Gauge-Changeable Axle Structure With Splines and Threads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional wheel and axle systems for gauge-changing trains have complex connection structures, leading to low reliability in adapting to different rail gauges.
Innovation Solution
The proposed axle for a gauge-changing wheelset features a central through hole, outer spline, first non-self-locking threads, and oblong holes, allowing for a simple and reliable connection between the axle and wheels, enabling efficient gauge changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional wheel and axle connection structure is used, then the connection between wheel and axle can be achieved, but the structure becomes complex and gauge-changing reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection structure is divided into modular components: the axle with standardized outer spline and threads, the wheel hub with corresponding inner spline and threads, and separate locking mechanisms. This segmentation allows for simplified assembly and maintenance while improving gauge-changing reliability through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The axle design incorporates multiple functional features in a unified structure: the outer spline provides both rotational connection and axial positioning, the non-self-locking threads enable both wheel mounting and gauge adjustment, and the integrated design eliminates the need for separate connection components. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining high reliability.
2Ease of operation
If complex connection structure is adopted, then wheel and axle can be firmly connected, but the gauge-changing operation becomes less reliable and more difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The connection structure incorporates dynamic elements that allow easy transformation between different gauge configurations. The non-self-locking threads enable smooth rotational adjustment for gauge changing, while the outer spline maintains continuous rotational connection. This dynamic design allows operators to easily switch between gauges without complex disassembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The outer spline and inner spline act as intermediary elements that facilitate smooth engagement and disengagement during gauge-changing operations. These splined interfaces provide a mechanical mediator that allows the wheel hub to be easily positioned and locked at different gauge configurations without direct complex threading operations, simplifying the overall operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A gauge-changeable wheel set, comprising an axle (10). A central through hole (15) is formed in the axial direction of the axle (10); an outer spline (11) extending along the axial direction of the axle (10) is constructed in the periphery of the axle (10) close to a middle portion; first non-self-locking threads (14) having opposite rotation directions are respectively arranged on the portions, located at the two sides of the axial direction of the outer spline (11), of the periphery of the axle (10); an oblong hole (12) penetrating in the radial direction of the axle is formed in the portion, located on the outer spline (11), of the axle (10); the length direction of the oblong hole (12) is the axial direction of the axle (10); and at least one first raceway (13) provided around the axle (10) in a circumferential direction is constructed on the portion of the axle (10) between one of the first non-self-locking threads (14) and the outer spline (11). The axle (10) is ingenious in structure design, so that a connection structure of the axle (10) and a wheel is simple, and the gauge-changeable reliability is high. Further disclosed is an axle for use in a gauge-changeable wheel set.