Rotatable Railcar Coupler Assembly for Length Compliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling mechanisms for rail-supported vehicles do not allow for selective projection and retraction of couplers and brake pipes, which can lead to issues such as exceeding highway use regulations and maintenance challenges, particularly in road/rail vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A coupler assembly with a rotatable frame and pivotally mounted coupler that can be switched between stored and extended positions, along with a rotatable brake pipe mounting bracket, enabling selective engagement and retraction through apertures in the vehicle's exterior surface, utilizing locking pins for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the coupler is permanently projected forwardly or rearwardly of the vehicle, then the coupler is always available for engagement, but the vehicle length exceeds highway use regulations and maintenance access is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler assembly incorporates a rotatable frame that enables the coupler to dynamically change its position between a projected state (for engagement) and a retracted state (for compliance). The frame rotates about a pivot pin, allowing the coupler to be selectively projected forwardly or rearwardly of the vehicle body as needed, thus resolving the contradiction between constant availability and length regulations.
2Ease of repair
If the coupler is permanently projected, then engagement is always possible, but maintenance access is improved and regulatory compliance is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable frame allows the coupler to be dynamically positioned for maintenance access when needed, then retracted to comply with highway length regulations. This dynamic repositioning capability resolves the contradiction between maintenance accessibility and regulatory compliance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the coupler is allowed side-to-side motion, then connection flexibility is improved, but control over projection and retraction is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler assembly is segmented into functionally independent components: the frame handles projection/retraction control through rotation about the pivot pin, while the coupler itself maintains side-to-side motion capability through its connection to the frame. This segmentation allows independent optimization of projection control and connection flexibility without interference between the two functions.
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 flexible and secure projection or retraction of couplers and brake pipes, optimizing vehicle length compliance with regulations and enhancing maintenance capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
the coupler is rotatable between a stored position substantially within the exterior surface and an extended position partially without the exterior surface through the first aperture
Implementation Method 2
the second end of the coupler comprises a hole for receiving the pivot pin, such that the coupler is pivotable around the pivot pin between the stored and extended positions
Implementation Method 3
The locking means preferably comprise a removable locking pin receivable within the frame in a rotational path of travel of the coupler between the stored and extended positions, such that the locking pin substantially prevents the coupler from moving between the stored and extended positions
Data Source
AI summary
A railcar coupler assembly allowing rotation of a coupler between a stored position within the railcar and an extended position for engagement with the coupler of an adjacent railcar. The coupler can be locked into either the stored or extended position with a locking pin.