Deformation Tube Detection Device for Coupling Loosening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional deformation tubes in train couplings face challenges in detecting damage and loosening of securing elements, leading to reduced energy absorption capacity and safety risks due to limited accessibility and reliance on visual inspections or expensive endoscopy cameras.
Innovation Solution
A deformation tube with a detection device that includes a securing element and a shearing element or optical/electrical sensors to detect twisting or axial displacement of the securing element, providing early warning systems and facilitating maintenance through mechanical or electrical solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the deformation tube is progressively integrated into the coupling or vehicle parts, then the energy absorption capacity is improved, but the accessibility for monitoring is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
A detection device acts as an intermediary between the deformation tube and the monitoring system. This device includes a shearing element connected to the securing element, which can be monitored from outside the coupled vehicles. The shearing element transmits information about the state of the securing element without requiring direct access to the deformation tube, thus resolving the contradiction between integration and accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive endoscopy cameras with a simple mechanical detection device. The shearing element provides a mechanical indication of the securing element's state that can be observed without complex electronic equipment, eliminating the need for costly monitoring systems while maintaining accessibility.
2Measurement precision
If visual inspection or endoscopy camera is used to monitor the nut, then the monitoring capability is improved, but the cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device uses a simple, inexpensive shearing element that can be easily manufactured and replaced. This disposable-like component provides reliable monitoring information without the high cost and complexity of endoscopy cameras, making the monitoring system economically viable.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection device extracts the monitoring function from the expensive endoscopy camera system and implements it through a simple mechanical indicator. The shearing element provides the essential monitoring capability independently, eliminating the need for costly equipment while maintaining measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If the securing element is monitored using endoscopy camera, then the detection accuracy is improved, but the time for monitoring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device enables self-monitoring of the securing element state. The shearing element automatically indicates whether the securing element is properly tightened or has loosened, allowing quick visual assessment without time-consuming endoscopy procedures. The system serves itself by providing immediate visual feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The shearing element is pre-configured to provide immediate visual indication of the securing element's state. During inspection, the monitor can quickly assess the situation without needing to insert cameras or perform complex procedures, significantly reducing monitoring time while maintaining detection accuracy.
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
Enhances safety by enabling early detection of loosening or damage, reducing the risk of accidents and extending the lifespan of deformation tubes through improved monitoring and maintenance practices.
Implementation Method 1
a shearing element (11), which is connected to the securing element (6) in such a way that relative twisting or relative twisting and axial displacement of the securing element (6) causes the shearing element (11) to shear off
Implementation Method 2
an optical and/or electrical sensor (17), which is set up to detect twisting or twisting and axial displacement of the securing element (6)
Implementation Method 3
an optical and/or electrical sensor (17), which is set up to detect twisting or twisting and axial displacement of the securing element (6)
Implementation Method 4
the larger tube part being pushed in during the insertion process expands and deforms and/or the smaller pipe part is compressed and deformed. A comparatively large amount of energy is absorbed during this deformation
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a deformation tube (1) for a coupling, in particular traction coupling, with two tube parts (2, 3) which are pushable one into the other counter to a resistance; with a securing element (6) in the form of a screw or a nut which is screwed in a counter element (7) or is screwed onto a counter element and thereby braces the two tube parts against each other. The invention has a detection device (10) which is designed to detect twisting and/or axial displacement of the securing element and/or of the counter element in relation to at least one of the two tube parts.