Gondola railroad car with clean-out assembly

Abstract

A gondola railroad car with a clean-out assembly that: takes into account gravity and makes the pushing of the debris out of the opening in the floor of the gondola car easier for the person of the gondola car; takes into account water flow due to gravity and that allows water to flow out the opening in the floor of the gondola car; that takes into account the environment by providing a limited predefined path for the debris that falls out of the opening in the floor of the gondola car and that can be collected in a suitable container outside of the gondola car; is completely or mostly under the floor of the gondola car to protect the door thereof from snow and ice build-up; and that includes additional protective structures that function to limit snow and ice build-up on the door of the clean-out assembly.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] The railroad industry employs a variety of different railroad cars for transporting different materials. Various known railroad cars that are configured to carry loose materials are often called “gondola railroad cars” or “gondola cars.”

[0002] Various known gondola cars include clean-out mechanisms that enable a person in the compartment of the gondola car to clean debris that is inside the empty gondola car (after the contents of the gondola car have been emptied).

[0003] Various manufacturers of gondola cars have employed clean-out mechanisms that are surprisingly fundamentally flawed in one or more manners. More specifically, certain gondola cars have a clean-out mechanism that is positioned in or adjacent to an opening in the side wall of the gondola railroad car (rather than in the floor of the gondola car) that are surprisingly fundamentally flawed in at least the following manners.

[0004] First, such side wall clean-out mechanisms require the person in the gondola car to move debris through the opening in the side wall and out of the side of the gondola car. Such mechanisms do not take into account gravity and make the pushing of the debris out of the opening in the side wall more difficult for the person.

[0005] Second, such side wall clean-out mechanisms do not take into account water flow due to gravity. In various instances, water mixed with such debris can remain on the floor such as in a pocket in the floor of the gondola car instead of flowing out of such an opening in the side wall.

[0006] Third, such side wall clean-out mechanisms do not take into account the environment. Specifically, when the debris is push out of the opening in the side wall, the debris scatters along the railroad tracks. In other words, various manufacturers of gondola railroad cars have not taken into account the environmental effects of simply pushing debris out of the side wall of the gondola car. Such debris can end up scattered along railroad tracks throughout the country such as in rail yards and at other locations where the materials held by such gondola cars are unloaded and cleaned.

[0007] Fourth, such side wall clean-out mechanisms include a door that can become stuck for one or more reasons such as but not limited to snow and / or ice formed on the door of the clean-out mechanism. In other words, by being positioned on the side wall (rather than under the floor of the gondola car), the side wall clean-out mechanism is subjected more build-up of snow and / or ice.

[0008] Accordingly, there is a need for gondola railroad cars with clean-out mechanisms that overcome these fundamental issues, that provides a clean-out mechanism that makes the job of the person easier, and that is more environmentally considerate.SUMMARY

[0009] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a gondola railroad car with a clean-out assembly that overcomes the above issues. Various other embodiments of the present disclosure provide a clean-out assembly for a gondola railroad car that overcomes the above issues.

[0010] More specifically, the present disclosure overcomes these issues in part by providing a clean-out assembly that: (1) takes into account gravity and makes the pushing of the debris out of the opening in the floor of the gondola car easier for the person of the gondola car; (2) takes into account water flow due to gravity and that allows water to flow out the opening in the floor of the gondola car; (3) that takes into account the environment by providing a limited predefined path for the debris that falls out of the opening in the floor of the gondola car and that can be collected in a suitable container outside of the gondola car (instead of scattering along the railroad tracks); (4) is completely or mostly under the floor of the gondola car to protect the door thereof from snow and ice build-up; and (5) that includes additional protective structures that function to limit snow and ice build-up on the door of the clean-out assembly.

[0011] Other objects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from the following detailed disclosure, taken in conjunction with the accompanying sheets of drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0012] FIG. 1A is a top perspective view of a gondola railroad car of one example embodiment of the present disclosure, where the gondola railroad car can include one or more clean-out assemblies in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 1B is a fragmentary top view of the gondola railroad car of FIG. 1.

[0014] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a clean-out assembly for a gondola car in accordance with one example embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the clean-out assembly is locked and closed.

[0015] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 2A, wherein the clean-out assembly is locked and closed.

[0016] FIG. 2C is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 2A, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and closed.

[0017] FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 2A, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and opened.

[0018] FIG. 2E is an exploded perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 2A.

[0019] FIG. 2F is a top perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 2A.

[0020] FIG. 2G is a bottom perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 2A.

[0021] FIG. 2H is a first bottom exploded perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 2A.

[0022] FIG. 2I is a second bottom exploded perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 2A.

[0023] FIG. 2J is fragmentary top perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 2A mounted to a gondola car shown with the door opened.

[0024] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a clean-out assembly for a gondola car in accordance with another example embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the clean-out assembly is locked and closed.

[0025] FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 3A, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and opened.

[0026] FIG. 3C is fragmentary top perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 3A mounted to a gondola car shown with the door opened.

[0027] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a clean-out assembly for a gondola car in accordance with another example embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the clean-out assembly is locked and closed.

[0028] FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 4A, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and closed.

[0029] FIG. 4C is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 4A, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and opened.

[0030] FIG. 4D is an exploded perspective view of part of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 4A.

[0031] FIG. 4E is a top perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 4A.

[0032] FIG. 4F is a bottom perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 4A.

[0033] FIG. 4G is an exploded perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 4A.

[0034] FIG. 4H is a bottom exploded perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 4A.

[0035] FIG. 4I is fragmentary top perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 4A mounted to a gondola car shown with the door opened.

[0036] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a clean-out assembly for a gondola car in accordance with another one example embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the clean-out assembly is locked and closed.

[0037] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 5A, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and closed.

[0038] FIG. 5C is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 5A, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and opened.

[0039] FIG. 5D is a first exploded perspective view of part of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 5A.

[0040] FIG. 5E is a second exploded perspective view of part of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 5A.

[0041] FIG. 5F is a top perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 5A.

[0042] FIG. 5G is a bottom perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 5A.

[0043] FIG. 5H is a top exploded perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 5A.

[0044] FIG. 5I is a bottom exploded perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 5A.

[0045] FIG. 5J is fragmentary top perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 5A mounted to a gondola car shown with the door opened.

[0046] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a clean-out assembly for a gondola car in accordance with another example embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and closed.

[0047] FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 6A, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and opened.

[0048] FIG. 6C is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 6A, wherein the clean-out assembly is locked and closed, but shown with certain parts removed.

[0049] FIG. 6D is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 6A, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and closed, but shown with certain parts removed.

[0050] FIG. 6E is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 6A, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and opened, but shown with certain parts removed.

[0051] FIG. 6F is a first exploded perspective view of certain parts of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 6A.

[0052] FIG. 6G is a second exploded perspective view of certain parts of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 6A.

[0053] FIG. 6H is a top perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 6A.

[0054] FIG. 6I is a bottom perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 6A.

[0055] FIG. 6J is a top exploded perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 6A.

[0056] FIG. 6K is a bottom exploded perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 6A.

[0057] FIG. 6L is fragmentary top perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 6A mounted to a gondola car shown with the door opened.

[0058] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a clean-out assembly for a gondola car in accordance with another example embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the clean-out assembly is locked and closed.

[0059] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 7A, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and closed.

[0060] FIG. 7C is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 7A, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and opened.

[0061] FIG. 7D is an exploded perspective view of part of the clean-out assembly with the door removed of FIG. 7A.

[0062] FIG. 7E is another exploded perspective view of part of the clean-out assembly with the door removed of FIG. 7A.

[0063] FIG. 7F is a top perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly with the door removed of FIG. 7A.

[0064] FIG. 7G is a bottom perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 7A.

[0065] FIG. 7H is an exploded perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 7A.

[0066] FIG. 7I is a bottom exploded perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 7A.

[0067] FIG. 7J is fragmentary top perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 7A mounted to a gondola car shown with the door opened.

[0068] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a clean-out assembly for a gondola car in accordance with another example embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the clean-out assembly is locked and closed.

[0069] FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 8A, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and closed.

[0070] FIG. 8C is a perspective view of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 8A, wherein the clean-out assembly is unlocked and opened.

[0071] FIG. 8D is a first exploded perspective view of part of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 8A.

[0072] FIG. 8E is a second exploded perspective view of part of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 8A.

[0073] FIG. 8F is a top perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 8A.

[0074] FIG. 8G is a bottom perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 8A.

[0075] FIG. 8H is a top exploded perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 8A.

[0076] FIG. 8I is a bottom exploded perspective view of the door of the clean-out assembly of FIG. 8A.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0077] While the features, devices, and apparatus described herein may be embodied in various forms, the drawings show and the specification describe certain exemplary and non-limiting embodiments. Not all of the components shown in the drawings and described in the specification may be required, and certain implementations may include additional, different, or fewer components. Variations in the arrangement and type of the components; the shapes, sizes, and materials of the components; and the manners of connections of the components may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims. Unless otherwise indicated, any directions referred to in the specification reflect the orientations of the components shown in the corresponding drawings and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. Further, terms that refer to mounting methods, such as coupled, mounted, connected, and the like, are not intended to be limited to direct mounting methods but should be interpreted broadly to include indirect and operably coupled, mounted, connected and like mounting methods. This specification is intended to be taken as a whole and interpreted in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure and as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0078] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a gondola railroad car with one or more clean-out assemblies. Various other embodiments of the present disclosure provide a clean-out assembly for a gondola railroad car.

[0079] For purposes of description of the components of the example gondola railroad car described herein, the longitudinal direction is generally used to describe a direction of travel of or the length of the gondola railroad car, and the transverse direction is generally used to describe a direction lateral or perpendicular to the direction of travel of the gondola railroad car.

[0080] Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate certain components of an example gondola railroad car 20 of an example embodiment of the present disclosure. This gondola railroad car 20 includes: (1) a frame 30; (2) spaced apart trucks (not shown) configured to support the frame 30; and (3) a plurality of sets of wheels (partially shown) that respectively support the trucks. The gondola railroad car 20 includes a containment structure including: (4) a floor 50 connected to and supported by the frame 30; (5) a first side wall 60 connected to and extending upwardly from the floor 50; (6) a spaced-apart second side wall 70 connected to and extending upwardly from the floor 50; (7) a first end wall 80 connected to the floor 50, the first side wall 60, and the second side wall 70; and (8) a spaced-apart second end wall 90 connected to the floor 50, the first side wall 60, and the second side wall 70. The gondola railroad car 20 includes one or more openings in the floor 50 and one or more clean-out assemblies for such opening and connected to the floor 50 such as described below. The present disclosure describes various different embodiments of the clean-out assembly that can each be connected to the floor of a gondola car.

[0081] In various embodiments of the present disclosure, none of the parts of the clean-out assembly are connected to any side wall of the gondola car.

[0082] In various embodiments of the present disclosure, only part of the locking mechanism is connected to a side sill of the gondola car.

[0083] FIGS. 2A to 2J show an example clean-out assembly 2000 in accordance with the present disclosure. The clean-out assembly 2000 includes: (1) a fixed door support 2100; (2) a movable door lock 2200; and (3) a movable door 2500. These components are made of steel but can be made from other suitable materials in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0084] Generally, the door support 2100 is configured to be fixedly connected to the floor 50 of the gondola car and is configured to support the door 2500 adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car that is adjacent to a side wall 60 of the gondola car. The door lock 2200 is configured to lock the door 2500 in a closed position and to be unlocked to enable the door 2500 to be opened. The door 2500 is moveable from a closed position to an open position. In the open position, part of the door 2500 functions as a ramp 2600 that direct debris that moves through the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car.

[0085] More specifically, the door support 2100 includes: (1) a first support 2110; (2) a second support 2130 spaced-apart from the first support 2110; (3) a door stop 2150 connected to and extending between the first support 2110 and the second support 2130; and (4) a lock stop 2180 connected to one of the supports and specifically the first support 2110 in this example embodiment.

[0086] The first support 2110 includes a first panel 2112 having: (1) bottom, top, front, and back sections (not labeled); (2) bottom, top, front, and back edges (not labeled); and (3) inner and outer surfaces (not labeled). The first panel 2112 includes a first interior edge 2122 that defines a hinge receipt opening 2124 configured to receive part of the first end of the hinge 2800 of the door 2500 as further described below. The first support 2110 and specifically the first panel 2112 is configured to support the hinge 2800. The first panel 2112 also includes a first interior edge 2126 that defines a lock receipt slot 2128 configured such that part of the door lock 2200 can move into, through, and out of the first panel 2112. The top edge of the first panel 2112 is configured to be fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the floor 50 of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. The first support 2110 and specifically the first panel 2112 is configured to be attached to the floor 50 by welding or another suitable mechanism.

[0087] Similarly, the second support 2130 includes a second panel 2132 having: (1) bottom, top, front, and back sections (not labeled); (2) bottom, top, front, and back edges (not labeled); and (3) inner and outer surfaces (not labeled). The second panel 2132 includes a first interior edge 2142 that defines a hinge receipt opening 2144 configured to receive part of the second end of the hinge 2800 of the door 2500 as further described below. The second support 2130 and specifically second panel 2132 is configured to support the hinge 2800. The second panel 2132 also includes a first interior edge 2146 that defines a lock receipt slot 2148 configured such that part of the door lock 2200 can move into, through, and out of the second panel 2132. The top edge of the second panel 2132 is configured to be fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the floor 50 of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. The second support 2110 and specifically the second panel 2132 is configured to be attached to the floor 50 by welding or another suitable mechanism.

[0088] The door stop 2150 extends between and is fixedly connected to the respective inner surfaces of the first and second panels of the first and second supports 2110 and 2130. The door stop 2150 maintains the first and second panels 2112 and 2132 at the predefined distance apart such that the door 2500 can move downwardly from the closed position shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C to the open position shown in FIG. 2D. The door stop 2150 also stops the downward pivoting of the door 2500 such that in the open position shown in FIG. 2D, the door 2500 is between the first and second panels 2112 and 2132 and functions with these panels 2112 and 2132 of the supports 2110 and 2130 to define a chute 2900 for the debris that moves through the opening 52 in the floor 50. It should also be appreciated that the panels 2112 and 2132 of the supports 2110 and 2130 protect the door 2500 from snow and ice build-up (in addition to the protection provided by the floor 50 of the gondola car).

[0089] The lock stop 2180 is fixedly connected to the first support 2110 and particularly the outer surface of the first panel 2112 of the first support 2110. Alternatively, the lock stop 2180 can be fixedly connected to the second support 2130 and particularly the outer surface of the second panel 2132 of the second support 2130. The lock stop 2180 prevents the complete removal of the door lock 2200 when the door lock 2200 is unlocked.

[0090] The door 2500 includes: (1) a ramp 2600; (2) a ramp support 2700 fixedly connected to the bottom of the ramp 2600; (3) a hinge connector 2750 fixedly connected to the bottom of the ramp 2600; and (4) a hinge 2800 fixedly connected to the bottom section of the hinge connector 2750.

[0091] More specifically, the ramp 2600 includes: (1) upper and lower surfaces (not labeled); and (2) front, back, first side, and second side edges (not labeled). The ramp 2600 is movable to a first closed position shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C, and in that closed position is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to fit within the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car to close that opening 52. The ramp 2600 is movable and specifically pivotable about the hinge 2800 to a second open position shown in FIG. 2D, and in that open position is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to fit between the first and second panels 2112 and 2132 to form the chute 2900 with such panels that direct the debris that falls through the opening 52. The ramp 2600 thus partially functions as a floor closure member and partially functions as a debris director. It should be appreciated that the chute 2900 directs debris in a manner that the debris can be collected in a suitable container (instead of just being spread along the railroad tracks). In alternative embodiments, one or more of the supports 2110 and 2130 can include suitable hooks or hangers or openings for hanging hooks or hangers that enable a suitable container to be removably attached to these members to collect any debris that moves through the opening and out of the chute 2900.

[0092] The ramp support 2700 includes a U-shaped support member 2704 that includes walls 2706, 2708, and 2710, wherein walls 2706 and 2710 are fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the ramp 2600. The ramp support also includes inner member 2712 that in positioned in the support member 2704 such that the support member 2704 and the inner member 2712 define a lock receiving channel 2714 through which the lock 2200 can move and can be positioned in to support the ramp support 2700 and the ramp 2600 in the closed position as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B.

[0093] The hinge connector 2750 includes a first section 2754 and a second section 2758 that extends transversely from the first section 2754. The first section 2754 is fixedly connected to the hinge 2800. The second section 2758 is fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the ramp 2600. The hinge connector 2750 thus fixedly connects the hinge 2800 to the ramp 2600.

[0094] The hinge 2800 in this example is a solid cylindrical member with that is fixedly connected to the ramp 2600 by the first section 2754 of the hinge connector 2750. The opposite end parts of the hinge 2800 are respectively positioned in and configured to rotate in: (1) the hinge receipt opening 2124 defined by the first panel 2112 of the first support 2110; and (2) the hinge receipt opening 2144 defined by the second panel 2132 of the second support 2130. These first and second supports 2110 and 2130 thus support the hinge 2800, the hinge connector 2750, the ramp support 2700, and the ramp 2600. Rotation of the hinge 2800 relative to the first and second supports 2110 and 2130 enable the door 2500 to move to the closed position and to the open positions.

[0095] The door lock 2200 includes: (1) a central arm 2220; (2) a first locking hand 2240 fixedly connected to and extending transversely from a first end of the central arm 2220; and (3) a second locking hand 2260 fixedly connected to and extending transversely from an opposite second end of the central arm 2220.

[0096] The door lock 2200 is configured to be in a first position shown in FIG. 2A wherein: (1) the first locking hand 2240 is adjacent to the outer surface of the first support 2110; (2) the central arm 2220 extends through the lock receiving channel 2714 of the ramp support 2700; and (3) the second locking hand 2260 is adjacent the outer surface of the second support 2130. In this position the door lock 2200 supports the door 2500 in the closed position and maintains the door 2500 in that closed position.

[0097] The door lock 2200 is configured to be in a second position shown in FIG. 2B wherein the door lock 2200 has been rotated 90 degrees such that: (1) the first locking hand 2240 is adjacent to the lock receipt slot 2128 of the first support 2110; (2) the central arm 2220 extends through the lock receiving channel 2714 of the ramp support 2700; and (3) the second locking hand 2260 is adjacent the lock receipt slot 2148 of the second support 2130. In this position, the door lock 2200 still supports the door 2500 in the closed position and maintains the door 2500 in that closed position but is ready to be moved to unlock the door 2500.

[0098] The door lock 2200 is configured to be in a third position shown in FIG. 2C wherein the door lock 2200 has been removed from the second support 2130 and the ramp support 2700 such that the ramp 2600 can move downwardly. In this position, the door lock 2200 does not support the door 2500 and the door 2500 moves downwardly as shown in FIG. 2D.

[0099] It should be appreciated that the positions shown in FIGS. 2C and 2D would happen in rapid succession.

[0100] It should also be appreciated that the lock stop 2180 prevents complete removal of the lock 2200.

[0101] It should also be appreciated that to move the door 2500 from the open position to the closed position, the person would need to move the door upwardly to the closed position and then re-insert the lock 2200.

[0102] It should further be appreciated that this clean-out assembly 2000: (1) takes into account gravity and makes the pushing of the debris out of the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car easier for the person of the gondola car; (2) takes into account water flow due to gravity and that allows water to flow out the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car; (3) that takes into account the environment by providing a limited predefined path in the chute 2900 for the debris that falls out of the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car to be collected in a suitable container outside of the gondola car (instead of scattering along the railroad tracks); (4) is completely under the floor 50 of the gondola car to protect the door 2500 thereof from snow and ice build-up; and (5) that includes additional protective structures that function to limit snow and ice build-up on the door 2500 of the clean-out assembly 2000.

[0103] FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C show another example clean-out assembly 3000 in accordance with the present disclosure. This clean-out assembly 3000 is substantially similar to the clean-out assembly 2000 except for the configuration of the door 3500 and specifically the configuration of the ramp support 2700 of the door 2500.

[0104] The clean-out assembly 3000 includes: (1) a fixed door support 3100; (2) a movable door lock 3200; and (3) a movable door 3500. These components are made of steel, but can be made from other suitable materials in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0105] Generally, the door support 3210 is configured to be fixedly connected to the floor 50 of the gondola car and is configured to support the door 3500 adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car that is adjacent to a side wall 60 of the gondola car. The door lock 3200 is configured to lock the door 3500 in a closed position and to be unlocked to enable the door 3500 to be opened. The door 3500 is moveable from a closed to an open position. In the open position, part of the door 3500 functions as a ramp 3600 that direct debris that moves through an opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car.

[0106] More specifically, the door support 3100 includes: (1) a first support 3110; (2) a second support 3130 spaced-apart from the first support 3110; (3) a door stop 3150 connected to and extending between the first support 3110 and the second support 3130; and (4) a lock stop 3180 connected to one of the supports and specifically the first support 3110 in this example embodiment.

[0107] The first support 3110 includes a first panel 3112 having: (1) bottom, top, front, and back sections (not labeled); (2) bottom, top, front, and back edges (not labeled); and (3) inner and outer surfaces (not labeled). The first panel 3112 includes a first interior edge 3122 that defines a hinge receipt opening 3124 configured to receive part of the first end of the hinge 3800 of the door 3500 as further described below. The first support 3110 and specifically the first panel 3112 is configured to support the hinge 3800. The first panel 3112 also includes a first interior edge 3126 that defines a lock receipt slot 3128 configured such that part of the door lock 3200 can move into, through, and out of the first panel 3112. The top edge of the first panel 3112 is configured to be fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the floor 50 of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. The first support 3110 and specifically the first panel 3112 is configured to be attached to the floor 50 by welding or another suitable mechanism.

[0108] Similarly, the second support 3130 includes a second panel 3132 having: (1) bottom, top, front, and back sections (not labeled); (2) bottom, top, front, and back edges (not labeled); and (3) inner and outer surfaces (not labeled). The second panel 3132 includes a first interior edge 3142 that defines a hinge receipt opening 3144 configured to receive part of the second end of the hinge 3800 of the door 3500 as further described below. The second support 3130 and specifically second panel 3132 is configured to support the hinge 3800. The second panel 3132 also includes a first interior edge 3146 that defines a lock receipt slot 3148 configured such that part of the door lock 3200 can move into, through, and out of the second panel 3132. The top edge of the second panel 3132 is configured to be fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the floor 50 of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. The second support 3110 and specifically the second panel 2132 is configured to be attached to the floor 50 by welding or another suitable mechanism.

[0109] The door stop 3150 extends between and is fixedly connected to the respective inner surfaces of the first and second panels of the first and second supports 3110 and 3130. The door stop 3150 maintains the first and second panels 3112 and 3132 at the predefined distance apart such that the door 3500 can move downwardly from the closed position shown in FIG. 3A to the open position shown in FIG. 3B. The door stop 3150 also stops the downward pivoting of the door 3500 such that in the open position shown in FIG. 3B, the door 3500 is between the first and second panels 3112 and 3132 and functions with these panels 3112 and 3132 of the supports 3110 and 3130 to define a chute 3900 for the debris that moves through the opening 52 in the floor 50. It should also be appreciated that the panels 3112 and 3132 of the supports 3110 and 3130 protect the door 3500 from snow and ice build-up (in addition to the protection provided by the floor 50 of the gondola car).

[0110] The lock stop 3180 is fixedly connected to the first support 3110 and particularly the outer surface of the first panel 3112 of the first support 3110. Alternatively, the lock stop 3180 can be fixedly connected to the second support 3130 and particularly the outer surface of the second panel 3132 of the second support 3130. The lock stop 3180 prevents the complete removal of the door lock 3200 when the door lock 3200 is unlocked.

[0111] The door 3500 includes: (1) a ramp 3600; (2) a ramp support 3700 fixedly connected to the bottom of the ramp 3600; (3) a hinge connector (not shown) fixedly connected to the bottom of the ramp 3600; and (4) a hinge 3800 fixedly connected to the bottom section of the hinge connector.

[0112] More specifically, the ramp 3600 includes: (1) upper and lower surfaces (not labeled); and (2) front, back, first side, and second side edges (not labeled). The ramp 3600 is movable to a first closed position shown in FIG. 3A, and in that closed position is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to fit within the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car to close that opening 52. The ramp 3600 is movable and specifically pivotable about the hinge 3800 to a second open position shown in FIG. 3B, and in that open position is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to fit between the first and second panels 3112 and 3132 to form the chute 3900 with such panels that direct the debris that falls through the opening 52. The ramp 3600 thus partially functions as a floor closure member and partially functions as a debris director. It should be appreciated that the chute 3900 directs debris in a manner that the debris can be collected in a suitable container (instead of just being spread along the railroad tracks). In alternative embodiments, one or more of the supports 3110 and 3130 can include suitable hooks or hangers or openings for hanging hooks or hangers that enable a suitable container to be removably attached to these members to collect any debris that moves through the opening and out of the chute 3900.

[0113] The ramp support 3700 includes walls 3710, 3720, and 3730 that are each fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the ramp 3600. Each of these walls defines a lock receiving channel (not labeled) through which the lock 3200 can move and can be positioned in to support the ramp support 3700 and the ramp 3600 in the closed position as shown in FIG. 3A.

[0114] The hinge connector (not shown) includes a first section (not shown) and a second section (not shown) that extends transversely from the first section. The first section is fixedly connected to the hinge 3800. The second section is fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the ramp 3600. The hinge connector thus fixedly connects the hinge 3800 to the ramp 3600.

[0115] The hinge 3800 in this example is a solid cylindrical member with that is fixedly connected to the ramp 3600 by the first section of the hinge connector. The opposite end parts of the hinge 3800 are respectively positioned in and configured to rotate in: (1) the hinge receipt opening 3124 defined by the first panel 3112 of the first support 3110; and (2) the hinge receipt opening 3144 defined by the second panel 3132 of the second support 3130. These first and second supports 3110 and 3130 thus support the hinge 3800, the hinge connector 3750, the ramp support 3700, and the ramp 3600. Rotation of the hinge 3800 relative to the first and second supports 3110 and 3130 enable the door 3500 to move to the closed position and to the open positions.

[0116] The door lock 3200 includes: (1) a central arm 3220; (2) a first locking hand (not shown) fixedly connected to and extending transversely from a first end of the central arm 32220; and (3) a second locking hand 3260 fixedly connected to and extending transversely from an opposite second end of the central arm 3220.

[0117] The door lock 3200 is configured to be in a first position shown in FIG. 3A wherein: (1) the first locking hand is adjacent to the outer surface of the first support 3110; (2) the central arm 3220 extends through the lock receiving channels of the ramp support 3700; and (3) the second locking hand 3260 is adjacent the outer surface of the second support 3130. In this position the door lock 3200 supports the door 3500 in the closed position and maintains the door 3500 in that closed position.

[0118] The door lock 3200 is configured to be in a second position (not shown) wherein the door lock 3200 has been rotated 90 degrees such that: (1) the first locking hand is adjacent to the lock receipt slot 3128 of the first support 3110; (2) the central arm 3220 extends through the lock receiving channels of the ramp support 3700; and (3) the second locking hand 3260 is adjacent the lock receipt slot 3148 of the second support 3130. In this position, the door lock 3200 still supports the door 3500 in the closed position and maintains the door 3500 in that closed position but is ready to be moved to unlock the door 3500.

[0119] The door lock 3200 is configured to be in a third position (not shown) in wherein the door lock 3200 has been removed from the second support 3130 and the ramp support 3700 such that the ramp 3600 can move downwardly. In this position, the door lock 3200 does not support the door 3500 and the door 3500 moves downwardly as shown in FIG. 3B.

[0120] It should also be appreciated that the lock stop 3180 prevents complete removal of the lock 3200.

[0121] It should also be appreciated that to move the door 3500 from the open position to the closed position, the person would need to move the door upwardly to the closed position and then re-insert the lock 3200.

[0122] It should further be appreciated that this clean-out assembly 3000: (1) takes into account gravity and makes the pushing of the debris out of the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car easier for the person of the gondola car; (2) takes into account water flow due to gravity and that allows water to flow out the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car; (3) that takes into account the environment by providing a limited predefined path in the chute 3900 for the debris that falls out of the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car to be collected in a suitable container outside of the gondola car (instead of scattering along the railroad tracks); (4) is completely under the floor 50 of the gondola car to protect the door 3500 thereof from snow and ice build-up; and (5) that includes additional protective structures that function to limit snow and ice build-up on the door 3500 of the clean-out assembly 3000.

[0123] FIGS. 4A to 4I show another example clean-out assembly 4000 in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0124] The clean-out assembly 4000 includes: (1) a fixed door support 4100; (2) a movable door lock 4200; and (3) a movable door 4500. These components are made of steel, but can be made from other suitable materials in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0125] Generally, the door support 4100 is configured to be fixedly connected to the floor 50 of the gondola car and is configured to support the door 4500 adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car that is adjacent to a side wall 60 of the gondola car. The door lock 4200 is configured to lock the door 4500 in a closed position and to be unlocked to enable the door 4500 to be opened. The door 4500 is moveable from a closed position to an open position. In the open position, part of the door 4500 functions as a ramp 4600 that direct debris that moves through an opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car.

[0126] More specifically, the door support 4100 includes: (1) a first support 4110; (2) a second support 4130 spaced-apart from the first support 4110; and (3) a door stop 4150 connected to and extending between the first support 4110 and the second support 4130. This example embodiment does not include a lock stop but in alternative embodiments can include a suitable lock stop.

[0127] The first support 4110 includes a first panel 4112 having: (1) bottom, top, front, and back sections (not labeled); (2) bottom, top, front, and back edges (not labeled); and (3) inner and outer surfaces (not labeled). The first panel 4112 includes a first interior edge 4122 that defines a hinge receipt opening 4124 configured to receive part of the first end of the hinge 4800 of the door 4500 as further described below. The first support 4110 and specifically the first panel 4112 is configured to support the hinge 4800. The first panel 4112 also includes a first interior edge 4126 that defines a lock receipt slot 4128 configured such that part of the door lock 4200 can move into, through, and out of the first panel 4112. The top edge of the first panel 4112 is configured to be fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the floor 50 of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. The first support 4110 and specifically the first panel 4112 is configured to be attached to the floor 50 by welding or another suitable mechanism.

[0128] Similarly, the second support 4130 includes a second panel 4132 having: (1) bottom, top, front, and back sections (not labeled); (2) bottom, top, front, and back edges (not labeled); and (3) inner and outer surfaces (not labeled). The second panel 4132 includes a first interior edge 4142 that defines a hinge receipt opening 4144 configured to receive part of the second end of the hinge 4800 of the door 4500 as further described below. The second support 4130 and specifically second panel 4132 is configured to support the hinge 4800. The second panel 4132 also includes a first interior edge 4146 that defines a lock receipt slot 4148 configured such that part of the door lock 4200 can move into, through, and out of the second panel 4132. The top edge of the second panel 4132 is configured to be fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the floor 50 of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. The second support 4110 and specifically the second panel 4132 is configured to be attached to the floor 50 by welding or another suitable mechanism.

[0129] The door stop 4150 extends between and is fixedly connected to the respective inner surfaces of the first and second panels of the first and second supports 4110 and 4130. The door stop 4150 maintains the first and second panels 4112 and 4132 at the predefined distance apart such that the door 4500 can move downwardly from the closed position shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B to the open position shown in FIG. 4C. The door stop 4150 also stops the downward pivoting of the door 4500 such that in the open position shown in FIG. 4C, the door 4500 is between the first and second panels 4112 and 4132 and functions with these panels 4112 and 4132 of the supports 4110 and 4130 to define a chute 4900 for the debris that moves through the opening 52 in the floor 50. It should also be appreciated that the panels 4112 and 4132 of the supports 4110 and 4130 protect the door 4500 from snow and ice build-up (in addition to the protection provided by the floor 50 of the gondola car).

[0130] The door 4500 includes: (1) a ramp 4600 including a closure member 4620 and a base 4650; (2) a ramp support 4700 fixedly connected to the bottom of the based 4650 of the ramp 4600; (3) a hinge connector 4750 fixedly connected to the bottom of the base 4650 of the ramp 4600; and (4) a hinge 4800 fixedly connected to the bottom section of the hinge connector 4750.

[0131] The closure member 4620 of the ramp 4600 includes: (1) upper and lower surfaces (not labeled); and (2) front, back, first side, and second side edges (not labeled). The closure member 4620 is moveable as part of the ramp 4600 to a first closed position shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, and in that closed position is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to fit within the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car to close that opening 52. The closure member 4620 is fixedly attached to the top of the base 4650.

[0132] The base 4650 of the ramp 4600 is larger than the closure member 4620 and includes: (1) upper and lower surfaces (not labeled); and (2) front, back, first side, and second side edges (not labeled). The base 4650 is movable as part of the ramp 4600 to a first closed position shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, and in that closed position is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured be adjacent to the floor 50 of the gondola car.

[0133] The ramp 4600 is movable and specifically pivotable about the hinge 4800 to a second open position shown in FIG. 4C, and in that open position is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to fit between the first and second panels 4112 and 4132 to form the chute 4900 with such panels that direct the debris that falls through the opening 52. The ramp 4600 thus partially functions as a floor closure member and partially functions as a debris director. It should be appreciated that the chute 4900 directs debris in a manner that the debris can be collected in a suitable container (instead of just being spread along the railroad tracks). In alternative embodiments, one or more of the supports 4110 and 4130 can include suitable hooks or hangers or openings for hanging hooks or hangers that enable a suitable container to be removably attached to these members to collect any debris that moves through the opening and out of the chute 4900.

[0134] The ramp support 4700 includes a somewhat U-shaped support member 4704 that includes section 4706, 4708, and 4710, wherein sections 4708 and 4710 are fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the base 4650 of the ramp 4600. The U-shaped support member 4704 of the ramp support 4700 functions as a handle for the ramp 4600. The handle can be otherwise suitably shaped, sized, and configured in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0135] The ramp support 4700 also includes inner member 4712 that is fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the base 4650 of the ramp 4600 and partially defines a lock receiving channel 4714 through which the lock 4200 can move and can be positioned in to support the ramp 4600 in the closed position as shown in FIG. 4A.

[0136] The hinge connector 4750 includes a first section 4754 and a second section 4758 that extends transversely from the first section 4754. The first section 4754 is fixedly connected to the hinge 4800. The second section 4758 is fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the based 4650 of the ramp 4600. The hinge connector 4750 thus fixedly connects the hinge 4800 to the ramp 4600.

[0137] The hinge 4800 in this example is a solid cylindrical member with that is fixedly connected to the ramp 4600 by the first section 4754 of the hinge connector 4750. The opposite end parts of the hinge 4800 are respectively positioned in and configured to rotate in: (1) the hinge receipt opening 4124 defined by the first panel 4112 of the first support 4110; and (2) the hinge receipt opening 4144 defined by the second panel 4132 of the second support 4130. These first and second supports 4110 and 4130 thus support the hinge 4800, the hinge connector 4750, the ramp support 4700, and the ramp 4600. Rotation of the hinge 4800 relative to the first and second supports 4110 and 4130 enable the door 2500 to move to the closed position and to the open positions.

[0138] The door lock 4200 includes an elongated member configured to be in a first position shown in FIG. 4A wherein the door lock 4200 extends through the lock receiving channel 4714 and supports the door 4500 in the closed position and maintains the door 4500 in that closed position.

[0139] The door lock 4200 is configured to be in a second position shown in FIG. 4B wherein the door lock 4200 has been removed supporting the ramp 4600 and such that the ramp 4600 can move downwardly. In this position, the door lock 4200 does not support the door 4500 and the door 4500 moves downwardly as shown in FIG. 4C. It should be appreciated that the positions shown in FIGS. 4B and 4C would happen in rapid succession.

[0140] It should also be appreciated that to move the door 4500 from the open position to the closed position, the person would need to move the door upwardly to the closed position and then re-insert the door lock 4200.

[0141] It should further be appreciated that this clean-out assembly 4000: (1) takes into account gravity and makes the pushing of the debris out of the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car easier for the person of the gondola car; (2) takes into account water flow due to gravity and that allows water to flow out the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car; (3) that takes into account the environment by providing a limited predefined path in the chute 4900 for the debris that falls out of the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car to be collected in a suitable container outside of the gondola car (instead of scattering along the railroad tracks); (4) is completely under the floor 50 of the gondola car to protect the door 4500 thereof from snow and ice build-up; and (5) that includes additional protective structures that function to limit snow and ice build-up on the door 4500 of the clean-out assembly 4000.

[0142] FIGS. 5A to 5J show another example clean-out assembly 5000 in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0143] The clean-out assembly 5000 includes: (1) a fixed door support 5100; (2) a movable door lock 5200; and (3) a movable door 5500. These components are made of steel, but can be made from other suitable materials in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0144] Generally, the door support 5100 is configured to be fixedly connected to the floor 50 of the gondola car and is configured to support the door 5500 adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car that is adjacent to a side wall 60 of the gondola car. The door lock 5200 is configured to lock the door 5500 in a closed position and to be unlocked to enable the door 5500 to be opened. The door 5500 is moveable from a closed position to an open position. In the open position, part of the door 5500 functions as a ramp 5600 that direct debris that moves through an opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car.

[0145] More specifically, the door support 5100 includes: (1) a first support 5110; (2) a first hinge support 5120; (2) a second support 5130 spaced-apart from the first support 5110; (4) a second hinge support 5140 spaced-apart from the first hinge support 5120; (5) a door stop 5150 connected to and extending between the first support 5110 and the second support 5130; and (6) a lock guide 5300 connected to one of the supports and specifically the first support 5110 in this example embodiment.

[0146] The first hinge support 5120 is generally U-shaped and configured to be fixedly connected to the floor 50 of the gondola car. The first hinge support 5120 includes a first interior edge 5122 that defines a hinge receipt opening 5124 configured to receive part of the first end of the hinge 5800 of the door 5500 as further described below. The first hinge support 5120 is configured to partially support the hinge 5800.

[0147] Similarly, the second hinge support 5140 is generally U-shaped and configured to be fixedly connected to the floor 50 of the gondola car. The second hinge support 5140 includes a first interior edge 5142 that defines a hinge receipt opening 5144 configured to receive part of the second end of the hinge 5800 of the door 5500 as further described below. The second hinge support 5140 is configured to partially support the hinge 5800.

[0148] The first support 5110 includes a first panel 5112 having: (1) bottom, top, front, and back sections (not labeled); (2) bottom, front, and back edges (not labeled); (3) an upper flange 5116; and (4) inner and outer surfaces (not labeled). The first panel 5112 includes an interior edge 5126 that defines a lock receipt slot 5128 configured such that part of the door lock 5200 can move into, through, and out of the first panel 5112. The upper flange 5116 of the first panel 5112 is configured to be fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the floor 50 of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. The first support 5110 and specifically the first panel 5112 is configured to be attached to the floor 50 by welding or another suitable mechanism.

[0149] Similarly, the second support 5130 includes a second panel 5132 having: (1) bottom, top, front, and back sections (not labeled); (2) bottom, front, and back edges (not labeled); (3) an upper flange 5136; and (4) inner and outer surfaces (not labeled). The second panel 5132 includes an interior edge 5146 that defines a lock receipt slot 5148 configured such that part of the door lock 5200 can move into, through, and out of the second panel 5132. The upper flange 5136 of the second panel 5132 is configured to be fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the floor 50 of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. The second support 5130 and specifically the second panel 5132 is configured to be attached to the floor 50 by welding or another suitable mechanism.

[0150] The door stop 5150 extends between and is fixedly connected to the respective inner surfaces of the first and second panels of the first and second supports 52110 and 5130. The door stop 5150 maintains the first and second panels 5112 and 5132 at the predefined distance apart such that the door 5500 can move downwardly from the closed position shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B to the open position shown in FIG. 5C. The door stop 5150 also stops the downward pivoting of the door 5500 such that in the open position shown in FIG. 5C, the door 5500 is between the first and second panels 5112 and 5132 and functions with these panels 5112 and 5132 of the supports 5110 and 5130 to define a chute 5900 for the debris that moves through the opening 52 in the floor 50. It should also be appreciated that the panels 5112 and 5132 of the supports 5110 and 5130 protect the door 5500 from snow and ice build-up (in addition to the protection provided by the floor 50 of the gondola car).

[0151] The lock guide 5300 is fixedly connected to the floor 50 adjacent to the support 5110 and the flange 5116. The lock guide 5300 guides the movement of the door lock 5200. More specifically, the lock guide 5300 includes a first guide member 5320 and a second guide member 5340 that is spaced-apart from the first guide member 5320. The first guide member 5320 and the second guide member 5340 define a slot between such members in which the door lock 5200 is moveable.

[0152] The door 5500 includes: (1) a ramp 5600; (2) a ramp support 5700 fixedly connected to the bottom of the ramp 6600; (3) a hinge connector 5750 fixedly connected to the bottom of the ramp 5600; and (4) a hinge 5800 fixedly connected to the bottom section of the hinge connector 5750.

[0153] More specifically, the ramp 5600 includes: (1) upper and lower surfaces (not labeled); and (2) front, back, first side, and second side edges (not labeled). The ramp 5600 is movable to a first closed position shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, and in that closed position is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to fit within the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car to close that opening 52. The ramp 5600 is movable and specifically pivotable about the hinge 5800 to a second open position shown in FIG. 5C, and in that open position is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to fit between the first and second panels 5112 and 5132 to form the chute 5900 with such panels that direct the debris that falls through the opening 52. The ramp 5600 thus partially functions as a floor closure member and partially functions as a debris director. It should be appreciated that the chute 5900 directs debris in a manner that the debris can be collected in a suitable container (instead of just being spread along the railroad tracks). In alternative embodiments, one or more of the supports 5110 and 5130 can include suitable hooks or hangers or openings for hanging hooks or hangers that enable a suitable container to be removably attached to these members to collect any debris that moves through the opening and out of the chute 5900.

[0154] The ramp support 5700 includes two spaced-apart supports 5720 and 5740 that are fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the ramp 5600. The supports 5720 and 5740 define a lock receiving channel 5730 through which the lock 5200 moves and is guided by the supports 5720 and 5740.

[0155] The hinge connector 5750 includes a first section 5754 and a second section 5758 that extends transversely from the first section 5754. The first section 5754 is fixedly connected to the hinge 5800. The second section 5758 is fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the ramp 5600. The hinge connector 5750 thus fixedly connects the hinge 5800 to the ramp 5600.

[0156] The hinge 5800 in this example is a solid cylindrical member with that is fixedly connected to the ramp 5600 by the first section 5754 of the hinge connector 5750. The opposite end parts of the hinge 5800 are respectively positioned in and configured to rotate in: (1) the hinge receipt opening 5124 defined by the first hinge support 5120; and (2) the hinge receipt opening 5144 defined by the second hinge support 5140. These first and second supports 5120 and 5140 thus support the hinge 5800, the hinge connector 5750, the ramp support 5700, and the ramp 5600. Rotation of the hinge 5800 relative to the first and second supports 5120 and 5140 enable the door 5500 to move to the closed position and to the open positions.

[0157] The door lock 5200 includes: (1) a central arm 5220; (2) a hand 5240 fixedly connected to and extending transversely from a first end of the central arm 5220; and (3) a finger 5250 fixedly connected to and extending transversely from the hand 5240.

[0158] The door lock 5200 is configured to be in a first position shown in FIG. 5A wherein: (1) the hand 5240 is adjacent to the outer surface of the first support 5110; (2) the central arm 5220 extends through the lock receiving channel 5730 and through the slots in both of the first support 5110 and the second support 5130; and (3) the finger 5250 is above the guides 5320 and 5340 adjacent the outer surface of the first support 5110. In this position, the door lock 5200 supports the door 5500 in the closed position and maintains the door 5500 in that closed position.

[0159] The door lock 5200 is configured to be in a second position shown in FIG. 5B wherein the door lock 5200 has been removed from the lock receiving channel 5730 and from the slots in both of the first support 5110 and the second support 5130 such that the ramp 5600 can move downwardly. In this position, the door lock 5200 does not support the door 5500 and the door 5500 moves downwardly as shown in FIG. 5C. It should be appreciated that the positions shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C would happen in rapid succession. It should also be appreciated that the finger 5250 engages the top surfaces of the door lock guide 5300 to prevent the downward movement of the door lock 5200.

[0160] It should also be appreciated that to move the door 5500 from the open position to the closed position, the person would need to move the door upwardly to the closed position and then re-insert the lock 5200.

[0161] It should further be appreciated that this clean-out assembly 5000: (1) takes into account gravity and makes the pushing of the debris out of the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car easier for the person of the gondola car; (2) takes into account water flow due to gravity and that allows water to flow out the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car; (3) that takes into account the environment by providing a limited predefined path in the chute 5900 for the debris that falls out of the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car to be collected in a suitable container outside of the gondola car (instead of scattering along the railroad tracks); (4) is completely under the floor 50 of the gondola car to protect the door 5500 thereof from snow and ice build-up; and (5) that includes additional protective structures that function to limit snow and ice build-up on the door 5500 of the clean-out assembly 5000.

[0162] FIGS. 6A to 6L show another example clean-out assembly 6000 in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0163] The clean-out assembly 6000 includes: (1) a fixed door support 6100; (2) a partially movable door lock 6200; and (3) a movable door 6500. These components are made of steel, but can be made from other suitable materials in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0164] Generally, the door support 6100 is configured to be fixedly connected to the floor 50 of the gondola car and is configured to support the door 6500 adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car that is adjacent to a side wall 60 of the gondola car. The door lock 6200 is configured to lock the door 6500 in a closed position and to be unlocked to enable the door 6500 to be opened. The door 6500 is moveable from a closed position to an open position. The door support 6100 includes a ramp that is separate from the door 6500 and that partially defines a chute 6900 that directs debris that moves through an opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car.

[0165] More specifically, the door support 6100 includes: (1) a first support 6110; (2) a second support 6130 spaced-apart from the first support 6110; (3) a door stop 6150 connected to and extending between the first support 6110 and the second support 6130; (4) a first door guide 6160 connected to the first support 6110 and the door stop 6150; (5) a second door guide 6170 connected to the second support 6130 and the door stop 6150; and (6) a ramp 6180 connected to the first support 6110 and the second support 6130.

[0166] The first support 6110 includes a first panel 6112 having: (1) bottom, top, front, and back sections (not labeled); (2) bottom, top, front, and back edges (not labeled); and (3) inner and outer surfaces (not labeled). The top edge of the first panel 6112 is configured to be fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the floor 50 of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. The first support 6110 and specifically the first panel 6112 is configured to be attached to the floor 50 by welding or another suitable mechanism.

[0167] The second support 6130 includes a second panel 6132 having: (1) bottom, top, front, and back sections (not labeled); (2) bottom, top, front, and back edges (not labeled); and (3) inner and outer surfaces (not labeled). The top edge of the second panel 6132 is configured to be fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the floor 50 of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. The second support 6130 and specifically the second panel 6132 is configured to be attached to the floor 50 by welding or another suitable mechanism.

[0168] The door stop 6150 extends between and is fixedly connected to the respective inner surfaces of the first and second panels of the first and second supports 6110 and 6130. The door stop 6150 maintains the first and second panels 6112 and 6132 at the predefined distance apart. The door stop 6150 is engagable by a lip 6750 of the door 6500 that is described below to stop the outward movement of the door 6500.

[0169] The first door guide 6160 is connected to the first support 6110 and the door stop 6150 and configured to support the door 6500 in both the closed and open positions of the door 6500 as shown in FIGS. 6A to 6E.

[0170] The second door guide 6170 is connected to the second support 6130 and the door stop 6150 and configured to support the door 6500 in both the closed and open positions of the door 6500 as shown in FIGS. 6A to 6E.

[0171] The ramp 6180 includes a first ramp section 6182 and a second ramp section 6184 that extends transversely from the first ramp section 6182. The first ramp section 6182 is connected to the floor behind the door 6500 and inwardly of the opening 52 in the floor. The first ramp section 6182 is connected to the rear edges of the first support 6110 and the second support 6130. The second ramp section 6184 is connected to the bottom edges of the first support 6110 and the second support 6130.

[0172] The first support 6110, the second support 6130, and the ramp 6180 define a chute 6900 for the debris that moves through the opening 52 in the floor 50. It should also be appreciated that these components protect the door 6500 from snow and ice build-up (in addition to the protection provided by the floor 50 of the gondola car).

[0173] The door 6500 includes: (1) a closure member 6600; (2) a base 6700 fixedly connected to the bottom of the closure member 6600; and (3) a handle 6800 fixedly connected to the closure member 6600 and the base 6700.

[0174] More specifically, the closure member 6600 includes: (1) upper and lower surfaces (not labeled); and (2) front, back, first side, and second side edges (not labeled). The closure member 6600 is movable to a first closed position shown in FIGS. 6A, 6C, and 6D, and in that closed position is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to fit within the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car to close that opening 52. The closure member 6600 is movable and specifically slidable to a second open position shown in FIGS. 6B and 6E. When the closure member 6600 is in the open position debris can fall through the opening 52 in the floor 60 and into the chute 6900 in a manner that the debris can be collected in a suitable container (instead of just being spread along the railroad tracks). In alternative embodiments, one or more of the support 6110, the support 6130, and the ramp 6180 can include suitable hooks or hangers or openings for hanging hooks or hangers that enable a suitable container to be removably attached to these members to collect any debris that moves through the opening and out of the chute 6900.

[0175] The base 6700 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the closure member 6600, support the closure member 6600, and is slidable along the first door guide 6160 and the second door guide 6170. The base 6700 includes a lip 6750 that is engagable with the door stop 6150 to prevent the door 6500 from completely pulling out of the door support 6100.

[0176] The handle 6800 is fixedly connected to the closure member 6600 and the base 6700 and is usable by a person to open and close the door 6500.

[0177] The door lock 6200 includes: (1) a pivot member 6220 connected to a side wall of the gondola car; and (2) a locking hand 6240 pivotally connected to and extending transversely from the pivot member 6220.

[0178] The door lock 6200 is configured to be in a first position shown in FIG. 6C wherein: (1) the locking hand 6240 is adjacent to the handle 6800 and prevents the outer movement of the door 6500.

[0179] The door lock 6200 is configured to be in a second position shown in FIGS. 6A and 6D wherein the locking hand 6240 has been rotated 90 degrees such that the locking hand 6240 allows the door 6500 to be opened.

[0180] It should further be appreciated that this clean-out assembly 6000: (1) takes into account gravity and makes the pushing of the debris out of the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car easier for the person of the gondola car; (2) takes into account water flow due to gravity and that allows water to flow out the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car; (3) that takes into account the environment by providing a limited predefined path in the chute 6900 for the debris that falls out of the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car to be collected in a suitable container outside of the gondola car (instead of scattering along the railroad tracks); (4) is completely under the floor 50 of the gondola car to protect the door 6500 thereof from snow and ice build-up; and (5) that includes additional protective structures that function to limit snow and ice build-up on the door 6500 of the clean-out assembly 6000.

[0181] FIGS. 7A to 7J show another example clean-out assembly 7000 in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0182] The clean-out assembly 7000 includes: (1) a fixed door support 7100; (2) a partially movable door lock 7200; and (3) a movable door 7500. These components are made of steel, but can be made from other suitable materials in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0183] Generally, the door support 7100 is configured to be fixedly connected to the floor 50 of the gondola car and is configured to support the door 7500 adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car that is adjacent to a side wall 60 of the gondola car. The door lock 7200 is configured to lock the door 7500 in a closed position and to be unlocked to enable the door 7500 to be opened. The door 7500 is moveable from a closed to an open position. The door support 7100 includes a ramp that is separate from the door 7500 and that partially defines a chute 7900 that direct debris that moves through an opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car.

[0184] More specifically, the door support 7100 includes: (1) a first support 7110; (2) a second support 7130 spaced-apart from the first support 7110; (3) door stops 7120 and 7122 connected to the first support 7110; (4) door stops 7140 and 7142 connected to the second support 7130; and (5) a ramp 7180 connected to the first support 7110 and the second support 7130.

[0185] The first support 7110 includes a first panel 7112 having: (1) bottom, top, front, and back sections (not labeled); (2) bottom, top, front, and back edges (not labeled); and (3) inner and outer surfaces (not labeled).

[0186] The door stops 7120 and 7122 are spaced-apart, are connected to, and extend upwardly of the first panel 7112. The door stops 7120 and 7122 are fixedly connected to the floor 50 and side wall of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. In this embodiment, the door stops 7120 and 7122 are part of the first panel 7112 but can be separately formed.

[0187] The top edge of the first support 7110 between the door stops 7120 and 7122 is configured to support the door 7500 in both the closed and open positions of the door 7500 as shown in FIGS. 7A to 7C.

[0188] The second support 7130 includes a second panel 7132 having: (1) bottom, top, front, and back sections (not labeled); (2) bottom, top, front, and back edges (not labeled); and (3) inner and outer surfaces (not labeled).

[0189] The door stops 7140 and 7142 are fixedly connected to the floor 50 and side wall of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. The door stops 7140 and 7142 are fixedly connected to the floor 50 and side wall of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. In this embodiment, the door stops 7140 and 7142 are part of the second panel 7132 but can be separately formed.

[0190] The top edge of the second support 7130 between the door stops 7140 and 7142 is configured to support the door 7500 in both the closed and open positions of the door 7500 as shown in FIGS. 7A to 7C.

[0191] The ramp 7180 includes a first ramp section 7182 and a second ramp section 7184 that extends transversely from the first ramp section 7182. The first ramp section 7182 is connected to the floor behind the door 7500 and inwardly of the opening 52 in the floor. The first ramp section 7182 is connected to the first support 7110 and the second support 7130. The second ramp section 7184 is also connected to the first support 7110 and the second support 7130.

[0192] The first support 7110, the second support 7130, and the ramp 7180 define a chute 7900 for the debris that moves through the opening 52 in the floor 50. It should also be appreciated that these components protect the door 7500 from snow and ice build-up (in addition to the protection provided by the floor 50 of the gondola car).

[0193] The door 7500 includes: (1) a closure member 7600; (2) a first door guide 7700 fixedly connected to the bottom of the closure member 7600; (3) a second door guide 7750 fixedly connected to the bottom of the closure member 7600; and (4) a handle 7800 fixedly connected to the closure member 7600.

[0194] More specifically, the closure member 7600 includes: (1) upper and lower surfaces (not labeled); and (2) front, back, first side, and second side edges (not labeled). The closure member 7600 is movable to a first closed position shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, and in that closed position is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to fit within the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car to close that opening 52. The closure member 7600 is movable and specifically slidable to a second open position shown in FIG. 7C. When the closure member 7600 is in the open position, debris can fall through the opening 52 in the floor 60 and into the chute 7900 in a manner that the debris can be collected in a suitable container (instead of just being spread along the railroad tracks). In alternative embodiments, one or more of the support 7110, the support 7130, and the ramp 7180 can include suitable hooks or hangers or openings for hanging hooks or hangers that enable a suitable container to be removably attached to these members to collect any debris that moves through the opening and out of the chute 7900.

[0195] The first door guide 7700 and the second door guide 7750 are each fixedly connected to the bottom of the closure member 7600, support the closure member 7600, and are slidable along the supports 7110 and 7130.

[0196] The first door guide 7700 is engagable with the door stops 7122 and 7142 to stop the rearward movement of the first door guide 7700 and the closure member 7600.

[0197] The second door guide 7750 is engagable with the door stops 7120 and 7140 to stop the forward movement of the second door guide 7750 and the closure member 7600, and thus to prevent the door 7500 from completely pulling out of the door support 7100.

[0198] The handle 7800 is fixedly connected to the closure member 7600 and is usable by a person to open and close the door 7500.

[0199] The door lock 7200 includes: (1) a pivot member 7220 connected to a side wall of the gondola car; and (2) a locking hand 7240 pivotally connected to and extending transversely from the pivot member 7220.

[0200] The door lock 7200 is configured to be in a first position shown in FIG. 7A wherein the locking hand 7240 is adjacent to the closure member 7600 and prevents the outer movement of the door 7500.

[0201] The door lock 7200 is configured to be in a second position shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C wherein the locking hand 7240 has been rotated 90 degrees such that the locking hand 7240 allows the door 7500 to be opened.

[0202] It should further be appreciated that this clean-out assembly 7000: (1) takes into account gravity and makes the pushing of the debris out of the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car easier for the person of the gondola car; (2) takes into account water flow due to gravity and that allows water to flow out the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car; (3) that takes into account the environment by providing a limited predefined path in the chute 7900 for the debris that falls out of the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car to be collected in a suitable container outside of the gondola car (instead of scattering along the railroad tracks); (4) is completely under the floor 50 of the gondola car to protect the door 7500 thereof from snow and ice build-up; and (5) that includes additional protective structures that function to limit snow and ice build-up on the door 6500 of the clean-out assembly 7000.

[0203] FIGS. 8A to 8I show another example clean-out assembly 8000 in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0204] The clean-out assembly 8000 includes: (1) a fixed door support 8100; (2) a partially movable door lock 8200; and (3) a movable door 8500. These components are made of steel, but can be made from other suitable materials in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0205] Generally, the door support 8100 is configured to be fixedly connected to the floor 50 of the gondola car and is configured to support the door 8500 adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car that is adjacent to a side wall 60 of the gondola car. The door lock 8200 is configured to lock the door 8500 in a closed position and to be unlocked to enable the door 8500 to be opened. The door 8500 is moveable from a closed to an open position. The door support 8100 includes a ramp that is separate from the door 8500 and that partially defines a chute 8900 that direct debris that moves through the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car.

[0206] More specifically, the door support 8100 includes: (1) a first support 8110; (2) a second support 8130 spaced-apart from the first support 8110; (3) a first door support 8150 including upwardly extending door stops 8160 and 8162, wherein the first door support 8150 is connected to the first support 8110; (4) a second door support 8170 including upwardly extending door stops 8180 and 8182, wherein the second door support 8170 is connected to the second support 8130; (5) a door stop 8140 that extends between and is fixedly connected to the first support 8110 and the second support 8130; and (6) a ramp 8190 connected to the first support 8110 and the second support 8130.

[0207] More specifically, the first support 8110 includes a first panel 8112 having: (1) bottom, top, front, and back sections (not labeled); (2) bottom, top, front, and back edges (not labeled); and (3) inner and outer surfaces (not labeled). The top edge of the first support 8110 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the floor 50 of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50.

[0208] The first door support 8150 includes spaced-apart upwardly extending door stops 8160 and 8162 that are fixedly connected to the first panel 8112. The door stops 8120 and 8122 are fixedly connected to the floor 50 of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. The top edge (not labeled) of the first door support 8150 between the door stops 8160 and8162 is configured to support the door 8500 in both the closed and open positions of the door 8500 as shown in FIGS. 8A to 8C. The door stops 8120 and 8122 also define an area (not labeled) therebetween in which the door guide 8700 (described below) is moveable.

[0209] The second support 8130 includes a second panel 8132 having: (1) bottom, top, front, and back sections (not labeled); (2) bottom, top, front, and back edges (not labeled); and (3) inner and outer surfaces (not labeled). The top edge of the second support 8130 is fixedly connected to the floor 50 of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50.

[0210] The second door support 8170 includes spaced-apart upwardly extending door stops 8180 and 8182 that are fixedly connected to the second panel 8132. The door stops 8180 and 8182 are fixedly connected to the floor 50 of the gondola car adjacent to the opening 52 in the floor 50. The top edge (not labeled) of the second door support 8170 between the door stops 8180 and 8182 is configured to support the door 8500 in both the closed and open positions of the door 8500 as shown in FIGS. 8A to 8C. The door stops 8180 and 8182 also define an area (not labeled) therebetween in which the door guide 8700 (described below) is moveable.

[0211] The door stop 8140 extends between and is fixedly connected to the respective inner surfaces of the first and second panels of the first and second supports 8110 and 8130. The door stop 8140 maintains the first and second panels 8112 and 8132. The door stop 8140 limits the inward movement of the door 8500.

[0212] The ramp 8190 includes a first ramp section 8192 and a second ramp section 8194 that extends transversely from the first ramp section 8192. The first ramp section 8192 is connected to the floor behind the door 8500 and inwardly of the opening 52 in the floor. The first ramp section 8192 is connected to the first support 8110 and the second support 8130. The second ramp section 8194 is also connected to the first support 8110 and the second support 8130.

[0213] The ramp 8190 functions with the first support 8110 and the second support 8130 to define that chute 8900 and to protect the door 8500. More specifically, the first support 8110, the second support 8130, and the ramp 8190 define a chute 8900 for the debris that moves through the opening 52 in the floor 50. It should also be appreciated that these components protect the door 8500 from snow and ice build-up (in addition to the protection provided by the floor 50 of the gondola car).

[0214] The door 8500 includes: (1) a closure member 8600; (2) a door guide 8700 fixedly connected to the bottom of the closure member 8600; and (3) a handle 8800 fixedly connected to the closure member 8600.

[0215] More specifically, the closure member 8600 includes: (1) upper and lower surfaces (not labeled); and (2) back, first side, and second side edges (not labeled). The closure member 8600 is movable to a first closed position shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, and in that closed position is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to fit within the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car to close that opening 52. The closure member 8600 is movable and specifically slidable to a second open position shown in FIG. 8C. When the closure member 8600 is in the open position, debris can fall through the opening 52 in the floor 50 and into the chute 8900 in a manner that the debris can be collected in a suitable container (instead of just being spread along the railroad tracks). In alternative embodiments, one or more of the support 8110, the support 8130, and the ramp 8190 can include suitable hooks or hangers or openings for hanging hooks or hangers that enable a suitable container to be removably attached to these members to collect any debris that moves through the opening and out of the chute 8900.

[0216] The door guide 8700 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the closure member 8600, supports the closure member 7600, and is slidable along the upper edges of first and second door supports 8150 and 8170 (between the respective door stops thereof). More specifically, the door guide 8700 is engagable with the door stops 8160 and 8180 to stop the rearward movement of the door guide 8700 and the closure member 8600. The door guide 8700 is also engagable with the door stops 8162 and 8182 to stop the forward movement of the second door guide 8770 and the closure member 8600, and thus to prevent the closure member 8600 from completely pulling out of the door support 8100.

[0217] The handle 8800 is fixedly connected to the closure member 8600 and is usable by a person to open and close the door 8500.

[0218] The door lock 8200 includes: (1) a pivot member 8220 connected to a side wall 60 of the gondola car; and (2) a locking hand 8240 pivotally connected to and extending transversely from the pivot member 8220. The door lock 8200 is configured to be in a first position shown in FIG. 8A wherein: (1) the locking hand 8240 is adjacent to the handle 8800 and prevents the outer movement of the handle 8800 and the closure member 8600. The door lock 8200 is configured to be in a second position shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C wherein the locking hand 8240 has been rotated 90 degrees such that the locking hand 8240 allows the door 8500 to be opened.

[0219] It should further be appreciated that this clean-out assembly 8000: (1) takes into account gravity and makes the pushing of the debris out of the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car easier for the person of the gondola car; (2) takes into account water flow due to gravity and that allows water to flow out the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car; (3) that takes into account the environment by providing a limited predefined path in the chute 8900 for the debris that falls out of the opening 52 in the floor 50 of the gondola car to be collected in a suitable container outside of the gondola car (instead of scattering along the railroad tracks); (4) is completely under the floor 50 of the gondola car to protect the door 8500 thereof from snow and ice build-up; and (5) that includes additional protective structures that function to limit snow and ice build-up on the door 8500 of the clean-out assembly 8000.

[0220] It should be appreciated that the configuration and size of the gondola car can vary in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0221] It should be appreciated that the configuration and size of the opening in the floor of the gondola railroad car can vary in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0222] It should be appreciated that the configuration and size of each of clean-out assembly can vary in accordance with the present disclosure, and will at least in part be based on the size of the respective opening in the floor of the gondola car.

[0223] It should be appreciated that the quantity of openings and respective clean-out assemblies of the gondola car can vary in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0224] It should be appreciated that the position of each clean-out assembly relative to the floor of the gondola car can vary in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0225] It will be understood that modifications and variations may be effected without departing from the scope of the novel concepts of the present invention, and it is understood that this application is to be limited only by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A railroad car comprising:a frame;a containment structure supported by the frame, the containment structure including a floor defining an opening, a first side wall, a second side wall, a first end wall, and a second end wall; anda clean-out assembly including:a door support positioned below the floor and fixedly connected to the floor adjacent the opening, the door support including a first door support and a second door support spaced-apart from the first door support, the first door support and the second door support partially defining a chute below the opening;a door moveable from a closed position adjacent to the opening to an open position spaced from the opening, wherein in the open position the door also partially defines the chute; anda movable door lock, the door lock movable to:a first position at which the door lock engages the door and lock supports the door in the closed position, anda second position at which the door lock is disengaged from the door and enables the door to move to the open position.

2. The railroad car of claim 1, wherein the door is pivotable from the closed position to the open position.

3. The railroad car of claim 2, wherein the door includes a hinge supported by the door support and that enables the door to pivot from the closed position to the open position.

4. The railroad car of claim 3, wherein the door support includes a door stop that limits the downward pivoting of the door from the closed position to the open position.

5. The railroad car of claim 4, wherein the door support includes a door stop that stops the downward pivoting of the door such that the door is positioned with the first door support and the second door support to form the chute.

6. The railroad car of claim 4, wherein the door the includes a ramp that closes the opening when the door is in the closed position and that functions as a part of the chute when the door is in the open position.

7. The railroad car of claim 1, wherein the door lock is slidable from the first position to the second position.

8. The railroad car of claim 7, wherein the door lock is rotatable in the first position to unlock the door lock.

9. The railroad car of claim 7, wherein the door lock extends through the first door support and the second door support in the first position.

10. The railroad car of claim 1, wherein part of the door lock is attached to a side sill of the railroad car.

11. A railroad car comprising:a frame;a containment structure supported by the frame, the containment structure including a floor defining an opening, a first side wall, a second side wall, a first end wall, and a second end wall; anda clean-out assembly including:a door support positioned below the floor and fixedly connected to the floor adjacent the opening, the door support including a first door support, a second door support spaced-apart from the first door support, and a ramp connected to the first door support and the second door support, the door support providing a chute below the opening;a door moveable from a closed position adjacent to the opening to an open position spaced from the opening, wherein in the open position the door allows debris to drop through the opening onto the chute; anda movable door lock, the door lock movable to:a first position at which the door lock engages the door and maintains the door in the closed position, anda second position at which the door lock is disengaged from the door and enables the door to move to the open position.

12. The railroad car of claim 11, wherein the door is slidable from the closed position to the open position.

13. The railroad car of claim 12, wherein the door includes a door support that is supported by the door support and that enables the door to slide from the closed position to the open position.

14. The railroad car of claim 13, wherein the door support includes door stops that limit sliding of the door relative to the closed position to the open position.

15. The railroad car of claim 11, wherein the door lock engages a handle of the door in the first position.

16. The railroad car of claim 11, wherein the chute is configured to direct debris toward a side of the railroad car in a limited manner.

17. The railroad car of claim 11, wherein the door includes a closure member that is configured to close the opening when the door is in the closed position, and such that the closure member is completely under the floor when the door is in the closed position.

18. The railroad car of claim 11, wherein part of the door lock is attached to a side sill of the railroad car.

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