Rail Vehicle Traction Linkage Integrated in Box Beam
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rail vehicle designs face challenges with dynamic properties, weight, and space constraints, particularly at high speeds, due to the placement and configuration of traction linkages in shorter bogies, which result in increased weight and play, leading to adverse effects on running stability and derailment risk.
Innovation Solution
A rail vehicle unit with a compact and lightweight design featuring a single, box-shaped transverse beam that integrates the traction linkage element internally, providing structural stability and reducing weight by eliminating the need for two transverse beams, while maintaining low-height articulation for improved dynamic behavior and reduced pitching moments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If two transverse beams are used to support the traction linkage, then the structural strength and bending resistance are sufficient, but the overall weight of the bogie increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of two separate transverse beams into a single integrated transverse beam structure. This single beam is designed to provide both the necessary structural strength and the mounting points for the traction linkage, thereby reducing the overall weight while maintaining adequate load-bearing capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The single transverse beam is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, serves as a mounting platform for the traction linkage, and maintains the necessary bending resistance. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components, reducing weight while preserving strength.
2Reliability
If the traction linkage is placed at a low level between two transverse beams, then the reaction forces are better introduced into the bogie, but the space requirement between beams increases the overall dimension
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a longitudinal arrangement where the traction linkage spans between two transverse beams to a configuration where the linkage is integrated within or mounted on the single transverse beam structure. This dimensional reorganization maintains effective force transmission while reducing the longitudinal space requirement.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact swivel pin arrangement is used in shorter bogies, then the space requirement is reduced, but considerable play between wagon body and bogie increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters and configuration of the traction linkage arrangement to achieve a compact design that eliminates excessive play. By optimizing the linkage geometry, articulation points, and connection details, the system maintains tight tolerances and stable running properties within a reduced volumetric footprint suitable for shorter bogies.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a rail vehicle unit comprising a running gear frame (104) of a running gear, a supported vehicle component (111), and a traction linkage element (112.1), the running gear frame (104) defining a longitudinal direction, a transverse direction and a height direction. The running gear frame (104) is substantially H-shaped and comprises two longitudinal beams (104.2) and one transverse beam (104.1) providing a structural connection between the longitudinal beams (104.2) in the transverse direction. The supported vehicle component (111) is supported on the running gear frame (104) via a spring unit. The supported vehicle component (111) and the running gear frame (104) are connected in the longitudinal direction via the traction linkage element (112.1), a first end of the traction linkage element (112.1), in a first articulation location, being articulated to the running gear frame (104) and a second end of the traction linkage element (112.1), in a second articulation location, being articulated to the supported vehicle component (111). The transverse beam (104.1) is a substantially box shaped element formed by a plurality of wall elements (104.3 to 104.6), the traction linkage element (112.1) being received within the transverse beam (104.1) and being connected to a console element (113). The console element (113) reaches into the transverse beam (104.1) and is connected to the supported vehicle component (111).