Platform carriage for a rail, in particular a roller coaster rail, and method for mechanically working a rail

Abstract

The invention relates to a platform carriage (1) for a rail (100), in particular a roller coaster rail, comprising: a drive device (60) for moving the platform carriage (1) along the rail (100); a working device (30) for mechanically working the rail (100); a bogie (10) having at least one wheel house (20); wherein the wheel house (20) has a rail guide region (22) in which the rail (100) can be at least partially arranged; and wherein the wheel house (20) has at least one guide means (21) for securely guiding the platform carriage (1) on the rail (100).

Description

[0001] MAC188 1

[0002] Platform trolley for a track, especially a roller coaster track.

[0003] The invention relates to a platform carriage for a rail, in particular for a roller coaster track, according to the features of claim 1, and a method for processing a rail, in particular a roller coaster track, with the features of claim 24.

[0004] In the field of roller coasters, ever-increasing dynamics and speeds place ever greater demands on the tracks. Here, the manufacturer must find the right balance between the limits of what is physically possible, the manufacturing processes, and production costs.

[0005] In addition to purely technical, measurable aspects, the actual perception of the experience by the rider, within the spectrum between thrill and comfort, also plays a role. To achieve the most pleasant riding experience possible for the passenger, and also to comply with globally relevant and valid standards, a track that is as flat as possible must be provided. Subsequent mechanical processing of the track is recommended for this purpose.

[0006] A variety of platform trolleys for railway tracks are known from the prior art. For example, a rail grinding trolley is known from European patent application EP 3 517 682 Al, and a grinding trolley for rails is known from German patent application DE 21 12 533 Al.

[0007] The problem with such platform cars is that, in particular, the chassis of these platform cars conforms to the geometric shapes of a roller coaster, especially the non-MAC188 2

[0008] cannot follow the linear curvature patterns of a roller coaster.

[0009] This is where the present invention comes in.

[0010] The present invention is dedicated to the task of proposing an improved platform trolley which appropriately solves the problems known from the prior art.

[0011] This problem is solved by a platform trolley, in particular for a roller coaster track, according to the features of claim 1, and by a method for machining a track, in particular a roller coaster track, with the features of claim 24.

[0012] Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0013] According to the invention, a platform trolley for a rail, in particular for a roller coaster track, is equipped with a drive device for moving the platform trolley along the rail, a processing device for mechanically processing the rail, and a chassis with at least one wheel housing, wherein the wheel housing has a rail guidance area in which the rail can be arranged at least partially, and wherein the wheel housing has at least one guide means for safely guiding the platform trolley on the rail.

[0014] The invention is based on the idea of ​​providing a platform trolley for a rail, in particular for a roller coaster track, wherein the platform trolley has a chassis capable of moving modern roller coaster tracks. MAC188 3

[0015] This allows the track to follow the contours of the roller coaster while simultaneously enabling mechanical processing of the rail. For this purpose, at least one wheel housing preferably engages the rail, at least partially, to allow the track to follow roller coaster structures such as a loop or a corkscrew. The mechanical processing of the rail by the platform car can be abrasive and / or additive.

[0016] The improved rail surface provided by the platform trolley leads to a static and / or dynamic reduction of stress on the supporting structure, thus increasing its service life, as the mechanical components are subjected to less stress. Reduced vibrations also result in less wear, particularly on wheels and bearings, which can lower maintenance costs.

[0017] Furthermore, the invention is based on the idea of ​​performing mechanical processing of the rail after it has been erected or installed. During transport, erection, or installation, changes to the rail surface or shape can occur.

[0018] In connection with this invention, the X-axis of the platform trolley is the axis in the direction of travel of the platform trolley. This X-axis can also correspond to the orientation of the rail. Furthermore, the Y-axis of the platform trolley is the axis that runs transversely to the direction of travel of the platform trolley. In connection with this invention, the Z-axis is the axis that runs orthogonally to both the X-axis and the Y-axis.

[0019] Advantageously, the wheel housing guide includes three pairs of wheels arranged around the rail guide area MAC188 4

[0020] A wheel pair consists of two wheels arranged side by side. The two wheels of the wheel pair are spaced apart along the X-axis.

[0021] By using a pair of wheels, the force of the platform truck is distributed across two wheels during travel. Furthermore, the redundancy of one wheel increases stability and safety. The wheel arch guide can also consist of just two or three individual wheels. Alternatively, the guide can consist of three or more wheel elements, where each wheel element comprises three or more wheels arranged side by side.

[0022] Preferably, two pairs of wheels are arranged diametrically opposite each other around the rail guide area, with the third pair of wheels preferably arranged along an imaginary circle between the two wheel pairs. One of the wheel pairs is referred to as the running wheel pair and primarily bears the weight of the platform carriage when the platform carriage is in its normal orientation.

[0023] A normal orientation refers to an orientation of the platform trolley, particularly in a starting position, which usually corresponds to a position parallel to the ground.

[0024] The lifting wheel pair is the pair of wheels positioned diametrically opposite the running wheel pair with respect to the rail. The lifting wheel pair prevents the platform carriage from detaching from the rail during inverted travel. During inverted travel, the lifting wheel pair primarily bears the weight of the platform carriage. MAC188 5

[0025] The pair of side wheels is arranged along an imaginary circle between the running wheel pair and the lifting wheel pair, preferably at an equidistant distance along this imaginary circle. The side wheel pair prevents the platform carriage from veering laterally off course during travel.

[0026] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the guide means has three wheels arranged around the rail guide area. One of the wheels is called a running wheel and has the same function as the running wheel pair described above. One of the wheels is called a side wheel pair and has the same function as the side wheel pair described above. One of the wheels is called a lift wheel and has the same function as the lift wheel pair described above.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the rail guide area of ​​the wheel housing is designed as a recess, preferably as a semicircular recess. The wheel pairs are arranged around the rail guide area. The rail is arranged through the rail guide area during operation of the platform wagon.

[0028] Preferably, the rail guide area has the same geometric shape as the cross-section of the rail. For example, if the cross-section of the rail is round, the rail guide area is circular or semicircular. If, for example, the cross-section of the rail is rectangular, the rail guide area is also rectangular. The wheel housing is preferably designed to at least partially surround the rail, so that MAC188 6

[0029] Upside-down driving or driving through spirals or sharp turns is possible.

[0030] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the machining device is set up and arranged such that an entire circumference of the rail surface can be mechanically machined.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the machining device is designed such that the rail surfaces on which the running wheel pair or running wheel, the lift wheel pair or lift wheel, and the side wheel pair or side wheel run along the rail surface can be mechanically machined. This has the advantage that all mechanically contacting wheels run on a flat surface, which is advantageous with regard to ride comfort and wear.

[0032] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the machining device comprises a CNC machining center. CNC machining centers have the advantage of high precision, achieving accuracy down to a few micrometers. CNC machining centers can also operate fully automatically. They can also operate semi-automatically. Furthermore, CNC machining centers are suitable for machining a wide variety of materials.

[0033] For example, CNC machining centers can process wood, metal, or plastic.

[0034] Advantageously, the CNC machining center has a variable speed drive, as shown in the MAC188 7 CNC machining center.

[0035] The CNC machining center must be movable along at least two axes. Preferably, it must be movable along the Z-axis and the Y-axis. It may also be movable along the X-axis. Furthermore, it may be movable along five or more axes.

[0036] It is recommended to configure an intelligent, synchronous approach for the CNC machining center's movement along the Z-axis, in conjunction with the platform carriage's travel along the X-axis. Machining the rail while stationary should be avoided. Furthermore, the CNC machining center's drive should be extremely finely adjustable to eliminate even the smallest inaccuracies. The Z-axis feed rate should preferably be ≤ 0.2 millimeters.

[0037] Preferably, the drive of the CNC machining center comprises a rotary drive including a flexible shaft to move the tool of the CNC machining center in the direction of the Z-axis. The CNC machining center may also include a belt drive. A gearbox may also be connected downstream of the drive for moving the tool of the CNC machining center, which is preferably an electric motor. For example, the gearbox has a gear ratio of i = 1 / 40.

[0038] The CNC machining center is preferably equipped with a grinding tool and / or a milling tool. The use of grinding and milling tools and their automatic changeover allows for the adaptation of all conceivable irregularities in the rail surface, resulting in a virtually perfect finish.

[0039] An ideally flat rail can be achieved. The grinding tool and / or the milling tool are driven by a drive unit, the drive unit preferably being an electric motor.

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the grinding tool comprises a grinder and a grinding belt, the grinding belt preferably being approximately 60 mm wide. The grinding belts preferably rotate at a speed of approximately 4500 revolutions per minute. The speed of the grinding belts can also be greater or less than 4500 revolutions per minute. The grinding process preferably takes place on one side of the rail surface. The grinder and the grinding belt can be driven by two separate drive units.

[0041] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the processing device comprises an additive processing device. In the additive processing device, material is applied to the rail to achieve the flattest possible rail.

[0042] Advantageously, the additive processing unit is set up and arranged for applying liquid metal or paint. Any other material, such as plastic, can also be applied to the rail.

[0043] Preferably, a measuring device is installed to determine the rail surface. The measuring system detects irregularities in the rail guide.

[0044] According to a particularly advantageous further development of the invention, the measuring device comprises a scanning unit and / or a MAC188 9

[0045] An ultrasonic sensor is used. Preferably, a scanning unit has two scanning rollers, which run directly on the rail and detect surface deviations. One scanning roller is arranged upstream of the machining device, and one scanning roller is arranged downstream of the machining device. "Upstream of the machining device" means that, as the scanning roller traverses the rail, it passes over a section of the rail before the machining device. "Downstream of the machining device" means that, as the scanning roller traverses the rail, it passes over a section of the rail after the machining device. The scanning rollers have guides that are pressed against the rail with a defined contact force. The scanning rollers have an integrated displacement measuring system that detects the height changes of both scanning rollers. A controller calculates the unevenness at the center of the machining tool.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the measuring device interpolates the measurement data, in particular the actual state of the rail, and transmits the interpolated measurement data to the processing device, wherein the processing of the measurement data is preferably carried out with AI support. The measurement data can also be acquired and transmitted directly to the processing device or a higher-level control unit. A target state is specified for the processing device or the higher-level control unit. The target state is compared with the actual state, and the processing device is controlled accordingly.

[0047] To accurately record the current state of the rail, the Y-axis can additionally be equipped with a qualified electronic MAC188 10

[0048] The device must be equipped with a measuring instrument for the exact track gauge between the quadrant points of the two guideways. This instrument allows the respective measurements to be assigned at each point on the rail before and after machining, thus providing an exact record of the current state.

[0049] Advantageously, a chip removal device is provided, preferably in the form of a brush device or a dust extraction device. The chip removal device prevents chips and grinding dust from escaping uncontrollably into the environment during the calibration process. The chip removal device can also be a combination of a brush device, a dust extraction device, and some type of magnetic device.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the chassis comprises at least two rotatably mounted wheel housings and a frame, preferably an articulated frame, wherein the at least two wheel housings are connected to each other via the frame. For example, it may be advantageous if the chassis comprises two wheel housings rotatably mounted on the frame and one wheel housing rigidly attached to the frame. Alternatively, the chassis may comprise only two wheel housings mechanically connected via a frame.

[0051] The chassis is preferably rigid. This rigid design prevents or reduces the formation of chatter marks during the machining process. In other words, it is advantageous if the chassis does not have a spring and / or damping device that mechanically decouples the platform carriage from the rail. MAC188 11

[0052] In a further development, the chassis can comprise at least one side swing arm that mechanically connects the wheel arch to the frame. The at least one side swing arm is preferably rotatably mounted on the frame in a pivot axis, which is preferably arranged parallel to the Z-axis. The wheel arch is positioned radially spaced from the pivot axis by the side swing arms.

[0053] Furthermore, it is advantageous if a fastening assembly is provided by which at least one side swing arm can be pivoted about the axis of rotation.

[0054] A clamping assembly pivots or presses the side arms, preferably torque-controlled, against the rail, thereby clamping the platform carriage to the rail. On curved rails, the side arms can pivot inwards, ensuring that an imaginary center plane of the platform carriage always remains perpendicular to the rail, thus optimally fixing the platform carriage.

[0055] The frame is preferably constructed using lightweight materials.

[0056] The wheel arches are advantageously rigidly designed. This has the benefit of preventing so-called chatter marks from forming.

[0057] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the drive unit is arranged within the wheel housing. Several wheel housings can have one drive unit. Preferably, the wheel housings on whose side the machining device is arranged each have a separate drive unit. Preferably, the MAC188 12

[0058] The drive unit is designed as an electric motor. A gearbox can be connected downstream of the drive unit.

[0059] According to a particularly advantageous further development of the invention, the platform trolley has two trolley sides, one of which has at least two wheel arches and the other trolley side has one - preferably a single - wheel arch.

[0060] The wheel arches on one side of the carriage preferably have a wheel spacing of 1200 millimeters relative to one or more wheel arches on the other side. The wheel spacing can also be larger or smaller. The wheel spacing is primarily determined by the geometric shape of the rail.

[0061] The wheel spacing of the platform trolley can be adjusted as needed. This allows the platform trolley to be used for different track widths.

[0062] Advantageously, the platform carriage comprises a first carriage and a second carriage, with the drive unit located on the first carriage and the machining unit on the second carriage. The separate first carriage ensures continuous forward motion and avoids or reduces backlash.

[0063] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the machining device comprises a robot gripper arm, wherein the robot gripper arm can in particular be equipped with a grinding tool or milling tool in order to be able to machine the rail mechanically. MAC188 13

[0064] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the robot gripper arm is designed such that a free end of the robot gripper arm can reach any point on the circumference of the rail surface. This allows the entire rail surface to be mechanically machined.

[0065] Advantageously, the robot gripper arm of the machining device has a tool changer system, wherein the tool changer system is configured to hold tools for the mechanical machining of the rail, and preferably also to hold the measuring device. The tool changer system can hold grinding tools, milling tools, etc. However, the tool changer system can also hold various measuring systems such as an ultrasonic sensor.

[0066] Preferably, the machining unit of the platform carriage is interchangeable with the measuring unit. This allows a newly installed rail, particularly its surface, to be measured after installation. The measuring unit is then replaced by the machining unit, and the rail is machined. Following this, the machining unit is replaced by the measuring unit or another measuring unit to inspect the machined rail, particularly its surface. The measuring unit can also be used to inspect the rail, particularly its surface, without any prior machining.

[0067] Advantageously, the measuring device for measuring the distance before mechanical processing and / or the MAC188 14

[0068] The measuring device for checking the rail after mechanical processing uses a gripper arm, in particular a robot gripper arm.

[0069] Preferably, the measuring device, in particular the measuring device with a robotic gripper arm, is equipped with a video function and / or a photo function. The measuring device may also include an ultrasonic device. The measuring device can be configured for testing material thickness and / or crack detection in the rail, gap dimensions at rail joints, corrosion assessment, visual inspection of bolted and / or riveted connections, and / or visual inspection of welds. The measuring device or a higher-level control unit can then automatically generate documentation, in particular a test report.

[0070] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the measuring device can comprise a physical clearance gauge and / or a digital scanner. The clearance gauge and / or the digital scanner check and document clearances. The clearances take into account, for example, the outstretched arms and legs of any passengers and compare this with the final construction status of the entire installation, which also includes decorations. In installations with plants or changing, theme-based decorations, such a check must be carried out repeatedly, at least in these areas. The clearance gauge and / or digital scanner also checks for and takes into account any loss of tires or wheels.

[0071] Advantageously, the measuring device measures the entire rail layout in conjunction with modern Geo-MAC188 15

[0072] Measurement technology. This can be achieved, for example, using a portable reflector unit or similar device. This allows the platform trolley to be moved around during assembly, even before the rail is closed, as it is very light and maneuverable compared to the later use of the system.

[0073] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the platform trolley comprises a referenced launching point for a drone, wherein the drone can preferably perform local visual checks based on the precisely defined position of the platform trolley in conjunction with the geometric structure of the rail and supports, and preferably create documentation by means of videos and photos. The videos and photos can be assigned to a comparative test report.

[0074] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the platform trolley is designed to push a stationary vehicle that has been secured against rolling backward. By pushing the stationary vehicle, it can be moved into a safe evacuation area.

[0075] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the machining device is arranged on the first side of the carriage and on the second side of the carriage, wherein the machining device simultaneously processes two rail surfaces of different guide tracks. This has the advantage that a rail with two guide tracks can be completed more quickly.

[0076] The machining unit can be designed as a single piece, a two-piece piece, or a multi-piece piece. Machining unit MAC188 16

[0077] It can also process more than two rail surfaces or rail surface sections simultaneously.

[0078] For example, the machining device can process two rail surface sections one after the other by having a first tool roughen the rail and then finish it.

[0079] When simultaneously processing two rail surfaces of different guideways, a special joint is required that achieves high rigidity on both guideways.

[0080] According to the invention, a method for the mechanical processing of a rail, in particular a roller coaster rail, with a platform carriage according to the invention, comprises the following method steps: Moving the platform carriage along the rail by means of the drive device; Mechanical processing of the rail by the processing device.

[0081] According to a particularly advantageous process step, the measuring device is set up to record measurement data and to capture the actual state of the rail, wherein the processing device performs mechanical processing of the rail based on the measurement data.

[0082] According to an advantageous process step, the rail, in particular the rail surface, is measured using the measuring device before mechanical processing. This has the advantage that defects in the rail, especially the rail surface, can be detected in advance and corrected by the mechanical processing. MAC188 17

[0083] In a further preferred process step, after mechanical processing, the rail, in particular the rail surface, is checked using the measuring device.

[0084] An embodiment of the invention is explained below with reference to the figures. The figures show:

[0085] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a platform trolley on a rail,

[0086] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a wheel arch of the platform truck from Figure 1.

[0087] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the machining and measuring equipment of the platform carriage from Figure 1.

[0088] Figure 4A is a top view of the platform trolley from Figure 1, wherein the platform trolley is guided along a straight rail, and

[0089] Figure 4B shows a top view of the platform trolley from Figure 1, wherein the platform trolley is guided along a curved rail.

[0090] In the following figures, identical reference symbols denote identical parts with the same meaning.

[0091] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary platform car 1. The platform car 1 is arranged on a roller coaster track 100. The roller coaster track 100 can be formed from a multi-belt system and MAC188 18

[0092] has two guideways 101 and a belt 105, wherein the guideways 101 and the belt are connected to each other by webs 102.

[0093] The platform trolley 1 has an X-axis, where the X-axis corresponds to a direction of travel of the platform trolley 1 and an orientation of the rail 100.

[0094] Furthermore, the platform trolley 1 has a Y-axis that is arranged transversely to the direction of travel of the platform trolley 1. The Z-axis of the platform trolley 1 runs orthogonally to the X-axis and the Y-axis and can also be referred to as the vertical axis of the platform trolley 1.

[0095] The platform trolley 1 comprises a chassis 10, a processing device 30, a measuring device 40 and a technical bridge 50.

[0096] The platform carriage 1 has a first carriage side 5 and a second carriage side 6. The first carriage side 5 and the second carriage side 6 are arranged on opposite sides along the Y-axis. Each of the carriage sides 5, 6 is assigned to a guide track 101 of the rail 100.

[0097] The chassis 10 comprises a frame 15, and three wheel arches 20.

[0098] Two wheel housings 20 are arranged on the first side of the car 5, and a third wheel housing 20 is arranged on the second side of the car 6. The third wheel housing 20 on the second side of the car 6 will henceforth also be referred to as the counter wheel housing 90. MAC188 19

[0099] The counter wheel housing 90 can be designed identically to the wheel housings 20.

[0100] The frame 15 mechanically connects the two wheel arches 20 on the first side of the car 5 and the counter wheel arch 90 on the second side of the car 6.

[0101] The chassis 10 in the illustrated embodiment is rigidly designed, which means that no spring and / or damper system decouples the rail 100 and the platform carriage 1 or the respective wheel housing 20, 90 and the frame from vibration.

[0102] The two wheel housings 20 on the first side 5 of the carriage can be arranged to rotate about a first axis of rotation ZI – preferably parallel to the Z-axis – relative to the frame 15. The counter wheel housing 90, on the other hand, can be arranged to be fixed against rotation relative to the frame 15.

[0103] The two wheel housings 20 and / or the counter wheel housing 90 can be arranged interchangeably on the frame 15, allowing different wheel housings 20 and counter wheel housings 90 to be used for different rail surfaces 103 or geometries.

[0104] Furthermore, it can be seen from Figure 1 that the chassis 10 is designed to be articulated in order to be able to follow challenging track layouts, especially sharp curves.

[0105] For this purpose, the chassis 10 can include two side swing arms 16. Each side swing arm 16 connects the frame 15 to one of the wheel arches 20. Each side swing arm 16 is MAC188 20

[0106] at one end rotatable in the first axis of rotation ZI with a wheel arch 20 and at the other end rotatable in the second axis of rotation Z2 with the frame 15.

[0107] The first axis of rotation ZI and the second axis of rotation Z2 are arranged parallel and spaced apart from each other and preferably parallel to the Z-axis.

[0108] The wheel housing 20 is arranged radially spaced from the second axis of rotation Z2 by the side swing arm 16 and can be moved or pivoted along a circular path about the second axis of rotation Z2 when the side swing arm 16 is rotated - as indicated by double arrows in Figures 4A and 4B.

[0109] The two side swing arms 16 are essentially diametrically opposed to the frame 15 in the X-axis and are rotatably arranged on the frame 10 in a second axis of rotation Z2.

[0110] Furthermore, the platform carriage 1 includes a drawbar assembly 17, by which the side swing arms 16 can be pivoted about the second axis of rotation Z2.

[0111] The tensioning assembly 17 preferably presses the respective wheel housing 20 on the side swing arm 16 against the rail 100 in a torque-controlled manner and can thus clamp the platform carriage 1 to the rail 100.

[0112] The chassis 10 carries the technical bridge 50 of the platform wagon 1.

[0113] The technical bridge 50 includes a battery (not shown) that supplies power to the platform trolley 1, MAC188 21

[0114] a higher-level control unit (not shown) that controls the peripheral devices of the platform trolley 1 and exchanges information between the peripheral devices, a control element (not shown) with a user interface through which modifications to the settings of the platform trolley 1 can be set, and a communication module 51, which enables a connection between a control center (not shown) and the platform trolley 1.

[0115] The energy powering the platform truck can also be provided by a separate generator or a cable connection.

[0116] Figure 2 shows a wheel arch 20 of the first side 5 of the platform wagon 1 from Figure 1.

[0117] The wheel housing 20 has a guide element 21 and a rail guide area 22.

[0118] The rail guide area 22 of the wheel housing 20 is U-shaped and has a recess 23, preferably semicircular, which is adapted to the geometry of the rail 100. The guide means 21 are arranged in the rail guide area 22.

[0119] The guide means 21 are arranged around the rail guide area 22 and, in the exemplary embodiment, comprise three pairs of wheels 24, namely a running wheel pair 26, a lifting wheel pair 27 and a side wheel pair 28.MAC188 22

[0120] Each wheel pair 24 comprises two wheels 25 spaced apart in the X-axis. The wheel pairs 24 are arranged around the rail guide area 22.

[0121] The wheel pair 26 is arranged closest to the frame 15 and primarily carries the weight of the platform trolley 1. The wheels 25 of the wheel pair 26 can be rollers, in particular metal rollers.

[0122] The lifting wheel pair 27 is arranged diametrically opposite the running wheel pair 26 in the Z-axis and prevents the platform carriage 1 from lifting off, for example, during overhead travel. The lifting wheel pair 27 can be pre-tensioned against the rail 100 by clamping means, thereby clamping the rail 100 between the running wheel pair 26 and the lifting wheel pair 27. The wheels of the lifting wheel pair 27 can be made of a plastic.

[0123] The side wheel pair 28 is arranged along an imaginary circle between the running wheel pair 26 and the lift wheel pair 27.

[0124] The side wheel pair 28 prevents the platform carriage 1 from swinging out laterally. The guide element 21 can also be formed from more or fewer than three wheel pairs 24. The guide element 21 can also consist of individual wheels 25.

[0125] The wheel arch 20 can still have a drive unit 60.

[0126] The drive unit 60 can be arranged on the wheel housing 20 and can include an electric motor. The electric motor preferably drives the lift-off wheel pair 27, with at least one wheel tire of the lift-off wheel pair 27 being driven. In the MAC188 23

[0127] In the illustrated embodiment, each wheel tire of the lifting wheel pair 27 is driven by an electric motor.

[0128] According to an embodiment not shown, the platform trolley 1 can also be designed in two parts, with the drive unit 60 being arranged in a first trolley (not shown) and the machining unit 30 in a second trolley (not shown). The drive unit 60 can also be arranged at any other location within the platform trolley 1. A gearbox can also be connected downstream of the drive unit 60.

[0129] Figure 3 shows a perspective and highly simplified view of the measuring device 40 and the machining device 30 of the platform carriage 1 from Figure 1. In addition, Figure 3 shows the rail surface 103 before and after the machining process, with the course of the rail surfaces 103 being exaggerated.

[0130] The machining device 30 and preferably the measuring device 40 are arranged on the first side 5 of the platform carriage 1 between the two wheel housings 20. More precisely, the measuring device 40 and the machining device 30 are arranged between the two side swing arms 16. The machining device 30 can also be arranged on the first carriage side 5 and the second carriage side 6. The machining devices 30 on the first carriage side 5 and on the second carriage side 6 are preferably identical in design and arrangement. The machining device 30 can simultaneously machine the guide track 101 of the first carriage side 5 and the guide track 101 of the second carriage side 6. MAC188 24

[0131] The measuring device 40 can comprise a scanning unit 41 with two scanning rollers 42A, 42B. The two scanning rollers 42A, 42B can be arranged on the X-axis on opposite sides of the machining device 30, i.e., in front of and after the machining device 30.

[0132] The scanning rollers 42A, 42B have guides 43 which are preferably pressed against the rail surface 103 with a defined contact force. The scanning rollers 42A, 42B can have an integrated displacement measuring system (not shown) that detects the height changes of both or of the respective scanning rollers 42A, 42B.

[0133] The scanning rollers 42A, 42B run directly on the rail 100 in the use of the platform trolley 1 and record measurement data for determining the rail surface 103.

[0134] The measuring device 40 transmits the measurement data to a control unit (not shown), which can, for example, calculate the unevenness of the rail surface 103 at the center of the machining tool and, based on this calculation, control the machining device 30.

[0135] The processing unit 30 then adjusts the mechanical processing of the rail 100 based on the measured data. The measurement data transmitted by the measuring unit 40 can be interpolated and / or processed with AI support before being transmitted to the processing unit 30.

[0136] The measuring device 40 can use any measuring method suitable for capturing the rail surface 103 and detecting irregularities. The measuring device MAC188 25

[0137] 40 can, for example, include an optical sensor or an ultrasonic sensor, the ultrasonic sensor being able to detect mechanical damage to the rail 100 and report it to the control center.

[0138] The machining facility 30 can include a CNC machining center 31.

[0139] The CNC machining center 31 has an abrasive tool and a drive 33, which is preferably designed as an electric motor. The CNC machining center 31 is adjustable in the Z-direction. The CNC machining center 31 can also be adjustable in the Y-direction and / or X-direction. The CNC machining center 31 can also be adjustable in more than three axes, for example, five axes.

[0140] The abrasive tool is designed as a grinding tool. The grinding tool is a grinding belt 32, preferably with a grinding belt width of approximately 60 mm. The rotational speed at which the grinding belt 32 is driven is preferably 4500 revolutions per minute. In addition to the grinding belt 32, the CNC machining center 31 has a grinder (not shown). The CNC machining center 31 may also have a milling tool, a drilling tool, or similar attachments.

[0141] Machining unit 30 can also include an additive machining unit (not shown). Machining unit 30 can include an additive machining unit and a CNC machining center 31. MAC188 26

[0142] Figure 4A shows a top view of the platform trolley 1 from Figure 1, wherein the platform trolley 1 is guided along a straight rail 100.

[0143] The tensioning assembly 17 presses the side swing arms 16 of the frame 15 against the guide rails 101 of the rail 100 by pivoting about the second axis of rotation Z2, thus wedging or clamping the platform carriage 1 against the rail 100. An imaginary center plane of the platform carriage 1 is arranged perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the rail 100.

[0144] Figure 4B shows a top view of the platform trolley 1 from Figure 1, wherein the platform trolley 1 is guided along a curved rail 100.

[0145] On a curved rail 100, the side swing arms 16 steer about the second axis of rotation Z2. The wheel housings 20, which are rotatably mounted on the frame 15, or more precisely on the side swing arms 16, and are supported by the side swing arms 16, tilt and follow the rail 100.

[0146] The imaginary center plane of the platform carriage 1 remains perpendicular to the direction of spread of the straight rail 100, as with the straight rail 100. This ensures ideal mechanical processing of the rail 100 at all times. MAC188 27

[0147] Reference symbol list

[0148] 1 platform trolley

[0149] 5 first side of carriage

[0150] 6 second side of carriage

[0151] 10 Chassis

[0152] 15 frames

[0153] 16 side swing arms

[0154] 17 Suit assembly

[0155] 20 wheel arch

[0156] 21 Management tools

[0157] 22 Rail guide area 23 Recess

[0158] 24 wheel pair

[0159] 25 wheel

[0160] 26 pair of wheels

[0161] 27 Lifting wheel pair

[0162] 28 side wheel pair

[0163] 30 Machining device 31 CNC machining center 32 Grinding belt

[0164] 33 Drive

[0165] 40 Measuring device

[0166] 41 scanning unit

[0167] 42A scanning roller

[0168] 42B Scanning Roller MAC188 28

[0169] 43 Leadership

[0170] 50 Technology Bridge

[0171] 51 Communication module

[0172] 60 Drive unit

[0173] 90 Counter wheel housing

[0174] 100 rail

[0175] 101 guideways

[0176] 102 bridges

[0177] 103 Rail surface 105 Belt

Claims

MAC188 29 Patent claims 1. Platform trolley ( 1 ) for a rail ( 100 ), in particular a roller coaster rail, comprising: - a drive device ( 60 ) for moving the platform carriage ( 1 ) along the rail ( 100 ), - a processing device ( 30 ) for mechanically processing the rail ( 100 ), - a chassis ( 10 ) with at least one wheel housing ( 20 ), - wherein the wheel housing ( 20 ) has a rail guidance area ( 22 ) in which the rail ( 100 ) can be arranged at least partially, and - wherein the wheel housing ( 20 ) has at least one guiding means ( 21 ) for safely guiding the platform trolley ( 1 ) on the rail ( 100 ).

2. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the guide means ( 21 ) of the wheel housing ( 20 ) comprises three pairs of wheels ( 24 ) which are arranged around the rail guide area ( 22 ).

3. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that two pairs of wheels ( 24 ) are arranged diametrically opposite each other around the rail guide area ( 22 ), wherein preferably the third pair of wheels ( 24 ) is arranged along an imaginary circle between the two pairs of wheels ( 24 ). Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that MAC188 30 the rail guidance area ( 22 ) of the wheel housing ( 20 ) is designed as a recess ( 23 ), preferably as a semicircular recess ( 23 ).

5. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the processing device ( 30 ) is set up and arranged in such a way that an entire circumference of the rail surface ( 103 ) can be mechanically processed.

6. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the processing facility ( 30 ) includes a CNC machining center ( 31 ).

7. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the CNC machining machine ( 31 ) has a controllable drive ( 33 ), wherein the CNC machining machine ( 31 ) is movable in at least two axes.

8. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the machining device ( 30 ) includes a grinding tool and / or a milling tool.

9. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The grinding tool comprises a grinder and a grinding belt (32), the grinding belt width preferably being approximately 60 mm. MAC188 31 10. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the processing unit ( 30 ) includes an additive processing unit.

11. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The additive processing equipment is set up and arranged for the application of liquid metal or paint.

12. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a measuring device ( 40 ) for determining the rail surface ( 103 ) is installed.

13. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measuring device ( 40 ) includes a scanning unit ( 41 ) and / or an ultrasonic sensor.

14. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measuring device ( 40 ) interpolates measurement data and transmits the interpolated measurement data to the processing device ( 30 ), preferably with AI support for the processing of the measurement data.

15. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that A chip removal device is provided, preferably designed as a brush device or extraction device. MAC188 32 16. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the chassis ( 10 ) has three rotatably mounted wheel housings ( 20 ) and a frame ( 15 ), preferably an articulated frame ( 15 ), wherein the wheel housings ( 20 ) are connected to each other via the frame ( 15 ).

17. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the platform wagon ( 1 ) has two wagon sides ( 5, 6 ), wherein a first wagon side ( 5 ) has two wheel arches ( 20 ) and a second wagon side ( 6 ) has one wheel arch ( 20 ).

18. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the platform carriage ( 1 ) has a first carriage and a second carriage, wherein the drive unit ( 60 ) is located on the first carriage and the processing unit ( 30 ) is located on the second carriage.

19. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the platform trolley ( 1 ) has a referenced launching point for a drone, wherein the drone preferably performs local visual checks by means of the precisely defined position of the platform trolley ( 1 ) in conjunction with a predetermined geometric structure of rail ( 100 ) and supports.

20. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the processing unit ( 30 ) includes a robot gripper arm. MAC188 33 21. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the robot gripper arm is designed such that a free end of the robot gripper arm can reach any point on the circumference of the rail surface ( 103 ).

22. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the robot gripper arm of the machining device ( 30 ) has a tool change system, wherein the tool change system is designed to receive tools for the mechanical machining of the rail ( 100 ), in particular the rail surface ( 103 ), wherein the tool change system is preferably also designed to receive the measuring device ( 40 ).

23. Platform trolley ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the processing device ( 30 ) is arranged on the first side ( 5 ) of the carriage and on the second side ( 6 ), wherein the processing device ( 30 ) processes two rail surfaces ( 103 ) of different guide tracks ( 101 ) simultaneously.

24. Method for the mechanical processing of a rail ( 100 ), in particular a roller coaster rail with a platform car ( 1 ) according to claims 1 to 23, comprising the following method steps: - Moving the platform trolley ( 1 ) along the rail ( 100 ) by means of the drive device ( 60 ), - Mechanical processing of the rail ( 100 ) by the processing device ( 30 ).MAC188 34 25. Method for the mechanical processing of a rail ( 100 ) according to claim 24, characterized by the fact that Before mechanical processing, a measurement of the rail ( 100 ), in particular of the rail surface ( 103 ), is carried out using the measuring device ( 40 ).

26. Method for the mechanical processing of a rail ( 100 ) according to one of claims 24 to 25, characterized by the fact that after the mechanical processing, the rail ( 100 ), in particular the rail surface ( 103 ), is checked using the measuring device ( 40 ).

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