Rail Gap Bridging Device with Vertically Adjustable Swivel Joint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gap bridging devices for rail vehicles, such as folding/sliding steps, are unsuitable for larger platform gaps due to increased height difference and steep incline, which compromises comfort and requires complex installation, altering the car body structure.
Innovation Solution
A gap bridging device with a horizontally slidably mounted tread plate and a swivel arm equipped with a vertically sliding joint, allowing adjustable height and extension to match platform conditions, powered by electric drives and incorporating sensors and a control system for optimal positioning, and a restoring force mechanism to return to a retracted position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a folding/sliding step is used to bridge the gap, then the installation space is reduced and car body structure changes are minimized, but the height difference increases and the incline becomes steep for larger platform gaps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the pivot point of the swivel arm vertically displaceable rather than fixed. This allows the system to dynamically adjust its geometry based on the platform gap size, enabling the tread plate to maintain a gentle incline and minimal height difference even when extended over larger gaps, thus preserving passenger comfort while keeping the device compact
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of the pivot point position (vertical displacement) to adapt the system's behavior. By varying the pivot point height according to the required extension width, the system optimizes the incline angle and height difference, transforming a static structure into an adaptive one that maintains comfort across different operating conditions
2Adaptability or versatility
If the tread plate is extended further to cover larger gaps, then the gap bridging capability is improved, but the platform-side edge lowers creating a step to the platform
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic displacement of the pivot point compensates for the lowering effect that would normally occur with extended plate lengths. As the tread plate extends further, the pivot point moves vertically to maintain the appropriate geometry, preventing excessive height differences and keeping the platform-side edge at an optimal level
Solution Approach 2:
The system preemptively counteracts the harmful effect of plate extension by displacing the pivot point in the opposite direction (vertically upward or maintaining position) before the height difference becomes problematic. This preliminary adjustment prevents the creation of steps to the platform while allowing the tread plate to reach further
3Strength
If a solid plate and bearing are used to bridge larger gaps, then the structural strength is sufficient, but the installation space increases and car body impairment is required
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic pivot point mechanism allows the use of a lighter, more compact plate design. By adjusting the pivot point position, the system optimizes the force distribution and moment arms, reducing the required bearing strength and allowing for a more compact installation that doesn't require extensive car body modifications
Solution Approach 2:
Changing the pivot point position alters the mechanical advantage and force distribution in the system. This parameter adjustment allows the same plate to achieve sufficient structural strength for larger gaps without increasing its size or requiring heavier bearings, maintaining a compact form factor
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a gap bridging device (1) for a rail vehicle, for bridging the gap (4) between a passenger compartment floor and a platform (3), comprising a step plate (6) which is mounted so as to be horizontally slidable, and a swivel arm (5) which is hingedly connected to the step plate (6) by means of a joint (10), the swivel arm (5) being equipped with a vertically movable swivel joint (14) at the end facing away from the joint (10).