Brake Cylinder Diaphragm Centering Ring Wedge Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing fluid-actuated brake cylinders with membranes face issues of uneven mechanical stress distribution and potential leaks due to improper central installation, leading to brittleness and tearing over time.
Innovation Solution
A centering ring offset radially inward from the fastening edge is integrated on the membrane, allowing it to be centered against the radially inner peripheral surface of the brake cylinder, enhancing clamping and centering, and utilizing an axial component of the clamping force to apply a wedge effect for improved radial force and security against fastening edge displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the membrane is clamped between the service brake cylinder and intermediate wall without a centering ring, then the structure is simpler, but the membrane cannot be centered properly causing uneven mechanical stress distribution
Solution Approach 1:
A centering ring is introduced as an intermediary element between the membrane and the clamping structure. This ring features a bearing surface that contacts the radially inner peripheral surface of the brake cylinder wall, enabling proper centering of the membrane during installation while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: the centering ring handles radial positioning, the flange edges provide axial clamping, and the wedge-shaped fastening edge secures the membrane. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively.
2Productivity
If the membrane is installed without proper centering, then installation is faster, but the membrane becomes brittle or tears over time causing leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The centering ring is pre-integrated with the membrane during manufacturing, so that centering capability is built-in before installation. This preliminary preparation ensures that during rapid installation, the membrane automatically centers itself against the bearing surface, preventing stress concentration and improving durability without sacrificing installation speed.
3Device complexity
If the clamping force has only radial component, then the clamping structure is simpler, but the centering ring cannot be pressed against the wall surface with sufficient force
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping force is extended from a single radial dimension to include an axial dimension. The flange edges of the service brake cylinder and intermediate wall overlap in the axial direction, creating an axial clamping force component that generates wedge effect, thereby amplifying the radial pressing force on the centering ring without significantly increasing structural complexity.
4Ease of manufacture
If the fastening edge is not wedge-shaped, then the membrane manufacturing is simpler, but the fastening edge can be pulled out of the clamp over time
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening edge geometry is changed from a simple edge to a wedge-shaped cross-section that tapers radially inward. This parameter change in shape creates a mechanical interference fit within the complementarily shaped receptacle, preventing the fastening edge from being pulled out of the clamp over time while remaining compatible with standard membrane manufacturing processes.
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 solution simplifies manufacturing, increases membrane tightness, and extends its service life by ensuring proper centering and secure clamping, reducing the risk of leaks and mechanical stress-related failures.
Implementation Method 1
an axial component of a clamping force of cylinder sections clamped against one another ensures that the fastening edge is pulled radially outwards due to the wedge effect and the centering ring is thus pressed with greater radial force against the contact surface on the wall of the brake cylinder
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a diaphragm (24) for pressure-medium-actuated brake cylinders (1), comprising a radially outer fastening edge (32) for fixing the diaphragm (24) to the brake cylinder (1). The invention provides that at least one centring ring (40) which extends in the axial direction and which is offset radially inward in relation to the fastening edge (32) is formed on the diaphragm (24), by means of which centring ring (40) said diaphragm (24) can be centred against a radially inner peripheral surface (42) of a wall (44) of the brake cylinder (1).