Patent Grant
10724179
This disclosure relates to a railway switch mechanism comprising a first and a second switch blade and a switch frog. The disclosure also relates to a method for operating railway switch mechanism having first and a second switch blades and a switch frog, a railway switch mechanism comprising a switch frog, and a railway switch mechanism comprising a first and a second switch blade. The railway switch mechanism may typically be used for enabling switching from following a main railway route to or from a railway diverging route or opposite.
It is commonly known that railway switches have problems with reliability when operating in winter conditions due to snow and ice preventing correct switching of the switch blades. Snow and ice may block proper switching motion of the switch blades, such that railway service personnel may have to be requested for servicing. One known attempt for reducing the problems of blocking due to snow and ice is electrical heating of the railway switch. Electrical heating is however costly due to the significant amount of electrical energy required for heating. There is thus a need for an improved railway switch removing the above mentioned disadvantages.
An object of the present disclosure is to provide a railway switch mechanism where the previously mentioned problem is at least partly avoided. This object is achieved by the features of the independent claims.
The problem of unreliable switching during winter condition is primarily caused by the fact that snow and ice easily get clamped between stock rails and switch blades upon horizontal motion of the switch blades. There is simply no effective means available for avoiding the clamping of the snow and ice during horizontal switching motion. Similar problems may occur due when debris, stones or other particles are getting clamped by the horizontally moving switch blades. The solution provided by the invention is based on using vertical switching motion of the switch blades instead.
By adopting a vertical switching motion the risk for clamping snow and ice between the switch blades and another component of the switch mechanism is significantly reduced. There horizontal space between the switch blade and stock rails is substantially identical in both switching positions of the switch blades, such that substantially no snow and ice can enter this space at any time. Furthermore, even if any snow or ice would become located in the region of the switch blades, the likelihood that said snow and ice will cause any substantial harm is low because there is plenty of opportunity for any snow or ice to be pushed away during switching motion without becoming clamped between two parts such as to negatively influence the reliability or functionality of the switch.
A switch frog as such improves the safety, functionality and passenger comfort by means of eliminating or at least reducing the gap that exists in fixed stationary frogs. The gap is necessary for enabling the flange of each wheel to pass the frog in each travelling direction of the frog. A wheel passing a stationary frog thus generally temporarily lack proper lateral support, and the wheel will typically descend a certain distance into the gap before hitting the continuing rail path on the other side of the gap, such to induce a shock and generate noise. A switch frog, i.e. a frog than can selectively fill the gaps between a frog point and associated closure tracks by means of switching at least one switching element, reduces or substantially eliminates those problems. Known solutions for switch frogs rely on switching a rail segment moving in the horizontal direction, such as for example a swingnose crossing. However, this type of switch frogs experience the same problems as discussed above in relation to switch blades, namely blocking of proper switching motion of the switching rail segments by snow and ice. The solution defined by the independent claims, namely to use vertically moving switching rail segments in the switch frog, provide essentially the same advantages for the switch frog as described in relation to the switch blades.
Blocking of a vertical switching motion by snow and ice is much more difficult than blocking of a horizontal switching motion due to the lack of opposing surfaces that approaches each other during switching motion. In horizontal switching motion a side surface of the switch blade is located opposite and facing a side surface of the stock rail, and said side surfaces are approaching or retreating from each other during switching motion. In vertical raising switching motion however, no surface is available vertically above the switch blade or switch frog rail segment, such that essentially no blocking can occur. Moreover, in vertical lowering switching motion of the switch blades or switch frog rail segments, it is a theoretical possibility that snow and ice may get trapped at an underside of the switch blade or rail switch frog segment, but this may be avoided by providing sufficient vertical space underneath the switch blades and switch frog rail segments. The space underneath a vertically moveable switch blade or switch frog rail segment may also be better protected and sealed from entering snow and ice compared with a conventional railroad switch mechanism having horizontal switching motion.
According to a first aspect of the invention, the object is at least partly achieved by a railway switch mechanism comprising a first and a second switch blade, wherein a switch point of each of the first and the second switch blade is vertically displaceable by means of a displacement mechanism in order to establish a switch movement in the respective switch point, wherein the respective displacement mechanism comprises at least one pair of cooperating wedges having a lower wedge and an upper wedge, and wherein at least one wedge of the at least one pair of cooperating wedges is arranged to be displaced in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the switch blade or parallel with a longitudinal direction of the switch mechanism, wherein the switch blades are elastically deformable in the vertical direction or pivotally connected by hinged joints to first and second closure rails respectively for enabling the vertical displacement of the switch blades.
According to a second aspect of the invention, the object is at least partly achieved by a railway switch mechanism comprising a switch frog, wherein the switch frog comprises first and second vertically displaceable rail segments in order to establish a switch movement at the switch frog, wherein each switch frog rail segment is provided with a respective displacement mechanism by means of which at least a portion of the first and second switch frog rail segments can be displaced in a vertical direction to at least an upper and a lower position, wherein each respective displacement mechanism comprises at least one pair of cooperating wedges having a lower wedge and an upper wedge, wherein the at least one wedge of the at least one pair of cooperating wedges is arranged to be displaced in a longitudinal direction of the switch mechanism, or in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the switch frog rail segment, respectively.
According to a third aspect of the invention, the object is at least partly achieved by a railway switch mechanism comprising first and second switch blades and a switch frog, wherein a switch point of each of the first and the second switch blade is vertically displaceable in order to establish a switch movement in the respective switch point; wherein the switch frog comprises first and second vertically displaceable rail segments in order to establish a switch movement at the switch frog; wherein each railway switch blade and each switch frog rail segment is provided with a respective displacement mechanism; wherein each respective displacement mechanism comprises at least one pair of cooperating wedges having a lower wedge and an upper wedge; wherein said at least one pair of cooperating wedges is arranged such that relative displacement between the lower and upper wedges causes a vertical movement of at least the upper wedge; and wherein at least one wedge of the at least one pair of cooperating wedges is arranged to be displaced in a longitudinal direction of the switch mechanism, or in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the switch blade or substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the switch frog rail segment, respectively.
According to a fourth aspect of the invention, the object is at least partly achieved by a method for operating a railway switch mechanism according to the third aspect.
The vertical displacement is advantageous over horizontal displacement in terms of avoiding clamping snow and ice. The displacement mechanism provides the necessary vertical displacement and may have various different technologies for providing the vertical displacement, such as for example one or more wedges, hydraulic rams, pivoting motion, or the like.
By providing each respective displacement mechanism with at least one pair of cooperating wedges having a lower wedge and an upper wedge, large support surfaces may be provided, such that load/area on the displacement mechanism can be kept relatively small. This results in reduced wear and enables use of less costly materials.
Relative displacement of two cooperating wedges provides an efficient and cost-effective solution for implementing the displacement mechanism.
Moreover, by arranging the switch such that at least one wedge of the at least one pair of cooperating wedges may be arranged to be displaced in a longitudinal direction of the switch mechanism, or in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the switch blade or substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the switch frog rail segment, respectively, vertical displacement of a long segment by means of a single actuator is enabled. A singe actuator may be connected directly and/or indirectly to multiple wedges/support elements arranged in series. Furthermore, the displacement mechanism can be more easily more integrated into a switch mechanism frame structure if such is used, thereby simplifying heating of the displacement mechanism if required. Moreover, parallel arrangement of the actuators also provides a more compact switch mechanism design which is an important factor when multiple switches are located close to each other.
Furthermore, by having the switch blades deformed elastically in the vertical direction for enabling the desired vertical displacement thereof any discrete hinged connection point to the closure rail is eliminated, such that a more continuous rail is provided. Each discontinuation, each gap, in the rail implies more noise, more vibrations, less robustness and reliability. A continuous rail is thus generally advantageous. The switch blade and closure rail are thus essentially the same element, since no specific location can be determined separating the switch blade from the closure rail. Moreover, by using the natural vertical elasticity of the switch blades more conventional railway track components may be used in the switch mechanism, thereby reducing cost of the switch mechanism. When the alternative design of having pivotally connected switch blades is used less force may be required to bend the rail. i.e. less force may be needed for forcing the switch blade down for enabling a wheel passing by with being led into a diverging path.
Further advantages are achieved by implementing one or several of the features of the dependent claims.
The at least one pair of cooperating wedges may be connected with a switch blade or a switch frog rail segments such that the vertical movement of at least the upper wedge is transmitted to a vertical movement of at least a portion of the first and second switch blade or at least a portion of the first and second switch frog rail segment.
According to an example embodiment, the switch mechanism may be suitable for switching railway wheels of a railway car traveling on a railway diverging in to a first and a second direction, and the switch mechanism may comprise a first pair of running rails diverging into a second and third pair of running rails, wherein the first pair of running rails may comprise a first and a second outer rail and the switch frog may diverge into a first and a second inner rail, the second pair of running rails may comprise the first outer rail and the first inner rail, the third pair of running rails may comprise the second outer rail and the second inner rail, the first switch blade may extend at least partly between the first outer rail and the switch frog, and the second switch blade may extend at least partly between the second outer rail and the switch frog.
According to an example embodiment, each respective displacement mechanism may comprise at least one wedge. The wedge may be stationary or displaceable, and may cooperate with another wedge-shaped or non-wedge-shaped component. The displacement motion of the non-stationary part is typically substantially in a horizontal place, in particular in a direction parallel with a longitudinal direction of an associated switch blade/rail segment or parallel with a longitudinal direction of the switch mechanism.
According to an example embodiment, the displacement of the at least one wedge or relative displacement between the lower and upper wedge may be provided by means of an actuator acting on the at least one wedge or on at least one of the upper and the lower wedge. A single or multiple actuators may be provided for each displacement mechanism. One of the upper and lower wedge may be stationary and the other wedge moveable for vertical displacement. Lubrication may be provided if sliding contact is used for the relative displacement.
According to an example embodiment, each displacement mechanism of the railway switch blade and/or switch frog rail segment may comprise a plurality of pairs of cooperating wedges spread over at least a portion of the first and second switch blade and/or a portion of the first and second switch frog rail segment. A plurality of pairs of cooperating wedges spread over a certain portion provides a highly distributed load and enables cost-efficient progressive vertical displacement over the length of the portion.
According to an example embodiment, at least two of the plurality of pairs of cooperating wedges of each displacement mechanism of the railway switch blade and/or switch frog rail segment may be provided with different wedge inclinations, such that the same relative displacement in the same horizontal direction of the two different pairs of cooperating wedges give different magnitude of the movement in vertical direction of the respective pair of cooperating wedges. This design provides cost-efficient progressive vertical displacement over the length of a rail portion.
According to an example embodiment, the switch frog may comprise a frog tip and first and second vertically displaceable rail segments are arranged to selectively establish a continuous rail path from the first and second switch blade to the frog tip respectively. A continuous rail path effectively eliminates, or at least reduces, the conventional gap that is normally provided at a stationary frog. A gap may cause safety problems because of the reduced lateral support via the flange of the wheel passing the gap. There may also be reduced vertical load area available for the wheel passing the gap such the excessive stress may be exerted on the frog, and in case the wheel drops into the gap a certain amount upon passing noise and chock will be induced reducing rail passenger comfort and increasing wear.
According to an example embodiment, the displacement mechanisms of the railway switch blades may be positively secured to an underside support structure of the displacement mechanisms and to the switch blades, and/or the displacement mechanisms of the switch frog rail segments may be positively secured to an underside support structure of the displacement mechanisms and to the switch frog rail segments. By positively securing the displacement mechanism to an underside support structure and the switch blade, and/or to an underside support structure and the switch frog rail segment, it is possible control the vertical position of each railway switch blade and/or each switch frog rail segment with certainty by means of the actuating position of the displacement mechanism. The risk that the switch blade and/or the switch frog rail segment will always remain at an elevated position, irrespective of displacement mechanism, such that potential derailing can occur due to incorrect switching position of switch blades and/or switch frog rail segments. Positive locking herein means a fastening means that remains functional both in positive and negative locking force mode, i.e. both when the displacement mechanism pushes the switch blade upwards towards its upper position and when the displacement mechanism pulls the switch blade downwards towards its lower position. This functionality is particularly advantageous when purely elastic deformation of the switch blade and/or switch frog rail segments is used for obtaining the desired vertical displacement, because gravity may be insufficient for providing the sufficient vertical downward force needed to reach the lower position. Positive securement may for example be realised by means of a tongue having an undercut located in a groove in case relative displacement between the parts must be possible. In case no relative displacement is required positive locking may be accomplished by threading elements, fasteners embedded during manufacturing, such as cast-in, or the like.
According to an example embodiment, the switch frog rail segments may be deformed elastically in the vertical direction for enabling the desired vertical displacement thereof. This design is advantageous because each rail segment thereby lacks a discrete hinged connection point to the closure rail, such that less discontinuous rails are provided. Each discontinuation, each gap, in the rail implies more noise, more vibrations, less robustness and reliability. A continuous rail is thus generally advantageous. In this example embodiment, the switch grog rail segment and closure rail are essentially the same element, since no specific location can be determined separating the rail segment from the closure rail. Moreover, by using the natural vertical elasticity of the switch frog rail segments more conventional railway track components may be used in the switch mechanism, thereby reducing cost of the switch mechanism.
According to an example embodiment, the switch frog rail segments may be pivotally connected by hinged joints to first and second closure rails respectively for enabling the desired vertical displacement of the switch frog rail segments. This is an alternative example embodiment to above. Pivotal connection of the rail segments to the closure rails result in less force required to bend the rail. i.e. less force for forcing the rail segment down for enabling a wheel passing by with being led into a diverging path. According to yet a further example embodiment the switch blades may use its elasticity for accomplishing the vertical displacement whilst the switch frog rail segments rely on pivotal connected between the rail segments and closure rail, or oppositely.
According to an example embodiment, the switch mechanism may be arranged at least partly on at least one frame provided with a bottom and at least two side walls extending therefrom, a first outer rail and second outer rail may be arranged on said at least two side walls and the displacement mechanisms are located in least partly within a space defined by the bottom and the at least two side walls. A frame enables high control and accuracy of the relative position of the elements of the switch mechanism, as well as heating of the switch mechanism. The bottom of the frame may have a rectangular shape and a side wall on each side thereof, i.e. four side walls surrounding a hollow inside of the frame.
According to an example embodiment, a the switch mechanism may be arranged at least partly on a first frame arranged at least partly surrounding the first and second switch blades, and a second frame may be arranged at least partly surrounding the switch frog. This design enables cost-efficient design and manufacture of the switch mechanism.
According to an example embodiment, the first frame additionally may comprise a lateral side wall adjacent a heel end of the switch blades, the lateral side wall may be arranged to provide support for enabling the desired vertical displacement of the switch blades, the second frame additionally may comprise a lateral side wall adjacent a heel end of the switch frog rail segments, and the lateral side wall may be arranged to provide support for enabling the desired vertical displacement of the switch frog rail segments.
According to an example embodiment, a cover is provided on top of at least one of the first and second frame for at least partly covering the displacement mechanisms. The cover assists in keeping the internal space of the each frame clean and free from snow and ice, as well as improved heat insulation.
According to an example embodiment, an insulating cover may be provided on the frame for covering the displacement mechanisms. The insulating cover is designed for maintaining a heat transfer barrier against cold air entering into the inside of the frame. The insulating cover may also function as a barrier against snow, rain and ice entering the inside of the frame, such that any components therein, such as the displacement mechanism, are better protected.
According to an example embodiment, the frame may be made out of concrete and is provided with an electrical heating mechanism. Frame heating may be an advantageous additional feature for further enhancing the winter functionality of the switch mechanism.
According to an example embodiment, the at least one frame may be arranged to provide lateral support to the at least one displacement mechanism. Lateral support means support in a direction transverse to a longitudinal direction of a motion of at least one member of the displacement mechanism during vertical displacement. Such lateral support serves to maintain the elements of the displacement mechanism, such as cooperating wedges, in proper mutual relationship, and to control the motion of the displacement mechanism during vertical displacement. The longitudinal side walls of the frame are particularly suitable for providing the lateral support.
According to an example embodiment, at least one displacement mechanism may be located at least partly in a metal channel providing lateral support to the at least one displacement mechanism. A metal channel may be designed to provide strong lateral support in both lateral directions. A metal channel may also provide good sliding surface for any moving members of the vertical displacement mechanism, such as moving wedges.
According to an example embodiment, the metal channel may be located side by side with a side wall of the at least one frame. Such arrangement may take advantage of the strong lateral support provided by the side wall of the frame, such that the metal channel itself may provide less lateral support. This allows use of reduced wall thickness of the metal channel for saving cost.
According to an example embodiment, the metal channel may comprise a stopping arrangement for providing a limit to the vertical displacement of the displacement mechanism in an upward direction. It may be advantageous to set the vertical displacement mechanism in tension at the upper position of the switch blades or rail segments for reducing play, vibrations and rattle in the displacement mechanism. By forcing the vertical displacement mechanism against the stopping arrangement at the upper position a more reliable and robust switch mechanism is provided.
According to an example embodiment, the stopping arrangement may comprise at least one abutment member projecting into the metal channel and arranged to come into engagement with the displacement mechanism or an intermediate support member at the upper position of one of the first and second switch blades or first and second rail segments.
According to an example embodiment, at least one displacement mechanism of the first and the second switch blades and of first and second rail segments is located in a frame that has a bottom, two transverse side walls and two longitudinal side walls enclosing the displacement mechanism. This provides improved protection against snow and dirt from the outside.
According to an example embodiment, the frame is secured to a plurality of underlying sleepers. Using sleepers as a cost-efficient solution for supporting the rail and switch mechanism.
According to an example embodiment, at least one of the sleepers that supports the frame also supports a first and/or a second outer rail of the railway switch mechanism. This enables a dual functionality of the sleepers.
According to an example embodiment, at least one of the first and second switch blades and the first and second rail segments are fastened to intermediate support members respectively, and the displacement mechanisms are connected to the intermediate support members and arranged for displacing the intermediate support members in the vertical direction. Using intermediate support members simplifies installation of the switch mechanism because the switch blades must merely be fastened to the intermediate support members.
According to an example embodiment, at least one of the intermediate support members closes the upper surface of an internal space defined by each frame. This further improves the protection of the displacement mechanism surrounded by the frame.
According to an example embodiment, at least one of the intermediate support members comprises a first part and a second part, wherein one end of the first part is pivotally connected to an upper side of a transverse side wall of the frame at a first pivot point and the opposite end of the first part is pivotally connected to the second part at a second pivot joint. This design enables a long segment of the switch blades being vertically displaced without needing excessive space for the switch points in lowered position.
According to an example embodiment, the displacement mechanism controlling the motion of the first part comprises a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart pair of cooperating wedges, each of which having a unique angle of inclination. This provides a distributed support for the first part.
According to an example embodiment, the displacement mechanism controlling the motion of the second part is arranged to vertically displace the second part while maintaining its horizontal orientation fixed. This design enables a long segment of the switch blades being vertically displaced without needing excessive space for the switch points in lowered position.
According to an example embodiment, the displacement mechanism controlling the motion of the second part comprises a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart pair of cooperating wedges having the same angle of inclination. This design enables a long segment of the switch blades being vertically displaced without needing excessive space for the switch points in lowered position.
According to an example embodiment, the displacement mechanism comprises a pull-down control member, which is connected to an underlying support structure and the intermediate support member, wherein the pull-down control member comprises a track with an inclined path and a guide member arranged to be guided by the track.
According to an example embodiment, the displacement mechanism comprises a longitudinally extending longitudinally slidable control member drivingly connected to an actuator, wherein a part of a pull-down control member or a wedge is attached to the control member, and the control member is secured against vertical displacement.
Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein.
In the detailed description below reference is made to the following figure, in which:
Various aspects of the disclosure will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings to illustrate and not to limit the disclosure, wherein like designations denote like elements, and variations of the described aspects are not restricted to the specifically shown embodiments, but are applicable on other variations of the disclosure.
A first switch blade 141 extend at least partly between the first outer rail 111 and the switch frog 150, and a second switch blade 142 extend at least partly between the second outer rail 112 and the switch frog 150. A switch point 145a; 146a of each of the first and the second switch blades 141; 142 is vertically displaceable in order to establish a switch movement in the respective switch point 145a; 146a.
In the embodiment of
Each railway switch blade 141, 142 is provided with a respective displacement mechanism 200a, 201a by means of which at least a portion of the first and second switch blade can be displaced in a vertical direction to at least an upper and a lower position. Each individual displacement mechanism 200a, 201a is preferably located below the first and second switch blade 141, 142, respectively for enabling the desired vertical displacement of the switch blade 141, 142.
In the example embodiment of
The first frame 160a is provided with a bottom 161a, two longitudinal side walls 162a and two transverse side walls 164a extending from the bottom upwards. An internal space 163a is defined by said side walls 162a, 164a and bottom 161a and the displacement mechanisms 200a, 201a are located within the space 163a. Location of the displacement mechanisms 200, 201 within the space 163a has the advantage of allowing a more protected installation of the displacement mechanisms 200a, 201a against climate, debris, snow, ice, etc. Moreover, the frame enclosure allows more cost-efficient heating of the displacement mechanisms 200a, 201a and switch blades 141, 142.
A longitudinal direction L herein denotes a direction parallel to the first pair of running rails 110 directly before the switch mechanism 100, and the transverse direction T is extending perpendicular to longitudinal direction L.
A longitudinal distance D1 of the displacement mechanism 200a, 201a of the switch blades 141, 142 may typically be in the range of 10-70% of the longitudinal distance D2 between a gap of the switch frog 150 to a distal end of the displacement mechanism 200a, 201a, specifically in the range of 10-50%, more specifically in the range of 20-40%. The longitudinal distance D1 of the displacement mechanism 200a, 201a is preferably short for enabling use of a compact and cost-effective displacement mechanism 200a, 201a, but the rigidity of the switch blades 141, 142 may require a relatively long longitudinal distance D1 for enabling a sufficient gradual elastic deformation of the switch blades 141, 142 for allowing a wheel flange of a railway wheel to pass the vertically downwardly displaced switch blade 141, 142 without contact therebetween and an additional safety margin for allowing for variations over time. The length of longitudinal distance D1 may typically be in the range of 3-12 meters, specifically in the range of 4-8 meters, for example depending on the radius of curvature of the diverging railway track.
In the example embodiment of
Both the first and second outer rails 111, 112 may be arranged on a longitudinal side wall 162a along substantially the entire longitudinal length of the first frame 160a. In the example shown in
The switch mechanism 100 additionally comprises a switch frog 150. The switch frog may also be referred to as switchable crossing. The switch frog 150 comprises a frog tip 151 and first and second vertically displaceable rail segments 144, 143 in order to establish a switch movement at the switch frog 150. The switch movement at the switch frog is arranged to selectively establish a continuous rail path between the first and second closure rails 170, 171 and the frog tip 151 respectively.
Conventional stationary and non-controlled frogs comprise a gap in each rail at the frog tip 155 for enabling the flange of the railway wheels to pass the frog. Without such a gap a railway wheel could never escape out from the boundaries of the right and left rail tracks due the wheel flange that extends downwardly below the upper rolling surface of the rails. The gap at the crossing however enables this escape, such that a railway vehicle can switch from one track to another track. However, it is sometimes desirable to close the gap at the frog for improving comfort, handling and safety of the frog. Conventional switch frogs use horizontal motion of the frog tip for enabling switching of the switch frog. The switch frog rail segments 144, 143 according to the invention are instead configured to be deformed elastically in the vertical direction for enabling the desired vertical displacement thereof.
In the example embodiment of
According to the example embodiment of
Many different geometrical designs of the second frame are feasible and the design shown in
Each vertical displacement mechanism 200a, 201a, 200b, 201b of the switch blades 141, 142 and switch frog rail segments 144, 143 has generally an elongated shape. The reason behind this shape is partly for enabling the vertical displacement of the switch blades 141, 142 and rail segments 144, 143 to occur solely based on elastic deformation of the switch blades 141, 142, rail segments 144, 143 and any closure rails 170, 171, and partly for providing the necessary vertical support to the switch blades 141, 142 and rail segments 144, 143 for carrying the load of a railway car without unacceptable level of deflection.
The switch blades 141, 142 and rail segments 144, 143 are similar to a cantilever beam in that they are permanently anchored at one end only, i.e. the end heel. The switch blades 141, 142 and rail segments 144, 143 are typically made of steel and must therefore have a significant length for enabling the desired vertical displacement at the switch points 145a, 146a, 145b, 146b of the switch blades 141, 142 and rail segments 144, 143 without exceeding the limit for permanent deformation of the switch blades 141, 142 and rail segments 144, 143. Unless the displacement mechanisms 200a, 201a, 200b, 201b provide a distributed support to the switch blades 141, 142 and rail segments 144, 143 they may locally deflect downwards when carrying the load of a passing railway car. Such deflection may induce a safety risk due to quicker aging of the switch blades 141, 142 and rail segments 144, 143, as well as uneven railway track. Therefore, the displacement mechanisms 200a, 201a, 200b, 201b may advantageously be arranged to provide substantially continuous support to the switch blades 141, 142 and rail segments 144, 143 over a substantial length thereof, or to provide a plurality of individual supports distributed regularly or irregularly over the length thereof.
The displacement mechanisms 200a, 201a, 200b, 201b will consequently frequently exhibit an elongated shape with a length substantially exceeding the width thereof, when viewed from above. The direction of elongation of the displacement mechanisms 200a, 201a, 200b, 201b, i.e. their longitudinal orientation are schematically shown in
Sleepers 303 are schematically included in
Many alternative configurations of the switch mechanism 100 are possible without leaving the scope of the invention. For example, the first and second frames 160a, 160b may be interconnected by some connection device for ensuring that the relative position of the first and second frame 160a, 160b does not change over time. Furthermore, a single frame surrounding both the switch blades 141, 142 and the switch frog 150 may be implemented instead. Such a single frame could for example be provided with at least two intermediate frame walls extending in the transverse direction T for providing support for the displacement mechanism 200a, 201a, 200b, 201b and enabling elastic bending of the switch blades 141, 142 and switch frog rail segments 144, 143.
The functionality of the switch mechanism 100 will be described in relation to
In another example, when it is desired that a railway car arriving to the switch mechanisms 100 on the first pair of running rails 110 should diverge and continue along the second direction B instead, the first switch blade 141 is displaced to its upper position and the second switch blade 142 is displaced to its lower position. Thereby, the flange 412 of the left railway wheel 409 of the railway car is forced to follow the first switch blade 141 and the right wheel will follow the second outer rail 112.
The switch frog 150 may be controlled to switch in accordance with the switch blades 141, 142. This means that the first switch frog rail segment 144 is controlled to be located in its upper position when the first switch blade 141 is controlled to be located in its upper position, and that the second switch frog rail segment 143 is controlled to be located in its upper position when the second switch blade 142 is controlled to be located in its upper position. This control arrangement, in combination with only allowing a single switch blade 141, 142 in the upper position at a time, ensures that the first rail segment 144 is in upper position when railway car is travelling towards the second direction B, and that the second rail segment 143 is in the upper position when the railway car is travelling towards the first direction A.
The displacement mechanism should be secured to the bottom 161 of the frame 160 as well as the switch frog rail segment. Thereby, it is possible control the vertical position of each railway segment with certainty by means of the actuating position of the displacement mechanism. As discussed above, the positive securement may be realised by means of a substantially longitudinally extending interlocking tongue and groove connection (not shown) between the upper and lower wedge 212, 211, such that longitudinal relative sliding displacement is possible.
An example embodiment of the displacement mechanism 20a1 is shown in
A second intermediate support member 214a is shown positioned above the upper wedges 212a in
The plurality of pairs of cooperating wedges are connected with the second switch blade 142 such that the vertical movement of the upper wedges 212a induced a vertical corresponding movement of the second switch blade 142.
As illustrated in
A gradual deflection induced by means of a plurality of pairs of cooperating wedges 311a, 312a, 313a, 314a, 315a distributed over the length of the switch blade is advantageous in terms of controllability of the deflection of the switch blade over the length of the switch blade 142. This controllability ensures that the switch blade does not easily deforms plastically near the supporting transverse side wall 164a at the heel end of the switch blade 142.
In the example embodiment of the vertical displacement mechanism 201 shown in
The inclined sliding surface of the each pair of cooperating wedges 311a, 312a, 313a, 314a, 315a preferably comprises some type of connection that allows relative sliding motion but prevents that the sliding surfaces disengaged from each other. The force required to elastically bend the second switch blade 142, and possibly also a second intermediate support member 214a, is likely larger than the gravity force, such that the second switch blade 142 possibly must be forced downwardly to the lower position. Such forcing is not possible if the wedges 211a, 212a of any pair of cooperating wedges are allowed to disengage and separate from each other in the vertical direction. Some type of longitudinally extending interlocking groove and tongue arrangement on the inclined sliding surface of the wedges 211a, 212a would provide the required engagement.
The lower wedges 211a are sliding along the bottom of the first frame 160a, either directly on the bottom, or on a bottom of a metal channel 307a if such a device is used. Also this sliding connection is preferably provided with some type of connection that allows longitudinal relative sliding motion but prevents the sliding surfaces from vertically disengaging each other. Some type of longitudinally extending interlocking groove and tongue arrangement on the sliding surface of the lower wedges 211a that is slidingly engaged with a sliding surface of the first frame 160a or metal channel 307a would provide the required engagement.
The actuating mechanism for providing the required longitudinal displacement of the lower wedges 211a comprises for example a hydraulic, pneumatic or electromechanical actuator connected to at least one lower wedge 211a via a rod 177. An electromechanical actuator, such as an electrical motor that drives threaded rod 177 may be advantageous because elimination of risk for hydraulic fluid leakage.
The length of the wedges 211a, 212a in the longitudinal direction L may be equal on all wedges, but the pair of cooperating wedges 311a located closest to the heel side of the second switch blade 142 is preferably longer in the longitudinal direction that the remaining pair of cooperating wedges because the pair of cooperating wedges located at the heel side carries more load that the pair of wedges located closer to the switch point 145a. The reason for this is that the second switch blade 142, in its upper position, will force a railway wheel to leave the second outer rail 112 and instead following the second closure rail and thereafter the first inner rail 121. In the beginning of this transition from the second outer rail 112 to the second closure rail 171 the weight of the load is still carried solely by the second outer rail 112. However, at a certain point, the railway wheel will leave the second outer rail 112 and at that position the entire load of the railway wheel is carried by the second switch blade 142. A larger longitudinal length of the wedges of a pair of cooperating wedges enables increased load with preserved load/area unit.
The first frame 160a may be provided with heating means, such as electrical conductors located embedded in part of the first frame 160a or on an internal surface of the first frame 160a. Other parts of the switch mechanism 100 may also or alternatively be heated, such as wedges 211a, 212a, intermediate support members 213a, 214a and/or switch blades 141, 142. An electrical air heater may also or alternatively be provided within the first frame 160a for increasing the dynamic response in case of quick weather changes. Frame heating may be an advantageous additional feature for further enhancing the winter functionality of the switch mechanism 100. Electrical heating means may alternatively, or in combination with frame heating, be applied directly to the switch blades 141, 142 and/or switch frog rail segments 144, 143. Electrical air heating may alternatively, or in combination with above-mentioned heating means, be provided within at least one frame 160a, 160b, for example by means of an electrical air blower. Electrical air heating may be advantageous in case of rapid changes in weather conditions. Frame heating via embedded heating wires reacts relatively slowly, but an air blower may relatively swiftly heat the internal space within a frame 160a, 160b.
Moreover, insulation 422a of the first frame 160a may also be provided for reducing heat loss from the first frame 160a. The insulation is preferably located under the first frame 160a and/or on the outside and/or inside of the of the side walls 162a, 164a.
The second switch blade 142, which is supported by the second vertical displacement mechanism 201 via the second intermediate support member 214a, is gradually vertically displaced along the length of the second switch blade, with maximal vertical displacement at the switching point. From a region where the fixed closure rail 171 transforms into a switch blade 142 the switch blade 142 starts to deform elastically to reach the lower switching portion. The elastic deformation continues more or less gradually along the second switch blade 142 towards the switching point 145a.
The vertical displacement of the second switch blade 142 must be sufficient for enabling the flange 412 of the railway wheel 411 to pass above the top side of the second switch blade 42 while following the second outer rail 112 towards the second direction B. If the distance D3 in
Each of the first and second displacement mechanisms 200a, 201a of the switch blades 141, 142 are shown comprising a lower wedge 211a and upper wedge 212a. Positioned above each upper wedge 212a are the first and second intermediate support members 213a, 214a respectively. Finally, the first and second switch blades 141, 142 are positioned on top of the first and second intermediate support members 213a, 214a respectively. The first and second switch blades 141, 142 are thus vertically displaceable by means of the first and second displacement mechanisms 200a, 201a. In the shown example embodiment, the first and second displacement mechanisms 200a, 201a are located immediately next to the side walls 162a, thereby leaving a space 163a in the centre of the frame substantially empty.
In the example embodiment of
In the illustrated example embodiment of
In the example embodiment of
In
For ensuring that also not the upper wedges 212a become lifted in the vertical direction V when the switch blades are forced to deflect downwards from its natural position to the lower position, locking means may be required between the lower and upper wedges 211a, 212a of each pair of cooperating wedges. In the example of
Finally, also the first and second intermediate support members 213a, 214a may have to be fastened to the upper wedges 212a respectively for preventing mutual disengagement and for enabling the switch blades 141, 142 to be forced to deflect downwards from its natural position to the lower position. This may be arranged by means of locking arrangement 309a having for example an interlocking groove and tongue arrangement in the contact area between the upper wedges 212a and the first and second intermediate support members 213a, 214a respectively, as shown in
Using a locking arrangement integrated in the wedges of the displacement mechanism 200a, 201a, 200b, 201b for ensuring downward deflection of the switch blades 141, 142 enables a railway switch mechanism 100 free from control members interconnecting the first and second displacement mechanisms 200a, 201a. Thereby less moveable parts are provided and the risk for disorder caused by snow, ice or dirt is reduced.
In the example embodiment of
Lateral support may be provided to the displacement mechanism 200a, 201a by placing each displacement mechanism 200a, 201a side by side with the longitudinal side walls 162a. Additional lateral support from the inside of the internal space 163a may be provided by having parts of the first frame 160a provide the necessary lateral support, for example by means of stationary casted concrete support structures 304a. Alternatively, or in combination with stationary concrete support structures, detachable lateral support may be provided, for example by means of support members secured to internal surface of the space 163a or support members pressing the first and second displacement mechanisms 200a, 201a apart, or the like.
Railway wheels 409, 411 and a common axle 413 of a railway car are illustrated in
As mentioned above, the first frame 160a is typically made out of concrete. In the shown example embodiments the first frame 160a is provided with a heating mechanism adapted to heat the frame 16. An insulating cover 421a is also provided on the example embodiment of
The overall dimensions and scale of the first frame 160a is not correctly illustrated in
Essentially all aspects of the first and second displacement mechanisms 200b, 201b and the second frame 160b shown in
One difference is that the first and second displacement mechanisms 200b, 201b are located closed to each other such that a single metal channel member can be used for the displacement mechanisms 200b, 201b of both the first and second rail segments 144, 143. The single metal channel member will thus include two metal channels, each having a single displacement mechanism 200b, 201b therein. In the example embodiment of
Another difference is the location of the first and second displacement mechanisms 200b, 201b within the space 163b of the second frame 160b. In
At least one insulating cover 421b, and preferably at least two insulating covers 421b are provided to avoid snow and ice from entering into the internal space 163b of the second frame, as well as preventing heat from leaving the second frame 160b.
As discussed previously, the longitudinal orientation of each the displacement mechanism 200b, 201b of the switch frog does not have to be parallel with the longitudinal direction L, as illustrated in
The alternative embodiment is also different in that the upper wedge 212b is longitudinally displaceable while the lower wedge 211b is stationary. This allows for example making the lower wedge integral with the second frame 160b. Alternatively, the lower stationary wedge 211b may be made of metal, such as steel or aluminium.
Both the upper and lower wedge 212b, 212a are preferably extending over the entire length, or at least a substantial length, of the second rail segment 143 for providing vertical support to the second rail segment 143 along the entire, or at least substantial length thereof. The switch frog rail segments 144, 143 will carry the entire load exerted by a railway wheel passing the rail segment 144, 143 all the way to the switch points 145b, 146b of the rail segments 144, 143, thereby placing extra high demand on vertical support in the upper position. The vertical support requirement of the switch blades 141, 142 are less demanding because the switch blades do not carry any vertical load at the switch points 145a, 146a of the switch blades 141, 142 in the upper position, but merely act to steer the railway wheel towards the desired direction A, B. First when the railway wheel leaves the first or second outer rail 111, 112 will the switch blade 141, 142 carry the entire load exerted by a railway wheel passing the switch blade 141, 142.
The relative displacement of at least one wedge is provided by means of an actuator acting on a single wedge of the at least one of the upper and the lower wedge. A single or multiple actuators may be provided for each displacement mechanism.
Alternatively, a single actuator may be provided for two displacement mechanisms. This may for example be realised by providing each displacement mechanism with a threaded actuating mechanism and a worm gear coupled to said threaded actuating mechanism for controlling the longitudinal displacement of at least one wedge, as well as drivingly connecting both worm gears to a single electrical motor. This arrangement may further have the advantage of automatically controlling the mutually exclusive position of the switch blades or rail segments simply be having the worm gears configured to operate in different directions for the same rotational input direction from the motor. This arrangement would thus ensure that only a single switch blade or single rail segment is located in the upper position at any time, such that the risk for conflicting switching occurs.
Lubrication may be provided if sliding contact is used for the relative displacement. A centralised lubrication system with a single lubrication pump may be used for multiple displacement mechanisms 200a, 201a, 200b, 201b. In
The switch mechanism has been mainly described as having both vertically displaceable switch blades and switch frog rail segments. However, the invention is applicable also when applied solely to the switch blades or solely to the switch frog. A switch mechanism having switch blades and a stationary frog may preferably in certain applications, for example at locations where only low speed and/or infrequent driving occurs and the problems of reduced comfort and increased wear do not motivate the increased complexity of a switch frog compared with a stationary frog. In such installations, depending on the size, shape and form of the switch mechanism 100, the switch blades 141, 142 may extend more or less all the way to the switch frog 150.
The switch blades and switch frog rail segments have been mainly disclosed as relying on elastic deformation (bending) for accomplishing the desired vertical displacement during switching motion between an upper and lower position and oppositely. However, either the switch blades 141, 142 and/or the switch frog rail segments 144, 143 may alternatively be pivotally connected to respective stationary closure rail 170, 171 for enabling the desired vertical displacement of the switch blades and/or switch frog rail segments 144, 143 instead. Moreover, the switch blades 141, 142 may rely on elastic deformation whereas the switch frog rail segments 144, 143 rely on pivotal motion, and oppositely.
According to an alternative example embodiment schematically shown in
Similarly, as also showed in the alternative example embodiment of
The small version of the first and second frames 160a, 160b may have relatively thin side walls, for example in the range of 10-200 millimetres, specifically in the range of 20-150 millimetres, and more specifically 25-100 millimetres. The first and second frames 160a, 160b may receive lateral and longitudinal support from the sleepers 304a, 304b by means a robust and strong connection between the first and second frames and the underlying sleepers 304a, 304b. The connection may for example be realised by means of threaded members, brackets, or the like, that clamp the first and second frames 160a, 160b to the underlying sleepers 304a, 304b. The sleepers 304a, 304b may for example be provided with one or two recesses in the upper surfaces for receiving the first and second frames, respectively. The one or two recesses may be designed to provide the first and second frames with lateral support via lateral walls of the recesses.
The sleepers 304a, 304b may further be provided with raised portions at one or both ends of the sleepers 304a, 304b for providing vertical support to the first and a second outer rails 111, 112, that are located outside of the first and second frames 160a, 160b.
The smaller and more compact design of the first and second frames 160a, 160b may for example be designed to receive support from the underlying sleepers 304a, 304b at regularly spaced apart locations along the longitudinal length of the rails, i.e. at those locations where a sleeper 304a, 304b is available.
The first and second frames 160a, 160b comprises a bottom wall 161a, 161b, two opposite transverse side walls 164a, 164b and two opposite longitudinal side walls 162a, 162b. The closed design of the frame 160a, 160b provides protection of the displacement mechanisms 200b, 201b located within the frame against snow, dirt and animals, etc.
The frame 160a 160b may be made of concrete and/or metal material. An electrical heating mechanism, such as a thermo-resistive conductor, may be installed at a suitable location in or on one or more walls of the frame, and/or within the frame.
The intermediate support members 213b, 214b of the first and second rail segments 144, 143 are located on the top side of the frame 160a, 160b. The intermediate support members 213b, 214b are preferably dimensioned to completely cover the opening in the top of the frame, such that snow, dirt and animals are prevented from entering into the displacement mechanisms 200b, 201b.
The intermediate support members 213b, 214b of the first and second rail segments 144, 143 are individually vertically displaceable in order to establish a vertical switch movement of the first and second rail segments 144, 143. The first and second rail segments 144, 143 are secured to the upper side of the intermediate support members 213b, 214b in any suitable way, such as be means of conventional clamping or welding of the first and second rail segments 144, 143 to the upper side of the intermediate support members 213b, 214b.
The vertical switch movement of the first and second rail segments 144, 143 are controlled by the displacement mechanisms 200b, 201b, which is located in the frame 160a, 160b and in operating connection with the bottom 161a, 161b of the frame and the underside of the intermediate support members 213b, 214b.
The displacement mechanisms 200b, 201b of the frame of the switch frog 150 may be powered by any type of suitable actuator 176. In the illustrated example of
In the disclosed example embodiment of
Each part 810b, 811b, 812b, 813b defines a unique portion of the intermediate support members 213b, 214b. The first part 810b, 812b of each intermediate support member 213b, 214b is pivotally connected at or near a top of the transverse side wall 164b of the frame 160b at a first pivot point 178b. The first part 810b and second part 811b of the first intermediate support member 213b is additionally pivotally connected to each other at a second pivot joint 814b, and the first part 812b and second part 813b of the second intermediate support member 214b additionally pivotally connected to each other at a second pivot joint 815b.
The length L1 of the first part 810b, 812b of each intermediate support member 213b, 214b in the longitudinal direction L is typically less than the length L2 of the second part 811b, 813b of each intermediate support member 213b, 214b in the longitudinal direction L. The length L1 of the first part 810b, 812b may be in the range of 30%-90% of the length L2 of the second part 811b, 813b.
As described in detail above, the first and second rail segments 143, 144 may be made integral with the stationary closure rail 170, 171 and designed to rely on elastic deformation (bending) for accomplishing the desired vertical displacement during switching motion between an upper and lower position. Alternatively, the rail segments 144, 143 may be individual parts that are pivotally connected to respective stationary closure rail 170, 171 for enabling the desired vertical displacement of the segments 144, 143.
The first and second rail segments 144, 143 are secured to the upper side of the intermediate support members 213b, 214b in any suitable way, such as be means of conventional clamping or welding of the first and second rail segments 144, 143 to the upper side of the intermediate support members 213b, 214b.
The use of two pivot points 178b, 814b, 815b along the longitudinal length of each the intermediate support members 213b, 214b of the switch frog 150 enables the intermediate support members 213b, 214b to have a lowered vertical position over a relatively long distance. In fact, entire length L2 of the second part 811b, 813b of each intermediate support member 213b, 214b may be lowered to a position where the second part 811b, 813b is substantially parallel to the closure rail 170, 171. This design thus enables a relatively large vertical displacement over a relatively large length in the longitudinal direction.
Each displacement mechanism 200b, 201b of the switch frog 150 comprises two different components: a pull-down control member 900 and two pairs of cooperating wedges 311b, 312b.
The pull down control member 900 is located on the first part 810b, 812b of each intermediate support member 213b, 214b near the second pivot joint 814b, 815b. it may however alternatively be located on the second part 811b, 813b of each intermediate support member 213b, 214b near the second pivot joint 814b, 815b. The pull-down control member 900 comprises a track 904 formed in a base member 901 and a guide member in form of a shaft 903 penetrating the track 904 and arranged to follow the path of the track 904. The shaft 903 is attached to the lower side of the first part 810b, 812b of each intermediate support member 213b, 214b via a bracket 902.
The track has a horizontal path 904a that is arranged to provide vertical support to the first part 810b, 812b of each intermediate support member 213b, 214b in the vertically upper position via the shaft 903 and bracket 902. The track 904 also has an inclined path that cooperates with the shaft 903 to ensure that the bracket 902, and thus also the first and second parts 810b, 812b, 811b 813b of each intermediate support member 213b, 214b, are vertically displaced to lowered position upon longitudinal displacement of the base member 901 and shaft 903. The inclined path 904b may have an inclination 910 in the range of about 5-30 degrees from the horizontal direction.
By providing the pull down control member 900 with a shaft 903 that is arranged to slide in a track 904 with at least two individual directions two functionalities are obtained, namely a vertical support in the upper position and vertical displacement in the lower position. The pull down control member 900 may have many alternative designs. For example, the base member 901 may be fastened to the first part 810b, 812b or second part 811b, 813b of each intermediate support member 213b, 214b and the bracket 902 may be longitudinally displaced by the actuator 176. The pull down control member 900 may still more alternatively be designed as two cooperating wedges with cooperating grooves, similar to the wedges 211b, 212b and groove and tongue arrangement 415a of
Each of the two pair of cooperating wedges 311b, 312b may have identical design, each comprising a lower wedge 211b and an upper wedge 212b. The lower wedges 211b are arranged to be displaced in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the rail segments 144, 143, or substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction L of the railway switch mechanism 100. The lower and upper wedge 211b, 212b of each pair of cooperating wedges are designed generate a vertical displacement of the upper wedge 212b upon substantially horizontal motion of one of the upper and lower wedges 212b, 211b.
According to the example embodiment of
Each upper wedge 212b has a design that corresponds to the design of the lower wedge 211b. Each upper wedge 212b thus comprises a downwardly facing sliding surface comprising a substantially horizontal surface segment arranged neighbouring to an inclined sliding surface segment.
As shown in the example embodiment of
The control member 915b is secured against vertical displacement. This is necessary for avoiding that the control member 915b displaces upwardly upon horizontal displacement of the control member 915b that is intended to result in a lowering motion of the second intermediate support member 214b. Vertical securing of the control member 915b while allowing longitudinal sliding motion may be realised by means of a locking arrangement 416b, which for example may comprise any suitable interlocking groove and tongue arrangement. The locking arrangement 416b may be provided between the control member 915b and an underlying support structure, such as the bottom 161b of the frame 160b as shown in
The first and second displacement mechanisms 200b, 201b of the switch frog 150, including the pull down control member 900, the cooperating pair of wedges 311b, 312b, the control member 915b and the actuator may have a substantially identical design.
In
In
The design principles of the example embodiment of the displacement mechanisms 200b, 201b of the first and second vertically displaceable rail segments 144, 143 shown in
displacement mechanisms 200a, 201a of the first and second vertically displaceable switch blades 141, 142. An example embodiment of the first and second vertically displaceable switch blades 141, 142 applying said design principles is schematically shown in
The sectional view of
The second displacement mechanisms 201a of the first and second switch blade 142 may be installed in an elongated frame 160a having a bottom 161a, two opposite transverse side walls 164a and two opposite longitudinal side walls 162a. Most parts of the second displacement mechanism 201a of the second switch blade 142 is substantially identical to the second displacement mechanism 201b of the switch frog 150 and will not be repeated again.
The major difference between second displacement mechanism 201a of the second switch blade 142 shown in
The second intermediate support member 214a comprises a first part 812a and a second part 813a. Four pairs of cooperating wedges 340a, 341a, 342a, 343a are distributed under the first part 812a. Since the first part 812a pivots around a pivotal connection 178a and the second pivot joint 815a is arranged to be vertically displaced the angle of inclination α1, α2, α3, α4 of the inclined sliding surface segment of each pair of cooperating wedges 340a, 341a, 342a, 343a gradually increases for each pair of cooperating wedges that is located closer to the second pivot joint 815a.
A plurality of substantially identical pairs of cooperating wedges 311a, 312a, 313a, 314a are distributed under the second part 813a of the second intermediate support member 214a. All of them may have the same angle of inclination 913 of the inclined sliding surface.
The longer total length L3 of the second displacement mechanism 201a may require that the second part 813a of the second intermediate support member 214a is provided with one or more additional pull down control members 950 for ensuring that the second part 813a actually displaces to the lower position when desired. Neighbouring pull down control members 900, 950 may for example have about 3-10 pairs of cooperating wedges, specifically about 4-6 pairs of cooperating wedges, located between them. The number of pairs of cooperating wedges of the first and second parts 812a, 813a, 812b, 813b of the first and second intermediate support members 213a, 213b, 214a, 214b may be varied according to the specific circumstance. A design comprising only pull down control members 900, 950 and no pairs of cooperating wedges is possible. One or more pull down control members 900, 950 may also be used together with a rigid, single-piece, first and second intermediate support member 213a, 213b, 214a, 214b. In such an embodiment the inclination 910 of the inclined path 904b may have to be selected individual for each pull down control member 900, 950 for adapting the vertical displacement to the distance from the single pivot point 178a, 178b of the first and second intermediate support member 213a, 213b, 214a, 214b.
According to a further alternative embodiment (not shown) the displacement mechanism 200a, 201a, 200b, 201b of the first and second switch blades 141, 142 and/or of the first and second rail segments 143, 144 may comprise a single wedge instead of a pair of cooperating wedges. The single wedge may be fastened to the underlying support structure, such as the control member 915a, 915b, or with the intermediate support member 213a, 214a, 213b, 214b. The single wedge may comprise an inclined sliding surface segment 912b and a neighbouring substantially horizontal surface segment 911b. The single wedge may furthermore be arranged to cooperate with an oppositely located corresponding member, such as a member having a substantially horizontal support surface. The horizontal support surface of the corresponding member enables a sufficiently large surface area for avoiding excessive load pressure. Moreover, the horizontal support surface of the corresponding member allows sliding along the inclined sliding surface segment 912b.
The term elastic deformation means deformation within a range that ends when the material reaches its yield strength. At this point plastic deformation begins. Elastic deformation is reversible, which means that an object will return to its original shape, but plastic deformation is irreversible.
The present invention has been disclosed and illustrated mainly in terms of standard right-hand diverging railway turnout but also other railway switch embodiments are included in the present invention, such as standard left-hand switches, single or double inside or outside slip switch, three way switch, stub switch, wye switch (Y points), or the like.
The displacement mechanism of the invention as disclosed in
Moreover, in case the switch blades and/or switch frog rail segments are pivotally connected to the closure rails at a hinge joint, the switch blades and/or rail segments do not have to be elastically bendable in the vertical direction, such that they may be reinforced to withstand the load of the railway car while being supported only at the hinge joint and one additional location. This would enable use of a local positioned vertical displacement mechanism, such as a vertically arranged hydraulic cylinder, a vertically arranged threaded rod driving connected to an electrical motor, or the like.
It should be noted that the overall dimensions and scale of the drawings are not intended to correspond to a final physical installation of the switch mechanism and its parts, but merely a schematic illustration of the invention. For example, the switch gaps at the switch blades and switch frog rail segments are shown exaggerated for improving the readability and understanding of the invention.
The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. It is appreciated that various features of the above-described examples can be mixed and matched to form a variety of other alternatives. As such, the described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be included within their scope.
Reference signs mentioned in the claims should not be seen as limiting the extent of the matter protected by the claims, and their sole function is to make claims easier to understand.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1550313 | Mar 2015 | SE | national |
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/SE2016/050213 | 3/16/2016 | WO | 00 |
| Publishing Document | Publishing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| WO2016/148631 | 9/22/2016 | WO | A |
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|---|---|---|---|
| 591051 | McCully | Oct 1897 | A |
| 792646 | Byron | Jun 1905 | A |
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| 3591799 | Lica | Jul 1971 | A |
| 3977635 | Pirker | Aug 1976 | A |
| 4251042 | Frank | Feb 1981 | A |
| 5292091 | Callegari | Mar 1994 | A |
| 8157221 | Landow | Apr 2012 | B2 |
| 20160319491 | Bemment | Nov 2016 | A1 |
| 20180100273 | Johansson | Apr 2018 | A1 |
| Number | Date | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 2161636 | Apr 1994 | CN |
| 202543738 | Nov 2012 | CN |
| 102979011 | Mar 2013 | CN |
| 103696331 | Apr 2014 | CN |
| 0315621 | May 1989 | EP |
| 0455207 | Nov 1991 | EP |
| 1194939 | Nov 1985 | SU |
| Entry |
|---|
| Decision on Grant received in corresponding Russian Patent Application No. 2017135078, dated Sep. 3, 2019. |
| Chinese Office Action received for Chinese Patent Application No. 20168002804.0, dated Oct. 25, 2018. |
| International Search Report and Written Opinion for PCT/SE2016/050213, dated Jun. 16, 2016. |
| International Search Report and Written Opinion for Application No. PCT/SE2016050213 dated May 10, 2019. |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20180100273 A1 | Apr 2018 | US |
