Maglev Switch Beam Segmentation for Mass Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current maglev train track switches have a large driving mass and long switching time due to mechanical structures with forced elastic deformation, which hinder efficient direction changes.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a front main track beam and a rear switching track beam with a central fixed track beam and a middle movable track beam that can rotate or bend, allowing the maglev train to switch between straight and bend tracks with minimized forced deformation length and reduced driving mass.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a mechanical structure with forced elastic deformation is used for the track switch, then the track can change direction, but the driving mass becomes large and the switching time becomes long
Solution Approach 1:
The track switch is divided into multiple independent beam segments: a front main track beam and a rear switching track beam with movable and fixed portions. This segmentation allows each segment to perform its specific function independently, reducing the overall mass that needs to be moved while maintaining the track switching capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a movable track beam that can dynamically change position between straight and bent configurations, replacing the traditional forced elastic deformation approach. This dynamic structure reduces the driving mass required for switching while improving switching speed and efficiency.
2Productivity
If a mechanical structure with forced elastic deformation is used for the track switch, then the track can change direction, but the forced deformation length becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the track beam into fixed and movable portions, the patent localizes the deformation to only the necessary movable section. This reduces the overall forced deformation length compared to traditional designs where the entire beam must undergo elastic deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable track beam provides a dynamic switching mechanism that achieves direction changes through controlled movement rather than forced elastic deformation of the entire beam. This dynamic approach minimizes the deformation length while maintaining switching efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A switch for a track of a maglev train is provided. The switch comprises a front main track beam and a rear switching track beam. The rear switching track beam comprises a central fixed track beam and a middle mobile track beam; the front main track beam can switch between a straight track and a bent track by bending; the central fixed track beam is a fixed track beam; and the middle mobile track beam can move parallelly between the straight track and the bent track. The imposed deformation length and driving weight of the switch is minimised by providing the middle mobile track beam, and the required track switching time is shortened.