Modular U-Shaped Platform Installation Device for Trams

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The retrofitting and maintenance of platform facilities in public transport areas, such as low-floor vehicles and trams, are labor-intensive due to the complexity of integrating new equipment and utilities into existing infrastructure.

Innovation Solution

A modular platform installation device with U-shaped cross-section installation bodies and prefabricated platform slabs that form a trough-like structure, allowing for easy assembly and maintenance, with integrated cable routes and heating systems, and featuring sealing devices to prevent fluid leaks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If traditional platform installation methods are used, then platform structure is established, but retrofitting and maintenance of utilities and equipment becomes labor-intensive and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of installationVSAvoidcomplexity of integrating new equipment and utilities
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The platform installation device is divided into modular components including installation bodies with U-shaped cross-sections that form separate trough-like structures for utilities, and platform slabs that form the walking surface. This segmentation allows independent installation and maintenance of utility systems without disrupting the entire platform structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The installation bodies serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for platform slabs, create defined installation spaces for utilities (cables, pipes, heating systems), and enable future retrofitting of equipment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate structural elements and simplifies integration of new equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If utilities are integrated into existing platform infrastructure, then platform functionality is enhanced, but maintenance effort increases considerably

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplatform functionalityVSAvoidmaintenance effort
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

Utilities are extracted into separate trough-like structures formed by the U-shaped installation bodies, positioned beneath the platform slabs. This extraction creates dedicated access spaces for utilities, allowing maintenance personnel to reach and service cables, pipes, and heating systems without dismantling platform slabs or disturbing the overall platform structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The installation bodies are pre-configured with U-shaped cross-sections that define installation spaces for utilities before platform slabs are installed. This preliminary configuration ensures that utility access paths are established in advance, facilitating future maintenance activities without requiring complex demolition or reconstruction work.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If prefabricated modules are used for installation bodies and platform slabs, then assembly efficiency is improved, but manufacturing and assembly precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly efficiencyVSAvoidprecision of assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses prefabricated modular installation bodies with standardized U-shaped cross-sections and matching platform slabs. These segments are designed with complementary geometry that guides precise alignment during assembly, reducing the impact of tolerance variations and simplifying the connection process while maintaining high assembly efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP2754751B1Railway platform installation device for a railway platform
Publication Date: 2019.12.04 TRIPLE S
  • EP2754751B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2754751B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2754751B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to a platform installation device (15) for a platform (10), in particular for low-floor vehicles and/or trams and/or buses, comprising at least one installation body (30) with a base surface (32) and at least two side surfaces (34, 36), between which an installation space (40) is formed. The installation body (30) is covered or can be covered on its upper side by at least one platform slab (14). The invention also relates to a corresponding platform and a method for installing a platform.