Rail Vehicle Spring Device for Lateral Force Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transverse spring systems in rail vehicles are complex and have a high space requirement, limiting their effectiveness in absorbing transverse forces efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A spring device comprising a primary and secondary spring unit connected in series, with a stop element to define a progressive spring characteristic, and an optional third spring element arranged in series and parallel, allowing for adjustable system characteristics and wear compensation, enabling efficient transverse force absorption with a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional transverse spring systems are used, then lateral force absorption is achieved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring device is divided into a primary spring unit with a first spring element and a secondary spring unit with a second spring element connected in series. This segmentation allows each unit to have optimized characteristics for specific functions, reducing overall complexity while maintaining force absorption capability
Solution Approach 2:
The progressive spring characteristic is achieved through the series connection of spring elements with different characteristics, allowing the system to dynamically adjust its stiffness based on the magnitude of lateral forces. The stop element introduces a defined transition point that changes the system behavior at specific deflection levels
2Force
If traditional transverse spring systems are used, then lateral force absorption is achieved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary spring unit is arranged such that it can be bridged by a stop element, creating a compact configuration where the spring elements are nested or closely integrated. This allows the spring device to occupy minimal space while maintaining the necessary travel and force absorption characteristics
Solution Approach 2:
The spring elements are arranged in a series connection with a stop element that limits travel in a defined direction. This dimensional arrangement allows compact packaging of the spring device while maintaining the required lateral force absorption capability through the progressive characteristic
3Force
If spring travel is extended, then lateral force absorption range increases, but device length increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different spring elements are assigned different local characteristics - the first spring element provides initial compliance while the second spring element provides additional travel. The stop element creates a localized transition that defines the effective distance for each spring characteristic, allowing extended travel within a compact overall length
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 solution provides a compact and efficient means to absorb transverse forces, ensuring stable vehicle operation by adjusting spring characteristics based on load and wear, reducing maintenance needs and enhancing passenger comfort during cornering.
Implementation Method 1
The first spring element (11) comprises, and in particular consists, at least partially of elastic material and preferably of an elastomer. The second spring element (12) consists at least partially of elastic material and preferably of an elastomer.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1d
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to a spring device (1) for absorbing transverse forces between a bogie frame and a wagon body on a rail vehicle. The spring device comprises a primary spring unit (2) and a secondary spring unit (3). The spring device (1) has at least one stop element (20) for bridging and in particular for limiting the spring travel of the secondary spring unit (3).