Adjustable Support Device for Railway Ballast Clearing Beam
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machines with endless clearing chains are not optimized for use in switch areas, requiring conversion work and angle adjustments that complicate processing of switch sections.
Innovation Solution
A machine with a support device that can be adjusted relative to the machine frame for independent support of the clearing beam, allowing for angle adjustments and length changes without conversion, enabling efficient processing of switch sections by altering the angle and position of the clearing beam and support device in relation to the track axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the clearing beam is designed to be long for processing switch sections, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to conversion work requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The support device incorporates adjustable components including a telescopic arm with variable length and a pivot mechanism with adjustable angle α, allowing the clearing beam to dynamically adapt to different track configurations (standard track vs. switch sections) without requiring structural conversion work. The support device can be repositioned along the clearing beam to maintain optimal support position regardless of beam length.
2Device complexity
If the support device is fixed relative to the machine frame, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability for different track configurations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is designed with dynamic adjustment capabilities including a telescopic arm that can extend or retract to change its length, and a pivot mechanism that allows adjustment of the angle α between the support device and the clearing beam. These dynamic features enable the support device to adapt to different track configurations while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device is divided into separate functional components: a horizontal support element connected to the machine frame, a telescopic arm with adjustable length, and a pivot mechanism for angle adjustment. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while providing overall adaptability for different working conditions.
3Productivity
If the clearing beam is extended for switch section processing, then the productivity is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to additional adjustment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The support device incorporates self-adjusting mechanisms where the telescopic arm and pivot system can be adjusted independently of the clearing beam length. The device automatically maintains proper support position and angle through its mechanical design, reducing the operational complexity despite the extended beam length needed for switch sections.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient operation in switch areas without the need for conversion work, allowing the clearing beam to be extended and adjusted for optimal processing of switch sections by modifying the angle and position of the support device, enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The support device (14) consists of a horizontal support (17) connected to the machine frame (1) by the linkage (16) with a free end (18) spaced from the linkage (16) and a vertical support (19) connected thereto and having the coupling (13)... connected to a cable (25) of a cable winch (27) arranged on the machine frame (1)
Implementation Method 2
The length of the vertical beam (19) can be changed in a longitudinal direction (23) by a drive (24)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a clearing device (5) provided for removing ballast below a track (4), which clearing device comprises a clearing beam (10) of a clearing chain (11) that can be positioned below the track (4) in a ballast bed (6) and pivoted about a vertical axis of rotation (7). An end (12) of the clearing beam (10) that is distanced from the axis of rotation (7) can be connected by a releasable coupling (13) to a supporting device (14) fastened to the machine frame (1). In order to pivot jointly with the clearing beam (10), said supporting device is fastened to the machine frame (1) via a linkage (16) that is distanced from the coupling (13) and has a pivot axis (15).