Coupling Shaft Centering Bearing for Space-Limited Rail Couplers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing center buffer coupling devices for track-guided vehicles require significant installation space for horizontal center resetting, which is often not available at the interface between the coupling shaft and the car body or underframe, leading to inefficiencies and increased wear.
Innovation Solution
A compact center buffer coupling design utilizing a pair of rotating bodies within an axial bearing device to generate the restoring torque necessary for horizontal center resetting, allowing for a more compact and space-efficient solution by redirecting the force generation within the axial bearing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional spring-loaded pressure devices with guides are used for horizontal center resetting, then the coupling shaft can be restored to center position, but the device requires significant installation space that is not available at the coupling shaft interface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the center resetting function into the axial bearing device itself, combining two separate functions (support bearing and center resetting) into a single integrated component. The rotating bodies are incorporated within the axial bearing structure, eliminating the need for separate guide mechanisms and pressure devices, thereby significantly reducing the required installation space while maintaining the center resetting functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing the first and second rotating bodies inside the axial bearing device. The rotating bodies are positioned within the bearing structure, with the second rotating body nested within or alongside the first rotating body, both contained within the axial bearing housing. This nested arrangement allows the center resetting mechanism to occupy minimal space within the existing bearing assembly.
2Reliability
If compression springs are constantly active during normal operation, then the coupling shaft is restored to center position, but the sliding surfaces are subject to high wear and coupling in curves becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the center resetting function switchable rather than constantly active. A switching device controlled by a control unit enables or disables the center resetting function based on operational conditions. During curve negotiation or when coupling is required, the center resetting function can be deactivated to prevent wear and allow free pivoting, while maintaining center positioning during normal straight-line operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit automatically detects operational conditions and switches the center resetting function on or off accordingly, without requiring manual intervention. The system self-adjusts based on detected conditions such as curve negotiation or coupling operations, optimizing performance and minimizing wear without operator input.
3Ease of operation
If the coupling shaft is manually pivoted out of center for coupling, then coupling can be performed, but the compression spring restoring forces counteract the manual pivoting effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the center resetting function dynamically controllable, allowing it to be switched off during coupling operations. The control unit detects when coupling is required and deactivates the center resetting function, removing the restoring force that would otherwise counteract manual pivoting. This enables easy coupling operation while maintaining automatic centering during normal operation.
4Area of stationary object
If a compact axial bearing design is used, then installation space and weight are reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the axial bearing device: supporting the coupling shaft, enabling horizontal pivoting, and providing center resetting. By integrating the center resetting mechanism within the bearing structure rather than as a separate system, the overall device complexity is managed while achieving compact dimensions and reduced installation space.
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
This design significantly reduces the required installation space, weight, and component count, while maintaining effective center resetting functionality, minimizing maintenance needs and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The rolling elements (6) are arranged between the first rotating body (3) and the second rotating body (4) in such a way that a normal force acting on the second rotating body (4) can be converted by the rolling elements (6) into a circumferential force
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for horizontal, centering restoration of a coupling shaft, particularly a central buffer coupler of a track guided vehicle, said device (1) comprising a first rotating element (3) and a second rotating element (4) that can rotate in relation to said first rotating element (3), said device (1) being designed to produce the force required to generate a restoring moment acting on the coupling shaft, by rotating the two rotating elements (3, 4) relative to one another.