Rail Vehicle Access Device with Movable Steps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing railway vehicle access devices with vertically movable platforms struggle to accommodate people with reduced mobility due to steep ramp inclinations, which exceed interoperability standards and require large ramp lengths, often necessitating seat removals.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating movable steps and a gap-filling pallet with a drive system and guidance mechanisms to adjust the platform height, ensuring a slope of less than 12% and providing a safe, clutter-free access solution by using connecting rods, sliding mechanisms, and a control system for optimal positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the platform is vertically displaced to adjust to platform height differences, then accessibility for people with reduced mobility is improved, but the ramp inclination becomes too steep
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp is segmented into multiple adjustable sections or steps rather than a single continuous slope. This allows the ramp to be divided into smaller segments that can be individually positioned to maintain gentler inclines while still achieving the necessary vertical displacement for accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp structure is made dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The ramp inclination and length can be modified in real-time based on the vertical position of the platform, ensuring that the slope remains within acceptable limits (below 12%) regardless of the platform's vertical displacement.
2Shape
If the ramp length is increased to reduce inclination, then the ramp slope meets interoperability standards, but the device size becomes too great and requires seat removal
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp structure is designed to nest within or alongside existing vehicle structures when not in use. The ramp can be stored in a compact configuration within the vehicle body or integrated with other existing components, minimizing the space required while still providing adequate ramp length when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp is configured to utilize three-dimensional space more efficiently by extending in multiple directions or folding along complex paths rather than requiring a single long linear extension. This allows the ramp to achieve the necessary length for gentle slopes while occupying less overall volume within the vehicle.
3Ease of operation
If a movable passage is provided between the platform and floor, then circulation is enabled, but the risk of falling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable passage is equipped with intermediate safety elements such as handrails, guardrails, or edge protection mechanisms that mediate between the open passage and the risk of falling. These intermediary structures provide physical barriers and support while maintaining the openness of the passage for circulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable passage incorporates self-adjusting safety features that automatically activate or adjust based on the presence and position of passengers. For example, protective barriers may automatically deploy when motion is detected, or the passage may self-level to maintain safe gradients, reducing the need for constant manual supervision.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4
AI summary
The vehicle has an access device comprising a platform (18) extending between side faces of a body and placed opposite to an opening of the body. The platform is moved vertically relative to a floor between high and low positions in which the platform is aligned and misaligned with the floor. A mobile passage between the floor and the platform includes steps (24, 25) moving between an intermediate position ranging between the positions, so that each step is aligned with the floor and the platform in the high position.