ANCHORING SYSTEMS AND METHODS

Abstract

An anchoring system and method includes a guide rail having a rail body that includes a track that has a different width at a first end of the rail body than at a second end of the rail body. An applicator assembly includes a linkage system and an anchor system. The linkage system includes rollers that are disposed within the track of the guide rail. The applicator assembly moves in a first direction based on movement of the rollers within the track. The linkage system includes an extension component having a contoured surface that engages a first side of a rail. The anchor system moves in a first direction of rotation toward a second side of the rail and the extension component moves in a second direction of rotation toward the first side of the rail during an application operation.

Description

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

The subject matter described herein relates to anchoring systems and methods of controlling operation of the anchoring systems.

Discussion of Art

Rail anchors may be installed onto rails of a track by an anchor workhead system that is coupled with a vehicle. As the vehicle moves along the track, the anchor workhead may install one or more anchors at different locations along the length of the track. During the anchor installation operation, the anchor workhead may be controlled to move towards one side of a rail of the track. An anchor is fed to a loaded position of the anchor workhead, where the anchor workhead may install the anchor from the loaded position onto the rail. The installation operation of rail anchor requires a substantial amount of force to be generated by the anchor workhead in order to successfully install the anchor into the installed position on the rail. For example, a large lateral force is generated during the installation process by the anchor workhead. This lateral force, however, contributes to several issues including, but not limited to, the anchor workhead sliding away from the rail during the anchor application (e.g., a fishtail motion), vibrations that are transferred through the anchor workhead and to the vehicle, etc. Additionally, in certain instances, the pressure that is required to apply an anchor may be greater than expected, thereby placing higher stresses on the anchor workhead, components of the vehicle, etc. It may be desirable to have an anchoring system that differs from those that are currently available.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In accordance with one example or aspect, a system includes a guide rail having a rail body extending between a first end and a second end. The rail body includes surfaces defining a track extending between the first end and the second end of the rail body. The track has a different width at the first end of the rail body than at the second end of the rail body. An applicator assembly includes a linkage system and an anchor system operably coupled with the linkage system. The linkage system includes rollers that are disposed between the surfaces of the track of the guide rail. The applicator assembly moves in a first direction based on movement of the rollers within the track of the rail body. The linkage system includes an extension component having an interference component operably coupled with the extension component. The interference component includes a contoured surface that engages a first side of a rail. The anchor system moves in a first direction of rotation toward a second side of the rail that is opposite the first side of the rail, and the extension component and the interference component move in a second direction of rotation toward the first side of the rail during an application operation of the applicator assembly.

In accordance with another example or aspect, a method includes moving an applicator assembly in a first direction based on movement of rollers of a linkage system of the applicator assembly within a track of a rail body of a guide rail. The rail body extends between a first end and a second end. The rail body includes surfaces defining the track extending between the first end and the second end of the rail body. The applicator assembly includes a linkage system and an anchor system operably coupled with the linkage system. The linkage system includes an extension component having an interference component operably coupled with the extension component. The interference component includes a contoured surface that engages a first side of a rail. The anchor system is rotated in a first direction of rotation towards a second side of the rail during an application operation of the application assembly, and the extension component and the interference component of the linkage system are rotated in a second direction of rotation towards the first side of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

In accordance with another example or aspect, an anchoring system includes a first guide rail having a first rail body that extends between a first end and a second end. The first rail body includes surfaces defining a first track extending between the first end and the second end of the first rail body. A second guide rail has a second rail body that extends between a third end and a fourth end. The second rail body includes surfaces defining a second track extending between the third end and the fourth end of the second rail body. The first guide rail and the second guide rail are positioned such that the first track of the first guide rail faces towards the second track of the second guide rail. An applicator assembly includes a linkage system and an anchor system operably coupled with the linkage system. The linkage system includes plural rollers. A first roller and a second roller of the plural rollers are disposed between the surfaces of the first track of the first guide rail, and a third roller and a fourth roller are disposed between the surfaces of the second track of the second guide rail. The applicator assembly moves in a first direction based on movement of the first and second rollers within the first track of the first rail body and based on movement of the third and fourth rollers within the second track of the second rail body. The linkage system includes one or more extension components each having an interference component operably coupled thereto. The interference component includes a contoured surface that engages a first side of the rail. The anchor system moves in a first direction of rotation toward a second side of the rail during an application operation of the applicator assembly, and the one or more extension components move in a second direction of rotation toward the first side of the rail so that the contoured surface of the interference component engages one or more surfaces of the first side of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The subject matter may be understood from reading the following description of non-limiting embodiments, with reference to the attached drawings, wherein below:

FIG. 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of a vehicle system, in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an anchoring system, in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the anchoring system shown in FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of the anchoring system shown in FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 5 illustrates a bottom view of the anchoring system shown in FIG. 2, in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a guide rail of an anchoring system, in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 7 illustrates the anchoring system shown in FIG. 2 in a first state during an application operation, in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 8 illustrates the anchoring system shown in FIG. 2 in a second state during the application operation, in accordance with one embodiment; and

FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of an interference component of an anchoring system, in accordance with one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the subject matter described herein relate to an anchoring system and methods for controlling operation of the anchoring system. The anchoring system may be operably coupled with a suitable vehicle that moves along a track onto which anchors may be installed by the anchoring system. The anchoring system includes one or more guide rails and an applicator assembly. The guide rails include surfaces defining tracks extending between first and second ends of the body of each of the guide rails. The applicator assembly includes a linkage system and an anchor system operably coupled with the linkage system. The linkage system includes rollers that are disposed between the surfaces of the tracks of the one or more guide rails. The application assembly moves in a first direction based on movement of the rollers within the track of the guide rails.

The surfaces of the guide rail that define the track include a bulge and/or opening along the length of the track such that a width of the track at one end of the guide rail is different than a width of the track at another end of the guide rail. For example, the width of the track at a first end of the guide rail (e.g., positioned away from the rail relative to a second end of the guide rail) is less than or smaller than the width of the track at the second end of the guide rail. The width of the track at the second end of the guide rail may be greater than a size of the roller disposed within the track. For example, the roller may be free to move in two directions within the track at the second end of the guide rail, but the roller may only be able to move in a single direction within the track at the first end of the guide rail. In one example, the roller may be free to move in a substantially vertical direction and in a substantially horizontal direction responsive to the rollers moving into the bulge and/or opening region within the second end of the guide rail.

The linkage system also includes an extension component and an interference component operably coupled with the extension component. The interference component includes a contoured surface that is configured to engage a first side of a rail of the track.

During an application operation of an anchor onto the rail, the anchor system moves in a first direction of rotation toward a second side of the rail, and the extension component and the interference component move in a second direction of rotation toward the first side of the rail. For example, the rail may be clamped between the anchor system and the interference component during the application operation. The linkage system may be free to move in the second direction of rotation responsive to the roller being free to move in the oversized space of the width of the track based on the width of the track at the second end of the guide rail being greater than the size of the roller.

FIG. 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of a vehicle 100, in accordance with one embodiment. The vehicle may be a rail vehicle that moves along a track 102 having first and second rails 104, 106. The vehicle includes an anchoring system 200 that installs anchors at one or more locations along the track 102 as the vehicle progresses along the track. In one or more embodiments, the vehicle may be a propulsion generating vehicle, such that the vehicle includes a propulsion system that can control movement of the vehicle along the track. In another embodiment, the vehicle may be a non-propulsion generating vehicle that may be operably coupled with another vehicle (not shown) that controls movement of the vehicle system along the track.

In one or more embodiments, the vehicle may be part of a vehicle system that is formed by a single vehicle or multiple vehicles, and optionally an operating system may extend between two or more of the multiple vehicles. With respect to multi-vehicle systems, the vehicles can be mechanically coupled with each other (e.g., by couplers) or logically coupled but not mechanically coupled. For example, vehicles may be logically but not mechanically coupled when the separate vehicles communicate with each other to coordinate movements of the vehicles with each other so that the vehicles travel together as a group. Vehicle groups may be referred to as a convoy, consist, swarm, fleet, platoon, and train.

The anchoring system includes a first guide rail 202 and a second guide rail 232 that are operably coupled with different portions of a frame of the vehicle system. The first guide rail is operably coupled with a roller bracket 234 at a first end of the roller bracket, and the second guide rail is operably coupled with the roller bracket at a second end of the roller bracket. Additionally, the first and second guide rails are operably coupled with a mounting structure 204.

In one or more embodiments, the vehicle may include an operator cab 110 that can include an operator control system (not shown), from which an operator onboard the vehicle can control one or more operations of the vehicle and/or the anchoring system. The vehicle may include one or more electrical junction systems 112 that electrically couple one or more of the processors and/or devices of the vehicle with one or more components of the anchoring system. Optionally, the vehicle may include a hydraulic control system 108 that may be electrically coupled with the operator control system. Optionally, the vehicle may include a remote control system 114 that may allow an operator disposed offboard the vehicle to control one or more operations of the vehicle and/or the anchoring system. The operator control system, the electrical junction systems, the hydraulic control system, and/or the remote control system may hold and/or contain one or more electronic components of the anchoring system and/or the vehicle system. For example, the electronic components may control one or more operations of the vehicle system and/or the anchoring system.

The electronic components can include, among other things, a controller that can represent hardware circuitry having and/or connected with one or more processors, such as one or more microprocessors, field programmable gate arrays, integrated circuits, and/or the like. The controller may include a single processor or multiple processors. All operations can be performed by each processor, or each processor may perform at least one different operation than one or more (or all) other processors. In one or more embodiments, the electronic components may be operably connected with one or more controllers, processors, devices, or the like, of the vehicle system via one or more wired and/or wireless connections. Optionally, one or more of the electronic components may be wirelessly connected with one or more remote controllers. For example, a controller that is off-board the vehicle system (e.g., a portable remote controller such as a tablet, a computer processing unit, a portable remote control device, etc., a remote control center, or the like) may wireless control one or more operations of the vehicle system and/or the anchoring system.

In one example, the controller of the vehicle may have a local data collection system deployed that may use machine learning to enable derivation-based learning outcomes. The controller may learn from and make decisions on a set of data (including data provided by the various sensors), by making data-driven predictions and adapting according to the set of data. In embodiments, machine learning may involve performing a plurality of machine learning tasks by machine learning systems, such as supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. Supervised learning may include presenting a set of example inputs and desired outputs to the machine learning systems. Unsupervised learning may include the learning algorithm structuring its input by methods such as pattern detection and/or feature learning. Reinforcement learning may include the machine learning systems performing in a dynamic environment and then providing feedback about correct and incorrect decisions. In examples, machine learning may include a plurality of other tasks based on an output of the machine learning system. In examples, the tasks may be machine learning problems such as classification, regression, clustering, density estimation, dimensionality reduction, anomaly detection, and the like. In examples, machine learning may include a plurality of mathematical and statistical techniques. In examples, the many types of machine learning algorithms may include decision tree based learning, association rule learning, deep learning, artificial neural networks, genetic learning algorithms, inductive logic programming, support vector machines (SVMs), Bayesian network, reinforcement learning, representation learning, rule-based machine learning, sparse dictionary learning, similarity and metric learning, learning classifier systems (LCS), logistic regression, random forest, K-Means, gradient boost, K-nearest neighbors (KNN), a priori algorithms, and the like. In embodiments, certain machine learning algorithms may be used (e.g., for solving both constrained and unconstrained optimization problems that may be based on natural selection). In an example, the algorithm may be used to address problems of mixed integer programming, where some components restricted to being integer-valued. Algorithms and machine learning techniques and systems may be used in computational intelligence systems, computer vision, Natural Language Processing (NLP), recommender systems, reinforcement learning, building graphical models, and the like. In an example, machine learning may be used for vehicle performance and behavior analytics, and the like.

In one embodiment, the controller may include a policy engine that may apply one or more policies. These policies may be based at least in part on characteristics of a given item of equipment or environment. With respect to control policies, a neural network can receive input of a number of environmental and task-related parameters. These parameters may include an identification of a determined trip plan for a vehicle group, data from various sensors, and location and/or position data. The neural network can be trained to generate an output based on these inputs, with the output representing an action or sequence of actions that the vehicle group should take to accomplish the trip plan. During operation of one embodiment, a determination can occur by processing the inputs through the parameters of the neural network to generate a value at the output node designating that action as the desired action. This action may translate into a signal that causes the vehicle to operate. This may be accomplished via back-propagation, feed forward processes, closed loop feedback, or open loop feedback. Alternatively, rather than using backpropagation, the machine learning system of the controller may use evolution strategies techniques to tune various parameters of the artificial neural network. The controller may use neural network architectures with functions that may not always be solvable using backpropagation, for example functions that are non-convex. In one embodiment, the neural network has a set of parameters representing weights of its node connections. A number of copies of this network are generated and then different adjustments to the parameters are made, and simulations are done. Once the output from the various models are obtained, they may be evaluated on their performance using a determined success metric. The best model is selected, and the powered system executes that plan to achieve the desired input data to mirror the predicted best outcome scenario. Additionally, the success metric may be a combination of optimized outcomes, which may be weighed relative to each other.

The controller can use this artificial intelligence or machine learning to receive input (e.g., a location where an anchor needs to be coupled to the rail, operating settings of the anchoring system to couple an anchor to the rail, or the like). The controller may receive additional input of the change in operating mode that was selected, such as analysis of noise or interference in communication signals (or a lack thereof), operator input, or the like, which indicates whether the machine-selected operating mode provided a desirable outcome or not. Based on this additional input, the controller can change the model, such as by changing which operating mode would be selected when a similar or identical location or change in location is received the next time or iteration. The controller can then use the changed or updated model again to select an operating mode, receive feedback on the selected operating mode, change or update the model again, etc., in additional iterations to repeatedly improve or change the model using artificial intelligence or machine learning.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the anchoring system 200 in accordance with one embodiment. FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the anchoring system. FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of the anchoring system. FIG. 5 illustrates a bottom view of the anchoring system. FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the first guide rail of the anchoring system. FIGS. 2 through 6 will be discussed together herein.

The anchoring system includes the first guide rail and the second guide rail. The first guide rail include a rail body 206 that extends between a first end 208 and a second end 210. The first end of the rail body of the first guide rail is operably coupled with the mounting structure. The second guide rail includes a rail body 236 that extends between a third end 238 and a fourth end 240. The third end of the rail body of the second guide rail is operably coupled with the mounting structure.

As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 6, the first guide rail includes a first surface 212, a second surface 214, and a third surface 216 that define a first track 218 of the first guide rail. The first track extends between the first and second ends of the first guide rail. The second guide rail also includes plural surfaces that define a second track 248 that extends between the third and fourth end of the second guide rail. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6, the first and second surfaces 212, 214 that form the first track extend between the first and second ends of the first guide rail. The first surface has a substantially uniform shape and size, and extends in a substantially linear direction between the first and second ends. The second surface includes a bulge 244 or opening that is proximate to the second end of the first guide rail. For example, the second surface extends in a non-linear direction. The second surface at the bulge or opening is disposed at a distance away from the first surface that is greater than a distance between the first and second surfaces outside of the bulge or opening. For example, a first width 246A of the first track proximate the first end of the first rail body is different than a second width 246B of the first track proximate the second end of the first rail body. The second width between the first and second surfaces at the bulge is greater than the first width between the first and second surfaces away from or outside of the bulge. Additionally, the second width of the track is greater than a size (e.g., a diameter) of the rollers 226A-D.

In one or more embodiments, the bulge and/or the opening of the track may be disposed at a position that is different than illustrated in FIG. 6. For example, the bulge may be disposed further away from the second end of the first rail body and/or closer to the second end of the rail body. The location of the bulge relative to the first and second ends of the rail body may be based on one or more of the size of the rail, the type and/or style of the anchor being applied to the track, the amount of pressure that is required by the anchoring system to install the anchor, or the like.

The first and second guide rails are operably coupled with the mounting structure and positioned such that the first track of the first guide rail faces towards the second track of the second guide rail. In one or more embodiments, the first and second guide rails may be designed as mirrored image components. For example, the first and second guide rails may be the same or substantially the same overall shape, size, may have the same and/or substantially the same locations of one or more mounting features 207, or the like. Alternatively, the first guide rail may include one or more features that are different than one or more features of the second guide rail.

The anchoring system includes an applicator assembly 220 that includes a linkage system 222 and an anchor system 224 that is coupled with the linkage system. The anchor system 224 includes a feeding mechanism and/or system (not shown) disposed within an interior portion of the anchor system that holds plural anchors 262 therein. The anchors are fed to a position within the anchor system where anchors will be released from the anchor system and applied to the rail during an application operation of the application assembly.

The linkage system includes the roller bracket that extends between the first and second guide rails. The roller bracket is operably coupled with the first and second guide rails via plural rollers 226A-D. A first roller 226A is disposed within the first track 218 of the first guide rail 202 proximate the first end 208 of the first guide rail, and a second roller 226B is disposed within the first track of the first guide rail proximate the second end 210 of the first guide rail. A third roller 226C is disposed within the second track 248 of the second guide rail 232 proximate the third end 238 of the second guide rail, and a fourth roller 226D is disposed within the second track of the second guide rail proximate the fourth end 240 of the second guide rail. The applicator assembly including the linkage system and the anchor system move in a first direction 249 based on movement of the rollers within the first and second tracks of the first and second guide rails, respectively. Responsive to the applicator assembly moving in the first direction 249, the second roller 226B may move away from the first surface 212 defining the track and move toward the second surface 214 as the second roller moves into the bulge and/or opening of the first track. Additionally, the fourth roller 226D may move away from one of the surfaces defining the second track, and may move toward another surface defining the second track as the fourth roller moves into the bulge and/or opening of the second track.

In one or more embodiments, the linkage system may be operably coupled with the anchor system via one or more connection points. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, linkage system includes an axle 270 that extends along a pivot axis 268 between two portions of the roller bracket. Additionally, the linkage system includes one or more actuators 228, 230 that extend between the roller bracket of the linkage system and the anchor system 224. In one or more embodiments, the actuators may be referred to as pistons, hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic cylinders, or the like. The actuators may extend and retract causing the anchor system to pivot or rotate about the pivot axis 268. For example, the actuators may be controlled to control movement of the anchor system, such as during an application operation of the applicator assembly. In one or more embodiments, the linkage system may include a single actuator that controls movement of the anchor system. In another embodiment, movement of the anchor system may additionally and/or alternatively be controlled by another method, another device, an actuator device in an alternative arrangement, or any combination therein.

The linkage system 222 also includes one or more extension components 242A, 242B that are operably coupled with the roller bracket. The extension components extend a distance away from the roller bracket in the first direction 249. In the illustrated example, each of the extension components includes an interference component 258A, 258B coupled thereto. Each of the interference components include a contoured surface 260 that is positioned to face towards the anchor system 224. The contoured surfaces are shaped and/or sized to engage one or more surfaces of one of the rails of the track during an application operation of the applicator assembly. In one or more embodiments, the extension components and the interference components may be a single or unitary structure and the contoured surfaces may be surfaces of the extension components.

In one or more examples, the interference component may be manufactured of a metal or metallic alloy. Optionally, the interference component may be manufactured of a non-metal material, such as a plastic material, a foam material, an elastic material, or the like. In one or more embodiments, the interference component may be manufactured of a material based on an amount of elasticity of the material, based on a hardness and/or stiffness level of the material, based on a plasticity, a thermal conductivity, a level of ductility, or any combination therein.

FIG. 7 illustrates the anchoring system shown in FIG. 2 in a first state 700 during an application operation, in accordance with one embodiment. FIG. 8 illustrates the anchoring system shown in FIG. 2 in a second state 800 during the application operation, in accordance with one embodiment. During the application operation of the applicator assembly, in which an anchor is installed or coupled with a portion of the rail, the linkage system is controlled to move in the first direction 249 (e.g., a substantially linear direction) based on movement of the rollers within the first and second tracks of the first and second guide rails, respectively. As the second and fourth rollers move into the bulge and/or opening of the first and second tracks, respectively, the second widths of the tracks that are wider and/or larger than the rollers provide a degree of freedom of movement of the rollers. For example, the second and fourth rollers may be free to move in the space between the surfaces defining the first and second tracks.

Additionally, the actuators are controlled to move to an extended state to control movement of the anchor system to move the anchor system toward the rail. The actuators are in a retracted state while the anchoring system is in the first state, illustrated in FIG. 7. Alternatively, the actuators are in an extended state while the anchoring system is in the second state illustrated in FIG. 8.

The anchor system moves in a first direction of rotation 252 and pivots about the pivot axis responsive to the actuators moving to the extended state. For example, the anchor system moves toward a second side 256 of the rail 104 responsive to the actuators moving to the extended state.

Additionally, the second and fourth rollers may be disposed within the bulges of the first and second tracks and free to move within the space between the surfaces defining the first and second tracks, respectively. The second and fourth rollers may move toward one of the surfaces defining the first and second tracks thereby moving the linkage system in a second direction of rotation 250 that is opposite the first direction of rotation. Movement of the linkage system in the second direction moves the extension components and the interference components towards a first side 254 of the rail 104. For example, the anchor system and the linkage system move in a scissor-like motion such that the anchor system moves in the first direction of rotation toward the second side of the rail and the linkage system moves in the second direction of rotation toward the first side of the rail responsive to the actuators moving to the extended state. For example, the rail may be clamped, grabbed, or the like, by the interference component contacting the first side of the rail and the anchor system contacting the second side of the rail during the scissor-like motion of the anchoring system.

In one or more examples, the shape and/or size of the bulge or opening of the first and second tracks may be based on one or more characteristics of the interference components and/or extension components. For example, the bulge or opening of the track may have a size that is greater than a size of the roller and may be sized to allow the roller to be at a position within the bulge without contacting any of the surfaces defining the track within the bulge. During an application process, the interference components may contact the rail before the rollers are able to travel to contact the second surface of the track within the bulge, and the interference components contacting the rail may prohibit further movement of the rollers within the bulge. For example, an amount or distance of travel of the linkage system in a second direction of rotation is controlled by the horizontal distance between the contours of the interference components and the corresponding mating sections of the rail. In one example, a horizontal distance between the second and fourth rollers and the corresponding second surfaces of the tracks may be greater than a horizontal distance between the contoured portions of the interference components and the corresponding mating sections of the rail.

In one or more embodiments, the contoured surface of the interference component(s) may be shaped based at least in part on a shape of the first side of the rail. For example, in the illustrated embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the contoured surface includes a first portion 264 and a second portion 266. The first portion of the contoured surface is shaped, sized, and/or positioned in order to contact a first portion 274 of the first side of the rail. The second portion of the contoured surface is shaped, sized, and/or positioned in order to contact a second portion 276 of the first side of the rail. Optionally, the contoured surface of the interference component may have an alternative shape, size, and/or position.

For example, FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of an interference component 958 operably coupled with an extension component 942 of an anchoring system, in accordance with one embodiment. The interference component has a contoured surface 960 that includes a first portion 962, a second portion 964, and a third portion 966. In one or more embodiments, the first portion may be shaped, sized, and/or positioned to contact a top surface of the rail, the second portion may be shaped, sized, and/or positioned to contact a first portion of the side of the rail, and the third portion may be shaped, sized, and/or positioned to contact a second portion of the side of the rail.

Returning to FIGS. 7 and 8, the amount of movement of the linkage system in the second direction of rotation is based at least in part on the size of the bulge and/or opening within the first and second tracks. For example, the amount of movement or travel of the linkage system in the second direction of rotation may be increased responsive to the size of the bulge and/or opening between the surfaces defining the first and second tracks increasing. Alternatively, the amount of movement or travel of the linkage system in the second direction of rotation may be decreased responsive to the size of the bulge decreasing. For example, changing the second width 246B between the surfaces may change an amount of travel or movement of the linkage system in the second direction of rotation.

During the scissor-like motion of the anchoring system, the interference component exerts a first force onto the first side of the rail and the anchor system exerts a second force onto the second side of the rail during the application operation. In one or more embodiments, the first amount of force exerted by the interference component may be substantially the same, within about 2%, within about 10%, within about 15%, within about 50%, or the like, as the second amount of force that is exerted onto the second side of the rail by the anchor system. For example, the interference component may be shaped, sized, positioned, or the like, to substantially counteract the forces exerted onto the rail by the anchor system. The counteracting first and second forces exerted onto the rail in the first and second directions of rotation, respectively, control an amount of movement of the rail. For example, the rail may be pushed toward the first side of the rail or toward the second side of the rail responsive to one of the first or second forces being greater than the other, responsive to linkage system being prohibited from moving in the second direction of rotation, or the like. Exerting forces on one side of the rail without providing at least some counteracting forces onto the other side of the rail may compromise the rail, may adjust the balance and/or position of the anchor system relative to the rail, may compromise one or more components of the vehicle on which the anchoring system is installed, may cause the vehicle to move off of the track, may cause vibrations to occur on the vehicle, may reduce a reliability of repeatability of the anchoring system installing anchors at locations along the track, or any combination therein.

In one or more embodiments, the linkage system may include a single extension component and a single interference component coupled with the extension component. The extension component and the interference component may move in the second direction of rotation toward the first side of the rail during the application operation. In another embodiment, the linkage system may include a first extension component 242A and a second extension component 242B. A first interference component 258A may be coupled with the first extension component and a second interference component 258B may be coupled with the second extension component. The first and second extension components and first and second interference components may move in the second direction of rotation toward the first side of the rail. The first interference component may contact the first side of the rail at a first location along a length of the rail, and the second interference component may contact the first side of the rail at a second location along the length of the rail. For example, the first and second extension components may be spaced apart by a predetermined length.

In one or more embodiments, the anchor system may contact the second side of the rail at a location that is substantially centered between the first and second interference components along the length of the rail. Optionally, the anchor system may contact the second side of the rail that is closer to the first interference component relative to the second interference component. In another embodiment, the anchor system may be arranged to simultaneously install two or more anchors onto the rail. The anchor system may contact the second side of the rail such that a first anchor may be installed proximate to the first interference component, and a second anchor may be installed proximate to the second interference component. Optionally, the anchor system and/or the linkage system may have an alternative arrangement. For example, the arrangement of the anchor system and/or the linkage system may be based on an amount of force that the anchor system exerts onto the second side of the rail, an amount of force required to simultaneously install two or more anchors onto the rail, an amount of force that the one or more interference components can exert onto the first side of the rail, or any combination therein.

In accordance with one example or aspect of the subject matter described herein, a system may include a guide rail having a rail body extending between a first end and a second end. The rail body may include surfaces defining a track extending between the first end and the second end of the rail body. The track has a different width at the first end of the rail body than at the second end of the rail body. An applicator assembly may include a linkage system and an anchor system operably coupled with the linkage system. The linkage system can include rollers that are disposed between the surfaces of the track of the guide rail. The applicator assembly may move in a first direction based on movement of the rollers within the track of the rail body. The linkage system may include an extension component having an interference component operably coupled with the extension component. The interference component may include a contoured surface that engages a first side of a rail. The anchor system may move in a first direction of rotation toward a second side of the rail that is opposite the first side of the rail, and the extension component and the interference component may move in a second direction of rotation toward the first side of the rail during an application operation of the applicator assembly.

Optionally, the applicator assembly may apply an anchor to the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

Optionally, the extension component may exert a first force onto the first side of the rail and the anchor system may exert a second force onto the second side of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly. Optionally, the extension component may be a first extension component and the contoured surface may be a first contoured surface. The linkage system may include a second extension component having a second contoured surface. The first extension component and the second extension component may move in the second direction of rotation toward the first side of the rail and the first and second contoured surfaces may engage the first side of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly. Optionally, a width of the track at the first end of the rail body may be smaller than a width of the track at the second end of the rail body. Optionally, a width of the track at the second end of the rail body may be greater than a size of the rollers of the linkage system. Optionally, the rollers may include a first roller disposed proximate the first end of the track and a second roller disposed proximate the second end of the track. The second roller may move away from one of the surfaces defining the track during the application operation of the application assembly. Optionally, the contoured surface of the extension component may be shaped based at least in part on a shape of the first side of the rail. Optionally, the contoured surface of the extension component may engage one or more surfaces of the first side of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

Optionally, the guide rail may be a first guide rail. The system may include a second guide rail having a second rail body extending between a third end and a fourth end. The second rail body may include surfaces defining a second track extending between the third end and the fourth end of the second rail body. The first guide rail and the second guide rail may be positioned such that the track of the first guide rail faces towards the second track of the second guide rail. Optionally, the linkage system may include a first roller and a second roller that may be disposed between the surfaces of the track of the first guide rail, and the linkage system may include a third roller and a fourth roller that may be disposed between the surfaces of the second track of the second guide rail. Optionally, the applicator assembly may include one or more actuators extending between the linkage system and the anchor system. The one or more actuators may control movement of the anchor system relative to the linkage system.

In accordance with another example or aspect, a method may include moving an applicator assembly in a first direction based on movement of rollers of a linkage system of the applicator assembly within a track of a rail body of a guide rail. The rail body extends between a first end and a second end. The rail body may include surfaces defining the track extending between the first end and the second end of the rail body. The applicator assembly may include a linkage system and an anchor system operably coupled with the linkage system. The linkage system may include an extension component having an interference component operably coupled with the extension component. The interference component may include a contoured surface that engages a first side of a rail. The anchor system may be rotated in a first direction of rotation towards a second side of the rail during an application operation of the application assembly, and the extension component and the interference component of the linkage system may be rotated in a second direction of rotation towards the first side of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

Optionally, a first force may be exerted onto the first side of the rail with the contoured surface of the extension component during the application operation of the applicator assembly, and a second force may be exerted onto the second side of the rail with the anchor system during the application operation of the applicator assembly. Optionally, the track may have a different width at the first end of the rail body than at the second end of the rail body. Optionally, a width of the track at the second end of the rail body may be greater than a size of the rollers of the linkage system.

In accordance with another example or aspect, an anchoring system may include a first guide rail having a first rail body that extends between a first end and a second end. The first rail body may include surfaces defining a first track extending between the first end and the second end of the first rail body. A second guide rail has a second rail body that extends between a third end and a fourth end. The second rail body may include surfaces defining a second track extending between the third end and the fourth end of the second rail body. The first guide rail and the second guide rail may be positioned such that the first track of the first guide rail faces towards the second track of the second guide rail. An applicator assembly may include a linkage system and an anchor system operably coupled with the linkage system. The linkage system may include plural rollers. A first roller and a second roller of the plural rollers may be disposed between the surfaces of the first track of the first guide rail, and a third roller and a fourth roller may be disposed between the surfaces of the second track of the second guide rail. The applicator assembly may move in a first direction based on movement of the first and second rollers within the first track of the first rail body and based on movement of the third and fourth rollers within the second track of the second rail body. The linkage system may include one or more extension components each having an interference component operably coupled thereto. The interference component may include a contoured surface that engages a first side of the rail. The anchor system may move in a first direction of rotation toward a second side of the rail during an application operation of the applicator assembly, and the one or more extension components may move in a second direction of rotation toward the first side of the rail so that the contoured surface of the interference component engages one or more surfaces of the first side of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

Optionally, the one or more extension components may exert a force onto the first side of the rail, and the anchor system may exert a second force onto the second side of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly. Optionally, the contoured surfaces of the one or more extension components may include a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the contoured surface may engage a first surface of the first side of the rail and the second portion of the contoured surface may engage a second surface of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly. Optionally, a width of the first track of the first rail body at the second end of the first rail body may be greater than a width of the first track of the first rail body at the first end of the first rail body, and a width of the second track of the second rail body at the fourth end of the second rail body may be greater than a width of the second track of the second rail at the third end of the second rail body.

Use of phrases such as “one or more of . . . and,” “one or more of . . . or,” “at least one of . . . and,” and “at least one of . . . or” are meant to encompass including only a single one of the items used in connection with the phrase, at least one of each one of the items used in connection with the phrase, or multiple ones of any or each of the items used in connection with the phrase. For example, “one or more of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” and “at least one of A, B, or C” each can mean (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, (3) at least one C, (4) at least one A and at least one B, (5) at least one A, at least one B, and at least one C, (6) at least one B and at least one C, or (7) at least one A and at least one C.

As used herein, the terms “processor” and “computer,” and related terms, e.g., “processing device,” “computing device,” and “controller” may be not limited to just those integrated circuits referred to in the art as a computer, but refer to a microcontroller, a microcomputer, a programmable logic controller (PLC), field programmable gate array, and application specific integrated circuit, and other programmable circuits. Suitable memory may include, for example, a computer-readable medium. A computer-readable medium may be, for example, a random-access memory (RAM), a computer-readable non-volatile medium, such as a flash memory. The term “non-transitory computer-readable media” represents a tangible computer-based device implemented for short-term and long-term storage of information, such as, computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules and sub-modules, or other data in another device. Therefore, the methods described herein may be encoded as executable instructions embodied in a tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable medium, including, without limitation, a storage device and/or a memory device. Such instructions, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform at least a portion of the methods described herein. As such, the term includes tangible, computer-readable media, including, without limitation, non-transitory computer storage devices, including without limitation, volatile and non-volatile media, and removable and non-removable media such as firmware, physical and virtual storage, CD-ROMS, DVDs, and other digital sources, such as a network or the Internet.

As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and preceded with the word “a” or “an” do not exclude the plural of said elements or operations, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment” of the invention do not exclude the existence of additional embodiments that incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments “comprising,” “comprises,” “including,” “includes,” “having,” or “has” an element or a plurality of elements having a particular property may include additional such elements not having that property. In the appended clauses, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Moreover, in the following clauses, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and do not impose numerical requirements on their objects. Further, the limitations of the following clauses are not written in means-plus-function format and are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. § 112(f), unless and until such clause limitations expressly use the phrase “means for” followed by a statement of function devoid of further structure.

This written description uses examples to disclose several embodiments of the subject matter, including the best mode, and to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the embodiments of subject matter, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the subject matter is defined by the clauses, and may include other examples that occur to one of ordinary skill in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the clauses if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the clauses, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the clauses.

Claims

1. A system, comprising: a guide rail having a rail body extending between a first end and a second end, the rail body including surfaces defining a track extending between the first end and the second end of the rail body, the track having a different width at the first end of the rail body than at the second end of the rail body; andan applicator assembly comprising a linkage system and an anchor system operably coupled with the linkage system, the linkage system including rollers configured to be disposed between the surfaces of the track of the guide rail, the applicator assembly configured to move in a first direction based on movement of the rollers within the track of the rail body,the linkage system including an extension component having a contoured surface configured to engage a first side of a rail, andthe anchor system configured to move in a first direction of rotation toward a second side of the rail that is opposite the first side of the rail, and the extension component configured to move in a second direction of rotation toward the first side of the rail during an application operation of the applicator assembly.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the applicator assembly is configured to apply an anchor to the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the extension component is configured to exert a first force onto the first side of the rail and the anchor system is configured to exert a second force onto the second side of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the extension component is a first extension component and the contoured surface is a first contoured surface, the linkage system further comprising a second extension component having a second contoured surface, wherein the first extension component and the second extension component are configured to move in the second direction of rotation toward the first side of the rail, wherein the first and second contoured surfaces are configured to engage the first side of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein a width of the track at the first end of the rail body is smaller than a width of the track at the second end of the rail body.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein a width of the track at the second end of the rail body is greater than a size of the rollers of the linkage system.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the rollers includes a first roller disposed proximate the first end of the track and a second roller disposed proximate the second end of the track, wherein the second roller is configured to move away from one of the surfaces defining the track during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the contoured surface of the extension component is shaped based at least in part on a shape of the first side of the rail.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the contoured surface of the extension component is configured to engage one or more surfaces of the first side of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the guide rail is a first guide rail, and further comprising a second guide rail having a second rail body extending between a third end and a fourth end, the second rail body including surfaces defining a second track extending between the third end and the fourth end of the second rail body, wherein the first guide rail and the second guide rail are positioned such that the track of the first guide rail faces towards the second track of the second guide rail.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the linkage system includes a first roller and a second roller of the rollers that are disposed between the surfaces of the track of the first guide rail, and the linkage system includes a third roller and a fourth roller of the rollers that are disposed between the surfaces of the second track of the second guide rail.

12. The system of claim 1, the applicator assembly further comprising one or more actuators extending between the linkage system and the anchor system, wherein the one or more actuators are configured to control movement of the anchor system relative to the linkage system.

13. A method, comprising: moving an applicator assembly in a first direction based on movement of rollers of a linkage system of the applicator assembly within a track of a rail body of a guide rail, the rail body extending between a first end and a second end, the rail body include surfaces defining the track extending between the first end and the second end of the rail body, the applicator assembly comprising a linkage system and an anchor system operably coupled with the linkage system, the linkage system including an extension component having an a contoured surface configured to engage a first side of a rail;rotating the anchor system of the applicator assembly in a first direction of rotation towards a second side of the rail during an application operation of the applicator assembly; androtating the extension component of the linkage system in a second direction of rotation towards the first side of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: exerting a first force onto the first side of the rail with the contoured surface of the extension component during the application operation of the applicator assembly; andexerting a second force onto the second side of the rail with the anchor system during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the track has a different width at the first end of the rail body than at the second end of the rail body.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein a width of the track at the second end of the rail body is greater than a size of the rollers of the linkage system.

17. An anchoring system, comprising: a first guide rail having a first rail body extending between a first end and a second end, the first rail body including surfaces defining a first track extending between the first end and the second end of the first rail body;a second guide rail having a second rail body extending between a third end and a fourth end, the second rail body including surfaces defining a second track extending between the third end and the fourth end of the second rail body, wherein the first guide rail and the second guide rail are positioned such that the first track of the first guide rail faces towards the second track of the second guide rail; andan applicator assembly comprising a linkage system and an anchor system operably coupled with the linkage system, the linkage system including plural rollers, wherein a first roller and a second roller of the plural rollers are configured to be disposed between the surfaces of the first track of the first guide rail, wherein a third roller and a fourth roller of the plural rollers are configured to be disposed between the surfaces of the second track of the second guide rail, wherein the applicator assembly is configured to move in a first direction based on movement of the first and second rollers within the first track of the first rail body and based on movement of the third and fourth rollers within the second track of the second rail body,the linkage system including one or more extension components, each of the one or more extension components having a contoured surface configured to engage a first side of a rail,the anchor system configured to move in a first direction of rotation toward a second side of the rail during an application operation of the applicator assembly, andthe one or more extension components configured to move in a second direction of rotation toward the first side of the rail so that the contoured surface of each of the one or more extension components engage one or more surfaces of the first side of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

18. The anchoring system of claim 17, wherein the one or more extension components are configured to exert a first force onto the first side of the rail, and the anchor system is configured to exert a second force onto the second side of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

19. The anchoring system of claim 17, wherein the contoured surfaces of one or more of the extension components include a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion of the contoured surface is configured to engage a first surface of the first side of the rail and the second portion of the contoured surface is configured to engage a second surface of the rail during the application operation of the applicator assembly.

20. The anchoring system of claim 17, wherein a width of the first track of the first rail body at the second end of the first rail body is greater than a width of the first track of the first rail at the first end of the first rail body, and a width of the second track of the second rail body at the fourth end of the second rail body is greater than a width of the second track of the second rail at the third end of the second rail body.