Hybrid Coupler Assembly With Offset Stop for Safe Rail Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling arrangements for rail vehicles face challenges in efficiently switching between different coupling devices, such as standard-gauge and metro couplings, with complex designs that require manual intervention, lengthy setup times, and potential safety risks during power transmission.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid coupling arrangement with a first coupling device pivotably mounted on an interface device, featuring a stop device aligned to offset the force application line from the joint axis, integrated stop elements, and a non-self-locking gearbox with a reduction gear for easy swiveling, allowing quick and safe transitions between coupling devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual handling and insertion of adapter coupling is used, then the coupling can be adapted to different coupling types, but the operator cannot hold the weight and correctly attach the height centering device, making manual handling difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling arrangement performs height centering automatically through the offset stop device arrangement. The power input line is offset from the joint axis, creating a moment that automatically centers the coupling vertically when coupled, eliminating the need for manual height adjustment by the operator.
Solution Approach 2:
The height centering function is extracted from manual operation and integrated into the coupling mechanism itself through the offset stop device. The automatic centering action is built into the coupling arrangement, removing the burden of manual height adjustment from the operator.
2Extent of automation
If coupling head changer with magazine is used, then automatic swapping of coupling heads is possible, but removing the coupling head changer from the draw hook requires considerable setup time
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling head changer and magazine system is extracted from the coupling arrangement, leaving only the essential coupling head mounting. This simplified design eliminates the time-consuming removal and reinstallation of complex magazine mechanisms while maintaining the ability to swap coupling heads when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system is segmented into a permanent coupling arrangement mounted on the vehicle and interchangeable coupling heads. This allows the main coupling mechanism to remain installed while only the coupling heads need to be changed, reducing setup time significantly.
3Device complexity
If stop device is arranged with force introduction line running through joint axis, then the structure is simple, but the joint arrangement may buckle under tensile and impact forces after pivoting
Solution Approach 1:
The stop device is arranged asymmetrically with the power input line offset from the joint axis. This asymmetric arrangement creates a stabilizing moment that prevents buckling of the joint arrangement under tensile and impact forces, while maintaining relatively simple construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The offset stop device arrangement creates a preliminary counter-moment that opposes the buckling tendency of the joint arrangement. By positioning the power input line offset from the joint axis, a stabilizing moment is generated in advance that prevents buckling under subsequent tensile and impact loads.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~3
Figure 4a~5
AI summary
The present invention relates generally to a coupling arrangement, in particular a hybrid coupling arrangement or transition coupling arrangement, for track-guided vehicles, especially rail vehicles, with at least one first coupling device having a coupling head which can be pivoted into or out of the coupling plane as required. The invention is characterized in that a stop device is provided between the first coupling device and the interface device, which comprises stop elements forming stop surfaces integrally with these.