Railway Obstacle Detection Bar with Adjustable Return Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing obstacle detection devices for railway vehicles face challenges in adjusting the detection threshold, making it difficult to adapt optimally to varying vehicle conditions.
Innovation Solution
The device incorporates an adjustable mechanism using a helical spring and rotatable adjustment member, allowing for fine-tuning of the return force applied by the elastic member, which determines the detection threshold, enabling precise adjustment of the impact detection sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed detection threshold is used in the obstacle detection device, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot be adapted optimally to varying vehicle conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the detection threshold adjustable rather than fixed. The adjustment mechanism allows the return force of the elastic member to be modified, enabling the detection threshold to adapt to different vehicle conditions such as varying speeds and masses, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by providing a means to adjust the detection threshold parameter. Through the adjustment mechanism, the return force applied by the elastic member can be modified, which directly changes the detection threshold parameter, allowing optimal adaptation to different vehicle operating conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the detection threshold is made adjustable, then the device can adapt to different vehicle conditions, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the adjustment function into a distinct adjustment mechanism that is integrated into the existing detection device. This allows the detection threshold adjustment capability to be added without completely redesigning the entire system, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity while achieving the desired adaptability.
3Reliability
If a high detection threshold is used, then false alarms are reduced, but small obstacles may not be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by enabling dynamic adjustment of the detection threshold parameter. Operators can select appropriate threshold values based on specific operating conditions, vehicle speeds, and obstacle types, thereby maintaining high detection accuracy for small obstacles while reducing false alarms from larger, non-critical objects.
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 solution allows for easy adjustment of the detection threshold, enhancing the device's ability to detect obstacles effectively across different vehicle conditions, thereby improving the reliability of the emergency braking system.
Implementation Method 1
at least one assembly 6 for detecting the impact, supporting the detection bar 4, as well as a trigger device 8, intended to be activated by the detection assembly 6 in the event of impact with an obstacle
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The obstacle detection device (2) comprises: - a detection bar (4) designed to extend transversely across the vehicle and adapted to receive an impact with an obstacle, - at least one impact detection assembly (6) supporting the detection bar (4) and comprising: a housing (12) intended to be mounted on the vehicle, a lever (14) fixed to the detection bar (4) and rotatable relative to the housing (12) about a first axis (A) parallel to the detection bar (4), between a rest position and an activation position, and an elastic element (16) for returning the lever (14) to its rest position. The device includes a triggering device (8) activatable by the lever in the activation position. The detection assembly (6) includes adjustment means (18) adapted to apply a preload to the elastic element (16).