Helix Retarder Testing via Dynamic Body Element Speed Variation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing helix retarders in railway vehicles provide only rough information about their functionality and properties, lacking the detail needed for comprehensive evaluation.
Innovation Solution
A testing device that mimics the movement of a railway wheel by engaging the helix retarder with a body element, varying speed between values lower and higher than the nominal speed to measure brake force, allowing for detailed data collection on the retarder's properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a train with a measuring device runs over the retarder for testing, then the retarder can be tested in actual operation conditions, but only rough outline information about the retarder functionality is obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a body element that copies the essential functional characteristics of a railway wagon wheel without requiring an actual train. The body element is designed to engage with the helical contact surface of the retarder in the same manner as a real wheel, allowing detailed measurements to be taken in a controlled testing environment rather than during actual train operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts only the necessary testing function from the complete train system by using a simplified body element that isolates the wheel-retarder interaction. This extraction allows for focused, detailed measurement of retarder performance parameters without the complexity and variability introduced by full train operations.
2Measurement precision
If the speed of the body element is varied between values lower and higher than the nominal speed value, then comprehensive data on brake force can be collected, but the testing process requires multiple speed adjustments and measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The testing system dynamically adjusts the speed of the body element during operation to test the retarder at multiple speed points including values below, at, and above the nominal speed. This dynamic speed variation allows comprehensive brake force characterization across the operational range in a single continuous testing sequence rather than requiring separate static tests at each speed point.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing process maintains continuous operation of the body element through the retarder while varying speed, allowing uninterrupted data collection. The measurement system continuously records brake force parameters throughout the speed variation process, eliminating idle time between measurements and maximizing the efficiency of the extended testing duration.
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
Enables more precise and reliable assessment of helix retarder performance by providing comprehensive data on brake force and functionality, improving monitoring and maintenance efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a rotatable cylinder resiliently urged into a working position adjacent a rail
Implementation Method 2
The flange of a railway wagon wheel which passes in a working or first direction influences the contact surface of the cylinder to set the cylinder rotating
Implementation Method 3
pumping a hydraulic medium through a throttled opening to obtain a braking action
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~7
AI summary
A method and a testing device for testing a helix retarder (24) for railway vehicles, said helix retarder (24) comprising an elongated rotatable cylinder (25) being adjusted to apply a braking force when a predetermined speed of a passing railway vehicle is exceeded. A section of a body element (20; 42; 48, 54; 58) engages a helical contact surface of said elongated rotatable cylinder (25) and is moved to cause a rotating movement of said elongated rotatable cylinder (25). The speed of said body element is increased from a first speed level corresponding to a speed lower than said predetermined speed to a second speed level at least corresponding to said predetermined speed, and the brake force applied by said helix retarder (24) to said body element (20; 42; 48, 54; 58) is determined during the process of increasing the speed of the body element (20; 42; 48, 54; 58). The testing device comprises a propulsion device (23; 34; 46; 52; 62) arranged to move said body element (20; 42; 48, 54; 58). A central unit (17) is arranged to determine the brake force applied by said helix retarder (24) to said body element (20; 42; 48, 54; 58).