Track Renewal Machine Front Frame Axle Load Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing track renewal machines are not suitable for use in track sections with reduced axle loads, as they do not allow for flexible axle load distribution without requiring conversion work.

Innovation Solution

A machine design where the weight of the front frame section can be transferred to a preceding vehicle via a projecting support frame, allowing the axle load of the crawler chassis to be reduced without needing conversion work, by using a support device with a height-adjustable support ram and a spindle drive for adjustable positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the machine uses a standard crawler chassis design, then it can operate on track sections with normal axle loads, but it cannot operate on track sections with reduced axle loads without conversion work

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different track sectionsVSAvoidconversion work required
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The front frame section is made dynamically adjustable through a telescopic support frame that can extend and retract. The support frame includes a movable support leg that can be positioned at different locations along the front frame section, allowing the axle load distribution to be dynamically adjusted based on track section requirements without permanent modifications to the machine structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the axle load is reduced for light track sections, then the machine can operate without damage, but it loses the ability to renew heavy-duty tracks effectively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to operate on reduced axle load tracksVSAvoidtrack renewal capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The support frame telescopic mechanism allows dynamic adjustment of weight distribution. When operating on light track sections, the support frame extends to transfer weight to the leading vehicle, reducing axle load. When operating on heavy-duty tracks, the support frame retracts to concentrate weight on the crawler chassis, maximizing track renewal capability. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between protecting the machine and maintaining effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the machine structure is modified to reduce axle load, then it can operate on reduced axle load tracks, but conversion work is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaxle load adjustment capabilityVSAvoidconversion work required
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The telescopic support frame is integrated into the existing front frame section as a multi-functional component. It serves both as a structural support element and as an axle load adjustment mechanism. The support frame uses standard hydraulic cylinders and telescopic tube sections that are common in mobile equipment, avoiding the need for specialized conversion components. This universal approach allows the same structure to serve multiple purposes without requiring dedicated conversion work.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 the machine to operate effectively in track sections with reduced axle loads without requiring conversion work, ensuring efficient track renewal with reduced mechanical stress on the chassis.

Implementation Method 1

a support device (16) with a height-adjustable support ram (17) for supporting the front end (9) on the vehicle frame (12) located underneath

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic pressure: Hydraulic Press

Implementation Method 2

a support device (16) with a height-adjustable support ram (17) for supporting the front end (9) on the vehicle frame (12) located underneath

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentEP2744944B1Machine for renewing a track
Publication Date: 2015.10.14 PLASSER & THEURER EXPORT VON BAHNBAUMASCHINEN GMBH
  • EP2744944B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2

AI summary

A machine for renewing a track has a main frame (2) with devices (7) for taking up old sleepers (8) and for laying down new sleepers (8). The main frame (2) is composed of a frame section (4) which is at the front, with respect to a working direction (3), and a rear frame section (6) which is connected to said front frame section (4) by a frame joint (5). The front frame section (4) has a supporting frame (11) which protrudes with a front end (9) beyond a front rail bogie (10). A support device (16) for optionally supporting the front end (9) on a vehicle frame (12) located underneath it is assigned to said supporting frame (11).