Cleaning Vehicle for Cleaning a Monorail of a Monorail System

Abstract

A cleaning vehicle with which monorails belonging to a monorail system for rail vehicles can be cleaned by removing contaminants. The cleaning vehicle includes several track wheels with which it can move along the monorail to be cleaned in order to perform a cleaning run, during which the laser radiation from an on-board laser cleaning device can be used to perform a surface treatment of the monorail that induces the removal of contaminants. The laser cleaning device has at least one cleaning unit with a laser radiation exit area where the laser radiation generated by a laser of the laser cleaning device can exit.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is the United States national phase of International Patent Application No. PCT / EP2024 / 055814 filed Mar. 6, 2024, and claims priority to German Patent Application No. 10 2023 110 076.9 filed Apr. 20, 2023, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.BACKGROUNDField

[0002] The invention relates to a cleaning vehicle for cleaning a monorail of a monorail system used to guide a rail vehicle, wherein the monorail system is designed in particular for rail vehicles located above or beneath the monorail and capable of travelling along the monorail.

[0003] Monorail systems are rail systems in which, unlike the railway systems predominantly used for passenger and freight transport, which use tracks with two rails arranged side by side, only a single rail is used to guide a rail vehicle. This single rail is referred to as a monorail. There are designs in which the rail vehicle is placed above or beneath the monorail and, accordingly, either sits on top of the monorail, for example, based on the concept of a conventional railway or as a magnetically supported suspension railway, or hangs below the monorail as a suspended vehicle, resulting in a suspended railway concept. Possible applications include the transport of people, goods or work equipment both outdoors and in interior spaces. Internal applications for monorail systems include, for example, transport systems for transporting workpieces in production halls or crane systems using the monorail for suspended vehicles designed as trolleys for hoisting equipment.

[0004] Depending on usage and environmental influences, the monorails of monorail systems can comprise dirt, which can result in increased slippage during the transmission of drive power between the driven track wheels of rail vehicles and the monorail, and can lead to wear on both the track wheels and the monorail. To improve the coefficient of friction and reduce slippage, rail vehicles designed as railway traction vehicles could be equipped with automatic sanding devices, but their use would usually result in even greater wear. To counteract this problem, the monorails in the affected areas could also be cleaned chemically or using abrasive technologies, for example. However, chemical cleaning would have the disadvantage of contaminating the supporting structures of the monorails, such as ballast beds or pillar-like support structures, which would be particularly problematic in the case of repeated cleaning. With abrasive cleaning, residues such as grease or oil could not be removed sufficiently and there would be a risk that repeated cleaning would impair the rail geometry due to mechanical material removal.Description of Related Art

[0005] For cleaning railway tracks comprising more than two rails, it is already known to use a cleaning vehicle that travels along the track, as described, for example, in the AMT Group's company information ‘Track Construction Trailer 20T’, page 10. It can be placed on a track in a position of use in order to perform a cleaning run along the track, which can be initiated by an assigned drive device. The cleaning vehicle is equipped with a rail cleaning device with which a water spray treatment of the rails can be carried out to remove contaminants.SUMMARY

[0006] The invention is based on the problem of providing measures for cleaning monorails, with which contaminants, including corrosion, can be removed from monorails effectively and in a time-saving manner without changing the rail geometry or other mechanical characteristics of the rails.

[0007] This problem is solved by using a cleaning vehicle to clean a monorail of a monorail system used to guide rail vehicles, wherein

[0008] that the cleaning vehicle (1) comprises a plurality of track wheels (14) by means of which it can be placed in a position of use on the monorail (2) to be cleaned, wherein the cleaning vehicle (1) can perform a vehicle movement (13) along the monorail (2) in its position of use, which movement can be induced by an associated drive device (16),

[0009] wherein the cleaning vehicle (1) is equipped with a rail cleaning device (31) which has at least one cleaning unit (36), which can be positioned or is positioned in the vicinity of the monorail (2) to be cleaned at least during a cleaning run (13a) of the cleaning vehicle (1) that can be performed by the vehicle movement (13), in order to perform a surface treatment on this monorail (2) during a cleaning process that induces the removal of contaminants,

[0010] wherein the rail cleaning device (31) is designed as a laser cleaning device (31a) which has a laser (32) located on board the cleaning vehicle (1), wherein the at least one cleaning unit (36) comprises a laser radiation exit area (42) for the exit of laser radiation (33) which can be generated by the laser (32) and directed onto the monorail (2) to be cleaned in order to remove contaminants of the rail (2) to be cleaned in order to remove contaminants.

[0011] The cleaning vehicle according to the invention enables mobile laser radiation cleaning of monorails, which is characterised by time-saving application, high effectiveness and gentle treatment of the rails. Like a conventional rail vehicle, the cleaning vehicle comprises a suitable number of track wheels, which allow it to be placed in a position of use on the monorail to be cleaned in order to thoroughly remove, during a cleaning run using laser technology, any contaminants adhering to the monorails or other contaminants such as dirt, oil, grease or corrosion adhering to the rails using laser radiation. Existing contaminants such as layers of dirt and corrosion can be gently removed by evaporation without the need for mechanical abrasives such as sand or glass or additional cleaning agents. The cleaning process is therefore environmentally friendly and cost-effective. The intensity of the surface treatment can be individually adjusted depending on the rail material by selecting a suitable radiation energy and / or laser radiation shape in order to achieve the best possible cleaning result. Laser irradiation can be pulsed or continuous, to be performed in particular depending on the degree of contamination and the speed of the cleaning vehicle. The laser cleaning device has a laser on board the cleaning vehicle, which consequently always moves directly with the vehicle movement of the cleaning vehicle, so that no additional logistical measures are required to provide the laser. At least one cleaning unit is available for the cleaning measures, which comprises a laser radiation exit area for laser radiation that can be generated by the laser and is arranged in such a way that the exiting laser radiation hits the monorail to be cleaned at a desired angle. The cleaning vehicle can be equipped with just one cleaning unit, but it can also be equipped with several cleaning units, in particular arranged side by side across the direction of travel and / or one behind the other in the direction of travel. Since laser treatment is very gentle on materials despite its high effectiveness, there is great potential for savings in maintenance costs for monorails and the rail vehicles that usually run on them compared to conventional cleaning methods. Since the laser operates without media, contamination of the rail environment by cleaning agents can also be avoided.

[0012] Advantageous further developments of the invention are apparent from the dependent claims.

[0013] Expediently, the rail cleaning device of the cleaning vehicle contains several cleaning units. The multiple cleaning units are preferably arranged at intervals to each other transversely to the direction of travel. However, the multiple cleaning units can also be arranged at intervals to each other alternatively or additionally in the direction of travel of the cleaning vehicle. Some or all of the cleaning units can in principle be combined in a single assembly. However, it is considered more advantageous if the cleaning units are designed separately from one another. This facilitates individual alignment where necessary.

[0014] The cleaning vehicle is expediently equipped with a seat that can be used by the operating personnel on board the cleaning vehicle during vehicle movement. The seat includes at least one vehicle seat. The seat allows for fatigue-free cleaning work over a very long period of time.

[0015] It is advantageous if the cleaning vehicle is equipped with a cable-based or, preferably, wireless remote control device for controlling some or all of the functions of the cleaning vehicle. This allows convenient operation without direct access to the cleaning vehicle.

[0016] Lasers are generally classified into different laser classes based on their potential hazard. Class 1 lasers pose the lowest potential hazard. Class 4 lasers are extremely dangerous due to their high intensity, making the available laser radiation extremely hazardous. However, a laser belonging to class 4 in terms of intensity is recommended for effective rail cleaning. To ensure that such a class 4 laser can also be used without restriction in heavily frequented areas, it is advantageous if the laser cleaning device is equipped with a class 4 laser, but each cleaning unit comprises a laser radiation shielding device to shield the laser radiation, which means that the laser cleaning device as a whole can only be classified as the unproblematic laser class 1.

[0017] It is considered advantageous if each cleaning unit comprises a laser radiation shielding device with a shielding housing that encloses a working chamber in an opaque manner, i.e. without any possibility of laser radiation escaping, wherein the laser radiation exit area is located inside the working chamber. To enable cleaning measures, the shielding housing comprises a window that facing or being able to face the monorail to be cleaned during a cleaning process, through which the laser radiation emitted within the working chamber at the laser radiation exit area can irradiate the associated rail without damaging the immediate or wider environments.

[0018] Preferably, each cleaning unit has a radiation output head comprising a laser radiation exit area, wherein a laser optic is assigned to the laser radiation exit area. The laser optic may have lenses and / or mirrors to configure the laser radiation as required.

[0019] Each radiation output head is preferably located inside the working chamber of the associated cleaning unit.

[0020] It is advantageous if each cleaning unit is assigned a positioning device to enable positioning at different positions. For example, the positioning device can be designed to move the cleaning unit in question either to at least one lowered operation position for performing laser cleaning processes or to at least one raised standby position for vehicle movements other than during cleaning runs.

[0021] Preferably, the laser cleaning device is additionally equipped with a suction device for removing ablation media produced during the cleaning process in the area of the at least one cleaning units. Since the ablation media are predominantly gaseous in consistency, suction cleaning can effectively prevent contamination of the surroundings.

[0022] The suction device is designed in particular so that the ablation media can be extracted in the immediate vicinity of their origin. For this purpose, the suction device expediently comprises at least one suction opening in the area of each cleaning unit, which communicates with a suction power unit of the suction device. If a cleaning unit comprises a laser radiation shielding device, it is advisable for the suction opening to be located inside the working chamber of the associated cleaning unit. In principle, however, the suction opening can also be located outside a cleaning unit, in particular behind the cleaning unit in the opposite direction to the direction of travel of the cleaning vehicle.

[0023] The drive device designed to induce the vehicle movement and, accordingly, the cleaning run is expediently a direct part of the cleaning vehicle. The cleaning vehicle is thus a ‘self-propelled’ vehicle, which makes it unnecessary to resort to an additional towing or pushing vehicle. The drive device is connected to one or more of the track wheels for propulsion, thus enabling the cleaning vehicle to be propelled directly along a monorail. The drive device can be used both for cleaning runs and for movement runs without an active rail cleaning device to cover distances between rail sections to be cleaned.

[0024] In principle, the cleaning vehicle can be designed without its own drive system and comprise at least one coupling device, which allows the preferably detachable coupling of a drive vehicle comprising the drive device.

[0025] The drive device is preferably an electric drive device which obtains its drive energy, for example, from an on-board accumulator and / or via a current collector system from a current-carrying conductor system laid along the monorail or integrated into the monorail.

[0026] The electrical energy required to operate the laser cleaning device is expediently supplied by a power generator located on board the cleaning vehicle. Such a power generator expediently comprises a combustion engine as its drive source, so that, in particular, rail cleaning of non-electrified rail sections is also possible without any problems.

[0027] In principle, the electrical energy required to operate the laser cleaning device can also or alternatively be provided by an electricity storage device or accumulator. For use on electrified monorails, the cleaning vehicle can be equipped with a current collector system.

[0028] The same power generator can, for example, be designed to generate electrical energy for both the drive device and the laser cleaning device.

[0029] The track wheels expediently comprise several wheels that are vertically supported in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle on at least one upward-facing running tread of the monorail and roll along the running tread during vehicle movement.

[0030] It is preferable that at least one cleaning unit of the rail cleaning device can be positioned or is positioned in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle in such a way that the laser radiation exiting at the associated laser radiation exit area is directed onto the at least one running surface of the monorail.

[0031] A cleaning vehicle intended for cleaning the monorail of a monorail system designed as a suspension track system is preferably designed as a suspended vehicle that hangs from the monorail via its track wheels in its position of use.

[0032] The suspended vehicle expediently comprises several track wheels designed as running wheels, which, in the position of use of the suspended vehicle, rest rollably on two upward-facing running treads of the monorail to enable vehicle movement.

[0033] The track wheels expediently comprise several guiding wheels which, in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle, are supported on two sideways-oriented and mutually facing guiding surfaces of the monorail and serve to support the cleaning vehicle transversely on the monorail.

[0034] It is advantageous if at least one cleaning unit of the rail cleaning device can be positioned or is positioned in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle in such a way that the laser radiation exiting at the associated laser radiation exit area is directed onto at least one of the guiding surfaces. It is expedient to have a separate cleaning unit for irradiating each of the two guiding surfaces.

[0035] The track wheels are expediently equipped with at least one wheel flange each, which provides transverse support on a rail for guidance during vehicle movement. The wheel flange technology can correspond to that of conventional rail vehicles.

[0036] In addition to the track wheels, the cleaning vehicle may comprise conventional wheels that enable it to move without rails on normal ground such as roads or other terrain. These additional wheels preferably have pneumatic-tired wheels. The wheels allow the cleaning vehicle to be easily moved between different locations independently of rails. Expediently, the cleaning vehicle is equipped in such a way that either the track wheels or the wheels can be used to move the cleaning vehicle, while the other wheels are temporarily in a deactivated standby position.

[0037] The cleaning vehicle expediently has a vehicle chassis on which the track wheels are arranged. The vehicle chassis is, for example, frame-like and / or panel-shaped. The cleaning units are preferably arranged on the vehicle chassis, in particular in an adjustable manner, so that the working distance between the laser radiation exit area and the section of the rail surface to be cleaned on the monorail can be variably adjusted. The adjustability can in particular be implemented as height adjustability in such a way that the cleaning units can be moved into a raised or swivelled-up standby position when not in use.

[0038] It is considered advantageous if not only the track wheels but also the optional wheels are arranged on the vehicle chassis. The arrangement is designed in particular so that the track wheels and the wheels can be adjusted relative to each other in height in order to optionally position the track wheels or the wheels in a lowered, activated position in which they can be used to propel the cleaning vehicle.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the cleaning vehicle comprises two individual vehicles that are coupled to each other in a push-pull configuration and each have their own track wheels for placement on a monorail. For better differentiation, these two vehicles are referred to as the main vehicle and the auxiliary vehicle. The main vehicle contains the at least one cleaning unit, while the auxiliary vehicle contains the laser. At least one flexible optical connecting line enables the transmission of the generated laser radiation between the laser and the at least one cleaning unit. This vehicle design allows for quick conversion between different lasers as needed, for example, to equip the vehicle with lasers of different power or to save time during maintenance work. For example, several auxiliary vehicles equipped with a laser can be provided, which can be alternatively coupled to one and the same main vehicle.

[0040] Expediently, the main vehicle comprises a drive device serving to propel the vehicle. The main vehicle expediently functions as a towing vehicle for an auxiliary vehicle coupled to the main vehicle as a trailer.

[0041] If the cleaning vehicle is equipped with a suction device, the at least one suction opening is expediently located on the main vehicle and a suction power unit responsible for generating the suction flow is located on the auxiliary vehicle. One or more flexible suction pipes, which allow for damage-free cornering, ensure a flow connection between the suction power unit and each suction opening in order to enable a suction flow.

[0042] The optional power generator for generating the laser's operating energy is located on board the auxiliary vehicle.

[0043] In another cost-effective design, the cleaning vehicle consists of a single vehicle which comprises all the components required for the operation of the laser cleaning device. This design allows for a particularly compact cleaning vehicle and facilitates transport between different locations using a separate transport vehicle.

[0044] There is also the advantageous option of designing the cleaning vehicle as a so-called standard railway vehicle. Standard vehicles are certain rail vehicles used by German railways, including railway traction vehicles, passenger carriages and freight wagons. This design can be implemented, for example, by installing the laser cleaning device and all other components intended for the cleaning vehicle directly into a standard railway vehicle. It is considered particularly advantageous if the cleaning vehicle is a railway traction vehicle. Such embodiments enable cleaning processes to be performed during normal railway traffic and can therefore be performed in a time-and cost-saving manner without interrupting railway traffic and without temporarily closing rail sections.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] The terms Fig., Figs., Figure, and Figures are used interchangeably in the specification to refer to the corresponding figures in the drawings.

[0046] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawing. This shows:

[0047] FIG. 1 schematic illustration of a top view of a preferred embodiment of the cleaning vehicle according to the invention in a position of use placed on a monorail, wherein, for the sake of clarity, a rail bed supporting the monorail is not shown,

[0048] FIG. 2 a side view of the embodiment from FIG. 1 with the viewing direction according to arrow II from FIG. 1, wherein a detailed section framed by a dotted line is additionally enlarged to illustrate the structure of a preferred cleaning unit,

[0049] FIG. 3 another embodiment of the cleaning vehicle according to the invention in a schematic illustration in a side view analogous to FIG. 2, wherein a possible embodiment as a railway traction vehicle is also illustrated in dotted lines, and

[0050] FIG. 4 another embodiment of the cleaning vehicle according to the invention in a design of a suspended vehicle in a schematic illustration in a front view.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Unless otherwise specified in individual cases, the following descriptions refer to all embodiments of the invention.

[0052] The drawing shows a cleaning vehicle according to the invention, designated by reference numeral 1, in various advantageous equipment variants.

[0053] The cleaning vehicle 1 is used for mobile laser radiation cleaning of a monorail 2 belonging to a monorail system, also known as a ‘monorail’, which is used to move any rail vehicles. Designs are possible in which the rail vehicle, which is not illustrated, is placed above or beneath the monorail and accordingly either sits on top of the monorail 2—for example, according to the concept of a railway or a magnetically supported suspension railway—or hangs below the monorail 2, resulting in a suspended railway concept. Possible applications include the transport of people, goods or work equipment both outdoors and in interior spaces. Internal applications for monorail systems include, for example, transport systems for transporting workpieces in production halls or crane systems using the monorail 2 as a support beam for rail vehicles designed as trolleys for lifting equipment.

[0054] The monorail 2, which is designed in particular in the form of a beam or profiled girder, extends in a longitudinal direction 4 indicated by a dotted line, wherein it may have a straight or curved course.

[0055] The monorail 2 is attached in a manner known per se to a supporting structure 6, which is, for example, a rail bed according to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, or a pillar-like support structure according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4.

[0056] The cleaning vehicle 1 has a vehicle longitudinal axis 8 parallel to the longitudinal direction of the rail 4 in its position of use, a vehicle transverse axis 11 that is orthogonal to this and usually runs horizontally like the vehicle longitudinal axis 8, and a vehicle high axis 12 that is orthogonal to the vehicle longitudinal axis 8 and the vehicle transverse axis 11 and usually runs vertically.

[0057] When it assumes its position of use on or at the monorail, the cleaning vehicle 1 can perform a vehicle movement 13 along the monorail 2, as illustrated by an arrow. During this vehicle movement 13, it rolls along the monorail 2 on track wheels 14. The vehicle movement 13 is possible both forwards and backwards.

[0058] The cleaning vehicle 1 has a plurality of track wheels 14. Each track wheel 14 rests on a rail surface 34 of the monorail 3 in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle 1.

[0059] Preferably, the cleaning vehicle 1 has a plurality of track wheels 14, which are designed as running wheels 14a and which, in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle 1, each rest in a rollable manner on a vertically upward-pointing running tread 34a of the monorail 2 in order to support the cleaning vehicle 1 vertically. This applies to all illustrated embodiments. Preferably, the cleaning vehicle 1 has at least two pairs of running wheels 14a, wherein running wheels 14a belonging to the same pair of running wheels face each other in the axial direction of the vehicle transverse axis 11. The cleaning vehicle 1 is supported, for example, by at least two pairs of running wheels 14a spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the vehicle longitudinal axis 8, which can roll on the monorail 2.

[0060] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the monorail 2 to be cleaned has a single running tread 34a located on an upper side of the monorail 2, which preferably comprises a rectangular cross-section. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the monorail 2 preferably has a double-T cross-section with two cross plates 69, 70 connected to each other by a vertical web 68, of which a lower cross plate 69 comprises two support legs 72 projecting laterally beyond the web 68, on the upper side of each of which a running tread 34a is formed, on which at least one running roller 14a of the cleaning vehicle 1 is supported.

[0061] In conventional use of the monorail system, the rail vehicle (not illustrated) can be supported vertically on the at least one running tread 14a by rail vehicle running wheels, which can roll on the associated running tread 14a as the rail vehicle moves forward.

[0062] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the track wheels 14 comprise not only the running wheels 14a but also several guiding wheels 14b, which, in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle, are supported horizontally on two mutually facing, sideways-oriented guiding surfaces 34b of the monorail 2. The guiding wheels 14b serve to support the cleaning vehicle 1 transversely on the monorail 2 in the axial direction of the vehicle transverse axis 11 for the purpose of guiding it during vehicle movement 13. The guiding wheels 14b also prevent the cleaning vehicle 1 from tipping sideways, thereby ensuring that the cleaning vehicle 1 remains in a stable upright position.

[0063] Alternatively, the guiding wheels 14b can be omitted in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 4. In this case, the cleaning vehicle 1 only comprises track wheels 14 designed as running wheels 14a. The running wheels 14a can comprise wheel flanges 22 for transverse support with respect to the monorail 2.

[0064] According to an embodiment not shown, the cleaning vehicle 1 may comprise a gyroscopic device for stabilising its position.

[0065] In conventional use of the monorail system, the rail vehicle (not illustrated) can be supported horizontally on the guiding surfaces 14b by rail vehicle guiding wheels, which can roll on the associated guiding surface 14b as the rail vehicle moves forward, ensuring that the rail vehicle remains in a stable upright position.

[0066] The cleaning vehicle 1 has an expediently single-piece or multi-piece vehicle chassis 15, on which the track wheels 14 are rotatably arranged by means of suitable suspension measures.

[0067] The vehicle movement 13 can be caused by a drive device 16. In all illustrated embodiments, the drive device 16 is a direct part of the cleaning vehicle 1. For example, it is attached to the vehicle chassis 15. The drive device 16 is connected to at least one and, in particular, to several of the track wheels 14 via at least one drive train 17. The at least one drive train 17 can transfer a drive torque generated by the drive device 16 to the associated track wheel 14, which acts as a drive wheel, in order to generate the vehicle movement 13. Preferably, one or more of the running wheels 14a act as drive wheel(s).

[0068] The drive device 16 is preferably an electric drive device which obtains its drive energy from an on-board accumulator 18 and / or, via a current collector system 21 indicated only in FIG. 3, from a current-carrying conductor system laid along the monorail 2, for example an catanary.

[0069] Expediently, the cleaning vehicle 1 comprises at least one seat 23, for example in the form of a vehicle seat, which enables an operator of the cleaning vehicle 1 to sit down while operating the cleaning vehicle 1. This applies to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0070] An operating device 24 located in the seating area 23 can be operated by the operating personnel as required to command the vehicle movement 13 or the standstill of the cleaning vehicle 1. The operating device 24 allows access to the drive device 16 for control purposes.

[0071] The cleaning vehicle 1 may be designed so that its vehicle movement can be controlled by means of a wireless remote control device 74 based on radio or infrared technology. This is the case in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4. Preferably, the remote control device 74 has a receiver 74a located on board the cleaning vehicle 1 and an external control unit 74b that can be held in the human hand and is equipped with a transmitter. Alternatively, the remote control device 74 may comprise a cable-based functionality.

[0072] Preferably, all functions of the cleaning vehicle 1 can be controlled via the remote control device 74, in particular the cleaning functions described below.

[0073] The cleaning vehicle 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2 and 4 and shown in solid lines in FIG. 3 is specially designed for the laser cleaning of the monorail 2, which will be explained later, and serves no other purpose. However, there is the possibility, indicated by dotted lines in FIG. 3, of designing the cleaning vehicle 1 at the same time as a railway traction vehicle 25 or in the manner of other so-called standard railway vehicles. In this case, there is a rail vehicle with a dual function as a railway traction vehicle 25 and, at the same time, a cleaning vehicle 1, which can be used both for regular operation in the railway system and, in particular, at the same time, for cleaning monorails 2. For example, a rail cleaning process can be conducted during a train journey for the purpose of passenger and / or freight transport.

[0074] According to an embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the cleaning vehicle 1 comprises several, in particular two, vehicles 26, 27, which are coupled to each other via a mechanical coupling device 28 and are referred to as the main vehicle 26 and the auxiliary vehicle 27 for better differentiation. The coupling device 28 is designed in particular for a detachable coupling so that the two vehicles 26, 27 can be separated from each other if necessary.

[0075] The coupling device 28 connects the two vehicles 26, 27 in a manner that is resistant to push and pull forces and at the same time articulated. Preferably, the main vehicle 26 is performed as a towing vehicle and the auxiliary vehicle 27 as a trailer of the main vehicle 26. During vehicle movement 13, the main vehicle 26 travels ahead and pulls the auxiliary vehicle 27 behind it. The drive device 16 and the at least one track wheel 14 acting as a drive wheel are preferably parts of the main vehicle 26.

[0076] Both the main vehicle 26 and the auxiliary vehicle 27 comprise their own track wheels 14. For example, each of the two vehicles 26, 27 has two pairs of track wheels 14 arranged consecutively in the axial direction of the vehicle longitudinal axis 8 and is also equipped with at least one pair of track wheels 14 designed as guiding wheels 14b.

[0077] According to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the cleaning vehicle 1 may consist of a single vehicle, whether it be a cleaning vehicle 1 used solely for cleaning purposes or a cleaning vehicle 1 that also functions as a railway traction vehicle 25.

[0078] While in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the cleaning vehicle 1 is designed as a rail vehicle standing on the monorail 2, with the cleaning vehicle 1 located above the monorail 2, FIG. 4 shows an embodiment in which the cleaning vehicle 1 is designed as a rail vehicle suspended in the position of use on the monorail 2 via its track wheels 14, which can therefore be referred to as a suspended vehicle 1a and can be used in particular for cleaning the monorail 2 of a monorail system designed as a suspension track system. Here, the cleaning vehicle 1 is located beneath the monorail 2.

[0079] The cleaning vehicle 1 comprises regardless of its specific embodiment a rail cleaning device, designated by reference number 31, which is designed as a laser cleaning device 31a. The terms ‘rail cleaning device 31’ and ‘laser cleaning device 31a’ therefore refer to one and the same device. The laser cleaning device 31a is designed to treat the rail surface 34 of the monorail 2 with the aid of laser radiation 33 generated by a laser 32 in order to remove contaminants. Due to the laser radiation treatment, this involves in particular the thermal removal of contaminants, specifically in that the contaminants are vaporised by the energy of the laser radiation 33.

[0080] Laser radiation cleaning takes place during a vehicle movement 13 of the cleaning vehicle 1 referred to as cleaning run 13a. During cleaning run 13a, the cleaning vehicle 1 moves forward, in particular with the front of the vehicle 35 leading. However, cleaning run 13a can also be carried out expediently within a backwards run.

[0081] The laser cleaning device 31 contains the aforementioned laser 32, which is located on board the cleaning vehicle 1 and is suitably attached on or to the vehicle chassis 15. Preferably, the laser 32 is attached behind the optional seat 23 in relation to forward travel, opposite to the direction of travel.

[0082] In the two-part embodiment of the cleaning vehicle 1 according to FIGS. 1 and 2, the laser 32 is expediently located on board the auxiliary vehicle 27.

[0083] The laser cleaning device 31a comprises at least one cleaning unit 36, which can be positioned or is positioned in the area of the monorail 2 to be cleaned when the cleaning vehicle 1 is in the position of use.

[0084] Preferably, and in accordance with all embodiments, the laser cleaning device 31a contains several cleaning units 36, with which different areas of the rail surface 34 can be irradiated and thus cleaned. Expediently, the number and distribution of the cleaning units 36 are selected such that all running treads 34a and guiding surfaces 34b present can be irradiated and thus cleaned.

[0085] If, for example, the monorail 2 comprises only a single running tread 34a and no guiding surface 34b, it is sufficient for the cleaning vehicle 1 to be equipped with only a single cleaning unit 36. A single cleaning unit 36 is also sufficient if several areas of the rail surface 34 to be cleaned are arranged adjacent to each other in such a way that they can be reached by the laser radiation 33 of a single cleaning unit 36.

[0086] Each cleaning unit 36 is arranged, for example, in the area of the front of the vehicle 35 of the cleaning vehicle 1, wherein it is expediently attached to the vehicle chassis 15 via a suitable interface device 37. However, a different placement and distribution is also possible.

[0087] The multiple cleaning units 36 are expediently arranged at a distance from each other transversely to the vehicle longitudinal axis 8, wherein they are located at the same height in the axial direction of the vehicle longitudinal axis 8. Preferably, the mutual distance between the multiple cleaning units 36 is variably adjustable.

[0088] The position of the at least one operational cleaning unit 36 is selected in particular so that, in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle 1, it is arranged transversely to the vehicle longitudinal axis 8 above or next to the monorail 2.

[0089] As an example, the laser cleaning device 31a is equipped in such a way that each running tread 34a has its own cleaning unit 36 positioned vertically opposite it at a certain height. Accordingly, the cleaning vehicle 1 of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 contains only a single cleaning unit 36 for tread cleaning, and the cleaning vehicle 1 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 comprises two such cleaning units 36. These cleaning units 36 are each placed in the axial direction of the vehicle high axis 12 above the running tread 34a to be cleaned.

[0090] Furthermore, the laser cleaning device 31a is expediently equipped so that each guiding surface 34b has its own cleaning unit 36 located horizontally opposite it at a transverse distance. Accordingly, the cleaning vehicle 1 of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 contains two cleaning units 36 for cleaning the guiding surfaces, each of which is positioned in the axial direction of the vehicle transverse axis 11 next to the guiding surface 34b to be cleaned. Their height position in the axial direction of the vehicle high axis 12 is expediently lower than that of the cleaning unit 36 provided for laser cleaning of the running tread 34a.

[0091] Since the monorail 2 to be cleaned by the suspended vehicle 1a according to FIG. 4 is not equipped with guiding surfaces 34b, there are no cleaning units 36 suitable for cleaning guiding surfaces 14b.

[0092] The arrangement and alignment of the cleaning units 36 described above applies accordingly to a laser radiation exit area 42, which each cleaning unit 36 comprises. The laser radiation exit area 42 allows the laser radiation 33 that can be generated or is generated by the laser 32 to exit and, in an operation position of the relevant cleaning unit 36 that can be seen in all the figures, is aligned in such a way that it faces the monorail 2 to be cleaned and, in particular—depending on the embodiment—its running tread 34a or guiding surface 34b to be cleaned.

[0093] The laser radiation exit area 42 is optically connected to the laser 32 via at least one optical connecting line 43, which is only schematically indicated. The laser radiation generated by the laser 32 can obtain through the optical connecting line 43 to the laser radiation exit area 42 and exit there for energetic irradiation of the associated rail 2.

[0094] In the embodiment with a two-part cleaning vehicle 1 according to FIGS. 1 and 2, the cleaning units 36 are arranged on the main vehicle 26, wherein the at least one optical connecting line 43 preferably comprises flexible properties so that it is not damaged when cornering due to the cleaning vehicle 1 bending in the area of the coupling device 28. It is understood that the optical connecting line 43 may also comprise flexible properties in a cleaning vehicle 1 consisting of only a single vehicle, as shown in FIG. 3.

[0095] In order to provide the electrical energy required to operate the laser 32, the laser cleaning device 31a is expediently equipped with a power generator 44. The power generator 44 is, for example, a diesel generator. The power generator 44 is located on board the cleaning vehicle 1 so that it always follows its vehicle movement 13.

[0096] In a cleaning vehicle 1 comprising a main vehicle 26 and an auxiliary vehicle 27, the power generator 44 is expediently a part of the auxiliary vehicle 27, which applies to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The power generator 44 is expediently located independently of the vehicle body near the laser 32 so that the power supply lines 45 can be as short as possible.

[0097] In a non-illustrated embodiment, the laser 32 is powered from the same power source as the drive device 16, for example via an accumulator 18 or via a current collector system 21, as illustrated in the embodiments of FIG. 3 in connection with the railway traction vehicle 25.

[0098] The laser cleaning device 31a comprises, expediently for each cleaning unit 36, a radiation output head 46 designed as part of the relevant cleaning unit 36, on which the laser radiation exit area 42 is located. The radiation output head 46 is preferably equipped with a laser optic 47, which is responsible for the radiation geometry of the laser radiation to exit 33 and ensures, for example, that the laser radiation hits the rail surface 34 to be cleaned in a point-shaped or line-shaped manner.

[0099] Preferably, the laser optic 47 is designed or adjustable in such a way that the laser radiation 33 hits the entire width of the running tread 34a or the guiding tread 34b, so that the laser cleaning process can take place without periodic transverse movements of the laser radiation 33 in the axial direction of the vehicle transverse axis 11.

[0100] Preferably, each cleaning unit 36 is equipped with a laser radiation shielding device 48, which in particular prevents hazardous to health laser radiation 33 from exiting in a manner that could endanger people.

[0101] For example, the laser radiation shielding device 48 contains a shielding housing 51, which is clearly visible in the enlarged sectional view of FIG. 2 and comprises an opaque housing wall 51a. The shielding housing 51 encloses a housing chamber designated as a working chamber 52, in which the laser radiation exit area 42 is located. For example and preferably, the entire radiation output head 46 is accommodated in the working chamber 52, wherein it is expediently attached directly or indirectly to the housing wall 51a.

[0102] The housing wall 51a expediently encloses the working chamber 52 all around, with the exception of one working side facing the monorail 2 in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle 1, where the shielding housing 51 has a window 53 framed by the housing wall 51a, through which the laser radiation 33 exiting within the working chamber 52 at the laser radiation exit area 42 can exit from the shielding housing 51 in accordance with the arrow shown in the drawing in order to irradiate the adjacent rail 2. The window 53 faces the area of the rail surface 34 to be cleaned.

[0103] At least during a cleaning run 13a, the window 53 is positioned very close to the monorail 2, i.e. at a very small distance from the area of the rail surface 34 to be cleaned—running tread 34a and / or guiding surface 34b—so that reflective laser radiation is reflected back into the working chamber 52 through the window 53, at least to a large extent, and is not emitted into the environment of the cleaning unit 36.

[0104] In particular, to enable the setting of an optimized low distance between the cleaning unit 36 and the monorail 2 to be cleaned, each cleaning unit 36 can be designed to be adjustable. For example, each cleaning unit 36 is attached to the vehicle chassis 15 via a positioning device 54, which is only shown schematically, in such a way that it can be adjusted relative to the vehicle chassis 15 in the axial direction of the vehicle high axis 12 by performing a adjustment movement 55 indicated by a double arrow, and can be positioned at different height positions. The positioning device 54 is, for example, a part of the interface device 37 or forms this interface device 37.

[0105] The positioning device 54 allows, for example, height adjustment of the cleaning unit 36 in the axial direction of the vehicle high axis 12 and / or transverse adjustment in the axial direction of the vehicle transverse axis 11.

[0106] Preferably, the positioning device 54 allows variable adjustment of a distance between the laser radiation exit area 42 and the running tread 34a and / or guiding tread 34b.

[0107] The positioning device 54 can also be designed in such a way that the associated cleaning unit 36 can be positioned either in an operation position corresponding to the arrangement described above or in a standby position away from the operation position. In the standby position, the distance to the monorail 2 is greater than in the operation position. Expediently, each cleaning unit 36 is moved to the standby position at times other than during cleaning runs and, for example, when manoeuvring the cleaning vehicle 1, in order to prevent damage.

[0108] Preferably, the laser cleaning device 31a is equipped with a laser 32 that falls into laser class 4. However, due to the described encapsulation of the laser radiation exit area 42 by means of a laser radiation shielding device 48, laser class 1 is achieved in terms of operational readiness. In this way, cleaning measures can be performed with high laser energy and correspondingly high thoroughness without having to take into account the fact that cleaning runs are also performed in public or in heavily frequented areas, for example.

[0109] In order to prevent or minimise contamination-related damage to the surroundings, it is advantageous if the laser cleaning device 31a is equipped with a suction device 56, as shown in all of the illustrated embodiments, which enables the suction cleaning of ablation media that are produced during a cleaning process in the area of the cleaning units by the laser treatment.

[0110] The suction device 56 includes, for example, a suction power unit 57 located on board the cleaning vehicle 1, wherein in a cleaning vehicle 1 comprising a main vehicle 26 and an auxiliary vehicle 27, it is expediently designed as a part of the auxiliary vehicle 27. The latter is the case in the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0111] The suction power unit 57 is expediently equipped with a filtering device in a manner known per se and has at least one receiving space in which suctioned particles are collected for later disposal.

[0112] The suction device 56 comprises for example several suction openings 58, at least one of which is arranged in the area of each cleaning unit 36. Each suction opening 56 is connected to the suction power unit 57 via a suction pipe 61, which is only shown schematically, so that during operation of the suction device 56, a suction flow can be formed between the area of the suction opening 58 and the suction power unit 57. The suction process taking place in the area of the monorail 2 is indicated by an arrow at 50.

[0113] The suction pipe 61 has expediently flexible properties and is implemented, for example, by means of one or more suction hoses.

[0114] Preferably, the suction opening 58 assigned to a respective cleaning unit 36 is arranged inside the working chamber 52 of the laser radiation shielding device 48. The resulting ablation media, which are predominantly gaseous in nature, can thus be extracted extremely effectively in the immediate vicinity of the point of origin, as indicated by arrow 50.

[0115] In a non-illustrated embodiment, the suction openings 58 are located outside the working chamber 52, but preferably in the immediate vicinity of the cleaning units 36 and, expediently, in an area downstream of the cleaning units 36 in the opposite direction to the direction of travel of the cleaning run 13a.

[0116] The suction device 56 is designed to be electrically operated. The power generator 44 described above also serves expediently to supply power to the suction device 56. For example, it is connected to the electrically operated suction power unit 57 via additional power supply lines 59.

[0117] In accordance with the embodiment illustrated by solid lines in FIG. 3, the cleaning vehicle 1 may comprise, in addition to the track wheels 14, a plurality of wheels 62 which allow the cleaning vehicle 1 to move without rails and without the involvement of the track wheels 14. In this way, the cleaning vehicle 1 can be moved between different locations independently of rails, for example by travelling on public or non-public paths, roads or other traffic surfaces. The wheels 62 are in particular pneumatic-tired, so that smaller obstacles can be easily overcome.

[0118] The cleaning vehicle 1 is equipped in particular with four wheels 62, which are arranged in pairs opposite each other in the axial direction of the vehicle transverse axis 11.

[0119] FIG. 3 shows only the wheels 62 assigned to one of the two long sides of the cleaning vehicle 1.

[0120] In accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, both the track wheels 14 and the wheels 62 are expediently arranged on the vehicle chassis 15.

[0121] An advantageous embodiment is one in which the track wheels 14 or the wheels 62 are adjustable relative to the vehicle chassis 15 in an axial direction of the vehicle high axis 12, which can be described as the height direction, in order to be able to set different height positions.

[0122] By way of example, the height adjustability refers to the wheels 62. These are attached to the vehicle chassis 15 in such a way that they can be rotated via swivel arms 63 and can be driven by means of an associated actuating device 64 to perform an adjustment movement 65 indicated by a double arrow, which is, for example, a pivoting movement. As part of the adjustment movement 65, each wheel 62 can be positioned either in a raised position relative to the track wheels 14, as illustrated by solid lines, or in a lowered position relative to the track wheels 14, as indicated by dotted lines.

[0123] The raised position of the wheels 62 means that the track wheels 14 are in a lowered, activated position relative to them, protruding downwards beyond the wheels 62, in which the cleaning vehicle 1 can take its position of use, as can be seen in FIG. 3. In contrast, the lowered position of the wheels 62, indicated by dotted lines, is accompanied by a relatively raised, deactivated position of the track wheels 14, in which the cleaning vehicle 1 can be moved without rails by means of the wheels 62, which are then ready for use.

[0124] In another embodiment, which is not illustrated, the wheels 62 always maintain a constant height position relative to the vehicle chassis 15, and the track wheels 14 are switched between the activated and deactivated positions by means of an adjustment movement between the track wheels 14 and the vehicle chassis 15.

[0125] Preferably, the cleaning vehicle 1 is equipped with an electronic control device 66, shown only schematically, which is designed to control the parts of the laser cleaning device 31a in particular during operation, wherein the electrical control lines provided for this purpose are not shown in the drawing for the sake of clarity. The electronic control device 66 is preferably performed as a part of the operating device 24 or of the remote control device 74.

[0126] For example, the electronic control device 66 also allows the controller of the adjustment movements 65 for the purpose of reconfiguring the cleaning vehicle 1 between a cleaning mode using the track wheels 14 and a standby mode using the wheel 62.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0051]Unless otherwise specified in individual cases, the following descriptions refer to all embodiments of the invention.

[0052]The drawing shows a cleaning vehicle according to the invention, designated by reference numeral 1, in various advantageous equipment variants.

[0053]The cleaning vehicle 1 is used for mobile laser radiation cleaning of a monorail 2 belonging to a monorail system, also known as a ‘monorail’, which is used to move any rail vehicles. Designs are possible in which the rail vehicle, which is not illustrated, is placed above or beneath the monorail and accordingly either sits on top of the monorail 2—for example, according to the concept of a railway or a magnetically supported suspension railway—or hangs below the monorail 2, resulting in a suspended railway concept. Possible applications include the transport of people, goods or work equipment both outdoors and in interior spaces. Internal applications for monorail systems include, for example, transport syste...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is the United States national phase of International Patent Application No. PCT / EP2024 / 055814 filed Mar. 6, 2024, and claims priority to German Patent Application No. 10 2023 110 076.9 filed Apr. 20, 2023, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.BACKGROUNDField

[0002] The invention relates to a cleaning vehicle for cleaning a monorail of a monorail system used to guide a rail vehicle, wherein the monorail system is designed in particular for rail vehicles located above or beneath the monorail and capable of travelling along the monorail.

[0003] Monorail systems are rail systems in which, unlike the railway systems predominantly used for passenger and freight transport, which use tracks with two rails arranged side by side, only a single rail is used to guide a rail vehicle. This single rail is referred to as a monorail. There are designs in which the rail vehicle is placed above or beneath the monorail and, accordingly, either sits on top of the monorail, for example, based on the concept of a conventional railway or as a magnetically supported suspension railway, or hangs below the monorail as a suspended vehicle, resulting in a suspended railway concept. Possible applications include the transport of people, goods or work equipment both outdoors and in interior spaces. Internal applications for monorail systems include, for example, transport systems for transporting workpieces in production halls or crane systems using the monorail for suspended vehicles designed as trolleys for hoisting equipment.

[0004] Depending on usage and environmental influences, the monorails of monorail systems can comprise dirt, which can result in increased slippage during the transmission of drive power between the driven track wheels of rail vehicles and the monorail, and can lead to wear on both the track wheels and the monorail. To improve the coefficient of friction and reduce slippage, rail vehicles designed as railway traction vehicles could be equipped with automatic sanding devices, but their use would usually result in even greater wear. To counteract this problem, the monorails in the affected areas could also be cleaned chemically or using abrasive technologies, for example. However, chemical cleaning would have the disadvantage of contaminating the supporting structures of the monorails, such as ballast beds or pillar-like support structures, which would be particularly problematic in the case of repeated cleaning. With abrasive cleaning, residues such as grease or oil could not be removed sufficiently and there would be a risk that repeated cleaning would impair the rail geometry due to mechanical material removal.Description of Related Art

[0005] For cleaning railway tracks comprising more than two rails, it is already known to use a cleaning vehicle that travels along the track, as described, for example, in the AMT Group's company information ‘Track Construction Trailer 20T’, page 10. It can be placed on a track in a position of use in order to perform a cleaning run along the track, which can be initiated by an assigned drive device. The cleaning vehicle is equipped with a rail cleaning device with which a water spray treatment of the rails can be carried out to remove contaminants.SUMMARY

[0006] The invention is based on the problem of providing measures for cleaning monorails, with which contaminants, including corrosion, can be removed from monorails effectively and in a time-saving manner without changing the rail geometry or other mechanical characteristics of the rails.

[0007] This problem is solved by using a cleaning vehicle to clean a monorail of a monorail system used to guide rail vehicles, wherein

[0008] that the cleaning vehicle (1) comprises a plurality of track wheels (14) by means of which it can be placed in a position of use on the monorail (2) to be cleaned, wherein the cleaning vehicle (1) can perform a vehicle movement (13) along the monorail (2) in its position of use, which movement can be induced by an associated drive device (16),

[0009] wherein the cleaning vehicle (1) is equipped with a rail cleaning device (31) which has at least one cleaning unit (36), which can be positioned or is positioned in the vicinity of the monorail (2) to be cleaned at least during a cleaning run (13a) of the cleaning vehicle (1) that can be performed by the vehicle movement (13), in order to perform a surface treatment on this monorail (2) during a cleaning process that induces the removal of contaminants,

[0010] wherein the rail cleaning device (31) is designed as a laser cleaning device (31a) which has a laser (32) located on board the cleaning vehicle (1), wherein the at least one cleaning unit (36) comprises a laser radiation exit area (42) for the exit of laser radiation (33) which can be generated by the laser (32) and directed onto the monorail (2) to be cleaned in order to remove contaminants of the rail (2) to be cleaned in order to remove contaminants.

[0011] The cleaning vehicle according to the invention enables mobile laser radiation cleaning of monorails, which is characterised by time-saving application, high effectiveness and gentle treatment of the rails. Like a conventional rail vehicle, the cleaning vehicle comprises a suitable number of track wheels, which allow it to be placed in a position of use on the monorail to be cleaned in order to thoroughly remove, during a cleaning run using laser technology, any contaminants adhering to the monorails or other contaminants such as dirt, oil, grease or corrosion adhering to the rails using laser radiation. Existing contaminants such as layers of dirt and corrosion can be gently removed by evaporation without the need for mechanical abrasives such as sand or glass or additional cleaning agents. The cleaning process is therefore environmentally friendly and cost-effective. The intensity of the surface treatment can be individually adjusted depending on the rail material by selecting a suitable radiation energy and / or laser radiation shape in order to achieve the best possible cleaning result. Laser irradiation can be pulsed or continuous, to be performed in particular depending on the degree of contamination and the speed of the cleaning vehicle. The laser cleaning device has a laser on board the cleaning vehicle, which consequently always moves directly with the vehicle movement of the cleaning vehicle, so that no additional logistical measures are required to provide the laser. At least one cleaning unit is available for the cleaning measures, which comprises a laser radiation exit area for laser radiation that can be generated by the laser and is arranged in such a way that the exiting laser radiation hits the monorail to be cleaned at a desired angle. The cleaning vehicle can be equipped with just one cleaning unit, but it can also be equipped with several cleaning units, in particular arranged side by side across the direction of travel and / or one behind the other in the direction of travel. Since laser treatment is very gentle on materials despite its high effectiveness, there is great potential for savings in maintenance costs for monorails and the rail vehicles that usually run on them compared to conventional cleaning methods. Since the laser operates without media, contamination of the rail environment by cleaning agents can also be avoided.

[0012] Advantageous further developments of the invention are apparent from the dependent claims.

[0013] Expediently, the rail cleaning device of the cleaning vehicle contains several cleaning units. The multiple cleaning units are preferably arranged at intervals to each other transversely to the direction of travel. However, the multiple cleaning units can also be arranged at intervals to each other alternatively or additionally in the direction of travel of the cleaning vehicle. Some or all of the cleaning units can in principle be combined in a single assembly. However, it is considered more advantageous if the cleaning units are designed separately from one another. This facilitates individual alignment where necessary.

[0014] The cleaning vehicle is expediently equipped with a seat that can be used by the operating personnel on board the cleaning vehicle during vehicle movement. The seat includes at least one vehicle seat. The seat allows for fatigue-free cleaning work over a very long period of time.

[0015] It is advantageous if the cleaning vehicle is equipped with a cable-based or, preferably, wireless remote control device for controlling some or all of the functions of the cleaning vehicle. This allows convenient operation without direct access to the cleaning vehicle.

[0016] Lasers are generally classified into different laser classes based on their potential hazard. Class 1 lasers pose the lowest potential hazard. Class 4 lasers are extremely dangerous due to their high intensity, making the available laser radiation extremely hazardous. However, a laser belonging to class 4 in terms of intensity is recommended for effective rail cleaning. To ensure that such a class 4 laser can also be used without restriction in heavily frequented areas, it is advantageous if the laser cleaning device is equipped with a class 4 laser, but each cleaning unit comprises a laser radiation shielding device to shield the laser radiation, which means that the laser cleaning device as a whole can only be classified as the unproblematic laser class 1.

[0017] It is considered advantageous if each cleaning unit comprises a laser radiation shielding device with a shielding housing that encloses a working chamber in an opaque manner, i.e. without any possibility of laser radiation escaping, wherein the laser radiation exit area is located inside the working chamber. To enable cleaning measures, the shielding housing comprises a window that facing or being able to face the monorail to be cleaned during a cleaning process, through which the laser radiation emitted within the working chamber at the laser radiation exit area can irradiate the associated rail without damaging the immediate or wider environments.

[0018] Preferably, each cleaning unit has a radiation output head comprising a laser radiation exit area, wherein a laser optic is assigned to the laser radiation exit area. The laser optic may have lenses and / or mirrors to configure the laser radiation as required.

[0019] Each radiation output head is preferably located inside the working chamber of the associated cleaning unit.

[0020] It is advantageous if each cleaning unit is assigned a positioning device to enable positioning at different positions. For example, the positioning device can be designed to move the cleaning unit in question either to at least one lowered operation position for performing laser cleaning processes or to at least one raised standby position for vehicle movements other than during cleaning runs.

[0021] Preferably, the laser cleaning device is additionally equipped with a suction device for removing ablation media produced during the cleaning process in the area of the at least one cleaning units. Since the ablation media are predominantly gaseous in consistency, suction cleaning can effectively prevent contamination of the surroundings.

[0022] The suction device is designed in particular so that the ablation media can be extracted in the immediate vicinity of their origin. For this purpose, the suction device expediently comprises at least one suction opening in the area of each cleaning unit, which communicates with a suction power unit of the suction device. If a cleaning unit comprises a laser radiation shielding device, it is advisable for the suction opening to be located inside the working chamber of the associated cleaning unit. In principle, however, the suction opening can also be located outside a cleaning unit, in particular behind the cleaning unit in the opposite direction to the direction of travel of the cleaning vehicle.

[0023] The drive device designed to induce the vehicle movement and, accordingly, the cleaning run is expediently a direct part of the cleaning vehicle. The cleaning vehicle is thus a ‘self-propelled’ vehicle, which makes it unnecessary to resort to an additional towing or pushing vehicle. The drive device is connected to one or more of the track wheels for propulsion, thus enabling the cleaning vehicle to be propelled directly along a monorail. The drive device can be used both for cleaning runs and for movement runs without an active rail cleaning device to cover distances between rail sections to be cleaned.

[0024] In principle, the cleaning vehicle can be designed without its own drive system and comprise at least one coupling device, which allows the preferably detachable coupling of a drive vehicle comprising the drive device.

[0025] The drive device is preferably an electric drive device which obtains its drive energy, for example, from an on-board accumulator and / or via a current collector system from a current-carrying conductor system laid along the monorail or integrated into the monorail.

[0026] The electrical energy required to operate the laser cleaning device is expediently supplied by a power generator located on board the cleaning vehicle. Such a power generator expediently comprises a combustion engine as its drive source, so that, in particular, rail cleaning of non-electrified rail sections is also possible without any problems.

[0027] In principle, the electrical energy required to operate the laser cleaning device can also or alternatively be provided by an electricity storage device or accumulator. For use on electrified monorails, the cleaning vehicle can be equipped with a current collector system.

[0028] The same power generator can, for example, be designed to generate electrical energy for both the drive device and the laser cleaning device.

[0029] The track wheels expediently comprise several wheels that are vertically supported in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle on at least one upward-facing running tread of the monorail and roll along the running tread during vehicle movement.

[0030] It is preferable that at least one cleaning unit of the rail cleaning device can be positioned or is positioned in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle in such a way that the laser radiation exiting at the associated laser radiation exit area is directed onto the at least one running surface of the monorail.

[0031] A cleaning vehicle intended for cleaning the monorail of a monorail system designed as a suspension track system is preferably designed as a suspended vehicle that hangs from the monorail via its track wheels in its position of use.

[0032] The suspended vehicle expediently comprises several track wheels designed as running wheels, which, in the position of use of the suspended vehicle, rest rollably on two upward-facing running treads of the monorail to enable vehicle movement.

[0033] The track wheels expediently comprise several guiding wheels which, in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle, are supported on two sideways-oriented and mutually facing guiding surfaces of the monorail and serve to support the cleaning vehicle transversely on the monorail.

[0034] It is advantageous if at least one cleaning unit of the rail cleaning device can be positioned or is positioned in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle in such a way that the laser radiation exiting at the associated laser radiation exit area is directed onto at least one of the guiding surfaces. It is expedient to have a separate cleaning unit for irradiating each of the two guiding surfaces.

[0035] The track wheels are expediently equipped with at least one wheel flange each, which provides transverse support on a rail for guidance during vehicle movement. The wheel flange technology can correspond to that of conventional rail vehicles.

[0036] In addition to the track wheels, the cleaning vehicle may comprise conventional wheels that enable it to move without rails on normal ground such as roads or other terrain. These additional wheels preferably have pneumatic-tired wheels. The wheels allow the cleaning vehicle to be easily moved between different locations independently of rails. Expediently, the cleaning vehicle is equipped in such a way that either the track wheels or the wheels can be used to move the cleaning vehicle, while the other wheels are temporarily in a deactivated standby position.

[0037] The cleaning vehicle expediently has a vehicle chassis on which the track wheels are arranged. The vehicle chassis is, for example, frame-like and / or panel-shaped. The cleaning units are preferably arranged on the vehicle chassis, in particular in an adjustable manner, so that the working distance between the laser radiation exit area and the section of the rail surface to be cleaned on the monorail can be variably adjusted. The adjustability can in particular be implemented as height adjustability in such a way that the cleaning units can be moved into a raised or swivelled-up standby position when not in use.

[0038] It is considered advantageous if not only the track wheels but also the optional wheels are arranged on the vehicle chassis. The arrangement is designed in particular so that the track wheels and the wheels can be adjusted relative to each other in height in order to optionally position the track wheels or the wheels in a lowered, activated position in which they can be used to propel the cleaning vehicle.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the cleaning vehicle comprises two individual vehicles that are coupled to each other in a push-pull configuration and each have their own track wheels for placement on a monorail. For better differentiation, these two vehicles are referred to as the main vehicle and the auxiliary vehicle. The main vehicle contains the at least one cleaning unit, while the auxiliary vehicle contains the laser. At least one flexible optical connecting line enables the transmission of the generated laser radiation between the laser and the at least one cleaning unit. This vehicle design allows for quick conversion between different lasers as needed, for example, to equip the vehicle with lasers of different power or to save time during maintenance work. For example, several auxiliary vehicles equipped with a laser can be provided, which can be alternatively coupled to one and the same main vehicle.

[0040] Expediently, the main vehicle comprises a drive device serving to propel the vehicle. The main vehicle expediently functions as a towing vehicle for an auxiliary vehicle coupled to the main vehicle as a trailer.

[0041] If the cleaning vehicle is equipped with a suction device, the at least one suction opening is expediently located on the main vehicle and a suction power unit responsible for generating the suction flow is located on the auxiliary vehicle. One or more flexible suction pipes, which allow for damage-free cornering, ensure a flow connection between the suction power unit and each suction opening in order to enable a suction flow.

[0042] The optional power generator for generating the laser's operating energy is located on board the auxiliary vehicle.

[0043] In another cost-effective design, the cleaning vehicle consists of a single vehicle which comprises all the components required for the operation of the laser cleaning device. This design allows for a particularly compact cleaning vehicle and facilitates transport between different locations using a separate transport vehicle.

[0044] There is also the advantageous option of designing the cleaning vehicle as a so-called standard railway vehicle. Standard vehicles are certain rail vehicles used by German railways, including railway traction vehicles, passenger carriages and freight wagons. This design can be implemented, for example, by installing the laser cleaning device and all other components intended for the cleaning vehicle directly into a standard railway vehicle. It is considered particularly advantageous if the cleaning vehicle is a railway traction vehicle. Such embodiments enable cleaning processes to be performed during normal railway traffic and can therefore be performed in a time-and cost-saving manner without interrupting railway traffic and without temporarily closing rail sections.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] The terms Fig., Figs., Figure, and Figures are used interchangeably in the specification to refer to the corresponding figures in the drawings.

[0046] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawing. This shows:

[0047] FIG. 1 schematic illustration of a top view of a preferred embodiment of the cleaning vehicle according to the invention in a position of use placed on a monorail, wherein, for the sake of clarity, a rail bed supporting the monorail is not shown,

[0048] FIG. 2 a side view of the embodiment from FIG. 1 with the viewing direction according to arrow II from FIG. 1, wherein a detailed section framed by a dotted line is additionally enlarged to illustrate the structure of a preferred cleaning unit,

[0049] FIG. 3 another embodiment of the cleaning vehicle according to the invention in a schematic illustration in a side view analogous to FIG. 2, wherein a possible embodiment as a railway traction vehicle is also illustrated in dotted lines, and

[0050] FIG. 4 another embodiment of the cleaning vehicle according to the invention in a design of a suspended vehicle in a schematic illustration in a front view.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Unless otherwise specified in individual cases, the following descriptions refer to all embodiments of the invention.

[0052] The drawing shows a cleaning vehicle according to the invention, designated by reference numeral 1, in various advantageous equipment variants.

[0053] The cleaning vehicle 1 is used for mobile laser radiation cleaning of a monorail 2 belonging to a monorail system, also known as a ‘monorail’, which is used to move any rail vehicles. Designs are possible in which the rail vehicle, which is not illustrated, is placed above or beneath the monorail and accordingly either sits on top of the monorail 2—for example, according to the concept of a railway or a magnetically supported suspension railway—or hangs below the monorail 2, resulting in a suspended railway concept. Possible applications include the transport of people, goods or work equipment both outdoors and in interior spaces. Internal applications for monorail systems include, for example, transport systems for transporting workpieces in production halls or crane systems using the monorail 2 as a support beam for rail vehicles designed as trolleys for lifting equipment.

[0054] The monorail 2, which is designed in particular in the form of a beam or profiled girder, extends in a longitudinal direction 4 indicated by a dotted line, wherein it may have a straight or curved course.

[0055] The monorail 2 is attached in a manner known per se to a supporting structure 6, which is, for example, a rail bed according to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, or a pillar-like support structure according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4.

[0056] The cleaning vehicle 1 has a vehicle longitudinal axis 8 parallel to the longitudinal direction of the rail 4 in its position of use, a vehicle transverse axis 11 that is orthogonal to this and usually runs horizontally like the vehicle longitudinal axis 8, and a vehicle high axis 12 that is orthogonal to the vehicle longitudinal axis 8 and the vehicle transverse axis 11 and usually runs vertically.

[0057] When it assumes its position of use on or at the monorail, the cleaning vehicle 1 can perform a vehicle movement 13 along the monorail 2, as illustrated by an arrow. During this vehicle movement 13, it rolls along the monorail 2 on track wheels 14. The vehicle movement 13 is possible both forwards and backwards.

[0058] The cleaning vehicle 1 has a plurality of track wheels 14. Each track wheel 14 rests on a rail surface 34 of the monorail 3 in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle 1.

[0059] Preferably, the cleaning vehicle 1 has a plurality of track wheels 14, which are designed as running wheels 14a and which, in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle 1, each rest in a rollable manner on a vertically upward-pointing running tread 34a of the monorail 2 in order to support the cleaning vehicle 1 vertically. This applies to all illustrated embodiments. Preferably, the cleaning vehicle 1 has at least two pairs of running wheels 14a, wherein running wheels 14a belonging to the same pair of running wheels face each other in the axial direction of the vehicle transverse axis 11. The cleaning vehicle 1 is supported, for example, by at least two pairs of running wheels 14a spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the vehicle longitudinal axis 8, which can roll on the monorail 2.

[0060] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the monorail 2 to be cleaned has a single running tread 34a located on an upper side of the monorail 2, which preferably comprises a rectangular cross-section. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the monorail 2 preferably has a double-T cross-section with two cross plates 69, 70 connected to each other by a vertical web 68, of which a lower cross plate 69 comprises two support legs 72 projecting laterally beyond the web 68, on the upper side of each of which a running tread 34a is formed, on which at least one running roller 14a of the cleaning vehicle 1 is supported.

[0061] In conventional use of the monorail system, the rail vehicle (not illustrated) can be supported vertically on the at least one running tread 14a by rail vehicle running wheels, which can roll on the associated running tread 14a as the rail vehicle moves forward.

[0062] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the track wheels 14 comprise not only the running wheels 14a but also several guiding wheels 14b, which, in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle, are supported horizontally on two mutually facing, sideways-oriented guiding surfaces 34b of the monorail 2. The guiding wheels 14b serve to support the cleaning vehicle 1 transversely on the monorail 2 in the axial direction of the vehicle transverse axis 11 for the purpose of guiding it during vehicle movement 13. The guiding wheels 14b also prevent the cleaning vehicle 1 from tipping sideways, thereby ensuring that the cleaning vehicle 1 remains in a stable upright position.

[0063] Alternatively, the guiding wheels 14b can be omitted in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 4. In this case, the cleaning vehicle 1 only comprises track wheels 14 designed as running wheels 14a. The running wheels 14a can comprise wheel flanges 22 for transverse support with respect to the monorail 2.

[0064] According to an embodiment not shown, the cleaning vehicle 1 may comprise a gyroscopic device for stabilising its position.

[0065] In conventional use of the monorail system, the rail vehicle (not illustrated) can be supported horizontally on the guiding surfaces 14b by rail vehicle guiding wheels, which can roll on the associated guiding surface 14b as the rail vehicle moves forward, ensuring that the rail vehicle remains in a stable upright position.

[0066] The cleaning vehicle 1 has an expediently single-piece or multi-piece vehicle chassis 15, on which the track wheels 14 are rotatably arranged by means of suitable suspension measures.

[0067] The vehicle movement 13 can be caused by a drive device 16. In all illustrated embodiments, the drive device 16 is a direct part of the cleaning vehicle 1. For example, it is attached to the vehicle chassis 15. The drive device 16 is connected to at least one and, in particular, to several of the track wheels 14 via at least one drive train 17. The at least one drive train 17 can transfer a drive torque generated by the drive device 16 to the associated track wheel 14, which acts as a drive wheel, in order to generate the vehicle movement 13. Preferably, one or more of the running wheels 14a act as drive wheel(s).

[0068] The drive device 16 is preferably an electric drive device which obtains its drive energy from an on-board accumulator 18 and / or, via a current collector system 21 indicated only in FIG. 3, from a current-carrying conductor system laid along the monorail 2, for example an catanary.

[0069] Expediently, the cleaning vehicle 1 comprises at least one seat 23, for example in the form of a vehicle seat, which enables an operator of the cleaning vehicle 1 to sit down while operating the cleaning vehicle 1. This applies to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0070] An operating device 24 located in the seating area 23 can be operated by the operating personnel as required to command the vehicle movement 13 or the standstill of the cleaning vehicle 1. The operating device 24 allows access to the drive device 16 for control purposes.

[0071] The cleaning vehicle 1 may be designed so that its vehicle movement can be controlled by means of a wireless remote control device 74 based on radio or infrared technology. This is the case in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4. Preferably, the remote control device 74 has a receiver 74a located on board the cleaning vehicle 1 and an external control unit 74b that can be held in the human hand and is equipped with a transmitter. Alternatively, the remote control device 74 may comprise a cable-based functionality.

[0072] Preferably, all functions of the cleaning vehicle 1 can be controlled via the remote control device 74, in particular the cleaning functions described below.

[0073] The cleaning vehicle 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2 and 4 and shown in solid lines in FIG. 3 is specially designed for the laser cleaning of the monorail 2, which will be explained later, and serves no other purpose. However, there is the possibility, indicated by dotted lines in FIG. 3, of designing the cleaning vehicle 1 at the same time as a railway traction vehicle 25 or in the manner of other so-called standard railway vehicles. In this case, there is a rail vehicle with a dual function as a railway traction vehicle 25 and, at the same time, a cleaning vehicle 1, which can be used both for regular operation in the railway system and, in particular, at the same time, for cleaning monorails 2. For example, a rail cleaning process can be conducted during a train journey for the purpose of passenger and / or freight transport.

[0074] According to an embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the cleaning vehicle 1 comprises several, in particular two, vehicles 26, 27, which are coupled to each other via a mechanical coupling device 28 and are referred to as the main vehicle 26 and the auxiliary vehicle 27 for better differentiation. The coupling device 28 is designed in particular for a detachable coupling so that the two vehicles 26, 27 can be separated from each other if necessary.

[0075] The coupling device 28 connects the two vehicles 26, 27 in a manner that is resistant to push and pull forces and at the same time articulated. Preferably, the main vehicle 26 is performed as a towing vehicle and the auxiliary vehicle 27 as a trailer of the main vehicle 26. During vehicle movement 13, the main vehicle 26 travels ahead and pulls the auxiliary vehicle 27 behind it. The drive device 16 and the at least one track wheel 14 acting as a drive wheel are preferably parts of the main vehicle 26.

[0076] Both the main vehicle 26 and the auxiliary vehicle 27 comprise their own track wheels 14. For example, each of the two vehicles 26, 27 has two pairs of track wheels 14 arranged consecutively in the axial direction of the vehicle longitudinal axis 8 and is also equipped with at least one pair of track wheels 14 designed as guiding wheels 14b.

[0077] According to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the cleaning vehicle 1 may consist of a single vehicle, whether it be a cleaning vehicle 1 used solely for cleaning purposes or a cleaning vehicle 1 that also functions as a railway traction vehicle 25.

[0078] While in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the cleaning vehicle 1 is designed as a rail vehicle standing on the monorail 2, with the cleaning vehicle 1 located above the monorail 2, FIG. 4 shows an embodiment in which the cleaning vehicle 1 is designed as a rail vehicle suspended in the position of use on the monorail 2 via its track wheels 14, which can therefore be referred to as a suspended vehicle 1a and can be used in particular for cleaning the monorail 2 of a monorail system designed as a suspension track system. Here, the cleaning vehicle 1 is located beneath the monorail 2.

[0079] The cleaning vehicle 1 comprises regardless of its specific embodiment a rail cleaning device, designated by reference number 31, which is designed as a laser cleaning device 31a. The terms ‘rail cleaning device 31’ and ‘laser cleaning device 31a’ therefore refer to one and the same device. The laser cleaning device 31a is designed to treat the rail surface 34 of the monorail 2 with the aid of laser radiation 33 generated by a laser 32 in order to remove contaminants. Due to the laser radiation treatment, this involves in particular the thermal removal of contaminants, specifically in that the contaminants are vaporised by the energy of the laser radiation 33.

[0080] Laser radiation cleaning takes place during a vehicle movement 13 of the cleaning vehicle 1 referred to as cleaning run 13a. During cleaning run 13a, the cleaning vehicle 1 moves forward, in particular with the front of the vehicle 35 leading. However, cleaning run 13a can also be carried out expediently within a backwards run.

[0081] The laser cleaning device 31 contains the aforementioned laser 32, which is located on board the cleaning vehicle 1 and is suitably attached on or to the vehicle chassis 15. Preferably, the laser 32 is attached behind the optional seat 23 in relation to forward travel, opposite to the direction of travel.

[0082] In the two-part embodiment of the cleaning vehicle 1 according to FIGS. 1 and 2, the laser 32 is expediently located on board the auxiliary vehicle 27.

[0083] The laser cleaning device 31a comprises at least one cleaning unit 36, which can be positioned or is positioned in the area of the monorail 2 to be cleaned when the cleaning vehicle 1 is in the position of use.

[0084] Preferably, and in accordance with all embodiments, the laser cleaning device 31a contains several cleaning units 36, with which different areas of the rail surface 34 can be irradiated and thus cleaned. Expediently, the number and distribution of the cleaning units 36 are selected such that all running treads 34a and guiding surfaces 34b present can be irradiated and thus cleaned.

[0085] If, for example, the monorail 2 comprises only a single running tread 34a and no guiding surface 34b, it is sufficient for the cleaning vehicle 1 to be equipped with only a single cleaning unit 36. A single cleaning unit 36 is also sufficient if several areas of the rail surface 34 to be cleaned are arranged adjacent to each other in such a way that they can be reached by the laser radiation 33 of a single cleaning unit 36.

[0086] Each cleaning unit 36 is arranged, for example, in the area of the front of the vehicle 35 of the cleaning vehicle 1, wherein it is expediently attached to the vehicle chassis 15 via a suitable interface device 37. However, a different placement and distribution is also possible.

[0087] The multiple cleaning units 36 are expediently arranged at a distance from each other transversely to the vehicle longitudinal axis 8, wherein they are located at the same height in the axial direction of the vehicle longitudinal axis 8. Preferably, the mutual distance between the multiple cleaning units 36 is variably adjustable.

[0088] The position of the at least one operational cleaning unit 36 is selected in particular so that, in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle 1, it is arranged transversely to the vehicle longitudinal axis 8 above or next to the monorail 2.

[0089] As an example, the laser cleaning device 31a is equipped in such a way that each running tread 34a has its own cleaning unit 36 positioned vertically opposite it at a certain height. Accordingly, the cleaning vehicle 1 of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 contains only a single cleaning unit 36 for tread cleaning, and the cleaning vehicle 1 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 comprises two such cleaning units 36. These cleaning units 36 are each placed in the axial direction of the vehicle high axis 12 above the running tread 34a to be cleaned.

[0090] Furthermore, the laser cleaning device 31a is expediently equipped so that each guiding surface 34b has its own cleaning unit 36 located horizontally opposite it at a transverse distance. Accordingly, the cleaning vehicle 1 of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 contains two cleaning units 36 for cleaning the guiding surfaces, each of which is positioned in the axial direction of the vehicle transverse axis 11 next to the guiding surface 34b to be cleaned. Their height position in the axial direction of the vehicle high axis 12 is expediently lower than that of the cleaning unit 36 provided for laser cleaning of the running tread 34a.

[0091] Since the monorail 2 to be cleaned by the suspended vehicle 1a according to FIG. 4 is not equipped with guiding surfaces 34b, there are no cleaning units 36 suitable for cleaning guiding surfaces 14b.

[0092] The arrangement and alignment of the cleaning units 36 described above applies accordingly to a laser radiation exit area 42, which each cleaning unit 36 comprises. The laser radiation exit area 42 allows the laser radiation 33 that can be generated or is generated by the laser 32 to exit and, in an operation position of the relevant cleaning unit 36 that can be seen in all the figures, is aligned in such a way that it faces the monorail 2 to be cleaned and, in particular—depending on the embodiment—its running tread 34a or guiding surface 34b to be cleaned.

[0093] The laser radiation exit area 42 is optically connected to the laser 32 via at least one optical connecting line 43, which is only schematically indicated. The laser radiation generated by the laser 32 can obtain through the optical connecting line 43 to the laser radiation exit area 42 and exit there for energetic irradiation of the associated rail 2.

[0094] In the embodiment with a two-part cleaning vehicle 1 according to FIGS. 1 and 2, the cleaning units 36 are arranged on the main vehicle 26, wherein the at least one optical connecting line 43 preferably comprises flexible properties so that it is not damaged when cornering due to the cleaning vehicle 1 bending in the area of the coupling device 28. It is understood that the optical connecting line 43 may also comprise flexible properties in a cleaning vehicle 1 consisting of only a single vehicle, as shown in FIG. 3.

[0095] In order to provide the electrical energy required to operate the laser 32, the laser cleaning device 31a is expediently equipped with a power generator 44. The power generator 44 is, for example, a diesel generator. The power generator 44 is located on board the cleaning vehicle 1 so that it always follows its vehicle movement 13.

[0096] In a cleaning vehicle 1 comprising a main vehicle 26 and an auxiliary vehicle 27, the power generator 44 is expediently a part of the auxiliary vehicle 27, which applies to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The power generator 44 is expediently located independently of the vehicle body near the laser 32 so that the power supply lines 45 can be as short as possible.

[0097] In a non-illustrated embodiment, the laser 32 is powered from the same power source as the drive device 16, for example via an accumulator 18 or via a current collector system 21, as illustrated in the embodiments of FIG. 3 in connection with the railway traction vehicle 25.

[0098] The laser cleaning device 31a comprises, expediently for each cleaning unit 36, a radiation output head 46 designed as part of the relevant cleaning unit 36, on which the laser radiation exit area 42 is located. The radiation output head 46 is preferably equipped with a laser optic 47, which is responsible for the radiation geometry of the laser radiation to exit 33 and ensures, for example, that the laser radiation hits the rail surface 34 to be cleaned in a point-shaped or line-shaped manner.

[0099] Preferably, the laser optic 47 is designed or adjustable in such a way that the laser radiation 33 hits the entire width of the running tread 34a or the guiding tread 34b, so that the laser cleaning process can take place without periodic transverse movements of the laser radiation 33 in the axial direction of the vehicle transverse axis 11.

[0100] Preferably, each cleaning unit 36 is equipped with a laser radiation shielding device 48, which in particular prevents hazardous to health laser radiation 33 from exiting in a manner that could endanger people.

[0101] For example, the laser radiation shielding device 48 contains a shielding housing 51, which is clearly visible in the enlarged sectional view of FIG. 2 and comprises an opaque housing wall 51a. The shielding housing 51 encloses a housing chamber designated as a working chamber 52, in which the laser radiation exit area 42 is located. For example and preferably, the entire radiation output head 46 is accommodated in the working chamber 52, wherein it is expediently attached directly or indirectly to the housing wall 51a.

[0102] The housing wall 51a expediently encloses the working chamber 52 all around, with the exception of one working side facing the monorail 2 in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle 1, where the shielding housing 51 has a window 53 framed by the housing wall 51a, through which the laser radiation 33 exiting within the working chamber 52 at the laser radiation exit area 42 can exit from the shielding housing 51 in accordance with the arrow shown in the drawing in order to irradiate the adjacent rail 2. The window 53 faces the area of the rail surface 34 to be cleaned.

[0103] At least during a cleaning run 13a, the window 53 is positioned very close to the monorail 2, i.e. at a very small distance from the area of the rail surface 34 to be cleaned—running tread 34a and / or guiding surface 34b—so that reflective laser radiation is reflected back into the working chamber 52 through the window 53, at least to a large extent, and is not emitted into the environment of the cleaning unit 36.

[0104] In particular, to enable the setting of an optimized low distance between the cleaning unit 36 and the monorail 2 to be cleaned, each cleaning unit 36 can be designed to be adjustable. For example, each cleaning unit 36 is attached to the vehicle chassis 15 via a positioning device 54, which is only shown schematically, in such a way that it can be adjusted relative to the vehicle chassis 15 in the axial direction of the vehicle high axis 12 by performing a adjustment movement 55 indicated by a double arrow, and can be positioned at different height positions. The positioning device 54 is, for example, a part of the interface device 37 or forms this interface device 37.

[0105] The positioning device 54 allows, for example, height adjustment of the cleaning unit 36 in the axial direction of the vehicle high axis 12 and / or transverse adjustment in the axial direction of the vehicle transverse axis 11.

[0106] Preferably, the positioning device 54 allows variable adjustment of a distance between the laser radiation exit area 42 and the running tread 34a and / or guiding tread 34b.

[0107] The positioning device 54 can also be designed in such a way that the associated cleaning unit 36 can be positioned either in an operation position corresponding to the arrangement described above or in a standby position away from the operation position. In the standby position, the distance to the monorail 2 is greater than in the operation position. Expediently, each cleaning unit 36 is moved to the standby position at times other than during cleaning runs and, for example, when manoeuvring the cleaning vehicle 1, in order to prevent damage.

[0108] Preferably, the laser cleaning device 31a is equipped with a laser 32 that falls into laser class 4. However, due to the described encapsulation of the laser radiation exit area 42 by means of a laser radiation shielding device 48, laser class 1 is achieved in terms of operational readiness. In this way, cleaning measures can be performed with high laser energy and correspondingly high thoroughness without having to take into account the fact that cleaning runs are also performed in public or in heavily frequented areas, for example.

[0109] In order to prevent or minimise contamination-related damage to the surroundings, it is advantageous if the laser cleaning device 31a is equipped with a suction device 56, as shown in all of the illustrated embodiments, which enables the suction cleaning of ablation media that are produced during a cleaning process in the area of the cleaning units by the laser treatment.

[0110] The suction device 56 includes, for example, a suction power unit 57 located on board the cleaning vehicle 1, wherein in a cleaning vehicle 1 comprising a main vehicle 26 and an auxiliary vehicle 27, it is expediently designed as a part of the auxiliary vehicle 27. The latter is the case in the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0111] The suction power unit 57 is expediently equipped with a filtering device in a manner known per se and has at least one receiving space in which suctioned particles are collected for later disposal.

[0112] The suction device 56 comprises for example several suction openings 58, at least one of which is arranged in the area of each cleaning unit 36. Each suction opening 56 is connected to the suction power unit 57 via a suction pipe 61, which is only shown schematically, so that during operation of the suction device 56, a suction flow can be formed between the area of the suction opening 58 and the suction power unit 57. The suction process taking place in the area of the monorail 2 is indicated by an arrow at 50.

[0113] The suction pipe 61 has expediently flexible properties and is implemented, for example, by means of one or more suction hoses.

[0114] Preferably, the suction opening 58 assigned to a respective cleaning unit 36 is arranged inside the working chamber 52 of the laser radiation shielding device 48. The resulting ablation media, which are predominantly gaseous in nature, can thus be extracted extremely effectively in the immediate vicinity of the point of origin, as indicated by arrow 50.

[0115] In a non-illustrated embodiment, the suction openings 58 are located outside the working chamber 52, but preferably in the immediate vicinity of the cleaning units 36 and, expediently, in an area downstream of the cleaning units 36 in the opposite direction to the direction of travel of the cleaning run 13a.

[0116] The suction device 56 is designed to be electrically operated. The power generator 44 described above also serves expediently to supply power to the suction device 56. For example, it is connected to the electrically operated suction power unit 57 via additional power supply lines 59.

[0117] In accordance with the embodiment illustrated by solid lines in FIG. 3, the cleaning vehicle 1 may comprise, in addition to the track wheels 14, a plurality of wheels 62 which allow the cleaning vehicle 1 to move without rails and without the involvement of the track wheels 14. In this way, the cleaning vehicle 1 can be moved between different locations independently of rails, for example by travelling on public or non-public paths, roads or other traffic surfaces. The wheels 62 are in particular pneumatic-tired, so that smaller obstacles can be easily overcome.

[0118] The cleaning vehicle 1 is equipped in particular with four wheels 62, which are arranged in pairs opposite each other in the axial direction of the vehicle transverse axis 11.

[0119] FIG. 3 shows only the wheels 62 assigned to one of the two long sides of the cleaning vehicle 1.

[0120] In accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, both the track wheels 14 and the wheels 62 are expediently arranged on the vehicle chassis 15.

[0121] An advantageous embodiment is one in which the track wheels 14 or the wheels 62 are adjustable relative to the vehicle chassis 15 in an axial direction of the vehicle high axis 12, which can be described as the height direction, in order to be able to set different height positions.

[0122] By way of example, the height adjustability refers to the wheels 62. These are attached to the vehicle chassis 15 in such a way that they can be rotated via swivel arms 63 and can be driven by means of an associated actuating device 64 to perform an adjustment movement 65 indicated by a double arrow, which is, for example, a pivoting movement. As part of the adjustment movement 65, each wheel 62 can be positioned either in a raised position relative to the track wheels 14, as illustrated by solid lines, or in a lowered position relative to the track wheels 14, as indicated by dotted lines.

[0123] The raised position of the wheels 62 means that the track wheels 14 are in a lowered, activated position relative to them, protruding downwards beyond the wheels 62, in which the cleaning vehicle 1 can take its position of use, as can be seen in FIG. 3. In contrast, the lowered position of the wheels 62, indicated by dotted lines, is accompanied by a relatively raised, deactivated position of the track wheels 14, in which the cleaning vehicle 1 can be moved without rails by means of the wheels 62, which are then ready for use.

[0124] In another embodiment, which is not illustrated, the wheels 62 always maintain a constant height position relative to the vehicle chassis 15, and the track wheels 14 are switched between the activated and deactivated positions by means of an adjustment movement between the track wheels 14 and the vehicle chassis 15.

[0125] Preferably, the cleaning vehicle 1 is equipped with an electronic control device 66, shown only schematically, which is designed to control the parts of the laser cleaning device 31a in particular during operation, wherein the electrical control lines provided for this purpose are not shown in the drawing for the sake of clarity. The electronic control device 66 is preferably performed as a part of the operating device 24 or of the remote control device 74.

[0126] For example, the electronic control device 66 also allows the controller of the adjustment movements 65 for the purpose of reconfiguring the cleaning vehicle 1 between a cleaning mode using the track wheels 14 and a standby mode using the wheel 62.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0051]Unless otherwise specified in individual cases, the following descriptions refer to all embodiments of the invention.

[0052]The drawing shows a cleaning vehicle according to the invention, designated by reference numeral 1, in various advantageous equipment variants.

[0053]The cleaning vehicle 1 is used for mobile laser radiation cleaning of a monorail 2 belonging to a monorail system, also known as a ‘monorail’, which is used to move any rail vehicles. Designs are possible in which the rail vehicle, which is not illustrated, is placed above or beneath the monorail and accordingly either sits on top of the monorail 2—for example, according to the concept of a railway or a magnetically supported suspension railway—or hangs below the monorail 2, resulting in a suspended railway concept. Possible applications include the transport of people, goods or work equipment both outdoors and in interior spaces. Internal applications for monorail systems include, for example, transport syste...

Claims

1. A cleaning vehicle for cleaning a monorail of a monorail system used to guide a rail vehicles, comprising:a plurality of track wheels by means of which the cleaning vehicle can be placed in a position of use on the monorail to be cleaned, wherein the cleaning vehicle can perform a vehicle movement along the monorail in its position of use, which movement can be induced by an associated drive device; anda rail cleaning device which has at least one cleaning unit, which can be positioned or is positioned in the vicinity of the monorail to be cleaned at least during a cleaning run of the cleaning vehicle that can be performed by the vehicle movement, in order to perform a surface treatment on this monorail during a cleaning process that induces the removal of contaminants,wherein the rail cleaning device is designed as a laser cleaning device which has a laser located on board the cleaning vehicle, wherein the at least one cleaning unit comprises a laser radiation exit area for the exit of laser radiation which can be generated by the laser and directed onto the monorail to be cleaned in order to remove contaminants of the rail to be cleaned in order to remove contaminants.

2. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the rail cleaning device comprises a plurality of cleaning units arranged relative to each other transversely to the direction of travel of the cleaning vehicle.3-5. (canceled)6. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the at least one cleaning unit comprises a laser radiation shielding device which has a shielding housing that opaquely encloses a working chamber, wherein the laser radiation exit area is located and which comprises a window facing or being able to face exclusively the monorail to be cleaned during a cleaning process, through which the laser radiation to exit within the working chamber at the laser radiation exit area can irradiate the monorail to be cleaned.

7. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 1, wherein each laser radiation exit area of a laser optic is assigned to a radiation output head of the laser cleaning device.

8. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 7, wherein the at least one cleaning unit comprises a laser radiation shielding device which has a shielding housing that opaquely encloses a working chamber, wherein the laser radiation exit area is located and which comprises a window facing or being able to face exclusively the monorail to be cleaned during a cleaning process, through which the laser radiation to exit within the working chamber at the laser radiation exit area can irradiate the monorail to be cleaned and each radiation output head is arranged inside the working chamber of the at least one cleaning unit.

9. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the at least one cleaning unit is assigned a positioning device by means of which the at least one cleaning unit can be positioned at different positions of the cleaning vehicle.

10. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the laser cleaning device is equipped with a suction device for removing ablation media produced during a cleaning process in the area of the at least one cleaning unit.11-12. (canceled)13. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the drive device designed to induce the vehicle movement is an electric drive device.

14. (canceled)15.The cleaning vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning vehicle is equipped with a power generator for generating the electrical energy required to operate the laser cleaning device.

16. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the track wheels comprise a plurality of running wheels which, in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle, are vertically supported on at least one upward-facing running surface of the monorail and can roll on the monorail.

17. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 16, wherein at least one cleaning unit of the rail cleaning device is positionable or positioned in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle in such a way that the laser radiation to exit at the associated laser radiation exit area is directed onto the at least one running tread.

18. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 1, wherein it is designed as a suspended vehicle suspended in the position of use via its track wheels on the monorail for cleaning the monorail of a monorail system designed as a suspension track system.

19. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 18, wherein the track wheels comprise a plurality of running wheels which, in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle, are vertically supported on at least one upward-facing running surface of the monorail and can roll on the monorail or at least one cleaning unit of the rail cleaning device is positionable or positioned in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle in such a way that the laser radiation to exit at the associated laser radiation exit area is directed onto the at least one running tread and the suspended vehicle comprises track wheels designed as running wheels, which, in the position of use of the suspended vehicle, bear against two upward-facing running treads of the monorail in a manner that allows rolling to enable vehicle movement.

20. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the track wheels have several guiding wheels which, in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle, are horizontally supported on two sideways-oriented and mutually facing guiding surfaces of the monorail which comprise the transversely supporting structure of the cleaning vehicle on the monorail for the purpose of guidance during the vehicle movement.

21. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 20, wherein at least one cleaning unit of the rail cleaning device is positionable or positioned in the position of use of the cleaning vehicle in such a way that the laser radiation exiting at the associated laser radiation exit area is directed onto at least one of the guiding surfaces, wherein, a separate cleaning unit is provided for irradiating each of the two guiding surfaces.

22. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, in addition to the track wheels, the cleaning vehicle comprises a plurality of rail-independent wheels, which enable the cleaning vehicle to be propelled without involvement of the track wheels.23-24. (canceled)25. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 22, wherein both the track wheels and the rail-independent wheels are arranged on the vehicle chassis, wherein the track wheels or the rail-independent wheels are adjustable in a height direction relative to the vehicle chassis so that the track wheels can be selectively positioned to take the position of use in a lowered, activated position projecting downwards beyond the rail-independent wheels or in a deactivated position raised relative to the rail-independent wheels, enabling rail-independent vehicle movement by means of the rail-independent wheels.

26. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning vehicle is comprised of two vehicles that are coupled to each other in a manner that is both push- and pull-resistant and articulated, each comprising its own track wheels and wherein the two vehicles include a main vehicle and an auxiliary vehicle, wherein the main vehicle comprises the at least one cleaning unit and the auxiliary vehicle comprises the laser, wherein at least one flexible optical connecting line forms an optical connection between the laser and the at least one cleaning unit for transmitting the generated laser radiation.

27. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 26, wherein the drive device designed to induce the vehicle movement is a direct part of the cleaning vehicle and the main vehicle comprises the drive device.28-29. (canceled)30. The cleaning vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning vehicle consists of a single vehicle which comprises all the components required for the operation of the laser cleaning device.

31. (canceled)

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