A SLEEPER CHANGER

Abstract

 A sleeper, or cross-tie, changer for use with a an excavator arm, for handling a sleeper having a first track tension clamp and a second track tension clamp arranged to cooperate and engage opposite sides of a rail, to secure, or lock, the sleeper to the rail, the sleeper changer comprising: a base structure, a gripper connected to the base structure, and arranged to grip, and secure the sleeper in a mounting position relative to the base structure, a clamper, arranged to cooperate and engage the first track tension clamp and the second track tension clamp, a mechanical linkage connected to the base structure and the clamper, and an actuator operationally coupled to the mechanical linkage, wherein the mechanical linkage and the actuator are arranged to set the clamper in a first position and a second position relative to the base structure, or the gripper, wherein in the second position the clamper is positioned to engage the first track tension clamp and a second track tension clamp, with the sleeper at the mounting position.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The proposed technology relates generally to rail and sleeper handling, and in particular to an implement, or excavator attachment for replacing and installing sleepers, or cross-ties, to a train rail, or train track.

Background

[0002] During the long-term use of railway sleepers, due to natural settlement and vibration, some railway sleepers may sink and need maintenance. Individual sleepers may become damaged, or old and worn, and need to be replaced. Sleeper replacement involves removal of old sleepers, positioning and mounting of replacement sleepers, as well as ground ballast work.

[0003] During sleeper change, for various reasons, a large amount of sleeper may need to be replaced. Sleeper replacement often involves, manual work, and the process of changing sleepers for a length of track may be time-consuming and laborious. Railway lines often form critical infrastructure and a reduction in time needed for maintenance of railway lines may result in macroeconomic benefits.

[0004] In addition, reducing manual labor during sleeper change improves worker safety, and minimizes damage to old sleepers, enabling their reuse.

Object

[0005] It is an object of the proposed technology to provide a sleeper changer that reduces manual labor and improves worker safety. It is a further object to provide a sleeper changer that enables fast and efficient sleeper changing and reduces the time needed to replace a sleeper. It is a further object of to provide a sleeper changer that allows for a higher pace of sleeper replacement work that lowers the fuel or energy consumption needed per changed sleeper, to provide further positive impact from an environmental perspective.

Summary

[0006] In a first aspect of the proposed technology, a sleeper, or cross-tie, changer for use with a an excavator arm, for handling a sleeper having a first track tension clamp and a second track tension clamp arranged to cooperate and engage opposite sides of a rail, to secure, or lock, the sleeper to the rail is proposed, the sleeper changer comprising: a base structure, a gripper connected to the base structure, arranged to grip, and secure the sleeper in a mounting position relative to the base structure, a clamper, arranged to cooperate and engage the first track tension clamp and the second track tension clamp, a mechanical linkage connected to the base structure and the clamper, and an actuator operationally coupled to the mechanical linkage, wherein the mechanical linkage and the actuator are arranged to set the clamper in a first position and a second position relative to the base structure, or the gripper, wherein in the second position the clamp is positioned to engage the first track tension clamp and a second track tension clamp, with the sleeper at the mounting position.

[0007] It is specified above that the sleeper, or cross-tie, changer comprises a base structure. The base structure, or base, has a forward end that defines a forward facing direction and an opposite arranged rear end that defines a rearward facing direction. The base structure further comprises an upper end that defines an upper facing direction, and an opposite arranged lower end that defines a downward facing direction. The upper direction and the downward direction are arranged transverse to the forward direction and the rearward direction.

[0008] The base structure may comprise a coupler. The coupler may be arranged to couple, or connect, the sleeper changer to an excavator, or working vehicle, arm. The coupler may be a quick coupler. It is understood that a quick coupler may comprise at least a first and a second element fixed to the sleeper changer, wherein the first and second element are arranged to engage and lock to at least one fixed element and a movable element arranged on a coupler arranged on an excavator arm.

[0009] For example, the quick coupler may be formed by a first and a second parallel and spaced apart axles, or bars, arranged to engage a cooperating first and a second parallel and spaced apart hooks arranged on the excavator arm. Alternatively, the hooks may be arranged on the sleeper changer and the first and a second parallel and spaced apart axles may be arranged on the excavator arm.

[0010] In a further alternative, the quick coupler may comprise a first and a second axle aligned about an axis, and a parallel and spaced apart bar arranged to engage a pivotable latch or linear bar arranged at the excavator arm coupler.

[0011] The upper end of the base structure may define a geometric plane. Alternatively, the base structure may comprise an upper surface, facing in the upper direction, and the upper surface may define the geometric plane.

[0012] In a further alternative, the quick coupler may define a the geometric plane. For example, the first and second spaced apart axles forming the quick coupler as discussed above may define a geometric plane. The geometric plane may thus face in the upward facing direction. The coupler may be arranged on, or parallel to, the geometric plane or to the upper surface.

[0013] The coupler may be arranged at an incline relative to the geometric plane of the base structure. The incline, or coupler tilt angle, or offset angle, relative to the geometric plane of the base structure, may be in the range of 5-10 degrees, such as 7 degrees. This allows for the coupler of the sleeper changer to account for any of axis rotation of a tiltrotor coupled to the sleeper changer.

[0014] The sleeper changer may comprise a working blade used during ballast work. The blade may be connected to, and extend outwards from, the base structure, in a forward direction. The blade may attach, or be connected, to the forward end or forward surface, of the base structure. The blade may have a longitudinal extension and a transverse extension. The transverse extension may be aligned with the forward direction of the base structure. The longitudinal extension may be transverse, or perpendicular, to the transverse extension. The blade may outline a rectangle. The blade may be curved in the transverse direction to facilitate digging, or ballast work.

[0015] At an opposite end of the blade where the blade attaches, or connects, to the base structure, or an outer end, the blade may comprise cutouts, or openings, arranged to receive the rail in operation.

[0016] The blade may extend at an incline, or at an angle, relative to the geometric plane of the base structure. The incline may be in the range of 10 to 30 degrees, such as 20 degrees. The blade may taper in a forward direction.

[0017] It is specified above that the gripper is connected to the base structure, and is arranged to grip, and secure the sleeper in a mounting position relative to the base structure. The gripper may be connected, or arranged, to the base structure, at an opposite end from the coupler. The gripper may extend in the downwards direction, transverse to the forward direction. This enables an operator to have a less unobstructed view of the gripper and sleeper when a sleeper is picked up and held in a mounting position.

[0018] The gripper may comprise a pair of cooperating and spaced apart teeth that form a jaw. The teeth may be arranged transverse to, or be spaced apart along or parallel to, the geometric plane of the base structure. The teeth may be arranged to open, or widen the opening of, the jaw to receive a sleeper in a direction transverse to the geometric plane. Worded differently, the jaw may open and the sleeper changer may be moved in a downwards direction to receive and grip a sleeper.

[0019] The pair of cooperating and spaced apart teeth may be formed by a first tooth fixedly connected to the base structure and a second tooth pivotally connected to the base structure. This means that the second tooth may pivot, around an axis, relative to the base structure and that the first tooth is fixed and may not pivot relative to the base structure. This reduces the risk that the pivoting mechanism or actuator is damaged when only the fixedly connected tooth, or teeth, are used during sleeper removal, such as by pushing or pulling with the tooth, or teeth, on a sleeper.

[0020] The axis may be parallel to the geometric plane or transverse to the downwards direction. The pivotally connected second tooth may be operationally coupled to an actuator. The actuator may be a linear actuator. The linear actuator may be an electromechanical actuator or a hydraulic cylinder, coupled to the base structure and the tooth. The pivot axis may be arranged parallel to the geometric plane of the base structure.

[0021] Alternatively, the jaw may be formed by two pairs of cooperating and spaced apart teeth, such as two fixedly connected teeth and two pivotally arranged teeth.

[0022] The jaw may further comprise contact elements, that engage and contact a sleeper when a sleeper is gripped by the gripper. The contact elements may be arranged to the first and second tooth or to the first pair of teeth and the second pair of teeth. The contact elements may be of an elastomer. The elastomer may be a synthetic rubber. The synthetic rubber may be a urethane. The contact elements may reduce damage to the sleeper itself as well as the teeth that may occur when a sleeper is gripped. The contact elements may further ensure that a firm grip between the jaw and sleeper is achieved. This may reduce risk of the sleeper coming loose during handling of the sleeper.

[0023] The contact elements may be arranged to cooperate with a stop arranged on the base structure. The stop may be arranged and extend transverse to the contact elements, parallel to the geometric plane. The stop may aid in positioning of the sleeper in the jaws. The stop may be adjustable in height, or replaceable to another stop, to cooperate with sleepers of different height. This may enable the sleeper changer to handle sleepers with different heights or of different standards. The sleeper changer may comprise a pair of stops arranged to the base structure.

[0024] It is specified above that the mechanical linkage is connected to the base structure and the clamper. The sleeper changer may comprise a beam that connects the mechanical linkage to the base structure. The beam may extend parallel to the geometric plane, transverse to the forward direction or the rearward direction of the base structure. Worded differently, the beam may extend parallel to the longitudinal extension of the blade.

[0025] It is understood that a beam may have a longitudinal extension and forms a structural element that resists loads applied in a transverse direction to the beam longitudinal extension. The beam may be an elongated beam. The beam may define a beam axis. The beam may have a circular or square cross section transverse to the beam axis. Alternatively, the beam may have a H-profile, a C-profile, a T-profile or a U-profile. The beam may be hollow. The beam may be a hollow tube. For example, the beam may be a circular tube or a square tube.

[0026] The beam may extend outwards from, or relative to, the base structure. The beam may extend outwards on both sides of the base structure.

[0027] The beam may be arranged to move to assume a first position and a second position relative to the base structure.

[0028] The beam may rotate at the transition between the first position and the second position. The beam may be pivotally connected to the base structure. For example, the beam may be connected to the base structure by a pivot and be arranged to rotate around a pivot axis. The pivot axis may be aligned with the beam axis. The beam may thus rotate and assume a first orientation or position and a second orientation or position. The first orientation or position and the second orientation or position may be separated by a rotation of 45-120 degrees, or 60-105 degrees, or 85-95 degrees such as 90 degrees.

[0029] Alternatively, the beam may both rotate and translate at the transition between the first position and the second position, relative to the base structure. For example, the pivot, and pivot axis, may be parallel and offset transversely to the beam axis. The beam may thus be arranged to both rotate and translate.

[0030] It is understood that the mechanical linkage may be connected to and rotate and/or change in position with the beam. It is further understood that the mechanical linkage may be arranged to extend in an extension direction at the transition from the first position of the clamper to the second position of the clamper. The first position may thus be a clamper and mechanical linkage operating position. It is understood that the blade may be located in the extension direction relative to the mechanical linkage when the beam is arranged in the second position. The second position may thus be a clamper and mechanical linkage parked position. This means that the separation between the mechanical linkage and the blade may be decreased at the transition of the beam from the first position to the second position, and that the separation between the mechanical linkage and the blade may be increased at the transition from the second position to the first position of the beam.

[0031] Wording the extension direction relative to the first position and the second position of the beam differently, the extension direction of the mechanical linkage may be transverse to the geometric plane with the beam in the first position, and may be parallel with the geometric plane with the beam in the second position. This reduces the effective cross-section of the sleeper changer and provides a compact sleeper changer that allows for improved visibility of the blade during operation of the sleeper changer. In addition, vibrations and/or shaking or shock originating from the blade, during operation of the blade are transferred to, and affects, the linkage mechanism in the extension direction which reduces damage and wear to the linkage mechanism.

[0032] It is specified above that the beam may connect to the base structure by a pivot and that the pivot axis may be parallel and offset the beam axis. The beam may comprise a bracket, or ear, that connects the beam to the pivot. The pivot may be formed by an axle and at least one cooperating bearing. The bearing may be a rolling-element bearing or a plain bearing. The axle may be fixed to the base structure and the bearing may connect the bracket to the axle. Alternatively, the pivot may be formed by an axle and two cooperating bearings. For example, the beam may be connected to the base structure by a pair of pivots, each arranged on opposite sides, or ends, of the base structure. The bracket may extend transverse to the beam axis.

[0033] In a further alternative, the pivot may be formed by a first axle and first bearing, and a second axle and second bearing.

[0034] The beam may be operationally connected to the base structure by a beam actuator. The beam actuator may be connected to a lever arranged on the beam. The beam actuator may be a linear actuator. The linear actuator may be an electromechanical actuator or a hydraulic actuator such as a hydraulic cylinder. The beam actuator may be arranged transverse to the beam axis. The lever may extend transversely, relative to the beam axis, from the beam. The beam actuator may connect to the base structure at a first end, or clevis, and to the lever at a second end, or clevis. The beam actuator may be arranged to pivot the beam around the pivot axis to assume the first position and the second position.

[0035] It is specified above that the sleeper changer comprises an actuator operationally coupled to the mechanical linkage. The actuator may be connected to the base structure, or the to the beam. The actuator may be a linear actuator. The linear actuator may be an electromechanical actuator or a hydraulic actuator. The hydraulic actuator may be a hydraulic cylinder. The actuator may be arranged external to the beam. The actuator may be aligned with the beam, or transverse to the forward direction.

[0036] Alternatively, the actuator may be arranged inside the beam. This provides for a compact sleeper changer, wherein the actuator is protected from external damage during operation of the sleeper changer.

[0037] The actuator may comprise a cylinder connected to the beam. The actuator may comprise a movable, in relation to the cylinder, piston. The piston may be arranged to move in a direction along, or parallel to, the beam, or beam axis, and be operationally connected to the mechanical linkage.

[0038] It is specified above that, the mechanical linkage and the actuator are arranged to set the clamper in a first position and a second position relative to the base structure, or the gripper, and that in the second position the clamp is positioned to engage the first track tension clamp and a second track tension clamp, with the sleeper at the mounting position. Wording the first position and the second position differently, the first position may be a raised position, wherein the clamper is positioned at the beam, and the second position may be a lowered position, wherein the clamper is moved away from the beam, and is arranged to contact, and engage a first tension clamp and a second tension clamp on the sleeper, with the sleeper in the mounting position. Alternatively, wording the first position and the second position differently, the first position may be a raised position, wherein the clamper is positioned at the beam, and the second position may be a lowered position, wherein the clamper is moved away from the beam, and is arranged to contact the rail, with the sleeper in the mounting position.

[0039] The actuator may be operationally coupled, or connected, to the mechanical linkage. The clamper may be connected to the mechanical linkage and the mechanical linkage may be connected to the beam, or base structure, as well as the actuator.

[0040] The mechanical linkage may be a scissor mechanism and the actuator may be arranged to extend, or retract, the scissor mechanism to position the clamper in the first position and the second position. Worded differently, the actuator may extend the scissor mechanism at the transition of the clamper from the first position to the second position, and the actuator may retract the scissor mechanism at the transition from the second position to the first position.

[0041] The scissor mechanism may comprise a first link, or bar, connected to a second link, or bar, by a pivot. Worded differently, the scissor mechanism may be formed by links, or bars, or supports, arranged in a criss-cross "X" pattern. The first link may have a first end and a second end. The second link may have a first end and a second end. The first link may connect to the second link by a pivot. The pivot may be arranged between the first end of the first link and the second end of the first link; and a first end of the second link and a second end of the second link. The first link and the second link may be share properties. The first link may have the same length and geometric shape as the second link. The first link and the second link may be made from steel.

[0042] The pivot may be arranged halfway between the first end and the second end of a link, or bar.

[0043] A first end of the first link may be pivotally and fixedly connected to the base structure, or the beam. This means that the connection between the first link and the beam may only permit rotation around a pivot.

[0044] A first end of the second link may be slidably connected to the beam. This means that the first end of the second link may rotate in relation to the beam and move in a direction parallel with, or along, the beam. The beam may be arranged having a guide, or cutout, that extends in parallel to the beam. The first end of the second link may be connected to the guide by a bearing. The bearing may be a rolling-element bearing or a plain bearing. The bearing may be connected to the link by an axle, or bolt. The guide may further comprise a guiding ledge. The guiding ledge may extend transverse to and along the beam, and/or beam axis. The guiding ledge may be a beam external guiding ledge arranged on the outside of the beam. The bearing may contact, and roll along, the guiding ledge.

[0045] Alternatively, the guiding ledge may be a beam internal guiding ledge arranged on the inside of the beam.

[0046] A second end of the first link may be slidably connected to the clamper. This means that the second end of the first link may slide along a first guide arranged on the clamper.

[0047] A second end of the second link may be pivotally and fixedly connected to the clamper.

[0048] The clamper may be arranged having a guide, or cutout, that extends in a direction parallel to the beam. The second end of the first link may be connected to the guide by a bearing. The bearing may be a rolling-element bearing. The bearing may be connected to the link by an axle, or bolt. The guide may further comprise a guiding ledge. The guiding ledge may extend transverse to and be parallel with the beam axis. The bearing may contact with and roll on and along the guiding ledge.

[0049] The actuator may be operationally coupled, or connected, to the first end of the second link. Alternatively, the actuator may be operationally coupled, or connected, to the first end of the second link and to the first end of the first link. It is understood that when the distance, along the beam, between the first end of the first link and the first end of the second link is decreased the second end of the first link and the second end of the second link will move in a direction, outwards, and away from the beam, at the transition of the clamper from the first position to the second position.

[0050] The scissor mechanism disclosed above may form a first scissor mechanism and may further comprise an additional pair of first links and second links that forms an additional, or second, scissor mechanism. The additional pair of first links and second links may be arranged on an opposite side of the beam. The additional pair of first links and second links may be arranged in parallel with the pair of first links and second links of the first scissor mechanism. The additional pair of first links and second links may mirror the first link and second link of the first scissor mechanism. The additional pair of first link and second link may connect to the first link and second link of the first scissor mechanism.

[0051] The actuator may be connected, or coupled, to the beam by an axle. The axle may extend transversely through the beam from a first side of the beam to an opposite second side of the beam. The axle may extend through a clevis arranged on the hydraulic cylinder. The beam may comprise a sleeve that couples the axle to the beam. The sleeve may have a protrusion, or collar, protruding from an outer surface of the beam. The protrusion may be arranged to center, and position, the scissor mechanism first link first end pivot to the beam and the axle. The sleeve may be welded to the beam, or the sleeve may be a separate element inserted to an opening in the beam. The sleeve may be a two part sleeve to facilitate manufacturing and mounting of the sleeve to the beam.

[0052] It is specified above that the sleeper changer may comprise a clamper. The clamper may be arranged to simultaneous center the clamper around, or about, the rail and engage a first tension clamp and a second tension clamp arranged on the sleeper. The clamper may engage and bias the first track tension clamp and the second track tension clamp against the rail, to secure, or lock, the sleeper to the rail.

[0053] Each clamper may comprise a housing. It is specified above that the clamper may be arranged having a guide, or cutout, that extends in a direction parallel to the beam. The housing may connect to the first link and the second link of the scissor mechanism described above. In addition to the guide, the housing may have an opening, or hole, for pivotally connecting the second link to the housing of the clamper. The guide may be formed in the housing. Alternatively, the guide may form a separate part that is attached to the housing.

[0054] The clamper may further comprise a centering support. The centering support may be pivotally connected to the housing. The centering support may comprise an opening, or cutout. The opening, or cutout, may be adapted to receive, or be placed to, receive a rail. The opening, or cutout, may be formed by a base and two sides connected to the base. The base may comprise a spacer connected to the base. The spacer may be adjustable, or replaceable, to adjust a depth of the opening, or cutout. This allows for the opening, or cutout, to receive rails of with different height.

[0055] The clamper may further comprise a first arm and a second arm, arranged on opposite sides of the centering support. The first arm and the second arm may be pivotally connected to the centering support. Alternatively, the first arm and the second arm may be pivotally connected to a bar, and the bar may be connected to the centering support. In a further alternative, the first arm and the second arm may be pivotally connected to a bar, and the bar may be pivotally connected to the centering support. A first end of the first arm may be operationally connected to an actuator. A first end of the second arm may be operationally connected to an actuator. The actuator may be a linear actuator. The linear actuator may be an electromechanical actuator or a hydraulic actuator, such as a hydraulic cylinder. The hydraulic cylinder may have a first end connected to the first end of the first arm. The hydraulic cylinder may have a second end connected to the first end of the second arm.

[0056] The centering support may be connected to the housing by an axle. The bar may be connected to the centering support by the, same, axle.

[0057] The second end of the first arm may be arranged to engage a first tension clamp and the second end of the second arm may be arranged to engage a second tension clamp, to lock, or secure a sleeper to a rail. It is understood that the first tension clamp is moved in a first direction towards the rail, and the second tension clamp is moved in a second direction towards the rail, opposite the first direction.

[0058] The clamper may be a first clamper and the sleeper changer may comprise a further clamper, or a second clamper. The second clamper may share properties with the first clamper. The first clamper and the second clamper may each engage a respective rail each having a respective first tension clamp and second tension clamp. This enables for a first and a second rail to be simultaneously attached, or locked, to a common sleeper.

[0059] In a second aspect of the proposed technology, an assembly comprising a rotor, and the sleeper, or cross-tie, changer is proposed, wherein the rotor is attached to the base structure. It is specified above that the sleeper changer may comprise a base structure and that the base structure may comprise a coupler. The coupler may be arranged to connect to a rotor. The rotor may be a tiltrotator. It is understood that tiltrotator may be mounted between an excavator arm and the sleeper changer, such that the sleeper changer can be rotated and tilted around an axis, in order to increase the flexibility and precision of the excavator sleeper changer. Worded differently, the tiltrotator may be form a wrist between the arm of the excavator and the sleeper changer.

[0060] In a third aspect of the proposed technology a system comprising the assembly is proposed wherein the assembly is attached, or mounted, or coupled, to an excavator arm, of an excavator.

Brief description of the drawings

[0061] A more complete understanding of the abovementioned and other features and advantages of the proposed technology will be apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments in conjunction with the appended drawings, wherein:

Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a sleeper changer with a first and a second clamper in a second position;

Fig. 2 shows partial front view of the sleeper changer with the first clamper in the second position;

Fig. 3 shows a side view of the sleeper changer with the first clamper in the second position;

Fig. 4 shows partial front view of the sleeper changer with the first clamper in the first position;

Fig. 5 shows a side view of the sleeper changer with the first clamper in the first position;

Fig. 6 shows a side view of the sleeper with the first clamper in a third position;

Fig. 7 shows a top view of the sleeper changer with the first clamper in the third position;

Fig. 8 shows a partial front view of the sleeper changer with the first clamper in the third position;

Fig. 9 shows a view of the sleeper with the first clamper positioned to engage the first track tension clamp and a second track tension clamp, with a sleeper at the mounting position;

Fig. 10 shows a cross-sectional partial view along A-A in Fig. 5;

Fig. 11 shows a cross-sectional partial view along B-B in Fig. 5;

Fig. 12 shows a first perspective view of an assembly comprising the sleeper changer and a rotor;

Fig. 13 shows a side view of the assembly of Fig. 12; and

Fig. 14 shows a system comprising the assembly and a wheeled excavator.

Description of the drawings

[0062] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a sleeper changer 1 with a first clamper 18 and a second clamper 20 in a second position, or a mounting position. The sleeper changer comprises a base structure 16, or base 16, that has a forward end 22 that defines a forward facing direction and an opposite arranged rear end 24 that defines a rearward facing direction. The base structure further comprises an upper end 26 that defines an upper facing direction, and an opposite arranged lower end 28 that defines a downward facing direction. The upper direction and the downward direction are arranged transverse to the forward direction and the rearward direction.

[0063] The sleeper changer 1 comprises a coupler 10 arranged to couple the sleeper changer to an excavator, or working vehicle, arm (not shown). The coupler 10 is shown in the form of a quick coupler 10 arranged on the upper end 26 of the base structure 16.

[0064] Fig. 2 shows a partial back view of the sleeper changer 1 with the first clamper 18 and the second clamper 20 in the second position. In the second position the first clamper 18 and the second clamper 20 are able to engage a tension clamp arranged on a sleeper to secure, or lock, the sleeper to a rail as will be discussed in relation to Fig. 9.

[0065] Figs. 1-2 shows that the sleeper has a gripper 12, arranged to grip, and secure a sleeper in a mounting position relative to the base structure 16. The gripper 12 has a first arm 30 and a second arm 32 extending from the base structure 16. In addition, the gripper 12 has a counter hold in the form a third arm 34 and fourth arm 36 fixedly connected to the base structure 16. The first arm 30 and the second arm 32 are pivotally connected to the base structure 16 and the opening formed between the first arm 30 and the second arm 32 relative to the third arm 34 and the fourth arm 36 may be increased, or widened, and decreased, or closed to grip, a sleeper. The first arm 30, the second arm 32, the third arm 34 and the fourth arm 36 extend from the base structure 16 in a downwards direction, towards a gripped sleeper (not shown). The first arm 30, the second arm 32, the third arm 34 and the fourth arm 36 cooperate to form the jaw 38. The first arm 30 and the second arm 32 are operationally connected to an actuators 40 in the form of a hydraulic cylinders 40.

[0066] Figs. 1-2 further shows that the sleeper changer 1 has a blade 14 used for moving, or removing, ballast during sleeper change. The blade 14 extends in a direction transverse to the gripper arms 30, 32, 34, 36, or in the forward direction.

[0067] The clampers 18, 20 are coupled, or connected, to the base structure 16 by a beam 48. The beam 48 extends transverse to the gripper arms 30, 32, 34, 36, or parallel to the blade 14, or geometric plane 46 of the base structure 16. The clampers 18, 20 are each coupled, or connected, to the beam 48 by a pair of scissor mechanisms 56, 58 that forms the mechanical linkage.

[0068] The scissor mechanisms 56, 58 are each formed by a first link 60, or bar 60, and a second link 62, or bar 62. The first link 60 and the second link 62 are coupled by a pivot 64. A first end 66, or upper end 66, of the first link 60 and the second link 62 are connected to the beam 48, and a second end 68, or lower end 68, of the first link 60 and the second link 62 are connected to the first clamper 18. A first end 70 of the first link is pivotally and fixedly connected to the beam 48 and a first end of the second link 76 is slidably, linearly, and parallel to the blade 14, connected and guided by a guiding slot 78, or beam guide 78, arranged on the beam 48. A second end 74, or lower end 74, of the first link 60 is slidably, linearly, and parallel to the blade 14, connected and guided by a guiding slot 80, or clamper guide 80, arranged in, or on, a clamper housing 82 that couples to the clamper 18, or the clamper 18 is mounted to. A second end 72, or lower end 72, of the second link 62 is pivotally connected to the housing 82. The first end 76, or upper end 76, of the second link 62 is operationally connected to a hydraulic cylinder 96 that forms the clamper actuator 96. The hydraulic cylinder 96 is at a first end fixed to the beam 48 by a first axle 86 that extends transversely through the beam 48, and the second end is coupled, or connected to a second axle 88 that is connected to the first end of the second link 74. By moving the first end of the second link 74, linearly in a direction along the beam 48, the scissor mechanism 56 lowers and raises the housing 82 and the clamper 18 in relation to the beam 48. As the distance between the first end of the first link 70 and the first end of the second link 76 is decreases, the clamper 18 is lowered or moved away from the beam 48. As the distance between the first end of the first link 70 and the first end of the second link 76 is increased the clamper 18 is raised or is moved towards the beam 48.

[0069] It follows that the extension and retraction stroke of the scissor mechanism 56 is limited by the length of the guiding slots 78, 80 arranged on the beam 48 and the housing 82. The second clamper 20 is connected to a scissor mechanism in the same manner as the first clamper 18. Fig. 2 further shows a cover 84 that covers the scissor mechanism 56 of the second clamper 20 and protects against damage, shown in Fig. 2 removed relative to the first clamper 18.

[0070] Fig. 3 shows a side view of the sleeper 1 with the first clamper 18 in the second position. The blade 14 can be seen extending from the base structure 16 at an angle 110, or at an incline relative to the geometric plane 46. The blade angle 110, or incline is 20 degrees.

[0071] As shown in Fig. 3, the second one 58, or additional 58, of the pair of scissor mechanisms is connected to the first one 56 of the pair of scissor mechanisms. The second one 58 of the pair of scissor mechanisms shares properties with the first one 56 of the pair of scissor mechanisms and is also formed by a first link 60 and a second link 62 connected by a pivot 64. The pivot 64 is formed by an axle 94 that extends from the pivots 64 of the first and second scissor mechanism 56, 58. In addition, the first and second scissor mechanism 56, 58 are connected to form a combined, joint, scissor mechanism.

[0072] Fig. 4 shows partial front view of the sleeper changer 1 with the first clamper 18 in the first position, or raised position. The first clamper 18 comprises a rail centering support 100. The centering support 100 comprises an opening 102, or cutout 102, arranged to be placed onto, and contact a rail, when a sleeper is mounted in the gripper 12 and the clamper 18 is in the second position. Arranged to the centering support 100, two pivotably arranged clamper arms 104 are arranged. The function of the clamper 18 will be discussed further in relation to Fig. 9.

[0073] Fig. 5 shows a side view of the sleeper changer 1 with the first clamper 18 in the first position, or the raised position and the beam 48 in a first position. In the first orientation, the scissor mechanisms 56, 58 of the first clamper 18 may be actuated to move the first clamper 18 into the second position for engaging tension clamps of a sleeper.

[0074] Fig. 6 shows a side view of the sleeper changer 1 with the first clamper 18 in the first position and the beam 48 rotated, or pivoted, and moved to a second position. In the second position the scissor mechanisms 56, 58 extension direction is aligned with the blade 14 of the sleeper changer 1, or the beam 48 has been rotated about 90 degrees, or 85-95 degrees in relation to the first position. As shown in Figs. 5-6, the beam 48, the scissor mechanisms 56, 58 and the clamper 18 are both rotated and moved at the transition between, or to and from, the first position to the second position of the beam 48. Fig. 6 shows the gripper 12 arranged with contact elements 112 as well as stop 114.

[0075] Fig. 7 shows a top view of the sleeper changer 1 with the beam 48 arranged in the second position and the clampers 18, 20 and scissor mechanisms in the first position, or raised position. Fig. 7 further shows the beam pivot axis 50 of the beam pivot axle 52 connecting the beam 48 to the base structure 16 relative to the beam axis 50. The beam axis 50 is parallel and offset transverse to the pivot axle 52. The blade 14 has two cutouts 116 arranged to receive a respective rail during ballast work using the blade 14.

[0076] Fig. 8 shows a partial front view of the sleeper changer 1 with the beam 48 arranged in the second position and the and scissor mechanisms 56, 58 in the first position, or raised position.

[0077] Fig. 9 shows a view of the sleeper changer 1 with the first clamper 18 and the second clamper 20 positioned to engage a first track tension clamp 42 and a second track tension clamp 44, with a sleeper 108 gripped, and held, by the gripper 12 at the mounting position. The sleeper 108 contacts the gripper arms 30, 32, 34, 36 by the contact elements 112. The sleeper 108 further contacts the stops 114 arranged on the base structure 16.

[0078] The first clamper 18 and the second clamper 20 are lowered by the operation of the scissor mechanisms 56, 58. As can be seen in the figure, the scissor mechanism 56, 58 have a longer stroke than is needed to position the clamper onto the rail 106. The guiding slot 80, or clamper guide 80, is arranged on the first clamper housing 82 and a guiding slot 78, or beam guide 78, is arranged on the beam 48.

[0079] As the clamper arms 104 are moved inwards, towards the rail 106, the first tension clamp 42 and the second tension clamp 44 contacts the rail 106 and locks, or secures, the sleeper 1087 to the rail 106.

[0080] Fig. 9 further shows the beam actuator 54 that operatively connects the beam 48 to the base structure 16 to rotate the beam 48.

[0081] Fig. 10 shows a cross-sectional partial view along A-A in Fig. 5. The clamper arms 104 are arranged on opposite sides of the centering support 100. The clamper arms 104 are pivotally connected to the centering support 100 by a respective pivot 118. The pivots 118 are formed between the arms 104 and a connecting bar 120. An actuator 124 is operationally coupled to the arms 104. The actuator 124 is shown as a hydraulic actuator 124, such as a hydraulic cylinder 124. As the hydraulic cylinder 124 extends, the arms 104 are pivoted around the pivots 118 and the opposite ends of the arms are moved inwards towards the rail, pushing the first tension clamp and the second tension clamp to lock, or secure, the rail to the sleeper. Fig. 10 further shows that the first clamper 18 is connected to the housing 82.

[0082] Fig. 11 shows a cross-sectional partial view along B-B in Fig. 5. Fig. 11 shows the pair of scissor mechanisms 56, 58 connected by an upper scissor first axle 86 and by the scissor pivot axle 94.

[0083] A first axle 86 connects the second link first end 76 of the first scissor mechanism 56 to the second link first end 76 of the second scissor mechanism 58. The first axle 86 extends through a clevis 98 of the piston of the hydraulic cylinder 96.

[0084] Arranged on the first axle 86 are bearings 126. The bearings 126 are rolling-element bearings 126. The bearings 126 contact a respective guide 78, or cutout 78, that extends in a direction parallel to the beam 48. The guide 78 further has a ledge 78' protruding from the beam 48. When the scissor mechanisms 56, 58 is operated by the actuator 96 the outer race of the bearings 126 will contact and roll on a respective guide 78, and guide ledge 78'.

[0085] At the first end 66 of the first link 60 of the first 56 and the second scissor mechanism 58, a plane bearing 128 is arranged housed in a bearing housing 130. The bearing housing 130 forms a first part of the plain bearing and a second part is arranged inside the bearing housing 130 and is securely connected to the respective first end 66 of the first link 60 of the first 56, and second scissor mechanism 58.

[0086] Fig. 11 further shows that the clevis 98 of the cylinder of the hydraulic cylinder 96 is connected to the beam 48 by a sleeve 132 and a connecting axle 120. The axle 120 extends through the beam 48, transverse to the beam axis 50. The sleeve 132 has a protrusion, or collar, that protrudes outwards from the beam 48, and is arranged on the outer side of the beam 48. The axle 120 is received in the sleeve 132. The sleeve is shown as a two-part sleeve 132, wherein each part is inserted to a respective opening in the beam 48, with the openings arranged on opposite sides of the beam 48.

[0087] Fig. 11 further shows the bearing housing 130 arranged around the sleeve protrusion, or collar. The sleeve protrusion 134 centers the bearing housing 130 around the sleeve and axle 120 that mounts the hydraulic cylinder 96 to the beam 48.

[0088] Fig. 12 shows a first perspective view of an assembly 200 comprising the sleeper changer 1 and a rotor 202.

[0089] Fig. 13 shows a side view of the assembly 200 of Fig. 12. The rotor 202 is attached to the base structure 16 by the quick coupler 10. The rotor 202 shown is a tiltrotator 202. On the opposite end of the tiltrotator 202 relative the coupler that couples the tiltrotator 202 to the sleeper changer 1, the tiltrotator 202 has a further quick coupler 204 that can couple the assembly to an excavator arm.

[0090] Fig. 14 shows a system 300 comprising the assembly 200 of Figs. 12-13 mounted to the excavator arm 304 of a wheeled excavator 302.

Item list

[0091] 

1

sleeper changer, cross-tie changer

10

coupler, quick coupler

12

gripper

14

blade

16

base structure, or base

18

first clamper

20

second clamper

22

base structure forward end

24

base structure rear end

26

base structure upper end

28

base structure lower end

30

gripper first arm

32

gripper second arm

34

gripper third arm

36

gripper fourth arm

38

gripper jaw

40

gripper actuators, hydraulic cylinders

42

first tension clamp

44

second tension clamp

46

geometric plane

48

beam

50

beam axis

52

beam pivot axle

54

beam actuator

56

mechanical linkage, scissor mechanism

58

additional linkage, scissor mechanism

60

first link

62

second link

64

link pivot

66

link first end

68

link second end

70

first link first end pivot

72

second link second end pivot

74

first link second end connection

76

second link first end connection

78

guiding slot, beam guide

78'

guiding ledge

80

guiding slot, clamper guide

82

housing

84

cover

86

scissor mechanism first axle

88

scissor mechanism second axle

94

scissor mechanism pivot axle

96

actuator, hydraulic cylinder

98

actuator clevis

100

centering support

102

opening, or cutout

104

clamper arms

106

rail

108

sleeper

110

blade angle

112

contact elements

114

stop

116

blade cutouts

118

clamper arm pivot

120

connecting axle

124

clamper actuator

126

bearings, rolling-element bearings

128

bearings, plain bearings

130

bearing housing

132

sleeve

200

Assembly

202

rotor, tiltrotor

204

further coupler

300

System

302

wheeled excavator

304

excavator arm

Claims

1. A sleeper, or cross-tie, changer for use with a an excavator arm, for handling a sleeper having a first track tension clamp and a second track tension clamp arranged to cooperate and engage opposite sides of a rail, to secure, or lock, the sleeper to the rail, the sleeper changer comprising:

a base structure,

a gripper connected to the base structure, and arranged to grip, and secure the sleeper in a mounting position relative to the base structure,

a clamper, arranged to cooperate and engage the first track tension clamp and the second track tension clamp,

a mechanical linkage connected to the base structure and the clamper, and

an actuator operationally coupled to the mechanical linkage,

wherein the mechanical linkage and the actuator are arranged to set the clamper in a first position and a second position relative to the base structure, or the gripper,

wherein in the second position the clamper is positioned to engage the first track tension clamp and a second track tension clamp, with the sleeper at the mounting position.

2. The sleeper changer of claim 1, further comprising a beam connected to the base, wherein the beam connects the mechanical linkage to the base structure.

3. The sleeper changer according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the mechanical linkage is a scissor mechanism, and the actuator is arranged to extend, or retract, the scissor mechanism to position the clamper in the first position and the second position.

4. The sleeper changer of claim 3, wherein the scissor mechanism comprises a pair of cooperating links, or bars, connected at a pivot, or by a pivot axle, wherein the actuator is connected to, and biases, at least one of the links of the pair of links in relation to the other link of the pair of links, to extend, or retract, the scissor mechanism to position the clamper in the first position and the second position.

5. The sleeper changer of claim 4, wherein the pair of cooperating links is formed by a first link and a second link that each has a first end a second end, wherein the first end of the first link is pivotally connected to the beam, and the first end of the second link is slidably connected to the beam, and wherein the actuator biases, and moves, the first link relative to the second link to position the clamper in the first position and the second position.

6. The sleeper changer according to claim 5, wherein a second end of the first link is slidably connected to the clamper, and the second end of the first link is pivotally fixed to the clamper.

7. The sleeper changer according to claims 2-6,
wherein the beam is pivotally connected to the base structure and can pivot around a beam pivot axis, to assume a first position and a second position, relative to the base structure.

8. The sleeper changer according to claim 7, wherein the beam pivot axis is parallel to, and axially offset from, a beam axis.

9. The sleeper changer according to claims 6-7, wherein the beam has a lever arranged on the beam, and wherein the lever is operationally connected to the base structure by a beam actuator and the beam actuator is arranged to pivot the beam around the pivot axis to assume the first position and the second position.

10. The sleeper changer according to claim 2-9, wherein the actuator is a linear actuator, arranged within, and aligned with, the beam, or the sleeper in the sleeper mounting position.

11. The sleeper changer according to any claim 1-10, further comprising a blade connected to, and extending outwards from, the base structure.

12. An assembly comprising a rotor and a sleeper changer according to any of claims 1-11, wherein the rotor is attached, or coupled, to the base structure.

13. The assembly according to claim 12, wherein the rotor is a tiltrotator.

14. The assembly of claim 13, wherein the tiltrotor has a tilt angle, or offset angle, in the range of 5-10 degrees.

15. A system comprising the assembly according to any of claims 12-14, attached, or coupled, to an excavator arm.

Drawing