Automatic Train Coupler Buffer Position Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automatic train coupling systems in rail freight transport require manual intervention and infrastructure for managing the buffer position, which is essential for efficient train resolution and formation, but lacks an automated solution for deactivating the buffer position during operation.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a contactless data exchange device in automatic train couplings that allows for continuous neighborhood detection, enabling the automatic activation and deactivation of the buffer position based on the presence or absence of adjacent couplings, without the need for local infrastructure or manual control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual intervention and infrastructure are used for managing buffer position, then reliability of train coupling management is improved, but device complexity and manual effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The train coupling system automatically manages the buffer position using a data exchange device that detects the presence or absence of adjacent couplings. The system self-regulates by automatically activating or deactivating the buffer position based on detected neighborhood conditions, eliminating the need for manual intervention and external infrastructure while maintaining reliable operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control and infrastructure-based management with an automated electronic data exchange system. The data exchange device uses electromagnetic signals to detect coupling presence and automatically control the buffer position, substituting mechanical and infrastructure-dependent systems with an electronic automation system
2Productivity
If automated buffer position management is implemented, then productivity of train formation and resolution is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The data exchange device performs multiple functions: it detects the presence or absence of adjacent couplings, determines buffer position status, and controls activation or deactivation of the buffer position. By integrating these functions into a single multi-functional device, the system achieves high productivity without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The automated system continuously monitors coupling presence and automatically adjusts buffer position status without external control, enabling rapid train formation and resolution operations. The system serves itself by making real-time decisions based on detected conditions, maximizing productivity through autonomous operation
3Ease of operation
If contactless monitoring is used for detecting coupling presence, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The data exchange device acts as an intermediary that indirectly detects coupling presence through electromagnetic communication rather than direct mechanical contact. This intermediary approach maintains ease of operation through contactless monitoring while achieving sufficient detection precision by using standardized identification signals that reliably indicate coupling status
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
This solution enables automated and efficient management of the buffer position, reducing manual effort and infrastructure requirements, thereby improving the speed and reliability of train formation and resolution processes in rail freight transport.
Implementation Method 1
contactless (near-field) monitoring is provided with regard to the presence of a mating coupling
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an automatic train coupling (10), in particular for a freight wagon of a track-guided vehicle, especially a rail vehicle, wherein the automatic train coupling (10) has a coupling head with at least one coupling element, wherein the coupling head with the at least one coupling element is, in particular, optionally or as required, in an uncoupled and ready-to-couple position or in a coupled position. The coupling head with the at least one coupling element is, in particular, also optionally or as required, operable in a buffer position, in which the coupling head with the at least one coupling element is in an uncoupled and not ready-to-couple position.According to the invention, it is particularly provided that the automatic train coupling (10) further comprises a contactless data exchange device which is designed to detect the presence or absence of a counter coupling of an immediately adjacent wagon.