Ballast Removal Using Segmented Clearing Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods fail to completely remove ballast from trackless sections without adjacent tracks, limiting the effectiveness of ballast clearing operations.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a machine with two ballast clearing devices, one with a rotating endless chain and another with a deflection mechanism, allows for separate pickup and conveyance of ballast in sections parallel to the track longitudinal direction, enabling complete removal from a neighboring track.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single ballast clearing device is used to remove ballast from a trackless section, then the device structure is simple, but the ballast removal is incomplete especially in areas adjoining neighboring tracks
Solution Approach 1:
The ballast clearing device is divided into multiple independent clearing units (first ballast clearing device and second ballast clearing device) that work in sequence. Each unit handles a specific section of the trackless area, with the first device removing ballast from the main trackless section and the second device specifically targeting ballast adjacent to neighboring tracks, ensuring complete removal without requiring an overly complex single-unit design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a transverse conveying direction perpendicular to the track longitudinal direction. Ballast is first conveyed in the longitudinal direction by the first clearing device, then transferred to the second clearing device which conveys it transversely toward the neighboring track area. This two-dimensional conveying approach enables complete ballast removal from all sections including areas adjoining neighboring tracks
2Device complexity
If ballast is conveyed only in the longitudinal direction of the track, then the conveying system is simple, but ballast in areas adjoining neighboring tracks cannot be completely removed
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying system is segmented into two distinct conveying paths: a first conveying path in the longitudinal direction handled by the first ballast clearing device, and a second conveying path in the transverse direction handled by the second ballast clearing device. This segmentation allows each conveying unit to specialize in a specific direction and area, ensuring complete ballast removal while keeping individual conveying units relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a transverse conveying dimension to the traditional longitudinal conveying system. The second ballast clearing device introduces transverse conveyance perpendicular to the track longitudinal direction, enabling ballast from areas adjoining neighboring tracks to be effectively removed. This two-dimensional conveying approach comprehensively addresses ballast removal needs without excessive complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If a wide triangle clearing chain is used to pick up ballast from both main track and starting branch track, then ballast pickup coverage is improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single wide triangle clearing chain, the patent segments the ballast clearing function into two separate clearing devices positioned in sequence. The first device handles ballast from the main trackless section while the second device specifically targets ballast adjacent to neighboring tracks. This segmentation provides equivalent coverage to a wide triangle design but with simpler, more manageable individual units that are easier to operate and maintain
Data Source
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AI summary
In order to remove ballast (10) from a first ballast bed (3) of a first track, ballast removing devices (11, 12) are guided along a second track (4) running parallel to the ballast bed (3). Ballast (10) located in a section (18) adjoining a second ballast bed (5) of the second track (4) is received separately from the remaining ballast (10) of the first ballast bed (3), thus allowing the entire ballast (10) to be removed.