Rail Fastening Intermediate Layer Retention via Angular Guide Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rail fastening systems require complex and costly pre-assembly or additional retaining elements to prevent intermediate layers from getting lost during transport, and existing solutions either involve manual gluing or complex-shaped holding elements, which are time-consuming and expensive.
Innovation Solution
A rail fastening system comprising an intermediate layer and angled guide plates with designed contact areas and holding elements that interact to fix the intermediate layer in place, allowing for pre-assembled systems that can be transported without additional retaining elements, using projections or collars that apply a compressive force to ensure secure fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If manual gluing is used to fix intermediate layers on sleepers, then pre-assembly is achieved, but additional time and expense are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the chemical bonding system (manual gluing) with a mechanical retention system. The retaining elements with holding areas provide mechanical interlocking with the intermediate layer, eliminating the need for adhesive materials and the associated manual application processes, thereby reducing assembly time and cost while maintaining stable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining elements are designed to automatically secure the intermediate layer through their geometric shape and interaction with the angle guide plate. The system is self-fixing without requiring external adhesive application or complex assembly operations, enabling rapid pre-assembly at the factory and reducing both time and expense.
2Reliability
If complex retaining elements are used to prevent loss during transport, then intermediate layers are secured, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention function is segmented between two simple components: the retaining element on the angle guide plate and the holding area on the intermediate layer. This segmentation allows each component to remain geometrically simple while collectively providing reliable retention, avoiding the need for a single complex retaining structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining element serves multiple functions: it provides retention during transport, enables pre-assembly at the factory, and maintains the intermediate layer in position during installation. This multi-functionality is achieved through a simple geometric design that interacts with the angle guide plate and intermediate layer, reducing overall system complexity while improving reliability.
3Productivity
If pre-assembly is implemented, then installation speed is improved, but additional costs for gluing or complex retaining elements are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining elements and holding areas are designed to enable pre-assembly of the intermediate layer on the sleeper at the factory. This preliminary action secures the intermediate layer before transport, allowing the complete fastening system to be pre-assembled and delivered ready for installation, thereby improving installation speed without requiring costly adhesive processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining elements are designed as simple, inexpensive geometric features that can be integrated into the angle guide plate manufacturing process. These simple retaining structures provide the necessary function without requiring expensive materials or complex manufacturing processes, making pre-assembly cost-effective.
Data Source
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Figure 2b~3
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AI summary
The invention relates to a rail fixing system for a railway superstructure, comprising an intermediate layer and an angular guide plate which, in the mounted state, are arranged adjacent to each other transversely to the direction of the rail. Said angular guide plate comprises at least one maintaining element, the intermediate layer has at least one contact region and the at least one maintaining element is designed, in the mounted state, to secure the intermediate layer over the at least one contact region.