and the second protrusion may include a retaining member disposed thereon to retain the link connector. In another embodiment, the driver cap may prevent the driver from exiting the main opening through the threaded bolt opening. In another embodiment, the bolt may push at least a portion of the driver through the main opening and out of the second main end. In another embodiment, the main opening may include a ledge proximate the second main end. In another embodiment, when the bolt pushes at least a portion of the driver through the main opening and out of the second main end, the spring may compress between the driver cap and the ledge. In another embodiment, the spring may push the driver cap through the main opening toward the first main end to return at least a portion of the driver into the main opening after spring compression. In another embodiment, the set member may engage with the channel to prevent the driver from rotating about the longitudinal axis of the driver member. In another embodiment, the adapter may include a groove for receiving at least a portion of the wedge.In another embodiment, the length between the first and second protrusions may be sized to receive a link coupler or hammer link.

[0010] In another embodiment, the present disclosure may include a method of operating a link wedge. The method may include receiving a link coupler between a first protrusion and a second protrusion of a wedge driver, positioning a first end of the wedge in a groove of the driver, positioning a second end of the wedge in a wedge opening of the link coupler, applying a torque to the bolt in a first direction to extend at least a portion of the driver out of the wedge driver to force the wedge into the wedge opening without rotating the wedge, and applying a torque to the bolt in a second direction to allow a spring disposed within the wedge driver to return at least a portion of the driver into the wedge driver. In another embodiment, the wedge driver may include a main portion having a first main portion end, a second main portion end, and a main portion opening disposed therethrough from the first main portion end to the second main portion end. In another embodiment, the wedge driver may include a main cap removably coupled to the first end of the main, the main cap having a threaded bolt opening aligned with the main opening and configured to receive a bolt. In another embodiment, the driver may include a first driver end, a second driver end, a channel disposed along at least a portion of the driver, a driver cap coupled to the first driver end, and an adapter coupled to the second driver end. In another embodiment, a spring may be disposed around at least a portion of the driver. In another embodiment, the driver cap may prevent the driver from exiting the main opening through the threaded bolt opening. In another embodiment, the main opening may include a ledge proximate the second main end. In another embodiment, the spring may urge the cap toward the first main end through the main opening to return at least a portion of the driver into the main opening after spring compression. In another embodiment, a set member may engage the channel to prevent the driver from rotating about the longitudinal axis of the driver member.

[0011] The present disclosure will be readily understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the present disclosure. The drawings illustrate the design and utility of one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Like elements are referred to by like reference numerals or symbols. Objects and elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, coordinated, or in precise relationship to one another. Instead, emphasis is placed on illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a spring-loaded wedge driver in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 illustrates a bottom perspective view of a spring-loaded wedge driver in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 1C] 1 illustrates a top perspective view of a non-spring loaded wedge driver in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of components of a wedge driver having a spring-activated driver in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of some of the components of a non-spring loaded wedge driver in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] 1 illustrates another schematic diagram of some of the components of a wedge driver in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] 10 illustrates a wedge being forced into a link using a wedge driver while the link is under tension, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] 10 illustrates a wedge being pushed out of a link using a wedge driver when the link is not under tension, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] 1 illustrates a prior art wedge including ears and a pin, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B]1 illustrates a prior art link coupler including a wedged wedge, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Preferred variants of the present disclosure and its various features and advantageous details shown in the following specification will be explained in more detail as they are detailed in the following description, with reference to non-limiting examples included in the accompanying drawings. Descriptions of well-known components are omitted so as not to unnecessarily obscure the main features described herein. The examples used in the following description are intended to facilitate understanding of how the present disclosure can be implemented and practiced. Therefore, these examples should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0014] 1A-1B illustrate a wedge driver 100 according to the principles of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the instrument 100 can include a main body 102 and a handle 104. In another embodiment, the main body can include a first main body end 136, a second main body end 138, a first side 140, and a second side 142. In one embodiment, the wedge driver 100 can include a first protrusion 144 that can extend from the first side 140 of the second main body end 138. In another embodiment, the wedge driver 100 can include a second protrusion 146 that can extend from the second side 142 of the second main body end 138. In another embodiment, the first and second protrusions 144, 146 can define an opening 128 therebetween. In one embodiment, the main body 102 and the first and second protrusions 144, 146 can be fabricated from a unitary body. In such cases, the one-piece body may be referred to collectively as the main body, or by its individual components, the main portion 102 and the first and second protrusions 144, 146. In one example, the first and second protrusions 144, 146 may each include a retaining member 148. For example, the retaining member 148 may be a protrusion or lip capable of retaining a link coupling. In another embodiment, the wedge driver 100 may include a main portion cap (main portion cap member) 106 coupled to the first main portion end of the main portion 102. In one embodiment, the main portion cap 106 may be removably coupled to the main portion 102. In another embodiment, the main portion cap 106 may include a threaded bolt opening. In one example, the threaded bolt opening of the main portion cap 106 may be aligned with the main portion opening. In another embodiment, the threaded bolt opening may be configured to receive a bolt (such as bolt 112).

[0015] In another embodiment, the wedge driver 100 may include a bolt (bolt member) 112. In another embodiment, the bolt 112 may be coupled to the main portion 102 via threads disposed within at least a portion of a main portion opening. In another embodiment, the bolt 112 may be coupled to the main portion 102 via threads disposed within at least a portion of the main portion cap 106. In another example, applying a torque to the bolt 112 may cause the bolt 112 to move longitudinally within at least a portion of the wedge driver 100 or the main portion 102. In one embodiment, the wedge driver 100 or the main portion 102 may include a main portion opening (not shown in FIGS. 1A-1B ). For example, the bolt 112 may move longitudinally within the main portion opening of the instrument 100. In another embodiment, the instrument 100 may include a driver (driver member) 110. For example, the driver 110 may move longitudinally within the main portion opening of the main portion 102. In one embodiment, applying torque to the bolt 112 can move the driver 110 within the main opening to contact and move the driver (e.g., the bolt 112 can push the driver 110 through at least a portion of the main opening). In another embodiment, the instrument 100 can include a set member 108. In another embodiment, the set member 108 can selectively extend into a bore in the main 102 and move therethrough to abut against the driver 110. In one embodiment, the set member 108 can engage within the channel 132 of the driver 110. For example, in this manner, the instrument 100 can be configured to prevent rotation of the driver 110 while allowing longitudinal movement through the main opening. In one example, the set member 108 can prevent the driver 110 from rotating about the longitudinal axis of the main 102 and retain the driver 110 within the main 102. In other embodiments, the set member 108 may be a pin, a corrugation, an embossment, a nub, or any other suitable component. In one embodiment, the bolt 112 may push at least a portion of the driver 110 out of the second main end 138 through the main opening.

[0016] In one embodiment, the tool 100, main section 102, and / or driver 110 can be configured to accept links (e.g., connecting links, chain links, etc.), wedges, and / or links and wedges, such as hammer links or link couplers that utilize wedges, such as those known in the art for locomotive hand brakes. For example, the main section 102 can include an opening 128 between the first and second protrusions 144, 146, which can be sized to accept a link. In another example, the opening 128 can include a retaining member 148. In one embodiment, the retaining members 148 can be configured to hold a link coupler. For example, each retaining member 148 can include a lip configured to accept and / or hold a link. In another example, the opening 128 can be sized so that the tool 102 can accept a link and also a loose wedge. A wedge can then be aligned with the link within the opening 128 and forced into the link by the driver 110 of the tool 102. In another example, the opening 128 may include markings, embossments, corrugations, or any other suitable features to facilitate receiving or securing a link within the opening 128. Preferably, in another embodiment, the driver 110 may be configured to retract into the main portion 102, such as when the bolt 112 is loosened. For example, the driver 110 may be spring-activated (e.g., when the bolt 112 is loosened) to allow the driver 110 to retract from the opening 128 into the instrument 100 or main portion 102, such as to provide space within the opening 128 to receive a link or a link and a wedge. In another example, the driver 110 may be configured to contact a wedge within the opening 128 of the instrument 100, such as to push the wedge in. For example, the driver 110 may include a notch 134 or groove 134 that can mate with a wedge. In another example, the driver 110 may include an adapter 134 coupled to an end of the driver 110 that can receive a wedge. In one embodiment, the adapter may include a groove 134 that can receive a portion of a wedge. In another embodiment, the groove 134 can be located directly on the second driver end without an adapter. For example, the groove 134 can be sized to receive a wedge.This allows the wedge to be stabilized or secured against rotation by the groove 112 of the driver 110, such as when the wedge is pressed into the link.

[0017] In operation, in one exemplary embodiment, the wedge driver 100 can accept a link wedge by inserting the link connector between the first and second protrusions 144, 146 through the opening 128. In another embodiment, a first end of the wedge can be positioned in the groove of the driver, and a second wedge end can be positioned in the wedge opening of the link connector. In another embodiment, applying torque to the bolt in a first direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise) can extend at least a portion of the driver from the wedge driver and force the wedge into the wedge opening of the link connector without rotating the wedge. For example, the link connector can rest on the retaining members 148 of the first and second protrusions 144, 146 to hold the link connector in place while the wedge driver forces the wedge into the wedge opening. In another embodiment, applying torque to the bolt in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise or clockwise) can cause a spring located within the wedge driver to retract at least a portion of the driver into the wedge driver. For example, the link connector may rest on the retaining members 148 of the first and second projections 144, 146 to hold the link connector in place while the wedge driver pushes the wedge from the wedge opening through the opening 128.

[0018] FIG. 1C depicts another embodiment of the present disclosure. The wedge driver 116 may be similar to the instrument 100. For example, the instrument 116 may include a main section 118, a handle 120, a driver stabilizer set member 124, an opening 130, a bolt 132, and a driver 126. In one embodiment, the instrument 116 may differ from the instrument 100 in that it may include a hollow shaft 122 through which the bolt 132 can extend. In one example, the instrument 116 may have a shaft 122 instead of the main section cap 106. For example, the shaft 122 may include threads configured to engage with the threads of the bolt 132, thereby allowing the bolt 132 to move longitudinally within the shaft 122 and the instrument 116 by applying a torque to the bolt 132. In another embodiment, the shaft 122 may provide an attachment point for the handle 120. In another embodiment, the shaft 122 may have threads only at the top of the shaft 122, such that a substantial portion of the shaft 122 is smooth and can serve as a main opening for the bolt 132 and driver 126. In another embodiment, a main cap (such as main cap 106) may be sized to fit the shaft 122 and may be matably or removably matable to the shaft 122. The bolt 132 may be threadably engaged with the main cap. For example, the main cap may serve as a cap for the shaft 122, such that a bolt may extend through and contact the cap via the threads of either or both the cap, the bolt, or both. The shaft 122 may have a smooth main opening therein to accommodate the bolt and / or driver.

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates another embodiment of the present disclosure. A wedge driver instrument (wedge driver) (wedge driving system) 200 can be similar to instrument 100 and instrument 116. In one embodiment, instrument 200 can include a main body 202 and a handle 204. In another embodiment, instrument 200 can include a main body cap 206 coupled or removably coupled to main body 102. For example, one or more screws 214 can secure main body cap 206 to main body 202. In another embodiment, main body 202 can include main body cap 206 for accessing, assembling, or replacing components disposed within the main body. In another embodiment, main body 202 and main cap. In one embodiment, instrument 200 can include a bolt 212. In one embodiment, bolt 212 can be configured to move longitudinally within instrument 200. For example, bolt 212 can include threads that can correspond to threads on main body cap 206 or main body 202. Thus, the bolt 212 can be moved longitudinally within the instrument 200 by applying a torque to the bolt 212 (e.g., to the head of the bolt 212). In one embodiment, the bolt 212 can be configured to engage a torque generating mechanism such as a wrench, a drill, an impact driver, a human hand, or any other suitable torque generating mechanism, such as a mechanism that can actuate the threads of the bolt 212 by turning the bolt 212. In another embodiment, the handle 204 can be secured to the main portion 202 via welding. In another embodiment, the handle 204 can be fabricated as part of the main portion 202. In another embodiment, the handle can be attached to the main portion 202 via adhesive, screws, a latch, or any other mechanism suitable for attaching the handle 204 to the main portion 202, such that the handle 204 can support the main portion 202, such as when the operator of the instrument 200 is utilizing the instrument 200.

[0020] In another embodiment, the instrument 200 may include a driver 210. For example, the driver 210 may be similar to the driver 110. In one embodiment, the driver 210 may include a first end 224 and a second end 226. In one example, the first end 224 may be configured to contact the bolt 212. For example, the first end 224 may include a recess configured to receive a protrusion, such as a protrusion on the tip of the bolt 212. In another embodiment, the first end 224 may be flat so that the bolt 212 can contact the first end 224 and exert a force on the driver 210. For example, the driver 210 may include a driver cap 228. In one embodiment, the driver cap 228 may be coupled to the first end 224 of the driver 210. In another embodiment, the driver cap 228 may prevent the driver 210 from exiting the main section 202 through the threaded bolt opening in the main section cap 206. In another embodiment, first end 224 may be any suitable design or configuration that allows bolt 212 to contact driver 210 such that the bolt can rotate relative to first end 224 (e.g., when torque is applied to bolt 212) and exert a force on driver 210 (e.g., to move driver 210 within main opening 216). In one embodiment, driver 210 may be spring-activated, such as via spring 218 that can compress and expand within the main opening. In another embodiment, driver 210 may include spring 218 disposed around at least a portion of driver 210. For example, first end 224 may include a head (e.g., driver cap 228). For example, the head may have a larger diameter than spring 218 such that the spring 218 can abut against the head when compressed between driver cap 228 and ledge 230. In another embodiment, first end 224 may include a pin, nub, embossment, or any other suitable design or feature to abut spring 218 and allow spring 218 to be compressed thereagainst. In another embodiment, driver 210 may include a channel 220 extending longitudinally on a surface of driver 210.In one embodiment, the channel 220 can be configured to engage a set member 208 of an instrument that can extend through the main portion 202. In this manner, for example, the driver 210 can be configured to be stable against rotation along the longitudinal axis of the driver 210. In another embodiment, the second end 226 of the driver 210 can be configured to contact a wedge. For example, the second end 226 can include a groove adapted to receive the top of the wedge and facilitate stable wedging of the wedge, such as into a link. The second end 226 can have a groove similar to the groove 134 of FIGS. 1A-1B.

[0021] In another embodiment, the driver 210 can move longitudinally within the main section opening 216 of the instrument 200. For example, the main section 202 can include a main section opening 216 configured to accommodate the driver 210 and spring 218, such as by having a larger diameter than the driver 210 to allow the driver to move longitudinally therethrough. Preferably, the driver 210 can be a spring-activated driver 210. For example, a spring (such as spring 218) can exert pressure against the driver 210 such that as the bolt 212 advances out of the main section opening 216, thus releasing the pressure on the driver 210, the driver 210 can retract into the main section 202 via the force exerted by the spring 218. In another embodiment, the driver 210 can be pushed by the bolt 212 when a torque is applied to the bolt 212 that advances the bolt 212 further into the main section 202 via the threads of the bolt 212. In another example, the driver 210 can move longitudinally to be pushed into the opening 222 of the main portion 202. In one embodiment, the main portion opening 216 can have a uniform diameter. In another embodiment, the diameter of the main portion opening 216 can have a wider portion and a narrower portion. For example, the main portion opening 216 can have a portion with a diameter configured to accommodate the driver 210 and the spring 218 disposed thereon. In one embodiment, the main portion opening 216 can include a ledge (lip) 230 therein against which the spring 218 can compress, such as when the spring 218 is compressed by the first end 224 of the driver 210.

[0022] In another embodiment, the main opening 216 may include a ledge 230 proximate the second main end (e.g., second main end 138). In one example, the spring 218 may compress between the driver cap 228 and the ledge 230 of the main opening 216 when the bolt 212 pushes at least a portion of the driver 210 out of the second main end through the main opening 216. In another embodiment, the spring 218 may push the driver cap 228 through the main opening 216 toward the first end of the main 202 to return at least a portion of the driver 210 into the main opening 216 after the spring 218 compresses. In one embodiment, the lip 230 may have a diameter larger than the diameter of the driver 210. This allows the driver 210 to move through the lip 230 into the narrower portion of the main opening (and exit the opening 222) while the spring 218 is compressed against the lip 230. In another embodiment, the main opening may include an embossment, a ridge, a pin, or any other feature suitable for providing a compression surface for the spring 218 to compress against. In this aspect, the main opening 216 may be configured to accommodate the driver 210 or a spring-activated driver member 210. In another example and in this aspect, the instrument 200 may include a spring-activated driver.

[0023] 3A-3B illustrate another embodiment of the present disclosure and its preferred dimensions. In one embodiment, wedge driver 300 may include a main portion member 302, a handle portion member 304, and a shaft portion member 306. In another embodiment, main portion opening 308 may extend through shaft 306 and main portion 302 into opening 332 in main portion 302. In one example, main portion opening 332 may have a height of 5.3 inches, a width of 5.5 inches, and an opening of 3.5 inches. In another example, main portion 302 may have a width of 8.0 inches, a height of 9.375 inches, and a thickness of 3.0 inches. In one example, main portion opening 332 may have a height of 2.625 inches, a width of 2.75 inches, and an opening of 1.75 inches. In another example, main portion 302 may have a width of 4.0 inches, a height of 4.6875 inches, and a thickness of 1.5 inches. In one embodiment, edges and / or corners of main portion 302 may be chamfered. In another embodiment, the shaft 306 may have a length of 3.0 inches and a thickness of 1.2 inches. In one example, the handle 304 may be secured to the main portion 302 and the shaft 306. For example, the handle 304 may extend 4.15 inches from the shaft 306 and 2.75 inches from the main portion 302. In one embodiment, the handle 304 may have a maximum inner diameter of 5.0 inches. In another embodiment, the main portion opening 308 may extend through the shaft 306 and the main portion 302 and be accessible at an opening 332 in the main portion 302 and at the top of the shaft 306. In one example, the main portion opening 308 may be threaded. In another example, the main portion opening may be 4.25 inches long. In another embodiment, the main portion opening may have 5 / 8 inch-18 internal threads and 3 / 4 inch-16 external threads. In one embodiment, the main portion 302 may include a bore 334. In one example, hole 334 may be configured to receive a set screw or set member, such as set member 316. In another embodiment, the length between the first and second protrusions of main portion 302 may be sized to receive a link coupler or hammer link.

[0024] In one embodiment, driver 310 may include a channel, such as channel 312, that can engage with a driver stabilizing set member (e.g., set member 316) of main portion 302. For example, driver 310 may have a length of 7.12 inches. In another example, driver 310 may have a thickness of 1.124 inches. In one embodiment, channel 312 on driver 310 may have a length of approximately 5.0 inches. In another embodiment, channel 312 may have a width of 0.375 inches. For example, driver 310 may have a length of 3.56 inches. In another example, driver 310 may have a thickness of 0.562 inches. In one embodiment, channel 312 on driver 310 may have a length of approximately 2.687 inches. In another embodiment, channel 312 may have a width of 0.1875 inches. In one example, channel 312 may have rounded ends such that the ends of channel 312 can accommodate a rounded set member or pin (such as set member 316) engaged therein. In another embodiment, channel 312 may have a depth of approximately 0.19 inches. In another embodiment, channel 312 may have a depth of approximately 0.0935 inches. In another embodiment, driver 310 may include first end 330 and second end 314. In one embodiment, first end 330 may be configured to contact a bolt, such as bolt 318. For example, first end 330 may include a recess configured to receive a protrusion of bolt 318, such as protrusion 324 of bolt 318. In one embodiment, the recess in first end 330 may have a diameter of 0.75 inches. In one embodiment, the recess in first end 330 may have a diameter of 0.375 inches. In another embodiment, the recess may have a rounded bottom, such as to accommodate a rounded protrusion (such as protrusion 324). In another embodiment, the recess in first end 330 may have a depth of 0.5 inches and a radius of curvature of approximately 0.375 inches. In another embodiment, the recess in the first end 330 can have a depth of 0.25 inches and a radius of curvature of approximately 0.1875 inches. In another embodiment, the driver 310 can have a second end 314 configured to contact a wedge. For example, the second end 314 can have a groove.In another example, the groove can be a recess, such as a rectangular recess, at second end 314 and can have a depth of about 0.125 inches. In another embodiment, the recess can have a width of about 0.685 inches. In another example, the groove can be a recess or rectangular recess at second end 314 and can have a depth of about 0.0625 inches. In another embodiment, the recess can have a width of about 0.3425 inches.

[0025] In one embodiment, the wedge wedging system may include a bolt 318, such as a bolt that can be coupled to the main portion 302. In one example, the bolt 318 may include a head 320, a shaft 322, and a protrusion 324. In another embodiment, the bolt 318 may include a first bolt end 320 and a second bolt end 324. In one embodiment, the head may be a standard wrench head, such as a hex wrench head. In another embodiment, the head 320 may be a flat head, a Phillips head, or any other head suitable for facilitating the application of torque to the bolt 318. In one embodiment, the head 320 may be 1.875 inches wide. In one embodiment, the head 320 may be 0.9375 inches wide. In another embodiment, the shaft 322 may be 6.899 inches long. In another embodiment, the shaft 322 may include a uniform 6.75 inch length. At the end of the shaft 322 closest to the protrusion 324, the shaft 322 may be tapered over a longitudinal distance of approximately 0.244 inches. In another embodiment, the shaft 322 may be 3.4495 inches long. In another embodiment, the shaft 322 may comprise a uniform 3.3875 inch length. At the end of the shaft 322 closest to the projection 324, the shaft 322 may be tapered over a longitudinal distance of approximately 0.0620 inches. For example, the end of the bolt 318 may be tapered at an angle of approximately 60°. In another example, the end of the bolt 318 may be tapered at an angle of approximately 30°. In one example, the projection 324 may have a width of 0.736 inches. In another embodiment, the projection 324 may have a height of approximately 0.51 inches, measured from the base of the projection 324 to the center point of the curvature of the projection 324. In another example, the projection may have a radius of curvature of approximately 0.368 inches. In one example, the projection 324 may have a width of 0.3680 inches. In another embodiment, the protrusion 324 may have a height of approximately 0.2505 inches, measured from the base of the protrusion 324 to the center point of curvature of the protrusion 324. In another example, the protrusion may have a radius of curvature of approximately 0.1840 inches. For example, as described with respect to FIGS. 3A-3B , the protrusion 324 may have dimensions that allow the protrusion 324 to fit within a recess in the first end 330 of the driver 310.In this aspect, the bolt 318 can be configured to contact the driver 310. In one embodiment, the bolt 318 can include threads on the shaft 322. In one example, the threads are 5 / 8 inch-18 threads. In another example, the bolt 318 can be a 5 / 8-18 GR8 bolt with threads extending the length of the shaft 322. In one embodiment, the threads of the shaft 322 can be configured to engage the threads of the main opening 308.

[0026] In another embodiment, the system may include a set member 316 or set screw 316, such as one that can engage within a hole 334 on the main portion 302. In one example, the hole 334 may include threads that can correspond to the threads of the set member 316. In one embodiment, the set member 316 may include a first end 326 and a second end 328. In one example, the first end 326 may include a standard wrench head, such as a hex wrench, a Phillips head, a flat head, or other head suitable for facilitating the application of torque to the set member 316. In one example, the set member 316 may be a set screw such that the wrench head of the set member 316 can be recessed or recessed into the first end 326 of the set member 316. In another embodiment, the second end 328 of the set member 316 may include a dowel. In one embodiment, the dowel on the second end 328 of the set member 316 may be configured to engage the channel 312 of the driver 310. For example, the dowel may have a diameter of 0.360 inches. In another example, the dowel may have a height of 0.180 inches. In another embodiment, the set member 316 may have a diameter of 0.5 inches. In one embodiment, the first end 326 may have a length of approximately 0.32 inches. For example, the dowel may have a diameter of 0.180 inches. In another example, the dowel may have a height of 0.09 inches. In another embodiment, the set member 316 may have a diameter of 0.25 inches. In one embodiment, the first end 326 may be approximately 0.156 inches long. In another embodiment, the set member 316 may be ¼ inch-20 threaded. In one embodiment, the dowel may be configured to engage within the channel 312, such as via dimensions of the dowel and channel 312 such as those discussed herein.

[0027] 4A-4B depict another embodiment 400 of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, a method for operating a link wedge may include a wedge driver instrument 402. For example, the instrument 402 may be similar to the wedge drivers 100, 200 and / or those depicted in FIGS. 3A-3B. The instrument 402 may receive a link 404 (e.g., a hammer link, a link coupler, etc.). In one embodiment, an opening in the instrument 402 may be configured to receive the link 404 such that a retaining member (lip) of the main portion of the instrument 402 may support the link 404 within the opening in the main portion, such as between a first protrusion and a second protrusion of the instrument 402. In another embodiment, the instrument 402 may be configured to receive the link 404 and a wedge 406 that is pressed into it. In one example, the driver 412 of the instrument 402 may be retracted into the main portion such that there may be sufficient space within the opening in the main portion for the link 404 and the wedge 406 to fit together. Preferably, in one example, with link 404 in place within the main section and wedge 406 primed to be pressed into link 404, driver 412 of tool 402 can contact wedge 406 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, bolt 414 of tool 402 can exert a force on driver 412, causing driver 412 to press wedge 406 into link 404. In one embodiment, pressing wedge 406 into link 404 can secure and / or close link 404. In another embodiment, method 400 can be performed while chain 408 is coupled to a brake handle and / or lever of a hand brake system of a locomotive.

[0028] In another embodiment, a method for pushing a wedge 410 from a link 404 may similarly include receiving a link 404 having a secured wedge 406 within an opening in the main section of a wedge pushing tool 402. Similar to method 400, a driver 412 of the tool 402 may contact the wedge 406 and move it via application of torque to a bolt 414. In this manner, method 410 may push the wedge 406 from the link 404, such as to remove the link from a chain 408. In one embodiment, receiving the link 404 within the opening in the main section may prevent components of the link 404 from separating when the wedge 406 is removed from the link 404. For example, if method 410 is applied to a link 404 and wedge 406 connected to a tensioned chain 408, removal of the wedge 406 may result in separation of the components of the link 404, facilitating removal of the link 404 from the chain 408. In one embodiment, the application of removing the wedge from the link can be dangerous because, when the wedge 406 is removed, the components of the link 404 can come apart with great force, potentially causing injury to personnel. In one example, the main body receiving the link 404 can prevent violent separation, for example, by allowing the link 404 to remain closed even when the wedge 406 is removed, so that the operator of the tool 402 can safely separate the link 404 after removing the wedge 406 from the link 404. Preferably, in one embodiment, the methods 400, 410 can include the use of a power drill 416 or power impact driver 416 that can apply torque to the bolt 414, such as to push the wedge 406 into or out of the link 404. In another embodiment, a manual wrench can be used. In another example, the bolt 414 can be configured to be turned by hand, such as by incorporating a lever, wheel, or any other mechanism suitable for allowing the bolt 414 to be turned by hand.

[0029] 5A-5B depict another embodiment of the present disclosure. Wedge (link wedge) 500 can be similar to wedges known in the art, such as those used with links or link connectors in locomotive hand brake systems. Wedge 500 can include ears 502 and pins 504. In another embodiment, wedge 500 can include a wedge first end 502 and a second wedge end 504. In one embodiment, at least a portion of wedge 500 between ears 502 can fit within or contact a driver groove of a wedge driver tool in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In another embodiment, ears 502 can prevent the wedge from being pushed too far into a link or hammer link or link connector. In another embodiment, one or more pins 504 can guide wedge 500 into a link groove or wedge opening in a link connector, such as when wedge 500 is being pushed into a link. In one example, the link (link connector) 506 can include a wedge 500, a first U-shaped member 508, and a second U-shaped member 510. In one embodiment, the first and second U-shaped members 508, 510 can be coupled to one another, as seen in FIG. 5B . For example, each of the U-shaped members 508, 510 can be configured to correspond to the other, such as by including a cavity 512 that can receive a spool 514 of the other U-shaped member. In another example, each of the U-shaped members 508, 510 can be configured to receive the wedge 500 via a wedge opening.

[0030] In one embodiment, each of the U-shaped members 508, 510 may include a pair of longitudinal flutes configured to align with the longitudinal flutes of the other U-shaped member. For example, the U-shaped members 508, 510 may include longitudinal flutes that traverse the cavity 512 at the inner circumference of the link connector 506. In one embodiment, the longitudinal axes of the flutes may be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the link connector 506. In another example, the U-shaped members 508, 510 may include or further include longitudinal flutes that traverse the spool 514 at the inner circumference of the link connector 506. In one embodiment, the longitudinal axes of the flutes may be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the link connector 506. Preferably, each of the U-shaped members 508, 510 may include a pair of longitudinal flutes. In one embodiment, each of the U-shaped members 508, 510 can be configured such that each of its longitudinal grooves aligns with a longitudinal groove on the other U-shaped member 508, 510. In this manner, when the U-shaped members 508, 510 are coupled together, the longitudinal grooves can form two grooves on the inner circumference of the link coupling 506. Preferably, the grooves can be located at the coupling points between the cavities 512 and the spools 514 of the U-shaped members 508, 510, respectively. In another embodiment, the grooves can be configured to receive wedges 500. For example, the wedges 500 can be pressed into the grooves of the U-shaped members 508, 510 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the force that the wedges 500 exert on the U-shaped members 508, 510 can secure the U-shaped members 508, 510 together. In another embodiment, the ears 502 of the wedge 500 may prevent the wedge 500 from being forced too far through the U-shaped members 508, 510 of the link connector.

[0031] In one embodiment, the wedge driver instruments and systems disclosed herein can be made of any suitable material. Preferably, the main section, main section cap, bolt, driver, spring, screw, and other components and members discussed herein can be made of metal, such as aluminum, steel, iron, copper, bronze, or any other metal or alloy thereof. In another embodiment, the instruments and systems herein can be made of any other non-metallic material suitable for enabling wedges to be driven, such as polymers, plastics, or wedges in linkages. In another embodiment, the components discussed herein can be made of the same or different materials. In another embodiment, the wedge driver instrument or system can be configured to be as light as possible while maintaining the strength and structural integrity necessary to drive the wedges. For example, the main section can be made of aluminum, while the main section cap, bolt, and driver can be made of steel.

[0032] The present disclosure achieves at least the following advantages:

[0033] 1. Improved safety of wedge pressing when installing hammer links.

[0034] 2. To facilitate installation and repair of chains or chain segments, such as in the hand brake system of a locomotive.

[0035] 3. To provide tools and methods for chain repair.

[0036] 4. Facilitates repair of the hand brake system of a locomotive without removing the chain from the system.

[0037] 5. Provide a wedge driver having a driver member stabilized against rotation about the longitudinal axis of the driver member.

[0038] 6. Provide a method for removing a wedge from a link connection that maintains the link connection in an attached state immediately after the wedge is removed, thereby mitigating or preventing violent separation of the link connection components.

[0039] 7. Facilitates axial wedging of the wedge in the linkage while preventing unwanted rotational movement at the driver-wedge contact point.

[0040] Nothing in this patent document should be read as implying that any particular element, step, or function may be a required or critical element required for inclusion in the scope of a claim. Furthermore, no claim is intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. 112(f) with respect to the appended claim or claim element unless the precise words "means for" or "step for" are expressly used in a particular claim, followed by a participial phrase identifying the function. Use of terms such as "mechanism," "module," "device," "unit," "component," "element," "member," "apparatus," "machine," "system," "processor," "processing unit," or "controller" within a claim, including but not limited to, may be understood and intended to refer to structures known to those skilled in the art, as further modified or enhanced by features of the claim itself, and is not intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

[0041] The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. For example, each of the novel structures described herein may be modified to suit particular local variations or requirements while retaining its basic configuration or structural relationships with one another, or while performing the same or similar functions as described herein. The present embodiments are therefore considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, to be established by the appended claims, rather than by the foregoing description. Accordingly, all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are intended to be embraced therein. Moreover, individual elements of the claims are neither well-understood, nor conventional, nor are they conventional. Instead, the claims are directed to the unconventional inventive concepts described herein.

Claims

1. A wedge driver comprising: a body having a first body end, a second body end, and a body opening disposed through the body from the first body end to the second body end; a first projection extending from the second main portion end; and a second projection extending from the second main end, the first projection and the second projection forming an opening 128 sized to receive a link; a driver having a first driver end, a second driver end, a channel disposed along at least a portion of the driver, a driver cap coupled to the first driver end, and an adapter coupled to the second driver end, the driver cap configured to prevent the driver from exiting the main portion, and the adapter configured to receive a wedge; a set member configured to prevent the driver from rotating about the driver's longitudinal axis and to engage the channel for movement of the driver through the main opening; a spring disposed about at least a portion of the driver and configured to exert a force on the driver to retract the driver into the main portion; a bolt having a first bolt end and a second bolt end, the bolt configured to push the driver through at least a portion of the main opening; a body cap removably coupled to the first body end, the body cap having a threaded bolt opening aligned with the body opening and configured to receive the bolt; Includes a wedge driver.

2. The wedge driver of claim 1 , wherein the driver is disposed within the main opening.

3. The wedge driver of claim 1 , wherein the first protrusion and the second protrusion each include a retaining member configured to retain a link coupling.

4. The wedge driver of claim 1 , wherein the driver cap prevents the driver from exiting the main opening through the threaded bolt opening.

5. The wedge driver of claim 1 , wherein the bolt pushes at least a portion of the driver out of the second body end through the body opening.

6. The wedge driver of claim 1 , wherein the main body opening includes a ledge adjacent the second main body end.

7. 7. The wedge driver of claim 6, wherein the spring compresses between the driver cap and the ledge when the bolt pushes at least a portion of the driver out of the second body end through the body opening.

8. 2. The wedge driver of claim 1, wherein the spring urges the driver cap through the main opening toward the first main end to return at least a portion of the driver back into the main opening after spring compression.

9. The wedge driver of claim 1 , wherein the adapter includes a groove for receiving at least a portion of a wedge.

10. The wedge driver of claim 1 , wherein the length between the first protrusion and the second protrusion is sized to receive a link coupler or a hammer link.

11. A method of operating a link wedge using a wedge driver according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising: receiving a link coupling between the first protrusion and the second protrusion of the wedge driver; Positioning a first end of a wedge in a groove of a driver; Positioning a second end of the wedge in a wedge opening of the link connector; engaging the set member in the channel of the driver to prevent the driver from rotating about a longitudinal axis of the driver; applying a torque to the bolt in a first direction to extend at least a portion of the driver out of the wedge driver to force the wedge into the wedge opening without rotating the wedge; A method comprising:

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