Rail Gap Bridging System With Sliding Pivot Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gap bridging systems for rail vehicles are unsuitable for larger platform gaps due to increased space requirements and the creation of steps, which complicate entry and exit, especially at high passenger volumes.
Innovation Solution
A gap bridging system featuring a horizontally slidably mounted tread plate with a pivotable pivot arm that allows for a sliding pivot joint, enabling a flat transition and reduced level difference between the platform and the tread plate, along with a power drive for optimal extension and a scraper system to prevent dirt ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional gap bridging systems are used for larger platform gaps, then the gap can be bridged, but the platform-side edge dips creating a step down to the platform and a steep incline
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot point of the swivel arm is made movable along the step plate instead of being fixed, allowing the support position to dynamically adjust as the step plate extends. This dynamic adjustment maintains the platform-side edge at a more stable height throughout the extension sequence, reducing the dip and resulting step down to the platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of pivot point position from fixed to variable, allowing it to move within a certain range along the step plate. This parameter change enables the system to adapt to different extension positions while maintaining better height alignment with the platform, reducing the harmful dip and incline.
2Strength
If robust plates and supports are used for larger gap widths, then the gap can be bridged, but the installation space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
By making the pivot point movable along the step plate, the system achieves better mechanical leverage and force distribution throughout the extension sequence. This reduces the peak forces on the plate and support structures, allowing for lighter, more compact components that require less installation space while maintaining sufficient strength for larger gaps.
3Device complexity
If the pivot point is fixed on the step plate, then the structure is simpler, but the platform-side edge drops significantly at large extension distances
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot point is designed to slide along a portion of the step plate, adding controlled complexity to the joint structure. This movement capability allows the support arm to maintain better geometric alignment throughout extension, significantly reducing the drop of the platform-side edge while keeping the overall structure relatively simple.
Data Source
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Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a gap bridging system (1) for a rail vehicle, for bridging the gap (4) between a floor of a passenger area and a station platform (3), comprising a step plate (6) which is mounted such that it can slide horizontally, and a pivot arm (5) which can pivot about a rotational axis (7) that runs beneath the step plate (6) and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, said pivot arm (5) extending from the rotational axis (7) to said step plate (6), being connected in an articulated manner to the step plate (6) and being mounted on said step plate (6) such that it can slide across a specific longitudinal section. A restoring force acts on said pivot arm (5) when in a rest position.