Multi-Stage Coupling Device Spring Stiffness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices for rail vehicles lack multi-stage springing capabilities, leading to inadequate force transmission and comfort issues, as they fail to effectively manage longitudinal forces and tolerances, resulting in jolts and steering difficulties during operation.
Innovation Solution
A multi-stage coupling device with distinct spring stiffnesses for different force ranges, featuring a prestressed spring device with multiple spring elements and a housing structure that provides a protective, clamping, and buffering function, allowing for decoupling of vibrations and compensation of component tolerances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-stage spring device is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot effectively manage different force ranges leading to jolts and poor comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The spring device is segmented into multiple spring elements (first, second, and third spring elements) with different stiffness values. Each spring element is responsible for a specific force range, allowing the device to handle both small and large forces smoothly without causing jolts or discomfort.
2Force
If heavy components are used for power transmission, then force transmission capability is improved, but the device becomes heavier and requires more space
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using heavy components, the invention changes the parameter of spring stiffness by employing multiple spring elements with progressively different stiffness values. This allows the device to achieve high force transmission capability during acceleration while maintaining low weight and compact dimensions.
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
The device ensures minimal force introduction into the chassis and car body, enables jerk-free starts, and maintains smooth turning movements by transitioning through different spring stages, reducing the need for heavy components and enhancing operational resilience.
Implementation Method 1
the spring device has at least a first spring stiffness and a second spring stiffness, which are designed differently from one another
Implementation Method 2
the first spring element is designed for a smooth and resilient transmission of the maximum tensile forces occurring during operation. This measure ensures vibration decoupling even under the heaviest load
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a multi-stage coupling device for vehicles, in particular for rail vehicles, comprising a connecting rod (1) and a spring device (3) connected to the connecting rod (1). To create advantageous design conditions, it is proposed that the spring device (3) has at least a first spring stiffness (k1) and a second spring stiffness (k2), which are configured differently from one another. This results in a low-stress, sequential force transmission.