V-Shaped Elastomeric Track Support for Tram Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electric power supply systems for land vehicles, such as trams, face challenges in maintenance complexity, insufficient mechanical robustness, and logistical issues with curve installation, including lengthy maintenance times and limitations in bending radii.
Innovation Solution
A track support system with a convex, V-shaped lower surface for easy detachment and increased robustness, made from elastomeric material allowing elastic deformation, and featuring through-holes for pin attachment and recesses for segment attachment, enabling simpler maintenance and curvature adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If segments are attached by adhesive bonding and screwing to the support, then the attachment is secure, but the support degrades during detachment and replacement becomes extremely complex
Solution Approach 1:
The support is divided into modular sections that can be independently replaced. The track support system consists of multiple supports that can be detached and replaced as individual units, simplifying maintenance operations while maintaining secure attachment during service.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism is extracted from the support structure itself and implemented as separate, removable fastening elements. This allows segments to be securely attached during operation but easily removed for maintenance without degrading the support.
2Device complexity
If a one-piece support is used, then the structure is simple, but the bending radius is limited to greater than or equal to 95 m
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into multiple sections that can be bent to different radii and then connected. This allows the track to accommodate various curvature requirements (including radii less than 95 m) while maintaining structural integrity through the connection mechanisms between segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The support system transitions from a fixed, rigid one-piece structure to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The modular supports can be positioned and connected to create different curvature radii, providing adaptability to various track layout requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multi-piece supports are bent at the factory, then tight curvature radii are achieved, but logistical problems occur during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The support system uses standardized modular segments that maintain simple, uniform shapes suitable for straightforward manufacturing and transport. The curvature is achieved through the configuration and connection of these standard segments rather than bending each piece to custom radii, simplifying logistics.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular supports are designed with universal connection features that allow the same standard components to be assembled into different curvature configurations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for custom-bent supports for each curve, reducing manufacturing complexity and installation logistics.
4Reliability
If replacement of a support is necessary, then operational continuity is maintained, but the intervention time takes about 1 month
Solution Approach 1:
The track support system is divided into modular, independently replaceable units. When a support needs replacement, only that specific modular unit needs to be removed and replaced, rather than replacing entire long sections or complex assemblies, dramatically reducing maintenance time.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism allows for rapid extraction and replacement of individual support units. The simplified connection and detachment process enables quick maintenance interventions without requiring extensive demolition or reconstruction, reducing intervention time from months to days or hours.
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 facilitates quicker maintenance, enhanced mechanical strength, and improved installation logistics by allowing easy removal and reattachment of supports and segments, reducing intervention time and accommodating tighter curvature radii without factory bending.
Implementation Method 1
made from elastomeric material allowing elastic deformation
Data Source
AI summary
This support (36), as a profile in an electrically insulating material, comprises a substantially planar upper surface (50), provided with a longitudinal flute (60) intended for receiving a track segment, and a longitudinal groove (70) intended for receiving a low voltage electric power supply cable; and a lower surface (52) intended to bear upon a base for maintaining the support in the roadway. It is characterized in that the lower surface (52) is curved, preferably V-shaped, so that the support is concave so as to be at least transversely maintained in a recess with a mating shape, made in the base.