Pivoting Coupling Rod Support for Full Crash Deformation Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support devices for coupling rods in rail vehicles restrict the deformation path of the coupling arrangement, particularly the deformation tube, limiting its functionality during crashes.
Innovation Solution
A support device for a coupling rod with a pivotable design and detachable connection, allowing the coupling rod to deflect and separate from the coupling assembly under impact, utilizing energy absorption elements to maintain the deformation path without additional structural modifications to the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid support device is used for the coupling rod, then the support device provides stable support during normal operation, but it restricts the deformation path of the coupling arrangement during crashes
Solution Approach 1:
The support device transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system with multiple degrees of freedom. The support surface can pivot about a first vertical axis and a second vertical axis, allowing it to adapt its orientation during crashes and follow the deformation motion of the coupling rod while maintaining support.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device is divided into separable components: the support surface, the first interface (pivotally connected to mounting structure), and the second interface (detachably connected to coupling rod). This segmentation allows the coupling rod to detach and deform freely while the support surface remains anchored to the mounting structure.
2Strength
If the support device is rigidly connected to the coupling rod, then the coupling rod is firmly supported, but the coupling rod cannot fully utilize the deformation path of the energy absorption device
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the support surface and coupling rod is made detachable rather than rigid. The second interface allows the coupling rod to separate from the support surface when impact forces exceed a threshold, enabling the coupling rod to follow the deformation path while the support surface remains stable.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device is designed with pivotable interfaces that anticipate crash scenarios. The first interface pivots about vertical axes to accommodate deformation motion before the coupling rod detaches, providing progressive cushioning that maintains support during normal operation but allows free deformation during crashes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional structural modifications are made to the vehicle to accommodate the support device, then the support device can be integrated, but the complexity of the vehicle structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support device uses a mounting structure with vertical axes that can serve multiple functions: providing stable support during normal operation, enabling pivotable motion during crash deformation, and allowing detachable connection of the coupling rod. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized structural modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device is designed as a separate, self-contained module with standardized interfaces (first interface for mounting structure, second interface for coupling rod). This modular segmentation allows integration without complex vehicle structural modifications, as the support device carries its own mounting and connection mechanisms.
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
Enables the coupling rod to fully utilize the deformation path of the energy absorption device, preventing damage to the support device and maintaining the coupling assembly's functionality during crashes while minimizing structural changes to the vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
the detachable connection comprises at least one bolt or screw connection oriented in the horizontal plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction with a predefinable failure load
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a support device for a coupling rod of a coupling arrangement, which is pivotable about a first vertical axis and articulated via a fastening structure at an interface of a wagon, and which extends in the longitudinal direction. The device comprises at least one support surface for the coupling rod and a first interface coupled or connected to the support surface for connecting it, at least indirectly and pivotably about a second vertical axis, to the fastening structure. The invention is characterized in that a second interface for detachable connection to the coupling rod is provided, and the detachable connection comprises at least one bolt or screw connection oriented in the horizontal plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, with a predefinable failure load.