Train-Forming Bogie With Dual Ball-Joint Cradle for Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bogies in train formation systems fail to accurately adjust the position of rockers relative to the bogie frame during cornering, leading to undesirable loads on road trailers, especially when coupled by vertical lifting, due to high trailer weights and inaccurate load distribution.
Innovation Solution
A bogie design with a cradle mounted on a bogie frame via a first ball joint allowing vertical and horizontal movement, coupled with a two-part cradle and adjustable support elements, and a locking device for secure coupling, enabling relative movement between road trailers and bogies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If road trailers are coupled with transfer tables vertically over bogies positioned on tracks, then train formation is achieved, but large load peaks occur on the bogies and connecting elements during coupling
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of vertically lowering the road trailer onto the bogie from above, the invention inverts the coupling sequence by horizontally approaching the bogie and then vertically receiving the trailer. This reverses the traditional coupling direction, allowing the bogie to move horizontally into position first, then receive the vertically lowered trailer, thereby distributing loads more favorably during the coupling process
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a horizontally movable platform that can dynamically adjust its position relative to the bogie during coupling. The platform moves horizontally to approach the bogie, then vertically positions the road trailer for coupling. This dynamic, two-stage movement allows for better load management and reduces impact forces compared to direct vertical coupling
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single ball joint is used to enable mobility between cradle and bogie frame, then cornering movement is permitted, but position adjustment accuracy is insufficient leading to undesirable loads on road trailers
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the single ball joint connection into two separate ball joints: a first ball joint connecting the cradle to the bogie frame, and a second ball joint connecting the supports to each other. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of positioning accuracy through the first ball joint while maintaining cornering mobility through the second ball joint, thereby resolving the contradiction between mobility and precision
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediate structure (the two-part cradle with supports connected by a second ball joint) between the cradle and the road trailer. This intermediate segmentation allows the first ball joint to precisely position the cradle relative to the bogie frame, while the second ball joint accommodates cornering movements, thereby mediating between positioning accuracy and cornering adaptability
3Quantity of substance
If high weight road trailers up to 40 tonnes are coupled vertically, then train formation is achieved, but undesirable loads occur on connecting elements to the frame
Solution Approach 1:
The invention inverts the coupling sequence by having the bogie horizontally approach the positioned road trailer rather than the trailer being vertically lowered onto a stationary bogie. This reversal allows the heavy trailer to remain stationary on the platform during the approach, reducing dynamic loads on connecting elements while still achieving the same train formation result
Solution Approach 2:
The invention performs preliminary horizontal positioning of the bogie on the movable platform before the vertical coupling action occurs. The platform and bogie are positioned horizontally in advance, aligned with the road trailer, so that when vertical coupling occurs, the connecting elements are already optimally positioned to handle the 40-tonne load, reducing stress and improving structural integrity
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
Enhances load distribution and reduces surface pressure by allowing flexible movement and secure coupling, minimizing load peaks and improving stability during cornering and track changes.
Implementation Method 1
The cradle (18) can be mounted on the bogie frame (16) via a first ball joint (19)
Implementation Method 2
the supports (20, 21) are connected to each other via a second ball joint (22)
Implementation Method 3
a stretching device, for example in the form of at least one spring (32), can be arranged between the supports (20, 21) of the cradle
Data Source
Figure 1a~1d
Figure 1e~1h
Figure 2
AI summary
Bogie (4, 5) for forming a train (1) from at least one road trailer (2), which is suitable for transporting goods, and at least two bogies (4, 5), which are guided on a track (9) on which rail vehicles can travel, wherein the bogie (4, 5) has a bogie frame (16) with a wheelset (17) for travelling on the tracks (9) and also has a cradle (18) for supporting a road trailer (2), wherein the cradle (18) is mounted on the bogie frame (16) by way of a first ball joint (19), wherein the cradle (18) is formed in two parts with two supports (20, 21), and the supports (20, 21) are connected to one another by way of a second ball joint (22).