A lifting system for a train set

Abstract

The present invention relates to a lifting system (200) for train set maintenance, designed to lift and lower the bogies of a train set safely and efficiently. The system includes multiple jacks (100) installed in pits (19) along the train path, each comprising a bogie lifter (1) with lead screw-and-nut mechanisms (9) for controlled lifting. The bogie lifter (1) is supported by columns (4), connected by cross beams (5), and powered by motors (11) with electromagnetic brakes to ensure safe operation in case of motor failure or power loss. A PLC unit automates synchronized operations across all jacks (100), while sensors and limit switches provide real-time monitoring and precise position control. The system also includes a hand pendant for manual control and a monitoring unit to detect wear in components. This invention ensures efficient and safe bogie replacement during train maintenance.

Description

[0001] A LIFTING SYSTEM FOR A TRAIN SET

[0002] FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to the field of train sets and lifting systems for the train sets

[0004] DEFINITION

[0005] A synchronized lifting system refers to a system of hydraulic or mechanical jacks that are used to lift and elevate bogies of the train sets during their maintenance.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007] The background information herein below relates to the present disclosure but is not necessarily prior art.

[0008] Conventionally, when a coach (rail car) of the train reports defects during maintenance, it is usually replaced with another coach, and the train's formation is adjusted. However, for some specialized train configurations, it is not advisable to change the arrangement of coaches due to the distribution of equipment and electrical controls, so that the reliability of train operation remains maintained. If such a coach reports defect related to its bogie (the undercarriage of a rail car), it becomes necessary to remove and replace the faulty bogie with an overhauled or a new one.

[0009] Traditional lifting systems that have an on-ground positioning, have been employed to lift the bogies to perform maintenance. However, these ground-based lifting systems can pose safety risks to personnel, such as a risk of objects falling or shifting during the lifting process due to confined or crowded environments, that can lead to accidents or injuries. Therefore, traditional lifting systems often require a significant amount of space for setup and operation, which may not be feasible in confined or crowded environments. Subsequently, the maintenance procedures are delayed, thus further increasing the maintenance time.

[0010] There is, therefore felt a need for a lifting system that alleviates the aforementioned drawbacks. OBJECTS

[0011] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows:

[0012] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a lifting system for a train set.

[0013] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a lifting system for a train set that facilitates a synchronized lifting system for train maintenance.

[0014] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a lifting system for a train set that facilitates efficient replacement of defective components such as bogies during train maintenance without disturbing the distribution of equipment and controls within coaches.

[0015] Still yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a lifting system for a train set that enhances safety of the personnel by preventing unintentional lowering of the lifted train set during maintenance procedures.

[0016] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a lifting system for a train set that decreases maintenance time of the bogies of the train set and enhances productivity.

[0017] Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description, which is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0018] SUMMARY

[0019] The present disclosure envisages a lifting system for a train set. The train set includes a plurality of coaches, wherein each coach is configured to be mounted on at least one bogie.

[0020] The lifting system comprises a plurality of pits configured below the ground, along the train path to align with the bogies of each coach. The lifting set further comprises a plurality of jacks. Each jack is configured to be disposed within the respective pit. Each jack comprises a bogie lifter comprising a plurality of lead screw-and-nut unit to facilitate the lifting and lowering operations of the bogies, a rail car body support configured to support the coach body in an operative configuration of the bogie lifter, and a rail bridge configured to support and stabilize the coach body in the operative configuration of the bogie lifter. The lifting set also includes at least a pair of bogie lifter electric motors operatively connected to each lead screw-and-nut unit. Each bogie lifter electric motor is provided with an electromagnetic brake to prevent operation of the bogie lifter electric motors in the event of critical wear of said lead screw-and-nut unit, power failure or motor deactivation, and arrest the movement of the lead screw-and-nut unit. A monitoring unit is configured to detect the wear of the lead screw-and- nut units and generate an alert signal. A programmable logic controller (PLC) is configured to automate synchronized lifting and lowering operations of the jacks across the train set, and the PLC is further configured to receive the alert signal and actuate the electromagnetic brakes based on the alert signal.

[0021] In an embodiment, the bogie lifter includes a pair of bogie lifter columns configured to be positioned perpendicular to the rail track. The bogie lifter columns are configured to support and lift the bogie.

[0022] In an embodiment, the bogie lifter columns are connected by a cross beam configured to enable coordinated lifting and lowering of the bogie by the bogie lifter columns.

[0023] In an embodiment, the lead screw-and-nut unit includes a bogie lifter gearbox having a coupler shaft connected to the bogie lifter electric motor. The bogie lifter gearbox is configured to receive power from the bogie lifter electric motor and is further configured to drive the lead screw-and-nut unit at a controlled torque and angular speed, thereby facilitating synchronized lifting and lowering of the bogies.

[0024] In an embodiment, the bogie lifter electric motors include a failsafe mechanism to ensure actuation of the electromagnetic brake in case of power failure or motor deactivation.

[0025] In an embodiment, the system includes a plurality of sensors connected to the jacks. The sensors are configured to monitor position, load, and movement of the jacks, and further configured to transmit the sensed signals to the PLC unit. The PLC unit is configured to adjust the movement of the lead screw-and-nut unit to synchronize the lifting and lowering operations of the jacks in response to the sensed signals, thereby ensuring precise and safe handling of the train set during maintenance.

[0026] In an embodiment, the PLC unit is configured to automatically adjust the lifting and lowering operations of the jacks in response to detected weight or height adjustments required for train set’s bogie maintenance. In an embodiment, a central operation control system having a user interface is configured to receive inputs from the operator to control the lifting and lowering of each jack independently or in synchronized mode to facilitate maintenance of the bogies.

[0027] In an embodiment, a platform cover is configured to cover each pit. The platform cover configured to be removed manually or by mechanic assistance. The platform cover is secured in place by a locking mechanism comprising a plurality of spring-loaded latches or bolts which can be disengaged to allow sliding away or lifting of said platform cover to access the pit.

[0028] In an embodiment, each rail car body support column includes an anvil positioned at the operative top portion of the rail car body support. The fixed or rotary anvil is configured to support the coach during replacement of the bogie.

[0029] In an embodiment, the system includes a plurality of limit switches connected to the jacks. The limit switches are configured to transmit a sensed height signal when the coach makes contact with the anvil or when the jacks reach its predefined operational position to the PLC unit to facilitate halting of the lifting or lowering operation of the jacks.

[0030] In an embodiment, the system includes a hand pendant configured to allow manual control of the lifting and lowering operations of the jacks. The hand pendant is operatively connected to the central operation control system with the human-machine interface (HMI) to enable manual initiation and control of the lifting, lowering, and positioning of individual jacks for maintenance of specific coaches or bogies within the train set.

[0031] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWING

[0032] The lifting system, of the present disclosure, for a trainset will now be described with the help of the accompanying drawing, in which:

[0033] FIGURE 1A illustrates a side view of a lifting system for a train set in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0034] FIGURE IB illustrates atop view of the lifting system for the train set of Figure 1A;

[0035] FIGURE 2 illustrates an isometric view of a jack, of the lifting system of Figure 1 A, in a pit; FIGURE 3 illustrates an isometric view of the jack, of the lifting system of Figure 1 A, with a rail bridge;

[0036] FIGURE 4 illustrates an isometric view of the jack, of the lifting system of Figure 1A, without a rail bridge; and

[0037] FIGURE 5 illustrates an isometric view of an anvil of the lifting system of Figure 1A.

[0038] EIST OF REFERENCE NUMERAES

[0039] 1 - Bogie Lifter

[0040] 2 - Rail Car Body Support

[0041] 3 - Rail Bridge

[0042] 4 -Bogie Lifter Columns

[0043] 5 - Cross Beam

[0044] 6 - Rail Tracks

[0045] 7a - First Housing Box

[0046] 7b - Second Housing Box

[0047] 8 - Support Frame

[0048] 9 - Lead Screw-And-Nut Mechanism

[0049] 10 - Bogie Lifter Gearbox

[0050] 11 - Bogie Lifter Electric Motors

[0051] 12 - Rail Car Body Support Column

[0052] 13 - Railcar Support Lifter Electric Motor with Gearbox

[0053] 14 - Anvil

[0054] 15 - Central Operation Control Unit 16 - Coaches

[0055] 19 - Pit

[0056] 20 - Platform Cover

[0057] 21 - Coupler Shaft

[0058] 100 - Plurality Of Jacks

[0059] 200 - Lifting System for a Train Set

[0060] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] Embodiments are provided so as to thoroughly and fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to the person skilled in the art. Numerous details, are set forth, relating to specific components, and methods, to provide a complete understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to the person skilled in the art that the details provided in the embodiments should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, well-known processes, well-known apparatus structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.

[0062] The terminology used, in the present disclosure is only for the purpose of explaining a particular embodiment and such terminology shall not be considered to limit the scope of the present disclosure. As used in the present disclosure, the forms "a,” "an," and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly suggests otherwise. The terms “including,” and “having,” are open ended transitional phrases and therefore specify the presence of stated features, elements and / or components, but do not forbid the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0063] The terms first, second, third, etc., should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure as the aforementioned terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another component, region, layer or section. Terms such as first, second, third etc., when used herein do not imply a specific sequence or order unless clearly suggested by the present disclosure. Embodiments, of the present disclosure, will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0064] An embodiment of a lifting system (200) for a train set will now be described with reference to Figures 1A through Figure 5. The train set includes a plurality of coaches (16), wherein each coach (16) configured to be mounted on at least one bogie.

[0065] Figure 1A illustrates a side view of the lifting system (200) and Figure IB illustrates a top view of the lifting system (200). The lifting system (200) includes a plurality of jacks (100).

[0066] The system comprises a plurality of pits (19) configured below the ground, along the length of the path of the train set to align with the bogies. The system (200) further comprises a plurality of jacks (100). Each jack (100) is configured to be positioned below the floor in a pit (19), as shown in Figure 2. In an embodiment, a platform cover (20) is configured to cover the pit (19), with a rail track (6) placed on the platform cover (20).

[0067] In an embodiment, each jack (100) includes a plurality of components i.e., a bogie lifter (1), a pair of rail car body support (2), and a rail bridge (3). In another embodiment, the jack (100) may further include a support (8) configured to be fixed in the pit (19) on the ground. In another embodiment, the bogie lifter (1) and the pair of rail car body support (2) are configured to be mounted on the support (8).

[0068] Figure 3 illustrates an isometric view of the jack (100) of the lifting system with the rail bridge (3). In an embodiment, the bogie lifter (1) includes a pair of bogie lifter columns (4) positioned perpendicular to the rail track (6). In another embodiment, each column (4) is located on either side of the rail track (6). In yet another embodiment, each column (4) is configured to be connected by a cross beam (5), enabling synchronized lifting, and lowering of the bogie by the bogie lifter columns (4).

[0069] In an embodiment, the bogie lifter (1) includes a plurality of first housing boxes (7a) attached to the support frame (8). Each box (7a) is configured to receive a column (4) and guide its displacement for lifting or lowering of the bogie lifter (1).

[0070] In an embodiment, the bogie lifter (1) is equipped with a lead screw-and-nut mechanism (9) for lifting and lowering the bogie. The lead screw-and-nut mechanism (9) includes a plurality of bogie lifter gearboxes (10) and at least one pair of bogie lifter electric motors (11). The lead screw is connected to the bogie lifter gearboxes (10), while the nut is connected to each of the columns (4).

[0071] In an embodiment, each bogie lifter electric motor (11) is attached to the support frame (8), as shown in Figure 4. In another embodiment, the jack (100) is provided with at least two electric motors (11) to ensure the operation of the bogie lifter (1) even in case of one motor (11) failing.

[0072] In an embodiment, each bogie lifter electric motor (11) is connected to each bogie lifter gearbox (10) via coupler shafts (21), as shown in Figure 4. Each bogie lifter electric motor

[0073] (11) drives its respective bogie lifter gearbox (10), which in turn operates the lead screw-and- nut mechanism (9). Each bogie lifter electric motor (11) is equipped with electromagnetic brakes that stop lifting or lowering if the motor is deactivated, or in case of motor failure or power outage.

[0074] In an embodiment, the lead screw-and-nut mechanism (9) is configured with an irreversible drive system that prevents unintended lowering of the bogie.

[0075] In an embodiment, the system (200) includes a monitoring unit to detect wear in the lead screw-and-nut mechanism (9). The monitoring unit is configured to generate an alert signal and halt the system (200) operations if critical wear is detected.

[0076] In an embodiment, the pair of rail car body support (2) includes rail car body support columns (12) extending from each side of the rail bridge (3), as shown in Figure 3. The pair of rail car body support (2) includes a plurality of second housing boxes (7b) attached to the support frame (8). Each box (7b) is configured to receive a column (4) and guide its displacement during the lifting or lowering of the rail car body support (2).

[0077] In an embodiment, each rail car body support column (12) includes a lead screw-and-nut mechanism (9) for lifting and lowering the coach (16). Each rail car body support column

[0078] (12) is configured with at least a gearbox integrated with an electric motor. The railcar support lifter electric motor with gearbox (13) connects to the lead screw, while the nut is connected to the rail car body support column (12). Each motor is equipped with electromagnetic brakes to halt movement in case of motor deactivation, failure, or power loss. In an embodiment, each rail car body support column (12) includes an anvil (14) on its operative top portion to support the coach (16) while replacing the bogie. In another embodiment, the anvil is configured with a rotary arrangement for supporting the rail car bodies with different support locations, as shown in Figure 5.

[0079] In an embodiment, limit switches are configured to detect and stop lifting of the coach (16) when it makes contact with the anvil (14). Additional limit and gear switches detect various height positions and control the jacks' (100) lifting and lowering operations.

[0080] In an embodiment, the system (200) includes a programmable logic controller (PLC) unit and a central operation control unit (15) with a human-machine interface (HMI). The PLC unit ensures the safe operation of the system (200), while the central control system with HMI allows the operator to manage all jacks (100) in the train set simultaneously.

[0081] In an embodiment, the method for lifting the train set for maintenance involves positioning the train, with its multiple coaches (16), over the lifting system (200). The central operation control unit (15) commands simultaneous lifting of all bogies via the bogie lifter (1), raising the entire train to a required height. The rail car body supports (2) then hold each coach securely while the bogies are lowered. A specific bogie can be disengaged at the designated station using the hand pendant, allowing the bogie to be removed and replaced with an overhauled or a new one.

[0082] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Individual components of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment but are interchangeable. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0083] TECHNICAL ADVANCEMENTS

[0084] The present disclosure described hereinabove has several technical advantages including, but not limited to, the realization of an arrangement for removing a jelly roll from a mandrel and a method thereof that: • ensures precise and synchronized lifting and lowering of bogies for improved maintenance efficiency.

[0085] • integrates electromagnetic brakes to enhance safety by preventing unintended movement during motor failure or power loss.

[0086] • incorporates real-time wear monitoring and alerts to ensure system integrity and prevent damage.

[0087] • features an irreversible drive system to prevent accidental lowering of the lifted bogies.

[0088] • automates lifting operations using a programmable logic controller (PLC) for seamless coordination across all jacks.

[0089] The aspect herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.

[0090] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein. The use of the expression “at least” or “at least one” suggests the use of one or more elements or ingredients or quantities, as the use may be in the embodiment of the disclosure to achieve one or more of the desired objects or results.

[0091] Any discussion of devices, articles or the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the disclosure. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form a part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the disclosure as it existed anywhere before the priority date of this application.

[0092] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the components and component parts of the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiment as well as other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A lifting system (200) for a train set, wherein the train set includes a plurality of coaches (16), each coach (16) configured to be mounted on at least one bogie, said system comprising:• a plurality of pits (19) configured below the ground, along the length of the path of the train set to align with the bogies;• a plurality of jacks (100), each jack (100) configured to be disposed within a respective pit (19), each jack (100) comprising: o a bogie lifter (1) comprising a plurality of lead screw-and-nut units (9) to facilitate lifting and lowering operations of the bogie; o a rail car body support (2) configured to support the coach (16) body in an operative configuration of said bogie lifter (1), o a rail bridge (3) configured to support and stabilize the coach (16) body in said operative configuration of said bogie lifter (1), and• at least one pair of bogie lifter electric motors (11) operatively connected to each lead screw-and-nut unit (9), each bogie lifter electric motor (11) configured to drive said lead screw-and-nut unit (9), each bogie lifter electric motor (11) provided with an electromagnetic brake to prevent operation of said bogie lifter electric motors (11) in the event of critical wear of said lead screw-and-nut unit (9), power failure or motor deactivation, and arrest the movement of said lead screw-and-nut unit (9);• a monitoring unit configured to detect critical wear of said lead screw-and- nut units (9) and generate an alert signal; and• a programmable logic controller (PLC) unit configured to automate the synchronized lifting and lowering operations of said jacks (100) across the entire train set, said PLC unit further configured to receive said alert signal and actuate said electromagnetic brakes in response to said alert signal.. The lifting system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said bogie lifter (1) includes a pair of bogie lifter columns (4) configured to be positioned perpendicular to the rail track (6), said bogie lifter columns (4) configured to support and lift the bogie.

3. The lifting system (200) as claimed in claim 2, wherein said bogie lifter columns (4) are connected by a cross beam (5) configured to enable coordinated lifting and lowering of the bogie by said bogie lifter columns (4).

4. The lifting system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said lead screw-and-nut unit (9) includes a bogie lifter gearbox (10) having a coupler shaft (21) connected to said bogie lifter electric motor (11), said bogie lifter gearbox (10) being configured to receive power from said bogie lifter electric motor (11), and further configured to drive said lead screw-and-nut unit (9) at a controlled torque and angular speed, thereby facilitating synchronized lifting and lowering of the bogies.

5. The lifting system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said bogie lifter electric motors (11) include a failsafe mechanism that ensures actuation of said electromagnetic brake in case of power failure or motor deactivation.

6. The lifting system (200) as claimed in claim 1, which includes a plurality of sensors connected to said jacks (100), said sensors configured to monitor the position, load, and movement of said jacks (100), and further configured to transmit a set of sensed signals to said programmable logic controller (PLC) unit, wherein said PLC unit is configured to adjust the movement of said lead screw-and- nut unit (9) to synchronize the lifting and lowering operations of the jacks (100) in response to said sensed signals, thereby ensuring precise and safe handling of the train set during maintenance.

7. The lifting system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said PLC unit is configured to automatically adjust the lifting and lowering operations of the jacks (100) in response to the detected weight or height adjustments required for the train set's bogie maintenance.

8. The lifting system (200) as claimed in claim 1, which includes a central operation control system having a user interface configured to receive inputs from an operator tocontrol the lifting and lowering of each jack (100) independently or in synchronized mode to facilitate maintenance of the bogies.

9. The lifting system (200) as claimed in claim 1, which includes a platform cover (20) configured to cover said pit (19), said platform cover (20) configured to be removed manually or by mechanic assistance, wherein the platform cover (20) is secured in place by a locking mechanism comprising a plurality of spring-loaded latches or bolts which can be disengaged to allow sliding away or lifting of said platform cover (20) to access said pit (19).

10. The synchronous lifting system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each rail car body support column (12) includes an anvil (14) positioned at the operative top portion thereof said rail car body support column (12), said fixed or rotary anvil (14) configured to support the coach (16) during replacement of the bogie.

11. The lifting system (200) as claimed in claim 10, which includes a plurality of limit switches connected to said jacks (100), said limit switches configured to transmit a sensed height signal when the coach (16) makes contact with the anvil (14) or when said jacks (100) reaches its predefined operational position, to said PLC unit to facilitate halting of the lifting or lowering operation of said jacks (100).

12. The lifting system (200) as claimed in claim 1, which includes a hand pendant configured to allow manual control of the lifting and lowering operations of the jacks (100), said hand pendant being operatively connected to the central operation control system with the human-machine interface (HMI) to enable manual initiation and control of the lifting, lowering, and positioning of individual jacks (100) for maintenance of specific coaches (16) or bogies within the train set.

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