Universal Wheel Chock Hanger for Auto-Rack Railcar Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle restraint systems in auto-rack cars, such as the Holden and Anderson Chocks, do not adequately secure vehicles during transport, leading to potential damage and are not well-suited for holding multiple types of wheel restraints or chocks when not in use, necessitating a universal solution for secure storage.
Innovation Solution
A universal vehicle wheel chock hanger is designed to be attached to the side wall of auto-rack cars, featuring a mounting base and a rack that can hold various types of chocks, including Holden and Anderson Chocks, with front and rear grate engagers for secure attachment and storage, compatible with existing storage pans to accommodate different chock configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a universal chock hanger is designed to accommodate multiple types of chocks, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The chock hanger is designed with a universal configuration that can accommodate multiple types of wheel chocks (Holden and Anderson styles) through a single standardized mounting structure. The hanger includes adjustable components and multiple engagement points that allow different chock designs to be secured using the same basic mechanism, eliminating the need for multiple specialized storage devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The hanger system is divided into modular components including separate mounting bases, adjustable racks, and individual chock holders. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for specific functions while maintaining overall versatility, and enables easy adjustment or replacement of individual elements without affecting the entire system.
2Reliability
If chocks are securely held during severe jolts and coupling actions, then reliability is improved, but the force required to secure them increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hanger system incorporates pre-positioned rubber cushions and shock-absorbing elements at critical contact points between the chocks and the hanger structure. These cushioning elements are installed in advance to mitigate the impact of severe jolts and coupling forces, reducing the peak forces that the securing mechanism must withstand while maintaining reliable chock retention.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the hanger accommodates various chock configurations, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hanger system employs different local characteristics at different locations to accommodate various chock types. Specific zones of the hanger are designed with tailored geometries, clearance tolerances, and engagement features optimized for particular chock configurations, while maintaining a standardized overall structure. This allows precise fitting for each chock type at its specific location without requiring the entire system to meet uniformly high precision requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle wheel chock hanger for a vehicle restraint system for an auto-rack railroad car that is configured to hold various different chocks that are configured to secure vehicles in auto-rack railroad cars.