Rail Vehicle Wheel Chock Actuated by Flange Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel chocks for rail vehicles do not have an effective mechanism to be actuated by an overrun vehicle, particularly in scenarios where components ahead of the leading wheels could collide, such as with sand-scattering devices.
Innovation Solution
A foldable wheel chock with a movably mounted braking or stopping element that can be actuated by the wheel flange, featuring a gear mechanism and actuator system allowing it to fold in front of subsequent wheels, and can be driven automatically or pneumatically/hydraulically, with options for self-holding in the raised position or pivoting mechanisms to engage with the rail.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional wheel chocks are used, then they can hold vehicles in position, but they cannot be actuated by overrun vehicles and may collide with components ahead of leading wheels
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel chock employs a movable braking element that transitions from a static blocking position to a dynamic raised position through actuation by the wheel flange. The braking element can pivot between engaging the wheel and retracting, allowing the system to adapt its state based on operational requirements and eliminate collisions with overhead components.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel chock utilizes the kinetic energy of the passing vehicle through the wheel flange to automatically actuate the braking element. The system serves itself by converting the vehicle's motion into the actuation force needed to raise the braking element, eliminating the need for external control systems.
2Reliability
If the braking element is raised to prevent collision, then safety is improved, but the braking capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The braking element dynamically adjusts its position based on operational needs. When the vehicle passes over the wheel chock, the wheel flange actuates the element to raise it, preventing collision with overhead components. When braking is required, the element can be lowered to engage the wheel, providing the necessary braking force. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between collision prevention and braking capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the wheel chock is designed to be foldable and movable, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel chock employs a movable braking element that transitions from a static blocking position to a dynamic raised position through actuation by the wheel flange. The braking element can pivot between engaging the wheel and retracting, allowing the system to adapt its state based on operational requirements and eliminate collisions with overhead components.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel chock utilizes the kinetic energy of the passing vehicle through the wheel flange to automatically actuate the braking element. The system serves itself by converting the vehicle's motion into the actuation force needed to raise the braking element, eliminating the need for external control systems.
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
Enables secure braking or stopping of rail vehicles by automatically engaging the braking element with the wheel, preventing overrun and potential collisions, while allowing for safe passage over obstructions like sand-scattering devices.
Implementation Method 1
it can be adjusted from the wheel flange of the vehicle wheel to a lower position
Implementation Method 2
A gear mechanism is arranged and configured between the actuating element and the braking or stopping element in such a way that the braking or stopping element is moved into the raised position when the wheel flange moves the actuating element downwards
Implementation Method 3
a braking or stopping element which can be adjusted from a braking and stopping position, in which it can be engaged with a wheel of the rail vehicle to hold or brake it
Data Source
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AI summary
The rug has a braking or stopping element (18) i.e. double-armed lever, moveably supported between a braking or stopping position and a raised position, in which a flange of a vehicle wheel is adjusted into a lower position. An operating element is movably supported beside a head of a rail (10) and below a head top face. A gear box is arranged between the operating element and the braking or stopping element, and designed such that the braking or stopping element is moved into the raised position when the flange downwardly moves the operating element.