Universal Chain Tie-Down Anchor Base for Variable Rail Loads

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Solution Overview

Problem

Railway flatcars are limited in their utility as they are typically configured to secure either smaller or larger loads using different chain tie down assemblies, restricting the types of commodities that can be carried and reducing their versatility.

Innovation Solution

A universal chain tie down assembly that includes an anchor base with a turret, a tensioning rod, and a constant tensioning device, allowing for the securement of both smaller and larger loads using a single configuration, featuring a chain takeup device and a tension lock assembly to manage tension and vibration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If different chain tie down assemblies are used for smaller and larger loads, then the securement of various sized articles is achieved, but the device complexity and the number of assemblies required increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to secure differently sized articlesVSAvoidnumber of different chain tie down assemblies

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single anchor base that can accommodate both smaller articles (using a winch) and larger articles (using a turnbuckle). The anchor base includes a body with a slot that receives different securing mechanisms, allowing one base to perform multiple functions that previously required separate assemblies for different load sizes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a winch is used for smaller loads, then the securement of smaller articles is achieved, but the anchor base configuration becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to secure smaller articlesVSAvoidanchor base configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by separating the securing mechanisms (winch and turnbuckle) from the anchor base body. The base includes a slot that receives different securing mechanisms, allowing the base structure to remain simple while accommodating different functions through interchangeable components rather than integrating all mechanisms into a complex unified structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If a turnbuckle is used for larger loads, then the securement of larger articles is achieved, but the anchor base configuration becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to secure larger articlesVSAvoidanchor base configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple different chain tie down assemblies are provided on a flatcar, then various sized loads can be secured, but the loss of time for reconfiguration increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommodity type flexibilityVSAvoidreconfiguration time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the anchor base configuration adaptable rather than fixed. The base includes a slot that allows different securing mechanisms to be positioned and secured at different locations along the slot, enabling quick reconfiguration for different load sizes without requiring complete disassembly or replacement of the entire assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 the securement of a wide range of load sizes with a single assembly, enhancing the versatility and efficiency of railcar operations by maintaining tension and preventing vibration-induced disengagement.

Implementation Method 1

The rod is laterally movable with respect to the first and second supports to move the stop into and out of alignment with the slot

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

The anti-vibration assembly is configured to be moved between an unlocked condition allowing longitudinal movement and rotation of the rod and a locked condition limiting or preventing longitudinal movement and/or rotation of the rod

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Data Source

PatentUS20230406367A1Anchor Base For Chain Tie Down Assembly

Publication Date: 2023.12.21 DYNO NOBEL INC

AI summary

A universal chain tie down assembly includes an anchor base and an associated turret, with a cannon pivotally connected to the turret. The proximal portion of a tensioning rod is associated with the cannon. The tensioning rod further includes a distal portion associated with a hub, along with a tool attachment portion that is configured for engagement by a tool for rotation of the tensioning rod. First and second arms of a constant tensioning device extend from proximal ends associated with the hub to distal ends spaced distally of the hub. A chain is associated with a distal end of the constant tensioning device, such as by being linked to the curved portion of a U-bolt of the constant tensioning device. A tension lock assembly and/or an anti-vibration assembly may be employed to prevent a vibration-induced change in the tension in the universal chain tie down assembly.