Rail Segment Alignment Tool for Sagging Elevated Track Ends
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods face challenges in aligning rail segments that sag or curve downwards when elevated, making it difficult to connect them and form a contiguous rail line.
Innovation Solution
A tool comprising an elongated rigid member and arrangements with clasping mechanisms that engage and urge the end portions of rail segments towards the rigid member, ensuring alignment and connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If rail segments are elevated above ground level using supports, then the rail line can be positioned at required elevation, but the end portions of rail segments sag or curve downwards making alignment difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an alignment tool as an intermediary device between the sagging rail segments. This tool includes a straight edge member that spans across the gap between two rail segments, and clamping arrangements that engage with the rail segments to force them into alignment with the straight edge, thereby mediating the alignment problem caused by sagging
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment tool is positioned and the clamping arrangements are engaged with the rail segments before the actual connection is made. By preliminarily clamping the rail segments to the straight edge member, the segments are forced into correct alignment position prior to permanent fixation, preventing misalignment issues
2Ease of operation
If traditional alignment methods are used for sagging rail segments, then the alignment process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive, but productivity remains low
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping arrangements in the alignment tool are designed to automatically engage with the rail segments and apply clamping force when the tool is positioned. The tool itself performs the alignment function through its rigid straight edge and clamping mechanism, reducing the need for manual measurement and adjustment operations
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment tool serves as a mechanical intermediary that transfers the alignment requirement from one rail segment to another through its rigid straight edge member, enabling quick and accurate alignment without time-consuming manual measurement and adjustment operations
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for aligning a first rail segment with a second rail segment includes an elongated rigid member, a first arrangement, and a second arrangement. The member is configured to be positioned in an overlapping state with the first rail segment and the second rail segment. The first arrangement engages a first end portion of the first rail segment and is actuated to urge the first end portion towards the elongated rigid member. The second arrangement engages a second end portion of the second rail segment and is actuated to urge the second end portion towards the elongated rigid member. When each of the first end portion and the second end portion is urged towards the elongated rigid member, the first rail segment and the second rail segment adjoin and fall in alignment with each other to be connected together and form a contiguous rail portion of a rail line.