Rail Holding System With Edge Intermediate Layer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rail holding systems are costly and inefficient in distributing forces when a train passes, as they typically require extensive intermediate layers that are not optimized for load distribution and material usage.
Innovation Solution
A rail holding system comprising a sleeper and an intermediate layer arranged under the edge region of the rail, with a reduced transverse extent compared to the rail width, eliminating the need for a central intermediate layer section and utilizing the edge areas to absorb loads, where the majority of stress is concentrated, and optionally providing a second intermediate layer under the inner edge for additional support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an extensive intermediate layer is used to distribute forces evenly, then force distribution is improved, but material cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning the intermediate layer only in the edge regions beneath the rail, where the load is concentrated during train passage. The central region beneath the rail remains free of intermediate layer material. This localized placement optimizes force distribution where it is most needed while eliminating unnecessary material usage in areas where the rail directly contacts the sleeper.
2Reliability
If a full-width intermediate layer is used, then force distribution is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the intermediate layer into two separate components: one positioned beneath the left edge region of the rail and another beneath the right edge region. This segmentation eliminates the need for a continuous full-width intermediate layer, reducing device complexity and manufacturing cost while maintaining effective force distribution at the load-bearing edge regions.
3Loss of substance
If the intermediate layer transverse dimension is reduced, then material cost is reduced, but force distribution capability may be impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the intermediate layer from the central region beneath the rail, retaining it only in the edge regions. This extraction eliminates material usage in the central area where the rail directly contacts the sleeper, while preserving the intermediate layer in the edge regions where it is most effective for distributing the concentrated loads generated during train passage.
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
This configuration reduces material usage while maintaining effective force dissipation and rail stability, allowing for efficient load distribution and extended service life without significant reduction in functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The intermediate layer is typically placed between the sleeper and the rail to distribute the forces generated by the train as evenly as possible into the sleeper when it passes over it
Implementation Method 2
the intermediate layers are designed to allow the rail to return to its original position after the train has passed
Implementation Method 3
As the train passes over the rail, it pivots or rotates about a pivot axis parallel to its longitudinal direction. This rotation occurs primarily outwards, i.e., clockwise for the right rail and counterclockwise for the left rail when viewed in the direction of travel. Consequently, the edge area, particularly the outer edge area, is pressed into the intermediate layer.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
System for holding a rail, comprising a sleeper and an intermediate layer which, in an assembled state, is arranged between the sleeper and the rail and whose transverse dimension is less than a transverse width of the rail, wherein, in the assembled state, the intermediate layer is arranged below an edge region of the rail.