Portable Automatic Train Trip Cock Tripper Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing railway signaling systems require manual intervention by workers to install and remove portable trip cock trippers, posing safety risks as they need to enter the train's path multiple times, especially when trains are reversing, leading to potential delays and hazards.
Innovation Solution
A remotely controlled, automatic portable trip cock tripper that can detect train movement and direction, using a pivotable T-shaped arm actuated by an electric motor and controlled by an RF receiver, allowing it to move between 'up' and 'down' positions to engage or disengage the train's trip cock, eliminating the need for manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a portable tripper is manually installed and removed by workers, then the tripper can be positioned to stop trains, but workers must enter the hazardous fouling area multiple times which creates safety risks and delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation of installing and removing trippers with an automated system. A motorized actuator automatically raises and lowers the tripper arm, eliminating the need for workers to manually handle the tripper in the hazardous fouling area. The system uses electrical signals to control the motorized movement, substituting mechanical manual labor with automated electromechanical operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The tripper system becomes self-operating through the automated actuator mechanism. The system can automatically detect when a train approaches and autonomously raise or lower the tripper arm without requiring worker intervention. The motorized system performs the installation and removal functions automatically, making the tripper self-sufficient and eliminating repeated manual entry into hazardous zones.
2Reliability
If a portable tripper is installed at the exiting end of a work zone, then trains can be stopped, but the train is delayed and the worker must manually remove it to allow passage
Solution Approach 1:
The tripper system transitions from a static manual operation mode to a dynamic automated mode. The motorized actuator enables the tripper arm to automatically adjust its position based on real-time conditions. When a train approaches, the system dynamically raises the tripper to stop the train, and when the train passes, it automatically lowers the tripper to allow passage, eliminating the need for manual removal and reducing train delay.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms to automatically detect train presence and respond accordingly. Sensors or detectors monitor the approaching train and provide feedback to the control system, which automatically actuates the motorized tripper to the appropriate position. This closed-loop feedback system ensures timely response to train movements, preventing unnecessary delays while maintaining reliable train stopping capability.
3Ease of operation
If a portable tripper is manually operated, then the worker has control over train stopping, but the worker is exposed to hazardous conditions multiple times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary automated system between the worker and the tripper operation. The motorized actuator serves as an intermediary that performs the hazardous function of positioning the tripper arm in the fouling area, while the worker simply operates the system from a safe distance using control mechanisms. This intermediary automation layer eliminates direct worker exposure to hazardous conditions while maintaining operational control.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable trip cock tripper for use with a train having a trip cock mounted thereon, such trip cock tripper being manually positionable in desired locations adjacent to a track rail and remotely operated for movement of its tripper arm from a trip cock engaging position to a non-trip cock contacting position.