Train Bellows Auto-Latching for Faster Coach Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for coupling and uncoupling train coaches require manual effort for operating the bellows, making the process time-consuming and costly, especially when adjusting the number of coaches to match passenger demand.
Innovation Solution
The system integrates an automatic coupler with a controller that operates a latching actuator, allowing for automated coupling and uncoupling of coaches by controlling the locking mechanism and latching mechanism of the bellows, reducing manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used for coupling and uncoupling bellows, then the system is simpler, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the bellows latching mechanism with the automatic coupler system, integrating multiple functions (mechanical coupling, electrical connection, and bellows latching) into a single automated operation sequence. The controller coordinates the coupling actuator and latching actuator to perform both operations automatically, eliminating manual intervention entirely.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the automatic coupler and controller work together to autonomously perform the coupling and latching operations. The coupling actuator automatically engages the locking mechanism, and the latching actuator automatically secures the bellows, allowing the system to service itself without external manual operation.
2Productivity
If automatic coupling is implemented, then operational efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic coupler system is divided into distinct functional modules: the coupling actuator for mechanical engagement, the latching actuator for bellows securing, and the controller for coordination. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to achieve high-speed automated coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning the coupling components and bellows in readiness before the actual coupling operation. The controller prepares the actuators and ensures all components are aligned, enabling the coupling to occur rapidly when activated.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the number of coaches is increased to match peak demand, then passenger capacity improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables dynamic reconfiguration of train composition by allowing rapid coupling and uncoupling of coaches. Trains can be dynamically adjusted to match varying passenger demand, transitioning between different coach configurations efficiently rather than operating with a fixed number of coaches throughout the day.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows change in the operational parameter of train composition by enabling quick modification of the number of coaches in service. During peak hours, additional coaches are coupled to increase capacity; during off-peak hours, coaches are uncoupled to reduce energy consumption, adapting the train configuration to match demand conditions.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for coupling a first coach of a train to a second coach of the train, the system comprising a first automatic coupler, wherein the first automatic coupler is mountable at an end of the first coach, wherein the first automatic coupler provides for a mechanical coupling to a second automatic coupler mountable at the second coach, wherein the first automatic coupler comprises a first coupling actuator and a first locking mechanism, and wherein the first coupling actuator during operation of the system drives the first locking mechanism between a locked state and an unlocked state; a first bellows, wherein the first bellows provides protection of a passenger or an object moving from the first coach to the second coach, wherein the first bellows comprises a first mounting frame, a first coupling frame, and a first latching mechanism at the first coupling frame, wherein the first mounting frame is fixable to a wall of the first coach, wherein the first coupling frame is releasably couplable by the first latching mechanism to a second coupling frame of the second bellows at the second coach; and a controller, wherein the controller is operatively coupled to the first coupling actuator, wherein the controller is arranged to receive an uncoupling instruction, generate an uncoupling signal upon receipt of the uncoupling instruction, send the uncoupling signal to the first coupling actuator, receive a coupling instruction, generate a coupling signal upon receipt of the coupling instruction, and send the coupling signal to the first coupling actuator; wherein the first coupling actuator upon receipt of the uncoupling signal drives the first locking mechanism from the locked state to the unlocked state, and wherein the first coupling actuator upon receipt of the coupling signal drives the first locking mechanism from the unlocked state to the locked state. The present invention allows a fully automatic coupling and uncoupling. Therefor the first bellows comprises an automatically operated first latching actuator.