Portal Support Structure for Non-Parallel Self-Propelled Car Transfers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional transfer equipment for self-propelled cars on route networks cannot connect non-parallel track elements and is limited in the number of connectable track portions, leading to operational constraints.

Innovation Solution

A portal-like support structure with movably arranged support units, featuring crossbars and profiled portions, allows seamless transfer and relocation of cars between any number of route sections, enabling loading and unloading without blocking the route, and accommodating turning maneuvers or elevation changes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional transfer equipment with fixed switches is used, then the structure is simple, but the number of connectable track portions is limited and non-parallel tracks cannot be connected

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of connectable track portionsVSAvoidstructure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support unit is made movable along the track element instead of being fixed, allowing dynamic repositioning to connect different track portions. This enables the system to adapt to various routing configurations while maintaining operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The movable support unit can serve multiple track portions and handle both parallel and non-parallel track connections, making a single device capable of performing multiple functions that previously required multiple fixed switches.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If a car stops at the transfer equipment for loading/unloading, then passenger service is enabled, but the route section is blocked to other cars

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveloading and unloading capabilityVSAvoidroute throughput

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The movable support unit can be repositioned to different locations along the track element, allowing it to service cars at various points without permanently blocking the route. Other cars can bypass the serviced area by using alternative track portions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The route section is effectively segmented into multiple accessible portions by the movable support unit, allowing simultaneous operations - one car being serviced at a specific location while other cars continue traveling on different segments of the same route section.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If the support unit is fixed in position, then the structure is stable, but flexible connection of any number of route sections is not possible

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflexibility to connect route sectionsVSAvoidstructural stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The support unit incorporates controlled mobility along the track element while maintaining stable connection points. The movability is constrained to specific degrees of freedom, allowing repositioning for different route configurations while ensuring stable support when engaged with a track portion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12459545B2Transfer equipment for self-propelled cars on a route network similar to an elevated railway

Publication Date: 2025.11.04 OTTOBAHN GMBH

AI summary

Transfer equipment for self-propelled cars on a route network similar to an elevated railway. The route network includes at least one track element and at least one intersection, turning or end point, in the region of which the self-propelled car can be transferred from the at least one track element onto an adjustably arranged support unit.