Rail Vehicle Actuator Cam Mechanism for Compact Multi-Position Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical actuating devices for rail vehicles are complex and space-consuming, requiring multiple moving parts and potential leak points, which complicates operation and increases construction costs.
Innovation Solution
A simplified mechanical actuating device design where the lever and switch can be actuated independently, eliminating the need for a further switching element and reducing the number of moving parts by using a cam profile and actuator to transfer the switching element between positions, with a spring for even force distribution and defined positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switching elements and coupling components are used to achieve switching functionality, then the device can control functional assemblies, but the device size and construction complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple switching elements into a single integrated switching element that can assume multiple switching positions (first, second, and third positions). This consolidation eliminates the need for separate switching elements and coupling components, directly reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to control different functional assemblies through different switching positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The single switching element is designed with multi-functionality, where each switching position (first, second, third) corresponds to different control states for functional assemblies. This universal design allows one component to perform the work of multiple components, reducing overall device complexity while preserving adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switching elements and coupling components are used, then switching control can be achieved, but the overall device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple switching elements into one integrated switching element with multiple positions, the physical space required for multiple separate components is eliminated. The single component occupies less volume than multiple separate components would require, directly reducing device size while maintaining switching control functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switching elements are used, then control functionality is achieved, but the number of potential leak points increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates coupling components by integrating multiple switching functions into a single switching element. This removal of coupling components directly reduces the number of potential leak points (sealing interfaces) while maintaining control functionality through the multi-position design of the switching element.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a complex mechanical structure with multiple parts is used, then switching functionality is achieved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of multiple switching elements into a single switching element reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and quality-checked. This consolidation simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces assembly operations, and lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining the required switching functionality through the multi-position design.
5Adaptability or versatility
If multiple moving parts are used, then control functionality is achieved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces operation complexity by consolidating multiple moving parts into a single switching element with multiple positions. Instead of requiring coordinated operation of multiple separate switching elements and coupling components, the operator simply moves the single switching element to the desired position, simplifying the operation while maintaining control functionality.
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 solution reduces the overall size and construction costs of the actuating device, decreases the risk of leaks, and enhances user comfort by simplifying the mechanical structure and operation while maintaining functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The lever 12 with the cam 24 is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation 18. When the lever 12 rotates about the axis of rotation 18, the actuating lever 32 is rotated about the further axis of rotation 30 due to the cam profile 26
Implementation Method 2
with a spring for even force distribution and defined positions
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The device (10) has a lever (12) moved back and forth between switching positions. A switching element (14) i.e. 2/2-way valve, stays in effective connection with the lever. The switching element and a switch (16) are moved back and forth between the switching positions. Movement of the lever from one of the switching positions into the other switching position produces a change of switching position of the switching element from the former switching position into the latter switching position when the switch is in the former switching position.