Monorail Switch Third Rail Support Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional monorail trajectory change devices with third rail power supply systems require additional structures for supporting the third rail, increasing complexity and installation requirements.

Innovation Solution

Integration of the third rail support function into the lateral abutment structure of the trajectory change device, eliminating the need for a separate structure and allowing for efficient transverse positioning along the device's path.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate structure is used to support the third rail, then the third rail can be properly positioned and supported, but the device complexity and number of installation elements increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethird rail support stabilityVSAvoidnumber of structural elements
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the third rail support function with the existing lateral abutment structure of the trajectory change device. The abutment structure, which already provides lateral guidance for the movable plate, is extended to also support the third rail. This integration eliminates the need for separate support structures while maintaining proper positioning and stability of the third rail throughout the trajectory change device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The lateral abutment structure is transformed into a multi-functional element that simultaneously performs its original function of guiding the movable plate and provides support for the third rail. This universal structure reduces the total number of components needed in the system while ensuring reliable support for both the switching mechanism and the power supply rail.

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

2Manufacturing precision

If additional support structures are installed for the third rail, then proper positioning is achieved, but installation time and complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethird rail positioning accuracyVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The support function for the third rail is combined with the existing lateral abutment structure, eliminating the need for separate installation steps for additional support structures. The third rail is positioned and supported by the already-installed abutment structure, simplifying the installation process while maintaining precise positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If the third rail is positioned outside the rolling path of vehicle tires, then safety is improved, but the available space for support structures is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle safetyVSAvoidavailable support space
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The lateral abutment structure serves dual purposes: providing lateral guidance for the movable plate and supporting the third rail positioned outside the vehicle rolling path. This multi-functional approach maximizes the use of available space while maintaining safety requirements and structural support needs.

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

Data Source

PatentEP3135554B1Trajectory-changing device with power supply by third rail
Publication Date: 2018.06.20 VOSSLOH COGIFER SA
  • EP3135554B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3135554B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3135554B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to a trajectory change device for vehicles guided by a single rail (6) from a front part to a rear part, and intended to be positioned between an entry rail (7a) and two exit rails (7b, 7c), characterized in that the device comprises: - a movable platform (1) mounted on a pivot carrying two rail sections (2, 3) parallel at the level of at least one portion, - a means of actuation of the platform (1), - at least one fixed structure (5) for lateral stop of the movable platform, arranged level with the platform (1) and oriented along one side of the platform (1) along an axis substantially similar to the axis of at least one of the rail sections (2, 3) of the platform (1), this structure (5) supporting at least one section of electrical supply rail of the "third rail" type.