Coupling Adapter for Multi-Powertrain Locomotive Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current locomotive systems require two different types of engines to handle varying power levels, as a single smaller engine is inefficient at providing high power and a larger engine is inefficient at providing low power, leading to the need for multiple locomotives in train yards.
Innovation Solution
A coupling adapter and arrangement that connects two powertrains via a cylindrical body with splines and keyways, allowing for rotational constraint and axial positioning, enabling the combination of powertrains to drive multiple axles and wheels with adjustable power levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a single smaller engine is used to provide low power levels, then efficiency at low power is improved, but the ability to provide high power levels deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate powertrains (a smaller engine and a larger engine) into a single locomotive system. The coupling adapter enables both engines to operate simultaneously and contribute their power to drive all axles, allowing the locomotive to achieve both efficient low-power operation (using only the smaller engine) and high-power capability (using both engines together).
2Power
If a larger engine is used to provide high power levels, then high power capability is improved, but efficiency at low power levels deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts power delivery by selectively engaging either the smaller engine alone or both engines together, depending on the operational requirements. The coupling adapter and control system enable this dynamic configuration, allowing the larger engine to remain idle during low-power operations and only engage when high power is needed, thus maintaining efficiency across varying power demands.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two different types of locomotives are used to satisfy varying power levels, then power flexibility is improved, but device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal locomotive platform that can perform multiple power levels through a single configurable system. By integrating two powertrains with the coupling adapter mechanism, the locomotive can universally handle both low-power switching operations and high-power hauling tasks, eliminating the need for separate specialized locomotives and reducing fleet complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If two different types of locomotives are used to satisfy varying power levels, then power flexibility is improved, but operational efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two powertrains into a single integrated system that can operate as one unified locomotive. This eliminates the operational inefficiencies of having separate locomotives for different power levels, as the single locomotive can dynamically configure its power output to match task requirements, improving productivity by reducing the need for multiple specialized vehicles and simplifying yard operations.
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter for use in a power system having a first powertrain joined to a second powertrain by a coupling. The adapter may have a generally cylindrical body having a central bore formed therein that is configured to receive a shaft of the first powertrain, and splines formed at an end of the central bore. The adapter may also have a connection keyway formed within an outer annular surface of the generally cylindrical body and configured to receive a key that engages the coupling, and a balancing keyway formed within the outer annular surface of the generally cylindrical body and configured to remain empty to balance the coupling.