Patent Application
20220212699
Embodiments relate to a railcar damping system that provides for differentiated travel between buff and draft movements and, in particular, the damping system allows for full compression in buff but limited compression in draft.
A railcar damping system is a device that is positioned at or near an end of a railcar and is in mechanical connection with the railcar's coupler. When it is desired to couple a railcar to another railcar, one of the railcars is advanced towards the other to generate an impact coupling event—two couplers connect to each other to join the two railcars together. The damping system absorbs and controllably dissipates energy of the impact so as to reduce or eliminate damage to the railcars. This is known as a buff event. In addition, when a locomotive causes the railcars (after they have been coupled to each other) to move for transporting the railcars, the damping system absorbs and controllably dissipates energy to mitigate damage to the railcars. This is known as a draft event. During travel, the damping system again absorbs and dissipates energy via multiple buff and draft events to mitigate damage due to slack between railcars, start-stop motion, in-train forces, cycling, changes in topography, etc.
Conventional railcar damping systems provide means to absorb/dissipate energy, yet they generally provide the same energy absorption/dissipation in in both buff and draft. Benefits can be realized by having a damping system that provides for differentiated travel for buff and draft movements and, in particular, limited travel for draft. Conventional systems can be appreciated from U.S. Pat. Nos. 10,513,275, 10,384,696, 10,308,263, 9,598,092, and U.S. Publ. No. 2015/0251651.
The present disclosure is directed toward overcoming one or more of the above-mentioned problems, though not necessarily limited to embodiments that do.
Embodiments relate to a damping system facilitating travel in draft motion that differs from travel in buff motion—i.e., it is able to dissipate more energy in buff than in draft, protecting the car structure and lading during a buff event and limiting inter-car slack during a draft event. The damping system compresses in both buff and draft motions, but various features of the inventive damping system allow it to be compressed fully in the buff motion for maximum energy absorption, while limiting travel in the draft motion by not permitting full compression of the damping system so as to reduce inter-car slack.
An exemplary embodiment relates to a railcar damping system configured for placement in a railcar center sill having longitudinally spaced front and rear stops defining a center sill pocket. The system can have one or more front stops and one or more rear stops. The system includes a yoke provided in the center sill pocket and having a longitudinal axis, the yoke including opposing top and bottom walls extending longitudinally and including a distal end wall connecting the top and bottom walls to define a yoke pocket. The system includes a damping assembly disposed in the yoke pocket and configured for receiving and dissipating external forces acting on a coupler connected to the yoke. The system includes a longitudinally moveable member having a side wall extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket and having proximal and distal ends and an end wall connected to the side wall distal end, the end wall being transverse to the longitudinal axis and extending into the yoke pocket. The system includes a follower block provided within the yoke pocket for movement along the longitudinal axis, the follower block being positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis and including a flange portion defining opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides. The front stop(s) is disposed at a proximal end of the center sill pocket and the rear stop(s) is disposed at a distal end of the center sill pocket. The front stop includes a proximal stop surface and a distally extending portion extending longitudinally and terminating in a distal stop surface. In buff movement, the follower block is urged toward the distal end of the center sill pocket and engages the damping assembly, and the flange portion of the follower block travels along the distally extending portion of the front stop and engages the side wall of the longitudinally moveable member defining a full buff position. In draft movement, the longitudinally moveable member is urged toward the proximal end of the center sill pocket until the proximal end of the longitudinally moveable member engages the distal stop surface of the front stop defining a full draft position.
Another exemplary embodiment relates to a railcar damping system configured for placement in a railcar center sill having longitudinally spaced front and rear stops defining a center sill pocket. The system can have one or more front stops and one or more rear stops. The system includes a yoke provided in the center sill pocket and having a longitudinal axis, the yoke including opposing top and bottom walls extending longitudinally and including a distal end wall connecting the top and bottom walls to define a yoke pocket. The system includes a damping assembly disposed in the yoke pocket and configured for receiving and dissipating external forces acting on a coupler connected to the yoke. In some embodiments, the damping assembly includes a housing having a side wall extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket and having proximal and distal ends and an end wall connected to the side wall distal end, the end wall being transverse to the longitudinal axis and extending into the yoke pocket. The system includes a follower block provided within the yoke pocket for movement along the longitudinal axis, the follower block being positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis and including a flange portion defining opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides. The front stop(s) is disposed at a proximal end of the center sill pocket and the rear stop(s) is disposed at a distal end of the center sill pocket. The front stop includes a proximal stop surface and a distally extending portion extending longitudinally and terminating in a distal stop surface. In buff movement, the follower block is urged toward the distal end of the center sill pocket and engages the damping assembly, and the flange portion of the follower block travels along the distally extending portion of the front stop and engages the side wall of the housing defining a full buff position. In draft movement, the housing is urged toward the proximal end of the center sill pocket until the proximal end of the housing engages the distal stop surface of the front stop defining a full draft position.
Another exemplary embodiment relates to a railcar damping system configured for placement in a railcar center sill having longitudinally spaced front and rear stops defining a center sill pocket. The system can have one or more front stops and one or more rear stops. The system includes a yoke provided in the center sill pocket and having a longitudinal axis, the yoke including opposing top and bottom walls extending longitudinally and including a distal end wall connecting the top and bottom walls to define a yoke pocket. The system includes a damping assembly disposed in the yoke pocket and configured for receiving and dissipating external forces acting on a coupler connected to the yoke. The system includes a longitudinally moveable member having a side wall extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket and having proximal and distal ends and an end wall connected to the side wall distal end, the end wall being transverse to the longitudinal axis and extending into the yoke pocket. The system includes a follower block provided within the yoke pocket for movement along the longitudinal axis, the follower block positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis and including a protrusion defining opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides. The front stop(s) is disposed at a proximal end of the center sill pocket and the rear stop(s) is disposed at a distal end of the center sill pocket. The front stop includes a proximal stop surface and two distally extending portions extending longitudinally and terminating in two distal stop surfaces. In buff movement, the follower block is urged toward the distal end of the center sill pocket and engages the damping assembly, and the protrusion of the follower block travels along the two distally extending portions of the front stop and engages the side wall of the longitudinally moveable member defining a full buff position. In draft movement, the longitudinally moveable member is urged toward the proximal end of the center sill pocket until the proximal end of the longitudinally moveable member engages the two distal stop surfaces of the front stop defining a full draft position.
Another exemplary embodiment relates to a railcar damping system configured for placement in a railcar center sill having longitudinally spaced front and rear stops defining a center sill pocket. The system can have one or more front stops and one or more rear stops. The system includes a yoke provided in the center sill pocket and having a longitudinal axis, the yoke including opposing top and bottom walls extending longitudinally and including a distal end wall connecting the top and bottom walls to define a yoke pocket. The system includes a damping assembly disposed in the yoke pocket and configured for receiving and dissipating external forces acting on a coupler connected to the yoke. The damping assembly includes a housing having a side wall extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket and having proximal and distal ends and an end wall connected to the side wall distal end, the end wall transverse to the longitudinal axis and extending into the yoke pocket. The system includes a follower block provided within the yoke pocket for movement along the longitudinal axis, the follower block being positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis and including a protrusion defining opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides. The front stop(s) is disposed at a proximal end of the center sill pocket and the rear stop(s) is disposed at a distal end of the center sill pocket. The front stop includes a proximal stop surface and two distally extending portions extending longitudinally and terminating in two distal stop surfaces. In buff movement, the follower block is urged toward the distal end of the center sill pocket and engages the damping assembly, and the protrusion of the follower block travels along the two distally extending portions of the front stop and engages the side wall of the housing defining a full buff position. In draft movement, the housing is urged toward the proximal end of the center sill pocket until the proximal end of the housing engages the two distal stop surfaces of the front stop defining a full draft position.
Another exemplary embodiment relates to a railcar damping system configured for placement in a railcar center sill having longitudinally spaced front and rear stops defining a center sill pocket. The system can have one or more front stops and one or more rear stops. The system includes a yoke provided in the center sill pocket and having a longitudinal axis, the yoke including opposing top and bottom walls extending longitudinally and including a distal end wall connecting the top and bottom walls to define a yoke pocket. The system includes a damping assembly disposed in the yoke pocket and configured for receiving and dissipating external forces acting on a coupler connected to the yoke. The system includes a longitudinally moveable member having a side wall extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket and having proximal and distal ends and an end wall connected to the side wall distal end, the end wall being transverse to the longitudinal axis and extending into the yoke pocket, the side wall having an extension extending longitudinally from the side wall proximal end. The system includes a follower block provided within the yoke pocket for movement along the longitudinal axis, the follower block being positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis and including a flange portion defining opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides. The front stop(s) is disposed at a proximal end of the center sill pocket and the rear stop(s) is disposed at a distal end of the center sill pocket. In buff movement, the follower block is urged toward the distal end of the center sill pocket and engages the damping assembly, and the flange portion of the follower block travels along the extension of the longitudinally moveable member and engages a distal stop surface of the longitudinal moveable member defining a full buff position. In draft movement, the longitudinally moveable member is urged toward the proximal end of the center sill pocket until a proximal stop surface of the longitudinal moveable member engages the front stop defining a full draft position.
Another exemplary embodiment relates to a railcar damping system configured for placement in a railcar center sill having longitudinally spaced front and rear stops defining a center sill pocket. The system can have one or more front stops and one or more rear stops. The system includes a yoke provided in the center sill pocket and having a longitudinal axis, the yoke including opposing top and bottom walls extending longitudinally and including a distal end wall connecting the top and bottom walls to define a yoke pocket. The system includes a damping assembly disposed in the yoke pocket and configured for receiving and dissipating external forces acting on a coupler connected to the yoke. The damping assembly includes a housing having a side wall extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket and having proximal and distal ends and an end wall connected to the side wall distal end, the end wall being transverse to the longitudinal axis and extending into the yoke pocket, and the side wall having an extension extending longitudinally from the side wall proximal end. The system includes a follower block provided within the yoke pocket for movement along the longitudinal axis, the follower block being positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis and including a flange portion defining opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides. The front stop(s) is disposed at a proximal end of the center sill pocket and the rear stop(s) is disposed at a distal end of the center sill pocket. In buff movement, the follower block is urged toward the distal end of the center sill pocket and engages the damping assembly, and the flange portion of the follower block travels along the extension of the housing and engages a distal stop surface of the housing defining a full buff position. In draft movement, the housing is urged toward the proximal end of the center sill pocket until a proximal stop surface of the housing engages the front stop defining a full draft position.
Another exemplary embodiment relates to a railcar damping system configured for placement in a railcar center sill having longitudinally spaced front and intermediate stops defining a center sill pocket. The system can have one or more front stops and one or more intermediate stops. The system includes a yoke provided in the center sill pocket and having a longitudinal axis, the yoke including opposing top and bottom walls extending longitudinally and including a distal end wall connecting the top and bottom walls to define a yoke pocket. The system includes a damping assembly disposed in the yoke pocket and configured for receiving and dissipating external forces acting on a coupler connected to the yoke. The system includes a longitudinally moveable member having a side wall extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket and having proximal and distal ends and an end wall connected to the side wall distal end, the end wall being transverse to the longitudinal axis and extending into the yoke pocket. The system includes a front follower block provided within the yoke pocket for movement along the longitudinal axis, the front follower block being positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis, the front follower block having opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides, and the front follower block being positioned between the front and intermediate stops. The system includes a rear follower block provided within the yoke pocket for movement along the longitudinal axis, the rear follower block being positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis, the rear follower block having opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides, and the rear follower block being positioned between the intermediate stop and the yoke distal end wall. The front stop(s) is disposed at a proximal end of the center sill pocket and the intermediate stop(s) is disposed at a location between the proximal and distal ends of the center sill pocket. In buff movement, the front follower block is urged toward the distal end of the center sill pocket and engages the damping assembly, and the front follower block further travels along the center sill pocket and engages the side wall of the longitudinal moveable member defining a full buff position. In draft movement, the rear follower block is urged toward the proximal end of the center sill pocket until the rear follower block engages the intermediate stop defining a full draft position.
Another exemplary embodiment relates to a railcar damping system configured for placement in a railcar center sill having longitudinally spaced front and intermediate stops defining a center sill pocket. The system can have one or more front stops and one or more intermediate stops. The system includes a yoke provided in the center sill pocket and having a longitudinal axis, the yoke including opposing top and bottom walls extending longitudinally and including a distal end wall connecting the top and bottom walls to define a yoke pocket. The system includes a damping assembly disposed in the yoke pocket and configured for receiving and dissipating external forces acting on a coupler connected to the yoke. The damping assembly includes a housing having a side wall extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket and having proximal and distal ends and an end wall connected to the side wall distal end, the end wall being transverse to the longitudinal axis and extending into the yoke pocket, and the side wall having a cut-out formed in a surface thereof defining a proximal cut-out surface and a distal cut-out surface. The system includes a follower block provided within the yoke pocket for movement along the longitudinal axis, the follower block being positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis, and the follower block having opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides. The front stop(s) is disposed at a proximal end of the center sill pocket and the intermediate stop(s) is disposed at a location between the proximal and distal ends of the center sill pocket. In buff movement, the follower block is urged toward the distal end of the center sill pocket and engages the damping assembly, and the follower block further travels along the center sill pocket and engages the side wall of the housing defining a full buff position. In draft movement, the housing is urged toward the proximal end of the center sill pocket until the distal cut-out surface engages the intermediate stop defining a full draft position.
Another exemplary embodiment related to a railcar damping system configured for placement in a railcar center sill having longitudinally spaced front and rear stops defining a center sill pocket. The railcar damping system includes a yoke provided in the center sill pocket and having a longitudinal axis. The yoke includes opposing top and bottom walls extending longitudinally, and further includes a distal end wall connecting the top and bottom walls to define a yoke pocket. The system includes a damping assembly disposed in the yoke pocket. The damping assembly is configured for receiving and dissipating external forces acting on a coupler connected to the yoke. The system includes a longitudinally moveable member having a side wall extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket and has proximal and distal ends and an end wall connected to the side wall distal end. The end wall is transverse to the longitudinal axis and extends into the yoke pocket. The system includes a follower block provided within the yoke pocket for movement along the longitudinal axis. The follower block is positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis and includes opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides. The front stop includes a proximal stop surface formed on an inner surface of the front stop and a distally extending portion extending longitudinally and terminating in a distal stop surface. In buff movement, the follower block is urged toward the distal end of the center sill pocket and engages the damping assembly. The follower block travels along the inner surface of the distally extending portion of the follower block and engages the side wall of the longitudinally moveable member defining a full buff position. In draft movement, the longitudinally moveable member is urged toward the proximal end of the center sill pocket until the proximal end of the longitudinally moveable member engages the distal stop surface of the front stop defining a full draft position.
Another exemplary embodiment relates to a railcar damping system configured for placement in a railcar center sill having longitudinally spaced front, intermediate, and rear stops defining a center sill pocket. The railcar damping system includes a yoke provided in the center sill pocket having a longitudinal axis. The yoke including opposing top and bottom walls extending longitudinally and includes a distal end wall connecting the top and bottom walls to define a yoke pocket. The system includes a damping assembly disposed in the yoke pocket and configured for receiving and dissipating external forces acting on a coupler connected to the yoke. The system includes a longitudinally moveable member having a side wall extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket and having proximal and distal ends and an end wall connected to the side wall distal end. The end wall is transverse to the longitudinal axis and extends into the yoke pocket. The system includes a follower block provided within the yoke pocket for movement along the longitudinal axis. The follower block is positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis and includes opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides. The front stop includes a stop surface formed at a distal end of the front stop. In buff movement, the follower block is urged toward the distal end of the center sill pocket and engages the damping assembly. The follower block travels past the intermediate stop and engages the side wall of the longitudinally moveable member defining a full buff position. In draft movement, the longitudinally moveable member is urged toward the proximal end of the center sill pocket until the proximal end of the longitudinally moveable member engages a distal stop surface of the intermediate stop defining a full draft position. The follower block can be any one of square shaped, rectangular shaped, H-shaped, or L-shaped.
It will be appreciated that the elements of the various embodiments are not limited to that particular embodiment, but may be interchangeably combined to form yet further embodiments, as contemplated herein and appreciated by one skilled in the art.
Embodiments of the damping system dissipate more energy and allow railcars to be impacted at higher speeds than a traditional draft gears, without transferring higher forces to the railcar structure and lading. The system does not require use of hydraulic fluids, which typically lead to leaking problems. The damping systems disclosed herein are also able to be installed into new cars or be retrofitted to replace existing damping systems (e.g., can be retrofit to replace End of Car Cushioning units in AAR EOC pockets). Additional benefits include:
Further features, aspects, objects, advantages, and possible applications of the present invention will become apparent from a study of the exemplary embodiments and examples described below, in combination with the Figures, and the appended claims.
The above and other objects, aspects, features, advantages and possible applications of the present innovation will be more apparent from the following more particular description thereof, presented in conjunction with the following drawings. Like reference numbers used in the drawings may identify like components.
The following description is of exemplary embodiments that are presently contemplated for carrying out the present invention. This description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of describing the general principles and features of various aspects of the present invention. The scope of the present invention is not limited by this description.
Referring to
The damping means 102 is secured to a railcar frame 3. For instance, the railcar frame 3 has a center sill pocket 4 within which the damping means 102 is secured. The center sill pocket 4 of the railcar frame 3 is located at or near a distal end of the railcar 1, and is a square or rectangular pocket that is sized to receive the damping means 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the center sill pocket 4 is rectangular and is configured to have its long axis be aligned (coaxial or parallel) with the longitudinal axis 2 of the railcar 1. The damping means 102 is placed within the center sill pocket 4 so that its rear end is more distal relative to the distal end of the railcar 1 than its front end is. The damping means 102 is held in place within the center sill pocket 4 by front stops 104 and rear stops 104 (and in some cases intermediate stops 104) that are secured (e.g., via a fastener, weld, etc.) to the railcar frame 3, that form the center sill pocket 4. For instance, the center sill pocket 4 is sized to allow the damping means 102 to be inserted therein and be slid in a direction back and forth along the longitudinal axis 2 but be bounded in that longitudinal movement by the stops 104. The stops 104 are attached to the frame 3 and form or define the center sill pocket 4 so that when the damping means 102 moves, the longitudinal moveable member (and in some cases the housing) abuts against one of the stops 104 to arrest further movement. It is important to note that the damping means 102 is intended to move within the center sill pocket 4, but that the stops 104 bound that movement to achieve the desired level of draft and buff motion for the damping system 100.
A coupler 110 is mechanically connected to a yoke 108, each of which are rectangular or cylindrical members that is aligned with the longitudinal axis 2 of the railcar 1. The coupler 110 has a coupling end 110a and a yoke-engaging end 110b. The coupling end 110a is configured to mechanically couple to another coupler via coupling impact—e.g., the coupling end 110a can be a Janney style coupler, a SA3 style coupler, a Scharfenberg stype coupler, etc. The yoke-engaging end 110b can facilitate attachment to the yoke 108 via a pin-and-hole, a cotter-pin type securement, etc. The yoke 108 is a member that sides within the center sill pocket 4 but also surrounds, envelops, or cradles the damping means 102. For instance, the yoke 108 has a coupler-engaging end 108a (e.g., a pin-and-hole, a cotter-pin type securement, etc.) and a cradle end 108b. The cradle end 108b envelops the damping means 102. While the yoke 108 cradles the damping means 102, it also allows for relative motion between the yoke 108 and the damping means 102. Thus, when the coupler 110 is impacted, the coupler 110 and the yoke 108 are both caused to move towards the damping means 102—this is a buff motion. The coupler 110 and yoke 108 both move relative to the damping means 102 so as to allow the coupler's yoke-engaging end 110b to impact the longitudinal moveable member. Depending on the arrangement of the stops 104, the follower block 106, and the housing (if one is used), compression of the damping means 102 may begin at this point. When the coupler 110 is pulled, the coupler 110 and the yoke 108 are both caused to move away from the damping means 102—this is draft motion. The coupler 110 and yoke 108 both move relative to the damping means 102 so as to allow the cradle end 108b to impact the longitudinal moveable member (or the housing if one is used), thereby allowing further movement of the coupler 110 in that same direction to pull the damping means 102 along with it. Depending on the arrangement of the stops 104, follower bock 106, and the housing (if one is used), the damping means 102 is pulled along until it abuts a stop 104, causing a transfer of force to the railcar frame 3 and movement of the railcar 1.
As will be explained in more detail, the buff and draft motions can be controlled via different configurations and placements of the stops 104, follower blocks 106, and housing (if one is used).
Each embodiment of the damping means 102 has a longitudinal moveable member. Depending on the arrangement, some damping means 102 include a housing and some do not. In each embodiment, the damping means 102 is designed to fit within the center sill pocket 4 so that its rear end is adjacent the center sill pocket distal end 5, its front end is adjacent the center sill pocket proximal end 6, and movement of the longitudinal moveable member is along the longitudinal axis 2. The yoke 108 cradles the damping means 102 so that the cradle end 108b is situated within the center sill pocket distal end 5 and the coupler-engaging end 108a is situated within the center sill pocket proximal end 6. The coupler-engaging end 108a includes a step 112 (e.g. flange, bevel, collar, etc.) that causes the width of the yoke 108 to increase—i.e., the yoke 108 has a constant width starting from the cradle end 108b until the step 112, wherein at the step 112 the width increases just before the coupler-engaging end 108a.
The damping system 100 has a front follower block 106. The front follower block 106 is positioned within the center sill pocket 4 and is located between the longitudinal moveable member (or housing if one is used) and the step 112. Some embodiments include a rear follower block 106. The rear follower block 106 is positioned within the center sill pocket 4 and is located between the longitudinal moveable member (or housing if one is used) and the cradle end 108b of the yoke 108.
Discussion of the various embodiments of the damping system 100 will involve the damping system 100 being in a neutral position, a full buff position, and a full draft position. Discussions will also involve buff movement and draft movement. The damping system 100 is in a neutral position when the damping means 102 is minimally compressed (technically, there is always some amount of compression in the draft means 102 (i.e., draft gear) when it is installed into the center sill pocket 4 (i.e., draft sill assembly)) and when there is no draft motion or buff motion. The damping system 100 is in a buff position when the damping means 102 is compressed or compressing and there is a buff motion. When, during buff motion, the damping system 100 arrests longitudinal moveable member or housing movement, the damping system 100 is said to be in full buff position. Embodiments of the damping system 100 allow for full compression of the damping system 100 when in a full buff position. The damping system 100 is in a draft position when the damping means 102 is compressed or compressing and there is a draft motion. When, during draft motion, the damping system 100 arrests longitudinal moveable member or housing movement, the damping system 100 is said to be in a full draft position. Embodiments of the damping system 100 allow for partial compression of the damping system 100 when in a full draft position.
As the yoke 108 is moved in a buff motion, the coupler 110 advances and engages against the front follower block 106 to cause it to advance towards the longitudinal moveable member (or housing). As the buff motion continues, the front follower block 106 presses against the damping means 102 to cause compression of the damping means 102 until the damping system 100 experiences full compression. The stops 104 are out of the path of the yoke 108 but in the path of the longitudinal moveable member (or housing). When the damping means 102 is caused to move in buff motion, rear or intermediate stops 104 (depending on the embodiment) arrest movement of the longitudinal moveable member (or housing) beyond a certain point. This arrested movement of the longitudinal moveable member (or housing) allows the front follower block 106 to fully compress the damping means 102. When the longitudinal moveable member (or housing) movement is arrested and the damping means 102 is fully compressed, the damping system 100 is in full buff position. When in full buff position, no further movement towards the center sill pocket distal end 5 of the coupler 110, yoke 108, or longitudinal moveable member (or housing) can be achieved. Note that in full buff position, the damping means 102 is fully compressed.
After being in a full buff position, the damping means 102 extends, pushing (or at least biasing) the front follower block 106, yoke 108, and coupler 110 towards the center sill pocket proximal end 6. The damping means 102 can push the front follower block 106, yoke 108, and coupler 110 until the damping system 100 reaches a neutral position.
During a draft motion from a buff position, the coupler 110 and yoke 108 pull the longitudinal moveable member (or housing) towards the center sill pocket proximal end 6 so that the longitudinal moveable member (or housing) moves away from the rear or intermediate stops 104. As will be explained, the front stops 104 then come into play to limit the motion of the longitudinal moveable member (or housing) during further draft motion.
When leaving a buff position due to a draft motion or due to the biasing force of the damping means 102, the damping means 102 starts to decompress and transition the damping system 100 to a neutral position. When transitioning to the neutral position, the longitudinal moveable member (or housing) abuts against and advances the front follower block 106 towards the center sill pocket proximal end 6. This occurs until the front follower block 106 abuts a stop surface of the front stop 104 to arrest movement of the front follower block 106 any further towards the center sill pocket proximal end 6. At this point, the damping system 100 is in a neutral position.
For embodiments having front and rear stops 104, during further draft motion, the coupler 110 and yoke 108 pull the longitudinal moveable member (or housing) towards the center sill pocket proximal end 6 so that the longitudinal moveable member (or housing) moves away from the rear stops 104. The damping means 102 pushes against the front follower block 106, but because the follower block 106 is held stationary by the front stop 104, the damping means 102 begins to compress. The movement of the coupler 110 and yoke 108, as well as the compression of the damping means 102, continues until the longitudinal moveable member (or housing) abuts the front stop 104, thereby arresting any further movement of the longitudinal moveable member (or housing) towards the center sill pocket proximal end 6. At this point, the damping system 100 is in full draft position. Note the damping means 102 is not fully compressed in the full draft position.
For embodiments having front and intermediate stops 104 and front and rear follower blocks 106, during further draft motion, the coupler 110 and yoke 108 pull the longitudinal moveable member (or housing) towards the center sill pocket proximal end 6 so that the longitudinal moveable member (or housing) moves away from the intermediate stops 104. The damping means 102 pushes against the front follower block 106, but because the front follower block 106 is held stationary by the front stop 104, the damping means 102 begins to compress. The movement of the coupler 110 and yoke 108, as well as the compression of the damping means 102, continues until the rear follower block 106 abuts the intermediate stop 104, thereby arresting any further movement of the longitudinal moveable member towards the center sill pocket proximal end 6. At this point, the damping system 100 is in full draft position. Note the damping means 102 is not fully compressed in the full draft position.
For embodiments having front and intermediate stops 104 and a front follower block 106, during further draft motion, the coupler 110 and yoke 108 pull the housing towards the center sill pocket proximal end 6 so that the housing moves away from the intermediate stops 104. The damping means 102 pushes against the follower block 106, but because the follower block 106 is held stationary by the front stop 104, the damping means 102 begins to compress. The movement of the coupler 110 and yoke 108, as well as the compression of the damping means 102, continues until a cut-out in the housing abuts the intermediate stop 104, thereby arresting any further movement of the housing towards the center sill pocket proximal end 6. At this point, the damping system 100 is in full draft position. Note the damping system 100 is not fully compressed in the full draft position.
Referring to
The yoke 208 has opposing top and bottom walls 208a, 208b extending longitudinally. The yoke 208 further has a distal end wall 208c connecting the top and bottom walls 208a, 208b to define a yoke pocket 208d. A damping assembly 202 (or damping means) is disposed in the yoke pocket 208d, and is configured for receiving and dissipating external forces acting on a coupler 210 connected to the yoke 208.
The damping system 200 includes a longitudinally moveable member 214 having at least one side wall 214a extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket 4. The longitudinally moveable member 214 has proximal and distal ends 214b, 214c and an end wall 214d connected to the side wall distal end 214c. The end wall 214d is configured to be transverse to the longitudinal axis 2 and to extend into the yoke pocket 208d.
The damping system 200 has a follower block 206 positioned within the yoke pocket 208d for movement along the longitudinal axis 2. The follower block 206 is positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis 2 and includes a flange portion 206a defining opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides 206b, 206c. For instance, the follower block 206 can be a planar member that is I-shaped or H-shaped, such a shape having a web portion and at least one flange portion 206a.
The embodiment shown in
In buff movement, the follower block 106 is urged toward the distal end 5 of the center sill pocket 4 and engages the damping assembly 202. The flange portion 206a of the follower block 106 travels along the distally extending portion 218 of the front stop 204a and engages the side wall 214a of the longitudinally moveable member 214, defining a full buff position.
In draft movement, the longitudinally moveable member 214 is urged toward the proximal end 6 of the center sill pocket 4 until the proximal end 214b of the longitudinally moveable member 214 engages the distal stop surface 220 of the front stop 204a, defining a full draft position.
The rear stops 204b in this embodiment can be in a shape other than square or rectangular. For instance, the rear stops 204b can be wedge shaped. The front stops 204a can also exhibit a taper so as to be wider at the distal stop surface 220 but narrow at proximal stop surface 216.
Referring to
The damping system 300 includes a housing 314 having at least one side wall 314a extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket 4. The housing 314 has proximal and distal ends 314b, 314c and an end wall 314d connected to the side wall distal end 314c. The end wall 314d is configured to be transverse to the longitudinal axis 2 and to extend into the yoke pocket 308d.
The damping system 300 has a follower block 306 positioned within the yoke pocket 308d for movement along the longitudinal axis 2. The follower block 306 is positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis 2 and includes a flange portion 306a defining opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides 306b, 306c. For instance, the follower block 306 can be a planar member that is I-shaped or H-shaped, such a shape having a web portion and at least one flange portion 306a.
The embodiment shown in
In buff movement, the follower block 306 is urged toward the distal end 5 of the center sill pocket 4 and engages the damping assembly 302. The flange portion 306a of the follower block 306 travels along the distally extending portion 318 of the front stop 304a and engages the side wall 314a of the housing 314, defining a full buff position.
In draft movement, the housing 314 is urged toward the proximal end 6 of the center sill pocket 4 until the proximal end 314b of the housing 314 engages the distal stop surface 320 of the front stop 304a, defining a full draft position.
The rear stops 304b in this embodiment can be in a shape other than square or rectangular. For instance, the rear stops 304b can be wedge shaped. The front stops 304a can also exhibit a taper so as to be wider at the distal stop surface 320 but narrow at proximal stop surface 316.
Referring to
The damping system 400 includes a longitudinally moveable member 414 having at least one side wall 414a extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket 4. The longitudinally moveable member 414 has proximal and distal ends 414b, 414c and an end wall 414d connected to the side wall distal end 414c. The end wall 414d is configured to be transverse to the longitudinal axis 2 and to extend into the yoke pocket 408d. The side wall 414a of the longitudinally moveable member 414 has an extension 414e extending longitudinally from the side wall proximal end 414b. For instance, the side wall 414a can be T-shaped, such shape having a tail that is the extension 414e.
The damping system 400 has a follower block 406 positioned within the yoke pocket 408d for movement along the longitudinal axis 2. The follower block 406 is positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis 2 and includes a flange portion 406a defining opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides 406b, 406c. For instance, the follower block 406 can be a planar member that is I-shaped or H-shaped, such a shape having a web portion and at least one flange portion 406a.
The embodiment shown in
The extension 414e of the side wall 414a of the longitudinally moveable member 414 has a proximal stop surface 414f and a distal stop surface 414g.
In buff movement, the follower block 406 is urged toward the distal end 5 of the center sill pocket 4 and engages the damping assembly 402, and the flange portion 406a of the follower block 406 travels along the extension 414e of the longitudinally moveable member 414 and engages a distal stop surface 414g of the longitudinal moveable member 414, defining a full buff position.
In draft movement, the longitudinally moveable member 414 is urged toward the proximal end 6 of the center sill pocket 4 until a proximal stop surface 414f of the longitudinal moveable member 414 engages the front stop 404a, defining a full draft position.
The rear stops 404b in this embodiment can be in a shape other than square or rectangular. For instance, the rear stops 404b can be wedge shaped.
Referring to
The damping system 500 includes a housing 514 having at least one side wall 514a extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket 4. The housing 514 has proximal and distal ends 514b, 514c and an end wall 514d connected to the side wall distal end 514c. The end wall 514d is configured to be transverse to the longitudinal axis 2 and to extend into the yoke pocket 508d. The side wall 514a of the housing 514 has an extension 514e extending longitudinally from the side wall proximal end 514b. For instance, the side wall 514a can be T-shaped, such shape having a tail that is the extension 514e.
The damping system 500 has a follower block 506 positioned within the yoke pocket 508d for movement along the longitudinal axis 2. The follower block 506 is positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis 2 and includes a flange portion 506a defining opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides 506b, 506c. For instance, the follower block 506 can be a planar member that is I-shaped or H-shaped, such a shape having a web portion and at least one flange portion 506a.
The embodiment shown in
The extension 514e of the side wall 514a of the housing 514 has a proximal stop surface 514f and a distal stop surface 514g.
In buff movement, the follower block 506 is urged toward the distal end 5 of the center sill pocket 4 and engages the damping assembly 502, and the flange portion 506a of the follower block 506 travels along the extension 514e of the housing 514 and engages a distal stop surface 514g of the housing 514, defining a full buff position.
In draft movement, the housing 514 is urged toward the proximal end 6 of the center sill pocket 4 until a proximal stop surface 514f of the housing 514 engages the front stop 504a, defining a full draft position.
The rear stops 504b in this embodiment can be in a shape other than square or rectangular. For instance, the rear stops 504b can be wedge shaped.
Referring to
The damping system 600 includes a longitudinally moveable member 614 having at least one side wall 614a extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket 4. The longitudinally moveable member 614 has proximal and distal ends 614b, 614c and an end wall 614d connected to the side wall distal end 614c. The end wall 614d is configured to be transverse to the longitudinal axis 2 and to extend into the yoke pocket 608d.
The damping system 600 has a front follower block 606 positioned within the yoke pocket 608d for movement along the longitudinal axis 2. The front follower block 606 is positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis 2. The front follower block 606 has opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides 606a, 606b, and it is positioned between the front and intermediate stops 604a, 604c. The front follower block 606 can be a planar member that is square or rectangular shaped.
The damping system 600 has a rear follower block 607 positioned within the yoke pocket 608d for movement along the longitudinal axis 2. The rear follower block 607 is positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis 2. The rear follower block 607 has opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides 607a, 607b. The rear follower block 607 is positioned between the intermediate stop 604c and the yoke distal end wall 608c. The rear follower block 607 can be a planar member that is square or rectangular shaped.
The embodiment shown in
In buff movement, the front follower block 606 is urged toward the distal end 5 of the center sill pocket 4 and engages the damping assembly 602. The front follower block 606 further travels along the center sill pocket 4 and engages the side wall 614a of the longitudinal moveable member 614, defining a full buff position.
In draft movement, the rear follower block 607 is urged toward the proximal end 6 of the center sill pocket 4 until the rear follower block 607 engages the intermediate stop 604c, defining a full draft position.
Referring to
The damping system 700 includes a housing 714 having at least one side wall 714a extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket 4. The housing 714 has proximal and distal ends 714b, 714c and an end wall 714d connected to the side wall distal end 714c. The end wall is configured to be transverse to the longitudinal axis 2 and to extend into the yoke pocket 708d. The side wall 714a has a cut-out 716 formed in a surface thereof defining a proximal cut-out surface 716a and a distal cut-out surface 716b.
The damping system 700 has a follower block 706 positioned within the yoke pocket 708d for movement along the longitudinal axis 2. The follower block 706 is positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis 2. The follower block 706 has opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides 706a, 706b, and it is positioned between the front and intermediate stops 704a, 704c. The follower block 706 can be a planar member that is square or rectangular shaped.
The embodiment shown in
In buff movement, the follower block 706 is urged toward the distal end 5 of the center sill pocket 4 and engages the damping assembly 702. The follower block 706 further travels along the center sill pocket 4 and engages the side wall 714a of the housing 714, defining a full buff position.
In draft movement, the housing 714 is urged toward the proximal end 6 of the center sill pocket 4 until the distal cut-out surface 716b engages the intermediate stop 704c, defining a full draft position.
One of the improvements provided by the inventive system is a configuration that incorporates a proximal stop surface and a distal stop surface. These may be formed on the stops, the longitudinal moveable member, the housing, etc. To achieve this, the various embodiments show I-shaped or H-shaped follower blocks, square or rectangle shaped follower blocks, plus shaped follower blocks, square or rectangle stops, T-shaped stops, C-shaped stops, T-shaped proximal ends of the longitudinal movable member or housing, etc. It is understood, however, that other shapes, configuration, arrangements, and combinations thereof can be used. For instance, the stops can be L-shaped, any of the embodiments described using the I-shaped follower block can similarly use the plus shaped follower bock and vis-versa, etc. Thus, other shapes and configurations that allow for the use of proximal and distal stop surfaces to provide for differentiated draft and buff movements is contemplated and is therefore within the scope of this disclosure.
For instance,
Referring to
The railcar damping system 900 includes a damping assembly 902 that is disposed in the yoke pocket 908d. The damping assembly 902 is configured for receiving and dissipating external forces acting on a coupler 910 connected to the yoke 908.
The railcar damping system 900 includes a longitudinally moveable member 914, which may be a housing having a sidewall 914a or only a sidewall 914a, extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket 4. The longitudinally moveable member 914 has proximal and distal ends 914b, 914c and an end wall 914d connected to the side wall distal end 914c, wherein the end wall 914d is transverse to the longitudinal axis 2 and extends into the yoke pocket 908d.
The railcar damping system 900 includes a follower block 906 provided within the yoke pocket 908d for movement along the longitudinal axis 2. The follower block 906 is positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis 2 and includes opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides 906a, 906b, respectively. The follower block 906 can have a square or rectangular shape.
The front stops 904a are disposed at a proximal end of the center sill pocket 4 and the rear stops 904b are disposed at a distal end of the center sill pocket 4. The front stops 904a include a proximal stop surface 916 formed on the front stop inner surface 922, and a distally extending portion extending longitudinally and terminating in a distal stop surface 918. The proximal stop surface 916 is in the form of a flange or protrusion 920 (e.g., a step, a wedge formation, etc.) extending from the front stop inner surface 922, with the front stop inner surface being generally smooth.
In buff movement, as shown in
In draft movement, as shown in
The follower block 906 can have opposing side ends trimmed off so that it may travel along the front stop inner surface 922 and engage the proximal stop surface 916. This allows the damping system 902 to be compressed fully in the buff motion for maximum energy absorption, while limiting travel in the draft motion by not permitting full compression of the damping assembly 902 so as to reduce inter-car slack.
Referring to
The railcar damping system 1000 includes a damping assembly 1002 that is disposed in the yoke pocket 1008d. The damping assembly 1002 is configured for receiving and dissipating external forces acting on a coupler 1010 connected to the yoke 1008.
The railcar damping system 1000 includes a longitudinally moveable member 1014 having a sidewall 1014a extending longitudinally along the center sill pocket 4. The longitudinally moveable member 1014 has proximal and distal ends 1014b, 1014c and an end wall 1014d connected to the side wall distal end 1014c, wherein the end wall 1014d is transverse to the longitudinal axis 2 and extends into the yoke pocket 1008d.
The railcar damping system 1000 includes a follower block 1006 provided within the yoke pocket 1008d for movement along the longitudinal axis 2. The follower block 1006 is positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis 2 and includes opposing proximal and distal facing stop sides 1006a, 1006b, respectively. The follower block 1006 is shown as having a generally square shape (
The front stops 1004a are disposed at a proximal end of the center sill pocket 4 and the rear stops 1004c are disposed at a distal end of the center sill pocket 4. The intermediate stops 1004b are disposed at an intermediate position between the proximal and distal ends of the center sill pocket 4. The front stops 1004a include a stop surface 1016 formed at a distal end of the front stop 1004a. In some embodiments, each front stop 1004a can be in the shape of a wedge, wherein the thicker edge forms the stop surface 1016; however, other geometric shapes are contemplated and can be implemented in the various embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The intermediate stops 1004b include a stop surface 1018 formed at a distal end of the intermediate stop 1004b. The rear stops 1004c include a stop surface 1020 formed at a proximal end of the rear stop 1004c. In some embodiments, each rear stop 1004c is in the shape of a wedge, wherein the thicker edge forms the stop surface 1020; however, other geometric shapes are contemplated and can be implemented in the various embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
In buff movement, as shown in
In draft movement, as shown in
It is understood that any of the embodiments disclosed herein can be made and used with a longitudinal moveable member or a housing. For instance, an embodiment described using a longitudinal moveable member (or housing) can be used with a similarly shaped housing (longitudinal moveable member).
It should be understood that modifications to the embodiments disclosed herein can be made to meet a particular set of design criteria. For instance, the number of or configuration of components or parameters of the various embodiments may be interchangeably used to meet a particular objective.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous modifications and variations of the described examples and embodiments are possible in light of the above teachings of the disclosure. The disclosed examples and embodiments are presented for purposes of illustration only. Other alternative embodiments may include some or all of the features of the various embodiments disclosed herein. For instance, it is contemplated that a particular feature described, either individually or as part of an embodiment, can be combined with other individually described features, or parts of other embodiments. The elements and acts of the various embodiments described herein can therefore be combined to provide further embodiments.
It is the intent to cover all such modifications and alternative embodiments as may come within the true scope of this invention, which is to be given the full breadth thereof. Additionally, the disclosure of a range of values is a disclosure of every numerical value within that range, including the end points. Thus, while certain exemplary embodiments of the device and methods of making and using the same have been discussed and illustrated herein, it is to be distinctly understood that the invention is not limited thereto but may be otherwise variously embodied and practiced within the scope of the following claims.
This application is related to and claims the benefit of priority of co-pending U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 63/134,302 filed on Jan. 6, 2021, 63/175,164 filed on Apr. 15, 2021, and 63/203,295 filed on Jul. 16, 2021, the entire contents of each being incorporated herein by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63134302 | Jan 2021 | US | |
| 63175164 | Apr 2021 | US | |
| 63203295 | Jul 2021 | US |
