Variable Gauge Undercarriage Cable Integration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing variable gauge undercarriages face issues with externally located cables becoming entangled or damaged during lateral movement, especially when in a fully retracted position, and flexible tubes are not easily accessible for maintenance.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a cable connection element that connects integrated chassis and carriage cables within the undercarriage, maintaining cable linearity and preventing snagging, while allowing for easy access and maintenance through access panels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If externally located cables are used for undercarriage control, then cable accessibility for maintenance is improved, but cables become entangled with undercarriage parts or other objects during vehicle movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates cables within the undercarriage structure, nesting them inside protective conduits that are embedded in the chassis and sub-frames. This eliminates external cable exposure while maintaining structural access points for maintenance, directly resolving the contradiction between accessibility and entanglement risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces flexible protective conduits as intermediary elements that contain and protect the control cables. These conduits allow cable movement while preventing direct contact with moving undercarriage parts, thereby eliminating entanglement while preserving cable functionality and accessibility through designated access points.
2Adaptability or versatility
If flexible tubes are used for hydraulic control, then cable flexibility is improved, but tubes become caught within the undercarriage during lateral movement and suffer damage
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible hydraulic tubes are nested within rigid protective conduits that are integrated into the undercarriage structure. This arrangement allows the tubes to flex and move with the undercarriage components while the protective conduits prevent them from being caught or damaged during lateral movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides protective conduits as pre-established protective structures that cushion and protect the flexible hydraulic tubes before damage can occur. These conduits are designed to accommodate tube movement while preventing contact with sharp edges or moving parts that could cause damage.
3Reliability
If cables are integrated within the undercarriage body, then cable protection is improved, but cables become inaccessible for maintenance and repair
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the integrated cable system by providing access points and removable panels at strategic locations along the undercarriage. This allows cables to remain protected within the integrated structure while enabling maintenance personnel to access specific cable sections without disassembling the entire undercarriage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces access panels and service openings as intermediary elements that provide controlled access to integrated cables. These panels maintain the protective enclosure while allowing cable inspection, maintenance, and repair without compromising the overall integration and protection of the cable system.
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
Prevents cable snagging and damage during lateral movement, ensures continuous hydraulic fluid flow, and facilitates maintenance by keeping cables linear and accessible within the undercarriage.
Implementation Method 1
driving cylinders for actuating lateral movement of the carriage relative to the chassis
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A variable gauge undercarriage (10) for a vehicle comprising: a chassis (12) having an integrated chassis cable (24, 26); at least one carriage (14) coupled to the chassis for relative lateral movement, the carnage (14) having an integrated carriage cable (24a, 26a); driving cylinders (16) for actuating lateral movement of the carriage (14) relative to the chassis (12); and a cable connection element (36) positioned at a junction (32) for connecting the integrated carriage cable (24a, 26a) to the integrated chassis cable (24, 26).