Rotary Docking Stop With Composite Steel-Rubber Buffer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing docking bumpers deteriorate quickly due to repeated contact with platforms, requiring frequent replacements and resulting in high maintenance costs and vehicle immobilization.
Innovation Solution
A docking bumper with a monolithic three-component structure comprising an internal steel ring, an external steel shell, and an elastic rubber core, where the core is protected by the shell and a metal ring, allowing for deformation and featuring cavities for stress absorption, and a manufacturing process involving vulcanization and surface treatment for enhanced durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rubber bumper is used for docking, then it provides damping action in longitudinal and vertical directions, but it deteriorates rapidly under repeated contact with platforms
Solution Approach 1:
The bumper combines three different materials (steel ring, steel shell, and elastic rubber core) into a composite structure. The steel components provide strength and protection against deterioration, while the rubber core provides elastic damping. This composite approach resolves the contradiction by allowing each material to perform its optimal function.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the bumper have different material properties optimized for their specific functions. The steel ring and shell provide hard, durable surfaces for structural integrity and protection, while the rubber core provides soft, elastic properties for energy absorption. This local differentiation of material qualities allows the bumper to simultaneously achieve durability and damping performance.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the elastic core is protected by metal shell and ring, then the service life is extended, but the core must remain accessible for deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic rubber core is nested within the steel ring and steel shell, creating a concentric layered structure. This nesting arrangement protects the fragile core while allowing it to deform radially, as the metal components form a cage-like structure that constrains but does not prevent elastic deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller is segmented into three distinct components (ring, core, shell) that can be manufactured separately and then assembled. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while simplifying the manufacturing process through modular construction.
3Reliability
If cavities are added to the elastic core, then stress absorption capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic core is designed with an array of cavities, creating a porous or cellular structure. This porous configuration allows the core to compress more effectively under load, as the cavities collapse and deform to absorb energy. The cavities are integrated into the rubber molding process, adding functional complexity without requiring separate assembly steps.
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 long-lasting longitudinal and vertical damping capabilities, reducing maintenance needs and extending the service life of the bumper while maintaining its ability to absorb mechanical stresses during docking.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic rubber core adhered to the ring and on the shell... the core is protected by the shell and a metal ring, allowing for deformation... providing long-lasting longitudinal and vertical damping capabilities
Implementation Method 2
vulcanizing the elastic material by producing adhesion of the core to the ring and to the tube
Implementation Method 3
the outer face of the tube and the inner face of the ring receive a heat treatment... the faces of the ring and of the tube which are in contact with the core are devoid of heat treatment so as to promote the attachment of the core
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5~7
AI summary
The buffer (1) has an elastic core made of rubber, bonded on an inner ring and on a tubular protection shell, where the ring and the shell are made of steel. A fixing unit i.e. fixing plate (3), fixes one of coaxial cylindrical rollers (2) on a rear face of vehicle. An outer face of the shell and an inner face of the ring receive thermal treatment. The shell has ellipsoid shape, and is provided with radial return cavities at each of ends of the shell. The core has a series of cavities for allowing the core to deform. The plate receives an axle (13) on which the roller is engaged. An independent claim is also included for a method for manufacturing a roller for docking buffer.