Switch Rail Support Recess for Welded Joint Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switch devices with welded joints face complexity in replacing switch rails, especially in monoblock designs, as they require intricate work and are not easily adaptable for multiple replacements without damaging the device.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a switch rail support with a hollow space or recess below the weld joint, allowing for a wider and longer through-opening or cutout that enables easy separation and re-welding of switch rails, facilitating multiple replacements without compromising the device's functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a welded joint is used to connect the switch rail and connecting rail in a monoblock design, then the structural strength and integrity are improved, but the ease of replacement and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The switch rail support is segmented into distinct regions: a recess portion below the weld joint and an extension portion above it. This segmentation allows the weld joint to remain intact for structural strength while providing access points for cutting and replacing the switch rail, thus enabling adaptability without compromising the welded connection's integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The recess and extension portions act as intermediary structures that facilitate the replacement process. These features provide access channels that allow cutting tools to reach the switch rail without damaging the weld joint or the connecting rail, serving as mediators between the need for replacement and the need to preserve the welded structure.
2Reliability
If a welded joint is used to connect the switch rail and connecting rail, then the reliability is improved, but the complexity of replacement work increases
Solution Approach 1:
The recess and extension portions are pre-formed in the switch rail support during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that when replacement is needed, the access paths are already prepared, eliminating the need for complex preliminary work during replacement and simplifying the overall process while maintaining weld joint reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanical connection is used instead of welding, then the ease of replacement is improved, but the structural strength and integrity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the advantages of both mechanical connection (ease of replacement) and welding (structural strength) by maintaining the welded joint for structural integrity while incorporating mechanical access features (recess and extension) that enable easy replacement, thus combining the benefits of both connection methods.
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 easy and repeated replacement of switch rails in switch devices with welded joints, maintaining the device's integrity and allowing for multiple exchanges without functional loss, with the option to trim the new rail on-site for precise fitting.
Implementation Method 1
the switch rail and the connecting rail being connected to one another via a welded joint
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a switch device comprising a switch rail (12), the switch device comprising at least one stock rail (14), a junction rail (32) and a switch rail support (16), and the switch rail and the connecting rail being interconnected by a weld joint (34). The switch rail support (16) comprises a through-opening (36) or a recess beneath the weld joint, the width of the through-opening or the recess being wider than the width of the switch rail (12). Furthermore, the length of the through-opening or the recess allows the junction rail (32) to connect to switch rails of the same or different lengths.