Self-Propelled Wagon with Pneumatic Suspension for Automated Container Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intermodal transport systems for rail-road transport have high installation and implementation costs due to the need for expensive loading/unloading equipment, and they lack the capability to handle low-cost container implementations and automated loading/unloading processes.
Innovation Solution
A wagon design with self-propelled bogies and a suspension system that includes pneumatic cylinders to adjust the position of a swing, allowing for the loading/unloading of containers using a ferry with automated transfer devices, enabling the wagon to accommodate various container types and sizes with reduced operational complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If expensive loading/unloading equipment is used for existing intermodal transport systems, then containers can be loaded/unloaded onto wagons, but the installation and implementation cost becomes high
Solution Approach 1:
The wagon is equipped with self-propelled bogies that can independently move and position themselves to receive containers. The bogies have motors that drive the axles, enabling the wagon to perform loading/unloading operations without requiring external expensive equipment, thus making the system self-sufficient and reducing infrastructure costs
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension device includes pneumatic cylinders that can dynamically adjust the position of the balancelle relative to the bogie. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the wagon to adapt its loading height and position automatically, enabling flexible loading/unloading operations without fixed expensive infrastructure
2Device complexity
If the wagon structure is simplified to reduce costs, then installation cost decreases, but the ability to receive any type of container may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The wagon design with self-propelled bogies and adjustable balancelle creates a universal platform that can accommodate various container types (full trucks, containers, swap bodies, semi-trailers). The simplified structure achieves versatility through the dynamic suspension system that can adapt to different loading configurations without requiring complex specialized structures for each container type
Solution Approach 2:
The pneumatic suspension device allows continuous adjustment of the balancelle position and height parameters. This parameter variability enables the simplified wagon structure to adapt to different container sizes and types by changing the suspension characteristics and loading position, maintaining universality without structural complexity
3Productivity
If automated loading/unloading is implemented, then operational efficiency improves, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The self-propelled bogies with integrated motors and the automated pneumatic suspension system enable the wagon to perform loading/unloading operations autonomously. The system can automatically adjust the balancelle position and receive containers without manual intervention, achieving automated operations while keeping the added complexity minimal through integration with the existing wagon structure
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 reduces the costs associated with intermodal transport by enabling efficient, automated loading/unloading of containers, improving the flexibility and efficiency of rail-road transport systems while maintaining compatibility with different container types and sizes.
Implementation Method 1
the suspension device comprises at least one pneumatic cylinder resting on the frame, a plate resting on the pneumatic cylinder and connected to the balancelle by at least one sling, the suspension device being adapted to move the plate away from the frame or bring it closer by actuating the pneumatic cylinder
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a wagon (10) comprising: at least two bogies (20), each bogie comprising at least two axles and at least one drive motor for at least one of the axles; and a rocker arm (22) articulated on each bogie and connected to each bogie by a suspension device adapted to modify the distance between the rocker arm and the bogie.