Rotatable Suction Nozzle Flap for Ballast Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suction machines for ballast removal face challenges in efficiently picking up ballast with a structurally simple design, particularly in areas like switches and crossings, and require complex mechanisms for flap operation and retraction.
Innovation Solution
A suction machine with a freely adjustable and rotatable suction nozzle featuring flaps that automatically pivot between basic and operational positions, allowing for smooth entry into the ballast bed and maximizing the range for ballast collection, and automatically returning to the basic position upon withdrawal, eliminating the need for a separate drive.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If blade elements or clearing devices are added to improve ballast pickup, then ballast removal efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the clearing device (flap) movable rather than fixed. The flap can rotate between a retracted position (flush with suction nozzle surface) and a deployed position (protruding to clear ballast). This dynamic configuration allows the system to achieve effective ballast removal when needed while maintaining a simple, low-profile structure during transport or when clearing is not required, thus resolving the contradiction between productivity and device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the suction nozzle is lowered close to the sleeper edge to improve accessibility, then ballast pickup under sleepers is improved, but the risk of damage or resistance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by deploying the clearing device (flap) before the suction nozzle contacts difficult-to-reach ballast. The flap protrudes first to break up and clear the ballast path, creating favorable conditions for subsequent suction. This preliminary clearing action enables the suction nozzle to operate close to sleepers and rails without risking damage, as the hazardous ballast has already been removed or loosened by the flap.
3Extent of automation
If a separate drive is added to return the flap to basic position, then automated retraction is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle by designing the flap retraction mechanism to use the existing suction nozzle rotation for its own benefit. As the suction nozzle rotates during operation, the flap automatically returns to its basic retracted position due to the rotational motion itself, without requiring a separate drive mechanism. This self-retreating design achieves automated retraction while avoiding additional complexity, resolving the contradiction between automation extent and device complexity.
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 enables efficient and problem-free ballast extraction with reduced resistance and improved accessibility under sleepers or rails, while ensuring the suction nozzle can be lowered close to the edge and easily withdrawn without mechanical complications.
Implementation Method 1
a suction system (7), which consists essentially of a vacuum generator (8) and a suction pipe (9) connected to it
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a suction machine that can travel on railway traveling mechanisms for suctioning ballast of a track, comprising a suction tube connected to a vacuum generator and having a suction hose (11) that can rotate about a longitudinal axis (14) and having a suction opening (18) at an end segment (16) for receiving ballast. The end segment (16) of the suction hose (11) comprises at least one flap (20) in the area of the suction opening (18) that can pivot between a normal position and a use position (22) about a pivot axis (19) extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (14). In the normal position, the flap (20) forms a part of the cross section of the suction hose, as seen in the direction of the longitudinal axis (14). In the use position (22), the flap (20) protrudes radially from the suction opening (18) of the suction hose, wherein the pivot motion of the flap (20) is limited by a stop (23, 24) at each of the two end positions.