BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention relates to a running gear for a rail vehicle, in particular a high
speed rail vehicle, comprising a wheel set, a running gear frame and a shielding device,
the running gear frame being supported on the wheel set. The shielding device is connected
to the running gear frame via a support structure and is spatially associated to at
least a shielded component of the running gear. The shielding device shields a shielded
part of said shielded component of the running gear against impacts of objects, in
particular pieces of ballast, lifted from a track used during operation of the vehicle.
[0002] Rail vehicles running at high speeds, e.g. at operating speeds beyond 180 km/h or
more, often face the problem that, e.g. due to the air flow conditions developing
on the underside of the vehicle, typically, in combination with certain adverse events
or circumstances, loose objects such as, for example, loose pieces of ballast are
lifted from the part of the track currently used (i.e. travelled along) and hit components
of the vehicle, in particular, components of the running gear.
[0003] Such objects, depending on their relative speed with respect to the vehicle, may
not only damage the vehicle components they hit. They may also be further accelerated
and reflected back down onto the track bed where their considerably increased kinetic
energy eventually causes one or more other objects, typically pieces of ballast, to
be lifted up and hit the vehicle. In summary, this may lead to an avalanche effect
also referred to as ballast flight with a greatly increased number of pieces of ballast
hitting the vehicle underside components in the rear part of a train. Such ballast
flight situations may not only lead to a considerable damage to the vehicle. The track
and its surroundings may also be heavily affected.
[0004] In order to avoid such ballast flight situations it has been suggested in
US 7,605,690 B2 to acoustically detect the build up of ballast flight at an early stage, provide
a corresponding signal (e.g. to the driver or a vehicle control) and to take appropriate
countermeasures such as reducing the speed of the vehicle. However, in particular,
on explicit high speed lines, reduction of the operating speed of the vehicle typically
is highly undesired. Furthermore, these countermeasures may only become effective
after a certain number of impacts and the associated damage to the components hit
had already occurred.
[0005] As an approach to deal with the vehicle related part of the ballast flight problem
it is known to provide protective coatings to the affected vehicle components (e.g.
according to EN 13261). However, these coatings, e.g. made of synthetic materials
such as polyurethane (PU), are not suited to withstand the high impact loads occurring
at very high operating speeds for an appropriate amount of time and, furthermore,
require extensive maintenance work (in particular, if directly coated onto the surface
of the respective vehicle component). Furthermore, they are not suitable to solve
the ballast flight related problems on the track side.
[0006] A further approach to deal at least with parts of the ballast flight problem has
been suggested in
WO 2006/021514 A1. This document discloses a generic running gear for a rail vehicle wherein so called
deflector elements are provided. These deflector elements are intended to form a shield
protecting components of the vehicle from being hit by such objects lifted up from
the track. The generally plate shaped deflector elements, at least in the sections
prone to be hit, are explicitly designed to have a very low inclination with respect
to the longitudinal direction of the running gear (i.e. the driving direction of the
vehicle) to largely avoid any transfer of kinetic energy from the vehicle to the hitting
object, which otherwise would be likely to cause the avalanche effect as outlined
above.
[0007] However, this low inclination of the relevant impact parts of the deflector elements
with respect to the longitudinal direction of the running gear results in a very large
size of these deflector elements. More precisely, for example, in total, virtually
the entire underside of the running gear ahead of a wheel set shaft (including the
gap between the wagon body and the bogie in the area of the bogie cutout) has to be
shielded in order to protect the wheel set shaft. Such large shielding devices, however,
considerably add to the complexity of the running gear. Furthermore, integration of
such large shields in a modem high speed running gear (typically having very little
free building space available) requires considerable constructional effort.
[0008] Contrary to that
DE 10 2006 004 814 A1 and
EP 1 106 467 A1 disclose shielding devices with a substantially vertical arrangement leading to undesired
high ballast impact loads on the shield.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] It is thus an object of the invention to, at least to some extent, overcome the above
disadvantages and to provide a running gear that, with simple design and reduced expense,
provides proper impact protection of the components of the running gear while at the
same time reducing the risk of ballast flight.
[0010] This and other objects are achieved according to the present invention which is based
on the technical teaching that a running gear having simple, cheap and compact design
while providing proper impact protection of the vehicle components at reduced risk
of ballast flight may be achieved if the shielding device and, in addition or as an
alternative, the support structure comprises an impact energy absorbing device absorbing
a noticeable fraction of an impact energy of one of the objects hitting the shielding
device.
[0011] This impact energy absorption by the shielding device itself and/or its support has
the advantage that, on the one hand, a steeper inclination with respect to the longitudinal
direction if the running gear (or vehicle, respectively) may be selected for the impact
surface of the shielding device, while (thanks to the energy absorption) energy transfer
to the parts hitting the shielding device is still acceptably low (reducing the risk
of ballast flight). This allows a more space saving configuration properly shielding
the relevant components of the running gear while being easier to integrate into a
modem running gear.
[0012] Thus, according to one aspect, the present invention relates to a running gear for
a rail vehicle, in particular a high speed rail vehicle, comprising a wheel set, a
running gear frame and a shielding device, the running gear frame being supported
on the wheel set. The shielding device is connected to the running gear frame via
a support structure and is spatially associated to at least a shielded component of
the running gear. The shielding device shields a shielded part of the shielded component
against impacts of objects, in particular pieces of ballast, lifted from a track used
during operation of the vehicle. The shielding device and/or the support structure
comprises an impact energy absorbing device, the impact energy absorbing device being
adapted to absorb a noticeable fraction of an impact energy of one of the objects
hitting the shielding device.
[0013] Furthermore, according to the invention, the shielding device defines an impact surface
for the objects, at least 50% of the impact surface, preferably at least 80% of the
impact surface, more preferably at least 90% of the impact surface, being inclined
with respect to a longitudinal axis of the running gear by an inclination angle. Here,
the inclination angle ranges from 35° to 70°, in particular from 40° to 60°, preferably
from 45° to 50°, such that a comparatively space-saving configuration is achieved
that is more easily integrated in the typically strictly limited space available in
the running gear.
[0014] It will be appreciated that the shielding device may be used to shield any desired
component of the running gear from such impacts. Preferably, the shielded component
is a part of the wheel set, in particular, a wheel set shaft of the wheel set, since,
here, the shielding device is particularly beneficial (considering the considerable
safety relevance of the structural integrity of the wheel set, in particular, of the
wheel set shaft).
[0015] The amount of impact energy absorption provided by the energy absorbing device may
be selected as a function of the likelihood of ballast flight buildup identified for
the specific vehicle (prior to implementation of the present invention). This likelihood,
in turn, among others, is a function of the speed range of the vehicle to be expected
under normal operating conditions. Here, a relevant magnitude is the nominal maximum
operation speed of the vehicle (i.e. the maximum speed to be achieved over longer
periods under normal operating conditions), since the risk of ballast flight buildup
has to be kept at an acceptable level for this nominal maximum operation speed as
well. Thus, in general, it applies that a higher nominal maximum operation speed requires
a higher level of impact energy absorption.
[0016] With preferred embodiments of the invention, the shielding device shields the shielded
part against impacts of pieces of ballast lifted from a ballast bed of a track used
during operation of the vehicle, wherein the ballast bed comprises pieces of ballast
having a maximum nominal diameter and the vehicle has a maximum nominal operating
speed. A piece of ballast of the ballast bed having the maximum nominal diameter defines
a nominal impact energy when hitting the shielding device at a nominal relative impact
speed, the nominal relative impact speed being directed exclusively parallel to a
longitudinal direction of the running gear and having an amount equal to the maximum
nominal operating speed of the vehicle. In this case, to achieve proper reduction
of the risk of ballast flight buildup, the impact energy absorbing device is adapted
to absorb at least 5% of the nominal impact energy, in particular at least 15% of
the nominal impact energy, preferably at least 25% of the nominal impact energy.
[0017] Impact energy absorption may be achieved at one or more suitable points in the kinematic
chain between the impact surface (hit by the lifted objects) of the shielding device
and the running gear frame. With preferred embodiments of the running gear according
to the invention, the impact energy absorbing device comprises a first impact energy
absorbing element arranged at the shielding device and forming at least a part of
an impact surface for the objects. In preferably simple cases, the first impact energy
absorbing element may be a plate shaped element, which is particularly easy to manufacture
and handle. Furthermore, preferably, the first impact energy absorbing element may
be releasably mounted to the shielding device leading to low maintenance effort.
[0018] It will be appreciated that one single energy absorbing element may be sufficient.
However, maintenance is greatly simplified any rendered more cost efficient if the
impact energy absorbing device comprises a plurality of first impact energy absorbing
elements arranged at the shielding device, the plurality of first impact energy absorbing
elements, preferably, jointly forming substantially the entire impact surface for
the objects of the shielding device.
[0019] Impact energy absorption may be achieved in any suitable way, e.g. by providing a
specific structural design of the energy absorbing element providing energy absorption
or dissipation, respectively, by friction between components or parts of the energy
absorbing element. With further embodiments of the invention, the first impact energy
absorbing element comprises an impact energy absorbing material. Here, any suitable
material providing a sufficient amount of impact energy absorption over sufficiently
long periods or a sufficient number of individual impacts, respectively, may be chosen.
Appropriate synthetic materials may be chosen as the impact energy absorbing material.
[0020] However, with very ecologically and economically beneficial variants of the invention,
a wood material, preferably a laminated wood material is chosen as the impact energy
absorbing material. The wood material, apart from its beneficial ecological effects,
has the crucial advantage that it provides good and long term energy absorption due
to its long term overall structural integrity maintained despite the local impacts.
Although severe hits may locally harm the impact energy absorbing element, the fibrous
wood structure (under such typically predominantly compressive loads) in a beneficial
way prevents rapid overall disintegration of the impact energy absorbing element.
This results in an advantageously long operating lifetime of the impact energy absorbing
element.
[0021] In any case, it will be appreciated that arbitrary combinations of different energy
absorbing materials may of course be used as well.
[0022] As mentioned initially, the energy absorption allows a more favorable arrangement
(in particular, a greater inclination with respect to of the longitudinal direction
of the running gear) of the impact surface of the shielding the device. It should
be noted that, in the sense of the present invention, the impact surface is to be
considered the part of the of the shielding device that has a likelihood of being
hit by an object vertically lifted from the track (e.g. a ballast bed) of more than
10% to 20% at the nominal maximum operating speed of the vehicle (as outlined above).
[0023] With other preferred embodiments of the invention, at least a part of the impact
energy absorption is provided via the support of the shielding device. Hence, with
a certain embodiments of the running gear according to the invention, the shielding
device comprises a shielding element, the shielding element being spatially associated
to the shielded component and being connected to the running gear frame via a second
impact energy absorbing element of the impact energy absorbing device. This has the
advantage that, on the one hand, the energy absorption does not necessarily have to
occur in the region of the impact surface such that a very simple design of the impact
surface may be chosen, if desired. Furthermore, on the other hand, additional energy
absorption may be achieved in a region remote from the impact surface increasing the
overall impact energy absorption and, eventually, alleviating and energy absorption
related problems or restrictions in the region of the impact surface.
[0024] Energy absorption may be achieved in any suitable location and in any suitable way
in the region of the support of the shielding device. For example, one of the components
(e.g. a support element) of the support structure itself may be designed as corresponding
energy absorbing element. Preferably, the shielding element is connected to a support
element of the support structure, the second impact energy absorbing element being
arranged between the shielding element and the support element and/or between the
support element and the running gear frame.
[0025] With advantageous embodiments of the invention, one or more components of the running
gear, which are provided anyway for other functional reasons, also integrate the function
of the support structure and/or the function of the second energy absorbing element.
Hence, with certain preferred embodiments of the running gear according to the invention,
the support structure comprises a support arm of a drive motor driving the wheel set,
the support arm forming a support element of the support structure supporting the
shielding device. With such a design, a highly functionally integrated configuration
may be achieved.
[0026] The connection between the shielding device and the support structure may be achieved
in any suitable way. More precisely, any type of connection (positive connection,
frictional connection, adhesive connection etc) or arbitrary combinations thereof
may be chosen. Preferably, a configuration is chosen that provides a connection that
is failsafe insofar as it secures the shielding device against displacement (up to
complete loss of the shielding device) even if fixing elements (such as, typically,
threaded bolts, clamps etc) fail during operation of the vehicle.
[0027] Hence, preferably, the shielding device comprises a shielding element, the shielding
element being spatially associated to the shielded component and defining a first
connecting section cooperating with a second connecting section defined by the support
structure. The first connecting section and the second connecting section define a
positive connection, the positive connection being effective in a height direction
of the running gear and/or in a longitudinal direction of the running gear, thereby
providing security against displacement in the respective direction.
[0028] With certain preferred embodiments of the invention, the first connecting section
comprises a pair of first brackets of the shielding element and the second connecting
section comprises a pair of second brackets of the support structure. Each of the
first brackets defines a longitudinal first bracket axis, while each of the second
brackets defines a longitudinal second bracket axis. At least one first bracket axis
and/or at least one second bracket axis is inclined with respect to a longitudinal
direction of the running gear such that such a securing positive connection is obtained
in a very simple manner. Preferably, at least one first bracket axis and/or at least
one second bracket axis is inclined with respect to a plane defined by a longitudinal
direction and a transverse direction of the running gear. This leads to a very beneficial
configuration with a positive connection in, both, the longitudinal direction and
the height direction providing a very high degree of safety against displacement.
[0029] The present invention also relates to a rail vehicle, in particular a high speed
rail vehicle, comprising a wagon body and at least one running gear according to the
invention, the wagon body being supported on the running gear. With such a vehicle
that the embodiments and advantages as outlined above in the context of the running
gear according to the invention may be realized to the same extent. Hence, it is here
merely referred to the explanations given above.
[0030] As mentioned initially, the present invention is particularly effective in the context
of high-speed rail vehicles. Hence, preferably, a nominal maximum operating speed
is defined for the rail vehicle, the nominal maximum operating speed being greater
than 180 km/h, preferably being greater than 200 km/h, more preferably greater than
240 km/h.
[0031] Further embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims
and the following description of preferred embodiments which refers to the appended
figures. All combinations of the features disclosed, whether explicitly recited in
the claims or not, are within the scope of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0032]
- Figure 1
- is a schematic side view of a preferred embodiment of the rail vehicle according to
the invention comprising a preferred embodiment of the running gear according to the
invention;
- Figure 2
- is a schematic top view of a part of the running gear of Figure 1 (seen in a section
along line 11-11 of Figure 1);
- Figure 3
- is a schematic sectional representation of a part of the running gear of Figure 2
(seen in a section along line 111-111 of Figure 2);
- Figure 4
- is a schematic bottom view of the shielding device of the running gear of Figure 3
(seen in the direction of arrow IV of Figure 3);
- Figure 5
- is a schematic side view of the shielding device of the running gear of Figure 3 (seen
in the direction of arrow V of Figure 3);
- Figure 6
- is a schematic top view of the shielding device of the running gear of Figure 3 (seen
in the direction of arrow VI of Figure 3);
- Figure 7
- is a schematic sectional representation of a detail of the running gear of Figure
2 (seen in a section along line VII-VII of Figure 2).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0033] In the following, a preferred embodiment of a high-speed rail vehicle 101 according
to the invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 7. The vehicle 101
comprises a wagon body 102 supported at both of its ends (via a secondary suspension)
on a preferred embodiment of a running gear according to the invention in the form
of a bogie 103. The bogie 103 runs on a track T with a ballast bed comprising pieces
of ballast B having a defined maximum diameter d
max.
[0034] In order to simplify the explanations given below, a x,y,z-coordinate system has
been introduced into the Figures, wherein (on a straight, level track) the x-axis
designates the longitudinal direction of the running gear 103 (and the vehicle 101,
respectively), the y-axis designates the transverse direction of the running gear
103 (and the vehicle 101, respectively) and the z-axis designates the height direction
of the running gear 103 (and the vehicle 101, respectively).
[0035] As can be seen from Figures 2 and 3 (both showing views of the end side half of the
running gear 103 located on the right hand side of Figure 1) media comprises a running
gear frame 104 supported (in a conventional manner via a secondary suspension) on
the two wheel sets 105. Each wheel set 105 comprises two wheels 106.1, 106.2 connected
by a wheel set shaft 107. Each wheel set 105 is driven by an associated drive unit
108 (comprising a motor 108.1 and a gear 108.2) suspended via a drive unit suspension
to the running gear frame 104.
[0036] The vehicle 101 has a nominal maximum operating speed v
max above 240 km/h such that it faces the problem of ballast flight as it has been outlined
above. Hence, it is necessary, among others, to protect safety relevant and impact
sensitive components of the running gear 103 such as the (otherwise uncovered) part
107.1 of the wheel set shaft 107 against impacts of pieces of ballast B or other objects
lifted in the height direction (z-direction) from the track T (comprising a ballast
bed). Furthermore, there is not only the need to protect the components of the running
gear 103 against impacts. It is also desirable to at least reduce the likelihood of
a buildup of such ballast flight situations.
[0037] In the present example, both these needs are addressed by a shielding device 109
closely spatially associated to the wheel set shaft 107 on the end side part of the
shaft facing away from the running gear center. The shielding device 109 is closely
spatially associated to free part 107.1 of the wheel set shaft 107 located adjacent
to the motor 108.1 between the brake disc 105.1 and the wheel 106.1. In order to simplify
the explanations given below, a xs,ys,zs-coordinate system has been introduced into
the Figures, the relation of which with respect to the x,y,z-coordinate system can
be taken from Figure 3.
[0038] The shielding device 109 comprises a shielding element 109.1 connected to the running
gear frame 104 via a support structure in the form of a support arm 108.3. The support
arm 108.3 is a part of the suspension supporting the drive device 108, and, hence,
in a beneficial and space saving manner integrates the function of supporting the
drive device 108 and the shielding device 109.
[0039] The generally planar and plate shaped shielding element 109.1, on its side facing
away from the shaft 107 and down towards the track T, carries a plurality of first
impact energy absorbing elements 109.2, 109.3. The generally planar and plate shaped
impact energy absorbing elements 109.2, 109.3 (apart from negligible small gaps formed
in between them) together form substantially the entire impact surface 109.4 (defining
the xs,ys-plane) of the shielding device 109, i.e. the part of the of the shielding
device 109 that has a likelihood of being hit by an object B vertically lifted from
the track T (e.g. a ballast bed) of more than 10% to 20% during normal operation at
the nominal maximum operating speed V
max of the vehicle (as outlined above).
[0040] Each first energy absorbing element 109.2, 109.3 is made of a, preferably laminated,
wood material providing excellent and long term impact energy absorption due to its
long term overall structural integrity maintained despite heavy local impacts. This
long term overall structural integrity is caused by the fibrous wood structure as
it had been outlined above.
[0041] Each first energy absorbing element 109.2, 109.3 is releasably connected to the shielding
element 109.1 via a plurality of screw connections. Hence, rapid exchange of the respective
first impact energy absorbing element 109.2, 109.3 is guaranteed.
[0042] Further impact energy absorption is provided by a second impact energy absorbing
element in the form of rubber bearings 110 via which the support arm 108.3 and other
parts of the drive unit 108, respectively, are elastically connected to the running
gear frame 104.
[0043] Hence, in the embodiment shown, in total, considerable and well noticeable impact
energy absorption is achieved. More precisely, a total amount of impact energy absorption
is achieved, wherein at least 15% of a nominal impact energy E
n of a piece of ballast B is absorbed. The nominal impact energy E
n is defined by a piece of ballast B having a maximum nominal diameter d
max (of the pieces of ballast in the ballast bed of the track T) and hitting the impact
surface 109.4 at a nominal relative impact speed V
i. The nominal relative impact speed V
i is directed exclusively parallel to the longitudinal direction of the running gear
103 and has an amount equal to the maximum nominal operating speed V
max.
[0044] As can be seen from Figure 3, the shielding element 109.1 is arranged such that the
impact surface 109.4 is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis (x-axis) of
the running gear 103 by an angle α = 45°, which has several advantages. However, with
other embodiments of the invention having non-planar shielding elements and/or non-planar
energy absorbing elements (i.e. an arbitrarily curved and/or polygonal impact surface)
at least 50% (up to at least 90%) of the impact surface are inclined with respect
to the longitudinal axis by such a rather steep inclination angle.
[0045] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that, with other embodiments of the invention,
other rather steep inclination angles α may be chosen. Typically, the inclination
angle α ranges from 35° to 70° and preferably is about α = 45° ± 5°. This rather steeply
inclined arrangement of the impact surface 109.4 has several advantages.
[0046] First, depending on the impact angle (at which the object B hits the impact surface
109.4) this inclination angle α produces a deflection of the hitting object B in a
direction roughly vertically (i.e. roughly parallel to the height direction, i.e.
the z-direction), downwards onto the track T. The subsequent (roughly) vertical impact
on the track T has the advantage that the likelihood of lifting further objects B
from the track T is reduced compared to a track bed impact at an oblique angle.
[0047] The impact energy absorption provided by the first energy absorbing elements 109.2,
109.3 and the second impact energy absorbing element 110 is also effectively reducing
the likelihood of lifting further objects B from the track T since it reduces the
kinetic energy of the object B, such that an overall reduction of the risk of ballast
flight buildup is achieved,
[0048] Furthermore, the (rather steep) inclination angle α leads to a comparatively space-saving
configuration of the shielding device 109 with a comparatively small dimension of
the shielding device 109 in the xs-direction such that the shielding device 109 may
be easily integrated in the typically strictly limited space available in the running
gear 103.
[0049] The connection between the shielding device 109 and the support arm 108.3 is achieved
via a pair of first brackets 109.5 of the shielding element 109.1 forming a first
connecting section and a pair of second brackets 108.4 of the support arm 108.3 forming
a second connecting section. As can be seen, among others, from Figure 7 the first
brackets 109.5 and the second brackets 108.4 pair-wise cooperate such that a positive
connection is formed, which is effective in the height direction (z-direction) of
the running gear 103. Further connecting elements, such as threaded bolts 111 (reaching
through bores in the first brackets 109.5 and second brackets 108.4) are used to secure
the shielding element 109.1 to the support arm 108.3.
[0050] Each of the first brackets 109.5 defines a longitudinal first bracket axis 109.6,
while each of the second brackets 108.4 defines a longitudinal second bracket axis
108.5 (see Figure 2). The bracket axes 109.6, 108.5 are inclined with respect to the
longitudinal direction (x-direction) of the running gear 103 such that such substantially
V-shaped arrangement of the first and second connecting section is achieved.
[0051] This V-shaped configuration, on the one hand, has the advantage that the pair of
first brackets 109.5 of the shielding element 109.1 may be simply hooked into the
pair of second brackets 108.4 (from the side facing away from the shaft 107).
[0052] On the other hand, the V-shaped configuration may also provide security against displacement
of the shielding element 109.1 in the longitudinal direction (x-direction) in case
of a failure of the connecting elements 111. To this end, a slight inclination (by
a few degrees, e.g. 5° to 10°) of the plane defined by the bracket axes 109.6, 108.5
with respect to the xy-plane may be chosen such that, in case of failure of the connecting
elements 111, the shielding element 109.1 (e.g. under the influence of the vibrations
present under normal operation) may slide towards the shaft 107 until a positive connection
is formed between the first brackets 109.5 and the second brackets 108.4 in the longitudinal
direction (x-direction).
[0053] However, it will be appreciated that this inclination, on the one hand, does not
necessarily have to be present since the longitudinal forces generated by impacts
may lead to the same result. Furthermore, with other embodiments of the invention,
a stronger inclination may be chosen (for example 30° to 45°), e.g. together with
a positive connection between the first and second brackets in the longitudinal direction
(x-direction) formed already under normal operating conditions.
[0054] Hence, in any case, a failsafe connection is achieved insofar as it secures the shielding
device 109 against displacement (up to complete loss of the shielding device 109)
even if the connecting elements 111 fail during operation of the vehicle.
[0055] It will be appreciated that, in the present embodiment, a corresponding shielding
device 109 is associated to the other wheel set 105 of the running gear 103 in a manner
(point or mirror) symmetric with respect to the longitudinal center plane CP of the
running gear 103, such that the vehicle 101 is suitable for bi-directional operation
with same protection to its components.
[0056] In the foregoing, the invention has been described in the context of protecting the
wheel set shaft 107. However, it will be appreciated that the shielding device may
be used to shield any other desired component of the running gear 103 from such impacts.
For example other security relevant and/or impact sensitive components, such as e.g.
an antenna or other components of a train control system may be the shielded component.
1. A running gear for a rail vehicle, in particular a high speed rail vehicle, comprising
- a wheel set (105),
- a running gear frame (104) and
- a shielding device (109);
- said running gear frame (104) being supported on said wheel set (105);
- said shielding device (109) being connected to said running gear frame (104) via
a support structure (108) and being spatially associated to at least a shielded component
(107) of said running gear (103);
- said shielding device (109) shielding a shielded part (107.1) of said shielded component
(107) against impacts of objects (B), in particular pieces of ballast, lifted from
a track (T) used during operation of said vehicle;
characterized in that
- said shielding device (109) and/or said support structure (108) comprises an impact
energy absorbing device (109.2, 109.3, 110);
- said impact energy absorbing device (109.2, 109.3, 110) being adapted to absorb
a noticeable fraction of an impact energy of one of said objects (B) hitting said
shielding device (109);
- said shielding device (109) defining an impact surface (109.4) for said objects
(B);
- at least 50% of said impact surface (109.4), preferably at least 80% of said impact
surface (109.4), more preferably at least 90% of said impact surface (109.4), being
inclined with respect to a longitudinal axis of said running gear (103) by an inclination
angle;
- said inclination angle ranges from 35° to 70°, in particular from 40° to 60°, preferably
from 45° to 50°.
2. The running gear according to claim 1, wherein said shielded component (107) is a
part of said wheel set (105), in particular, a wheel set shaft (107) of said wheel
set (105).
3. The running gear according to claim 1 or 2, wherein
- said shielding device (109) shields said shielded part (107.1) against impacts of
pieces of ballast (B) lifted from a ballast bed of a track (T) used during operation
of said vehicle;
- said ballast bed comprising pieces of ballast (B) having a maximum nominal diameter;
- said vehicle having a maximum nominal operating speed;
- a piece of ballast (B) of said ballast bed having said maximum nominal diameter
defining a nominal impact energy when hitting said shielding device (109) at a nominal
relative impact speed, said nominal relative impact speed being directed exclusively
parallel to a longitudinal direction of said running gear (103) and having an amount
equal to said maximum nominal operating speed of said vehicle;
- said impact energy absorbing device (109.2, 109.3, 110) being adapted to absorb
at least 5% of said nominal impact energy, in particular at least 15% of said nominal
impact energy, preferably at least 25% of said nominal impact energy.
4. The running gear according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein
- said impact energy absorbing device (109.2, 109.3, 110) comprises a first impact
energy absorbing element (109.2, 109.3) arranged at said shielding device (109) and
forming at least a part of an impact surface (109.4) for said objects (B);
- said first impact energy absorbing element (109.2, 109.3), in particular, being
a plate shaped element;
and/or
- said first impact energy absorbing element (109.2, 109.3), in particular, being
releasably mounted to said shielding device (109).
5. The running gear according to claim 4, wherein
- said impact energy absorbing device (109.2, 109.3, 110) comprises a plurality of
first impact energy absorbing elements (109.2, 109.3) arranged at said shielding device
(109);
- said plurality of first impact energy absorbing elements (109.2, 109.3), in particular,
jointly forming substantially the entire impact surface (109.4) for said objects (B)
of said shielding device (109).
6. The running gear according to claim 4 or 5, wherein
- said first impact energy absorbing element (109.2, 109.3) comprises an impact energy
absorbing material;
- said impact energy absorbing material, in particular, being a wood material, preferably
a laminated wood material.
7. The running gear according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein
- said shielding device (109) comprises a shielding element (109.1);
- said shielding element (109.1) being spatially associated to said shielded component
(107);
- said shielding element (109.1) being connected to said running gear frame (104)
via a second impact energy absorbing element (110) of said impact energy absorbing
device (109.2, 109.3, 110).
8. The running gear according to claim 7, wherein
- said shielding element (109.1) is connected to a support element (108.3) of said
support structure (108);
- said second impact energy absorbing element (110) being arranged between said shielding
element (109) and said support element (108.3) and/or between said support element
(108.3) and said running gear frame (104).
9. The running gear according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein
- said support structure (108) comprises a support arm (108.3) of a drive motor (108.1)
driving said wheel set (105);
- said support arm (108.3) forming a support element of said support structure (108)
supporting said shielding device (109).
10. The running gear according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein
- said shielding device (109) comprises a shielding element (109.1);
- said shielding element (109.1) being spatially associated to said shielded component
(107);
- said shielding element (109.1) defining a first connecting section cooperating with
a second connecting section defined by said support structure (108);
- said first connecting section and said second connecting section defining a positive
connection, said positive connection being effective in a height direction of said
running gear (103) and/or in a longitudinal direction of said running gear (103).
11. The running gear according to claim 10, wherein
- said first connecting section comprises a pair of first brackets (109.5) of said
shielding element (109.1) and
- said second connecting section comprises a pair of second brackets (108.4) of said
support structure (108);
- each of said first brackets (109.5) defining a longitudinal first bracket axis (109.6);
- each of said second brackets (108.4) defining a longitudinal second bracket axis
(108.5);
- at least one first bracket axis (109.6) and/or at least one second bracket axis
(108.5) being inclined with respect to a longitudinal direction of said running gear
(103); and,
- in particular, at least one first bracket axis (109.6) and/or at least one second
bracket axis (108.5) being inclined with respect to a plane defined by a longitudinal
direction and a transverse direction of said running gear (103).
12. A rail vehicle, in particular a high speed rail vehicle, comprising
- a wagon body (102) and
- at least one running gear (103) according to any one of the preceding claims;
- said wagon body (102) being supported on said running gear (103).
13. The rail vehicle according to claim 12, wherein
- a nominal maximum operating speed is defined for said rail vehicle;
- said nominal maximum operating speed being greater than 180 km/h, preferably being
greater than 200 km/h, more preferably greater than 240 km/h.
1. Fahrwerk für ein Schienenfahrzeug, insbesondere ein Hochgeschwindigkeitsschienenfahrzeug,
umfassend:
- einen Radsatz (105),
- einen Fahrwerksrahmen (104) und
- eine Abschirmvorrichtung (109); wobei
- der Fahrwerksrahmen (104) auf dem Radsatz (105) abgestützt ist;
- die Abschirmvorrichtung (109) über eine Stützstruktur (108) mit dem Fahrwerksrahmen
(104) verbunden ist und räumlich wenigstens einem abgeschirmten Bauteil (107) des
Fahrwerks (103) zugeordnet ist;
- die Abschirmvorrichtung (109) einen abgeschirmten Teil (107.1) des abgeschirmten
Bauteils (107) vor dem Aufprall von Objekten (B), insbesondere Schotterstücken, abschirmt,
die während des Betriebs des Fahrzeugs von einem Gleis (T) hochgerissen werden;
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
- die Abschirmvorrichtung (109) und/oder die Stützstruktur (108) eine aufprallenergieabsorbierende
Vorrichtung (109.2, 109.3, 110) aufweist;
- die aufprallenergieabsorbierende Vorrichtung (109.2, 109.3, 110) zum Absorbieren
eines nenenswerten Teils einer Aufprallenergie eines der Objekte (B), die auf die
Abschirmvorrichtung (109) aufschlagen, ausgebildet ist;
- die Abschirmvorrichtung (109) eine Aufprallfläche (109.4) für die Objekte (B) definiert;
- wenigstens 50 % der Aufprallfläche (109.4), bevorzugt wenigstens 80 % der Aufprallfläche
(109.4), weiter bevorzugt wenigstens 90 % der Aufprallfläche (109.4) in Bezug auf
eine Längsachse des Fahrwerks (103) um einen Neigungswinkel geneigt sind;
- der Neigungswinkel 35° bis 70° beträgt, insbesondere 40° bis 60°, vorzugsweise 45°
bis 50°.
2. Fahrwerk nach Anspruch 1, wobei das abgeschirmte Bauteil (107) ein Teil des Radsatzes
(105) ist, insbesondere eine Radsatzwelle (107) des Radsatzes (105).
3. Fahrwerk nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, wobei
- die Abschirmvorrichtung (109) den abgeschirmten Teil (107.1) gegen den Aufprall
von Schotterstücken (B) abschirmt, die von einem Schotterbett eines Gleises (T) hochgerissen
werden, das während des Betriebs des Fahrzeugs verwendet wird;
- das Schotterbett Schotterstücke (B) mit einem maximalen Nenndurchmesser aufweist;
- das Fahrzeug eine maximale Nennbetriebsgeschwindigkeit hat;
- ein Schotterstück (B) des Schotterbetts, das den maximalen Nenndurchmesser hat,
eine Nennaufprallenergie definiert, wenn es mit einer relativen Nennaufprallgeschwindigkeit
auf die Abschirmvorrichtung (109) aufschlägt, wobei die relative Nennaufprallgeschwindigkeit
ausschließlich parallel zu der Längsrichtung des Fahrwerks (103) gerichtet ist und
einen Betrag hat, der gleich der maximalen Nennbetriebsgeschwindigkeit des Fahrzeugs
ist;
- die aufprallenergieabsorbierende Vorrichtung (109.2, 109.3, 110) zum Absorbieren
von wenigstens 5 % der Nennaufprallenergie, insbesondere wenigstens 15 % der Nennaufprallenergie,
vorzugsweise wenigstens 25 % der Nennaufprallenergie ausgebildet ist.
4. Fahrwerk nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei
- die aufprallenergieabsorbierende Vorrichtung (109.2, 109.3, 110) ein erstes aufprallenergieabsorbierendes
Element (109.2, 109.3) aufweist, das an der Abschirmvorrichtung (109) angeordnet ist
und wenigstens einen Teil einer Aufprallfläche (109.4) für die Objekte (B) bildet;
- das erste aufprallenergieabsorbierende Element (109.2, 109.3) insbesondere ein plattenförmiges
Element ist;
und/oder
- das erste aufprallenergieabsorbierende Element (109.2, 109.3) insbesondere lösbar
an der Abschirmvorrichtung (109) befestigt ist.
5. Fahrwerk nach Anspruch 4, wobei
- die aufprallenergieabsorbierende Vorrichtung (109.2, 109.3, 110) eine Vielzahl erster
aufprallenergieabsorbierender Elemente (109.2, 109.3) aufweist, die an der Abschirmvorrichtung
(109) angeordnet sind;
- die Vielzahl erster aufprallenergieabsorbierender Elemente (109.2, 109.3) zusammen
insbesondere im Wesentlichen die vollständige Aufprallfläche (109.4) der Abschirmvorrichtung
(109) für die Objekte (B) bilden.
6. Fahrwerk nach Anspruch 4 oder 5, wobei
- das erste aufprallenergieabsorbierende Element (109.2, 109.3) ein aufprallenergieabsorbierendes
Material aufweist;
- das aufprallenergieabsorbierende Material insbesondere ein Holzmaterial, vorzugsweise
ein laminiertes Holzmaterial, ist.
7. Fahrwerk nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei
- die Abschirmvorrichtung (109) ein Abschirmelement (109.1) aufweist;
- das Abschirmelement (109.1) dem abgeschirmten Bauteil (107) räumlich zugeordnet
ist;
- das Abschirmelement (109.1) über ein zweites aufprallenergieabsorbierendes Element
(110) der aufprallenergieabsorbierenden Vorrichtung (109.2, 109.3, 110) mit dem Fahrwerksrahmen
(104) verbunden ist.
8. Fahrwerk nach Anspruch 7, wobei
- das Abschirmelement (109.1) mit einem Tragelement (108.3) der Stützstruktur (108)
verbunden ist;
- das zweite aufprallenergieabsorbierende Element (110) zwischen dem Abschirmelement
(109) und dem Tragelement (108.3) und/oder zwischen dem Tragelement (108.3) und dem
Fahrwerkrahmen (104) angeordnet ist.
9. Fahrwerk nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei
- die Stützstruktur (108) einen Tragarm (108.3) eines den Radsatz (105) antreibenden
Antriebsmotors (108.1) aufweist;
- der Tragarm (108.3) ein Tragelement der Stützstruktur (108) bildet, welche die Abschirmvorrichtung
(109) trägt,.
10. Fahrwerk nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei
- die Abschirmvorrichtung (109) ein Abschirmelement (109.1) aufweist;
- das Abschirmelement (109.1) dem abgeschirmten Bauteil (107) räumlich zugeordnet
ist;
- das Abschirmelement (109.1) einen ersten Verbindungsabschnitt definiert, der mit
einem zweiten, von der Stützstruktur (108) definierten Verbindungsabschnitt zusammenwirkt;
- der erste Verbindungsabschnitt und der zweite Verbindungsabschnitt eine formschlüssige
Verbindung definieren, wobei die formschlüssige Verbindung in einer Höhenrichtung
des Fahrwerks (103) und/oder in einer Längsrichtung des Fahrwerks (103) wirksam ist.
11. Fahrwerk nach Anspruch 10, wobei
- der erste Verbindungsabschnitt ein Paar erster Halterungen (109.5) des Abschirmelements
(109.1) aufweist und
- der zweite Verbindungsabschnitt ein Paar zweiter Halterungen (108.4) der Stützstruktur
(108) aufweist;
- jede der ersten Halterungen (109.5) eine längsverlaufende erste Halterungsachse
(109.6) definiert;
- jede der zweiten Halterungen (108.4) eine längsverlaufende zweite Halterungsachse
(108.5) definiert;
- wenigstens eine erste Halterungsachse (109.6) und/oder wenigstens eine zweite Halterungsachse
(108.5) in Bezug auf eine Längsrichtung des Fahrwerks (103) geneigt ist; und
- insbesondere wenigstens eine erste Halterungsachse (109.6) und/oder wenigstens eine
zweite Halterungsachse (108.5) mit Bezug auf eine Ebene geneigt ist, die von einer
Längsrichtung und einer Querrichtung des Fahrwerks (103) definiert wird.
12. Schienenfahrzeug, insbesondere Hochgeschwindigkeitsschienenfahrzeug, umfassend:
- einen Wagenkasten (102) und
- wenigstens ein Fahrwerk (103) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche;
- wobei der Wagenkasten (102) auf dem Fahrwerk (103) abgestützt ist.
13. Schienenfahrzeug nach Anspruch 12, wobei
- für das Schienenfahrzeug eine maximale Nennbetriebsgeschwindigkeit definiert ist;
wobei
- die maximale Nennbetriebsgeschwindigkeit größer als 180 km/h, bevorzugt größer als
200 km/h, weiter bevorzugt größer als 240 km/h ist.
1. Train de roulement pour un véhicule ferroviaire, en particulier un véhicule ferroviaire
à grande vitesse, comprenant:
- un jeu de roues (105),
- un châssis de train de roulement (104) et
- un dispositif de protection (109);
- ledit châssis de train de roulement (104) prenant appui sur ledit jeu de roues (105);
- ledit dispositif de protection (109) étant connecté audit châssis de train de roulement
(104) via une structure de support (108) et étant spatialement associé à au moins
un composant protégé (107) dudit train de roulement (103);
- ledit dispositif de protection (109) protégeant une partie protégée (107.1) dudit
composant protégé (107) contre les impacts d'objets (B), en particulier des éléments
de ballast, soulevés d'une voie ferrée (T) utilisée pendant l'opération dudit véhicule;
caractérisé en ce que
- ledit dispositif de protection (109) et/ou ladite structure de support (108) comprend
un dispositif d'absorption d'énergie de choc (109.2, 109.3, 110);
- ledit dispositif d'absorption d'énergie de choc (109.2, 109.3, 110) étant conçu
pour absorber une fraction notable d'une énergie de choc d'un desdits objets (B) heurtant
ledit dispositif de protection (109);
- ledit dispositif de protection (109) définissant une surface de choc (109.4) pour
lesdits objets (B);
- au moins 50 % de ladite surface de choc (109.4), de préférence au moins 80% de ladite
surface de choc (109.4), de façon plus préférentielle au moins 90 % de ladite surface
de choc (109.4), étant inclinée par rapport à un axe longitudinal dudit train de roulement
(103) suivant un angle d'inclinaison;
- ledit angle d'inclinaison étant compris entre 35° à 70°, en particulier de 40° à
60°, de préférence de 45° à 50°.
2. Train de roulement selon la revendication 1, dans lequel ledit composant protégé (107)
fait partie dudit jeu de roues (105), en particulier un essieu de jeu de roues (107)
dudit jeu de roues (105).
3. Train de roulement selon la revendication 1 ou 2, dans lequel
- ledit dispositif de protection (109) protège ladite partie protégée (107.1) des
impacts d'éléments de ballast (B) soulevés d'un lit de ballast d'une voie ferrée (T)
utilisée pendant l'opération dudit véhicule ferroviaire;
- ledit lit de ballast comprenant des éléments de ballast (B) ayant un diamètre nominal
maximum;
- ledit véhicule ayant une vitesse maximum nominale d'opération;
- un élément de ballast (B) dudit lit de ballast ayant ledit diamètre maximum nominal
et définissant une énergie nominale de choc quand il frappe ledit dispositif de protection
(109) à une vitesse de choc relative nominale, ladite vitesse de choc relative nominale
étant dirigée de manière exclusivement parallèle à une direction longitudinale dudit
train de roulement (103) sa valeur étant égale à ladite vitesse maximum nominale d'opération
dudit véhicule;
- ledit dispositif d'absorption d'énergie de choc (109.2, 109.3, 110) étant conçu
pour absorber au moins 5% de ladite énergie nominale de choc, en particulier au moins
15% de ladite énergie nominale de choc, de préférence au moins 25% de ladite énergie
nominale de choc.
4. Train de roulement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel
- ledit dispositif d'absorption d'énergie de choc (109.2, 109.3, 110) comprend un
premier élément d'absorption d'énergie de choc (109.2, 109.3) qui est agencé au niveau
dudit dispositif de protection (109) et qui forme au moins une partie d'une surface
de choc (109.4) pour lesdits objets (B);
- ledit premier élément d'absorption d'énergie de choc (109.2, 109.3), en particulier,
étant un élément formé en plaque;
et/ou
- ledit premier élément d'absorption d'énergie de choc (109.2, 109.3), en particulier,
étant monté de manière amovible audit dispositif de protection (109).
5. Train de roulement selon la revendication 4, dans lequel
- ledit dispositif d'absorption d'énergie de choc (109.2, 109.3, 110) comprend une
pluralité de premiers éléments d'absorption d'énergie de choc (109.2, 109.3) agencés
au niveau dudit dispositif de protection (109);
- ladite pluralité des premiers éléments d'absorption d'énergie de choc (109.2, 109.3),
en particulier, formant sensiblement ensemble l'intégralité de la surface de choc
(109.4) pour lesdits objets (B) dudit dispositif de protection (109).
6. Train de roulement selon la revendication 4 ou 5, dans lequel
- ledit premier élément d'absorption d'énergie de choc (109.2, 109.3) comprend un
matériau d'absorption d'énergie de choc;
- ledit matériau d'absorption d'énergie de choc, en particulier, étant un matériau
de bois, de préférence un matériau de bois stratifié.
7. Train de roulement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel
- ledit dispositif de protection (109) comprend un élément de protection (109.1);
- ledit élément de protection (109.1) étant spatialement associé audit composant protégé
(107);
- ledit élément de protection (109.1) étant connecté audit châssis de train de roulement
(104) via un deuxième élément d'absorption d'énergie de choc (110) dudit dispositif
d'absorption d'énergie de choc (109.2, 109.3, 110).
8. Train de roulement selon la revendication 7, dans lequel
- ledit élément de protection (109.1) est connecté à un élément de support (108.3)
de ladite structure de support (108);
- ledit deuxième élément d'absorption d'énergie de choc (110) étant agencé entre ledit
éléments de protection (109) et ledit élément de support (108.3) et/ou entre ledit
élément de support (108.3) et ledit châssis de train de roulement (104).
9. Train de roulement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel
- ladite structure de support (108) comprend un bras de support (108.3) d'un moteur
d'entraînement (108.1) qui entraîne ledit jeu de roues (105);
- ledit bras de support (108.3) formant un élément de support de ladite structure
de support (108) supportant ledit dispositif de protection (109).
10. Train de roulement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel
- ledit dispositif de protection (109) comprend un élément de protection (109.1);
- ledit élément de protection (109.1) étant spatialement associé audit composant protégé
(107);
- ledit élément de protection (109.1) définissant une première section de connexion
qui coopère avec une deuxième section de connexion définie par ladite structure de
support (108);
- ladite première section de connexion et ladite deuxième section de connexion définissant
une connexion positive, ladite connexion positive étant efficace dans une direction
de hauteur dudit train de roulement (103) et/ou dans une direction longitudinale dudit
train de roulement (103).
11. Train de roulement selon la revendication 10, dans lequel
- ladite première section de connexion comprend une paire de premières consoles (109.5)
dudit élément de protection (109.1) et
- ladite deuxième section de connexion comprend une paire de deuxièmes consoles (108.4)
de ladite structure de protection (108);
- chacune desdites premières consoles (109.5) définissant un premier axe de console
longitudinale (109.6);
- chacune desdites deuxièmes consoles (108.4) définissant un deuxième axe de console
longitudinale (108.5);
- au moins un premier axe de console (109.6) et/ou au moins un deuxième axe de console
(108.5) étant incliné par rapport à une direction longitudinale dudit train de roulement
(103); et,
- en particulier, au moins un premier axe de console (109.6) et/ou au moins un deuxième
axe de console (108.5) étant incliné par rapport à un plan défini par une direction
longitudinale et une direction transversale dudit train de roulement (103).
12. Véhicule ferroviaire, en particulier un véhicule ferroviaire à grande vitesse, comprenant:
- une caisse (102) et
- au moins un train de roulement (103) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes,
- ladite caisse (102) prenant appui sur ledit train de roulement (103).
13. Véhicule ferroviaire selon la revendication 12, dans lequel
- une vitesse maximum nominale d'opération est définie pour ledit véhicule ferroviaire;
- ladite vitesse maximum nominale d'opération étant supérieure à 180 km/h, de préférence
supérieure à 200 km/h, de façon plus préférentielle supérieure à 240 km/h.