Tram Train Step Plate Locking via Pivoting Arm

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bridge transition systems with step plates between articulated vehicles, such as tram trains, face challenges in assembly complexity and cost due to complex parallelogram linkages and require easier and more accessible locking mechanisms to prevent the step plate from lifting during vehicle movements.

Innovation Solution

A traction cable system with a pivoting arm and spring mechanism allows for easier assembly and locking of the step plate, where the arm pivots against a spring force, enabling the step plate to be raised for removal and locked securely without colliding with the base plates, and a safety cable ensures the arm remains locked.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If a parallelogram linkage is used to prevent the step plate from lifting, then the step plate remains stable, but the construction becomes complex and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestep plate stabilityVSAvoidconstruction complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The linkage is divided into two separate arms that can pivot independently, each connected to the step plate and floor plate. This segmentation allows simpler construction compared to a monolithic parallelogram linkage while maintaining the stability function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using a complex parallelogram linkage that requires precise geometric constraints, the invention uses a simpler arm-pivoting mechanism that achieves stability through a different geometric arrangement, inverting the conventional approach.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Stability of the object's composition

If a parallelogram linkage is used to prevent the step plate from lifting, then the step plate remains stable, but the assembly becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestep plate stabilityVSAvoidassembly ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The assembly is segmented into discrete components (arms, pivots, springs) that can be assembled step-by-step. The arms can be individually positioned and secured, making the assembly process simpler and more manageable compared to assembling a complete parallelogram linkage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Object-affected harmful factors

If the arm is designed to be resilient like a leaf spring, then noise is reduced, but the arm requires more space to pivot

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenoise reductionVSAvoidpivot space

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The arm is designed with resilient properties similar to a leaf spring, using flexible material that can bend and absorb vibrations. This flexibility reduces noise during operation while allowing the arm to pivot within a compact space through elastic deformation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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

The solution simplifies the assembly and locking process, reduces noise during vehicle movements, and maintains the step plate securely in place without the need for complex assembly from below, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs.

Implementation Method 1

The arm (11) is pivotable, specifically against the force of a spring (16), so that the treadle (1) can then be removed after pivoting

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Implementation Method 2

the arm is designed to be resilient over its length like a leaf spring, this means that, in contrast to a rigid design of the arm, when rolling movements occur, the arm is always on the underside of the respective base plate and thus rattling noises or other noises caused by the fact that the arm hits the underside of the base plate are avoided

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2161176B1Bridge with a bellows for the intersection of two vehicle sections with a jointed connection, e.g. of a tram train

Publication Date: 2012.03.21 HUBNER GMBH

Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5

AI summary

The bridge has a step plate (1) that lies on floor plates (2, 3) of vehicles (4, 5) at an end side. A device is engaged below one of the floor plates for preventing lifting of the step plate from the floor plates, during rolling motion of the vehicles relative to each other. The device has an arm swivelable around an axis assigned at the step plate. The arm is arranged at a lower side of the step plate. The arm is moved from a locking position via a traction rope and safety rope against the force of a spring. The arm has a head made of plastic, at two ends. The arm is designed in an elastic manner similar to a laminated spring over the entire length.