Railway Window Shutter Segmentation for Independent Light Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Railway rolling stock windows with traditional roller blinds often cause conflicts between passengers due to obstructed views and are complex, fragile, and expensive to manufacture, with limited material supply.

Innovation Solution

A window opening system featuring a shutter with connecting means comprising upper and lower rails and a guide pin, allowing independent control of light intensity and flap movement, reducing conflicts and manufacturing costs while improving durability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional roller blinds are used in railway windows, then the window can be shaded, but the view of the opposite passenger is obstructed and conflicts arise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveblind operationVSAvoidview obstruction
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The blind is divided into multiple independent segments (first blind portion and second blind portion) that can be controlled separately. Each segment can be raised or lowered independently, allowing one passenger to shade their window without obstructing the view of the opposite passenger.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The blind system transitions from a static single-unit structure to a dynamic multi-segment system that can adapt its configuration. The segments can move independently in response to user needs, transforming the blind from a fixed obstacle into a flexible control mechanism for light and view.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If traditional roller blind systems are implemented, then window shading is achieved, but the system becomes complex and fragile

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewindow shading capabilityVSAvoidblind winding system
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The complex winding mechanism and shaft structure are removed from the blind system. Instead of using a traditional roller blind with a winding mechanism, the patent employs simple vertical slats that can be raised or lowered without complex mechanical components, reducing fragility and maintenance needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The blind segments are designed as simple, inexpensive components that can be easily replaced if needed. The slat structure uses basic materials and minimal mechanical elements, making the system more affordable and less prone to costly repairs compared to traditional roller blinds with sophisticated winding mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Ease of operation

If traditional roller blinds are used, then shading function is provided, but manufacturing costs increase and material selection is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshading functionVSAvoidblind manufacturing
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The blind system changes from requiring specialized materials with specific mechanical strength properties to using conventional materials. The slats can be made from standard plastics, metals, or composites that are easier and cheaper to manufacture, expanding material selection and reducing production costs while maintaining the shading function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP3792132B1Window opening for railway rolling stock
Publication Date: 2022.08.10 SNCF VOYAGEURS
  • EP3792132B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3792132B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3792132B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6b

AI summary

The invention relates mainly to a window bay of a rolling stock comprising means for varying the light intensity (11a) of at least a portion of visual interaction (12, 12') of the opening (2) intended to be opposite a user, configured to move at least one shutter (7, 7') from a position of clearance of the height of said portion of visual interaction (12, 12') of the opening (2), to a position of at least partial occultation of said portion of visual interaction (12, 12'), and in that at least a part of the shutter (7, 7') extends over the height of the opening (2) in its position of clearance.