Dual Rail Coupling Layout for Compact Space and Misalignment Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling systems for rail vehicles occupy large structural space, provide short support spans, inadequately compensate angular and axial displacements, and are costly and time-consuming to service and repair.
Innovation Solution
A dual coupling system comprising a first coupling unit for axial and angular offset compensation, a second coupling unit for angular offset compensation, and a connecting shaft connecting both units, with the first coupling unit having a crowned external toothing and the second unit being a multiplate coupling, allowing for improved compensation and reduced structural space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If conventional coupling systems are used, then torque transmission is achieved, but structural space is large and support span is short
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing the first coupling unit inside the second coupling unit, with the connecting shaft passing through both. The inner coupling unit is positioned within the outer coupling unit's structure, allowing compact arrangement while maintaining adequate support span between the drive assembly and transmission assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-plane coupling design to a dual-plane coupling system, where the first coupling unit operates in one joint plane and the second coupling unit operates in another joint plane. This dimensional arrangement allows torque transmission while compensating for angular and axial displacements in multiple directions, effectively increasing support span without proportionally increasing structural space.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional coupling systems are used, then torque transmission is achieved, but angular and axial displacement compensation is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the coupling system into two separate coupling units, each with specialized compensation capabilities. The first coupling unit compensates for angular offsets and axial displacements, while the second coupling unit compensates for angular offsets. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized for specific displacement types, improving overall compensation performance without requiring a single overly complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic compensation mechanisms in both coupling units, allowing them to adapt to varying angular and axial displacements between the drive assembly and transmission assembly. The coupling units can dynamically adjust their configuration to maintain proper torque transmission despite relative movements, enhancing adaptability while keeping each unit's complexity manageable.
3Ease of repair
If conventional coupling systems are used, then torque transmission is achieved, but servicing and repair are expensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coupling system into two independent coupling units connected by a connecting shaft, allowing individual units to be serviced or replaced without affecting the entire system. This modular segmentation enables targeted maintenance, reducing both repair time and costs by allowing technicians to work on only the specific unit that requires attention.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling units are designed with universal features that facilitate ease of servicing and repair. The standardized interface between the connecting shaft and coupling units, along with the modular design, allows for quick replacement and maintenance operations. The system's structure enables routine servicing to be performed efficiently, reducing downtime and repair costs.
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 dual coupling system achieves improved compensation of axial and angular displacements, reduces structural space requirements, and allows for quick and inexpensive assembly, servicing, and repair, while providing an increased support span.
Implementation Method 1
the hub has a crowned external toothing which meshes with an internal toothing of a sleeve
Implementation Method 2
the second unit being a multiplate coupling
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a dual coupling system that can be used in rail vehicles, e.g. trains or trams. The object of the invention is to provide a coupling system that allows for reduced installation space with improved support span and improved compensation behaviour with occurring axial and angular misalignments and which can be economically and quickly maintained and set up. A dual coupling system is provided comprising a first coupling unit (1) associated with a drive assembly, a second coupling unit (2) associated with a transmission assembly, and a connecting shaft (8) arranged between the first and second coupling unit. A casing (3) is force-lockingly and/or interlockingly detachably connected to the connecting shaft in a first end region and the second coupling unit is arranged opposite the first coupling unit in a second end region of the connecting shaft and is force-lockingly and/or interlockingly detachably connected to same. The second coupling unit has a coupling element (9) directed towards the first coupling unit, which allows for an arranging and coupling of a transmission assembly in the region of the connecting shaft between the first and second coupling unit (1, 2).