AU2003201275B2 - Applicator for an arc-shaped composition stick - Google Patents

Description

Regulation 3.2 AUSTRALIA Patents A ct 1990 (Cth) KELSAN TECHNOLOGIES CORP. COMPLETE SPECIFICATION FOR A STANDARD PATENT (ORIGINAL) Invention Title: Applicator for an arc-shaped composition stick The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me/us: 141476770 IA Applicator for an arc-shaped compositioit stick The present invention relates to an applicator for housing a solid composition stick. More particularly, the present invention relates to an appli ator for an arc 5 shaped solid composition stick BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Systems are known for lubricating or otherwise modifying. the coefficient of 10 friction between steel surfaces in sliding contact, for example, tht flanges of rail car wheels and a track, or fifth-wheels. One type of .system uses a ic uid lubricant, such as oil or grease, to lubricate the flanges of the rail car wheels. A problem associated with these liquid lubrication systems, however, is the inability to neter the amount of the liquid lubricant applied in a controlled manner. This lack of c ontrol may result in 15 the application of an excess amount of liquid lubricant to the flan ;es of the rail car wheels causing some of the lubricant to runoff onto the tread port;on of the rail car wheels. The lubricant on the tread portion of the wheels can then coat the top of the rail and result in appreciable slippage of the rail car wheels on the rail. In addition, if the liquid lubricant is applied at too high a flow rate it may be flu ig from the wheel to 20 beneath the rail car, and result in contamination of the environment it. In attempting to overcome the above problems experience I with liquid lubrication systems, solid l4bricantor friction modifier compositi )s in the form of sticks, for example US 6 136,757 (which is incorporated herein br reference), have 25 been used to apply compositions to the flanges of rail car wheels. As these solid sticks are usually made of hard, brittle materials, applicators for P ie with these sticks have been developed, which are capable of withstanding the seve e vibration and shock conditions experienced during operation. Applicators havi kg a rectangular conduit for accommodating a rectangular shaped lubricant stick h ve been used to 30 apply lubricant to the flange of rail car wheels. These applicators are, however, difficult to reload, and can only accommodate sufficient lubricant material for short duration transit systems, or for closed Track systems.

2 An alternate applicator for use with a solid composition utilizes an arc-shaped solid composition stick produced by Kelsan Technologies Corporation. This applicator,-is circular in shape, and houses a one-piece, arc-shaped, composition stick. This type of applicator is suitable for both closed and open rail systems as the length 5 of the stick is greater than the rectangular sticks mentioned above, and the useable life of the composition stick is increased. Upon completion of the composition stick, the entire applicator is discarded. To simplify attaching and removing the circular applicator, a centrally located fastening point is used to connect the applicator to the undercarriage of a rail car. However, the central attachment point reduces the extent 10 of repositioning of the applicator relative to the flange of the rail car wheel, and may also allow increased vibration of the applicator while in use, resulting in damage to the composition stick. A robust applicator, characterized as exhibiting an increased duration period between refills along with an increased ease of refilling, capable of minimizing 15 vibrational effects on a solid composition stick housed within, and that can be adjusted to properly interface with a desired steel surface for treatment, is required. 20 3 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an aim of the present invention to ameliorate one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art or to at least provide a useful alternative. The present invention relates to an applicator for a solid composition stick. 5 More particularly, the invention relates to an applicator for an arc-shaped solid composition stick. In an aspect of the invention there is provided a circular arc-shaped solid composition stick, comprising: a housing defining a conduit having a first end and a second end, the second 10 end being open, the conduit having a continuous circular arc-shape from the first end to the second end, and the conduit sized to accept the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick, the housing comprising: one, or more than one opening for engaging a fastener, the one, or more than one opening being of a sufficient size to permit at least partial lateral movement of 15 the fastener; an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and the outlet sized to accent the circular are shaped solid composition stick and in communication with the conduit, the outlet in communication with the second end, and a biasing assembly for advancing the circular arc-shaped solid composition 20 stick within the conduit, wherein activation of the biasing assembly advances the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick through the conduit, the second end of the conduit, and the outlet of the applicator. Furthermore, the housing of the applicator may further comprise one, or more 25 than one radially extending rib. The applicator may also include the arc-shaped solid composition stick. The housing of the applicator defined above may be fabricated from a polymer having a suitable tensile strength, or compression strength. Non-limiting examples of a polymer include high density polyethylene (HDPE), or Nylon@. 30 Alternatively, the housing may be fabricated from aluminium, steel or fiber reinforced plastic (FRP).

4 The present invention also pertains to the applicator defined above, wherein the biasing assembly comprises a spring assembly for biasing a contact member against the arc-shaped solid composition stick, the contact member connected to the spring assembly. Furthermore, the contact member may be a contact stick, where the 5 contact stick is in operative association with the spring assembly, and pivotally connected to the applicator housing, the contact stick moveable through an area contained within the arc-shaped conduit. The present invention also provides the applicator defined above, wherein the housing comprises an upper and a lower section, the upper, lower or both upper and 10 lower section comprising one, or more than one opening for inserting a fastener for installing the applicator while in use, the one, or more than one opening being of a sufficient size to permit at least partial lateral movement of the fastener within the opening. This invention is also directed to the applicator as defined above, that 15 comprises one or more than one attachment plate attached to the upper, lower, or both the upper and lower housing. Furthermore, the applicator may comprise one or more than one bracket attached to the upper, lower, or both the upper and lower housing. In another aspect of the invention there is provided an applicator for a 20 circular arc-shaped solid composition stick, comprising: a housing, the housing defining a conduit having a first end and a second end, the second end being open, the conduit having a continuous circular arc-shape from the first end to the second end, the conduit sized to accent the circular arc-shaped composition stick, the housing comprising: 25 an upper and a lower section, the upper section, the lower section, or both the upper and lower sections comprising one, or more than one opening for engaging a fastener, the one, or more than one opening being of a sufficient size to permit at least partial lateral movement of the fastener, the upper section, the lower section or both the upper and lower sections further comprising one, or more than one radially 30 extending rib; a biasing assembly for advancing the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick within the conduit, the biasing assembly comprising a spring assembly and a 5 contact stick, the spring assembly biasing the contact stick against the circular are shaped solid composition stick, the contact stick pivotally connected to the housing, and moveable through an area contained within the conduit, and an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and the outlet sized to accent the circular arc 5 shaped solid composition stick and in communication with the conduit, the outlet in communication with the second end, wherein activation of the biasing assembly advances the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick through the conduit, the second end of the conduit, and the outlet of the applicator. 10 In one or more forms an applicator embodied by the present invention can be stronger and more rigid than prior art applicators for arc-shaped solid composition sticks. The improved rigidity reduces fatigue and vibrations that reduce wear on the applicator and the mounting used to connect the housing of the applicator to the undercarriage of a rail car, and increases the vibrational stability of the applicator, 15 compared to prior art applicators. Another advantage of at least some embodiments is that the position of the applicator relative to the surface to be treated, for example but not limited to a flange of a rail car wheel, or a fifth wheel, or an elevator track, can be easily adjusted by laterally sliding the housing of the applicator relative to its mounting bracket. 20 Furthermore, an applicator embodied by the invention may be easily refilled, and does not need to be disposable. The applicator may be refilled by inserting one, or more than one are-shaped composition stick through the outlet of the conduit. The process of refilling does not require disassembly of the applicator housing. By increasing the length of the arc-shaped conduit, more composition sticks can be 25 introduced into the applicator per loading, thereby reducing the frequency of refilling the applicator. Utilization of the composition stick may also be readily observed by visual inspection of advancement of the mechanism that advances the composition stick through the conduit, or visual inspection of the conduit. Throughout this specification the word "comprise", or variations such as 30 "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion 6 of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers, integers or steps. Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a 5 context for the invention. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the invention as it existed in Australia or elsewhere before the priority date of this application. Further aspects and embodiments of the invention will be apparent from the 10 specific description below and the drawings.

6a BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 5 These and other features of the invention will become more apparent from the following description in which reference is made to the appended drawings wherein: Figure 1 shows a prior art applicator for an arc-shaped lubricant stick. Figure 1 A shows a top view of the prior art applicator. Figure lB shows a sectional view of the prior art 10 applicator at line lB-lB. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of an example of the applicator of the present invention. 15 Figure 3A shows a plan view of the housing of Figure 2 including a composition stick. Figure 3B shows a set of six interlocking compositions sticks that may be used with the applicator of the present invention. 20 Figure 3C shows a top plan view of one of the composition sticks of Figure 3B. Figures 3D-3F show different perspective views of the composition stick of Figure 3C. Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view along line 4-4 in Figure 3A. 25 Figure 5 shows a perspective view of another example of the applicator of the present invention. Figure 6 shows a perspective view of an additional example of the applicator of the 30 present invention. Figure 7 shows a top plan view of the applicator of Figure 6. Figure 8 shows a partial cross sectional view along lines 8-8 in Figure 7.

7 Figure 9 shows a bottom plan view of an example of the applicatr of the present invention. Figure 10A shows a perspective view of an example of the biasir g assembly of the 5 present ivention. Figure 108 shows a side elevational view of the biasing assembl:, of Figure lI(A. Figure 10C shows a top plan view of the biasing assembly of Fie urc 10A. 10 Figure 11A shows a perspective view of a further example of the applicator of the present invention. Figure 11B shows aa cievational view in the direction of line I Il-I 1B of Figure 15 1lA. Figure 12A shows a top plan view of the applicator of Figure I Ia. Figure 1213 shows a side elevational view in the direction of line 12B-128 of Figure 20 12A. Figure 12C shows a bottom plan view of the applicator of Figure I IA. Figure 13 shows an exploded view of the applicator of Figure 1 lk. 25 Figure 14 shows an applicator of the present invention mounted i a bracket and positioaed so that a composition stick interfaces with a flange of a rail car wheel.

.8 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT3s The present invention relates to an applicator for a soli4 co mposirion stick. More particularly, the present invention relates to an applicator fc r an arc-shaped 5 solid composition stick. The following description is of a preferred embodiment bi way of example only and without limitation to the combination of features necessary for carrying the invention into effect. 10 Figure I shows a prior art circular applicator (10). While :ffective in extending the duration of use of a composition stick (20) under fi4:d conditions, the applicator is disposable and it is replaced after completion of the:,tick. The, composition stick is made of one piece, aud i: not readily insertec wittan the 15 applicator when mounted on a vehicle. Refilling the applicator re 4uires disassembly. The applicator is attached by a central fastening point (30) to pen 4t rapid replacement of the applicator, however, this method of atachmen: permits the outer periphery of the applicator to vibrate while in use leading to fracti ring of the composition stick. 20 Referring to Figure 2, there is shown an example of the a: plicator (40) of the present invention comprising a upper section (50) and a lower se4 tion (60). The upper and lower sections (50, 60) are connected by a series of fas eners (65, Figures 4 and 13) inserted through openigs (70). Each fastener (65) is sec ired in place using a 25 suitable retainer, such as nut (67), together with washer (66), as sh Lown in Figure 13. When connected, the top and bottom sections (50, 60) define two contiguous openings: an arc-shaped conduit (80; see Figure 4) for accommod ating an arc-shaped composition stick (90; Figure 3A-F), and a passageway (100) in c ommurnicarion with the conduit (80). However, the applicator may be made up of a o te piece housing 30 comprising both the upper and lower sections. With reference to Figure 4, the arc-shaped conduit (80) co aprises a . continuous outer wall (91), a cominuous top wall (93), a continua as bottom wall (95), 9. a flange extending from the inner edge of the top wall (97) and a jlange extending from the inner edge of the bottom wall (99). The applicator of the present invention can be used with a single arc-shaped 5 composition stick, or with a set of one, or more than one interlocking arc-shaped composition stick. Non-limiting examples of the composition sti k, and the set of interlocking composition sticks for use with the applicator of the present invention arc shown in Figures 3C-F and Figure 3B, respectively. The arc-shaed composition stick is preferably an arc-shapecd solid composition stick. The cot position stick (90) 10 is shown to have a rectangular cross section, however, other crosA sectional shapes may also be used, including but not limited to, circular, elliptical, rectangular, or triangular. The conduit of the applicator of the present invention :an be easily modified to accommodate composition sticks of different cross-st ctional areas and shapcs. The composition s ak may be of any desired length. Thc example shown in 15 Figure 3B comprises a set of composition sticks, where each stick has a length that is approximately 1/6' the length of the conduit (80). However, othu r lengths may be used. Advanrages of using a set of interlocking sticks -instead of i single long stick includes the ability to refill the applicator before it becomes comp letely empty, and the ease with which the applicator can be refilled. Furthermore, tie interlocking 20 feature provides support to a segment of a set of interlocking sticl s, which is in contact with a surface, such as a wheel flange, and prevents it fro n falling out of the applicator and contaminaning the environment once it is worn dow rn to a short length. This interlocking feature is therefore also advantageous from an e :onomic standpoint as individual segments of the set of interlocking, segmented stick. may be used to 25 completion. A single arc-shaped composition stick may require disassembly of the housing for replacement. However, this is not always the case, as it depends on the length of the composition stick and the size of the opening defme, I between the inlet (160) and the outlet (170). Utilization of the composition stick wthin the applicator may also be readily observed by visual inspection of the mechani- m (see below) that 30 advances the composition stick through the conduit, or visual insj section of the conduit.

10 The composition stick for use in the applicator of the present invention may be formed of one of the compositions disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,136, 757, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 5 The following description will relate to an applicator that s used with segmented, interlocking, or inter-fitting solid composition sticks, is illustrated in Figures 2, 3A, and 4-14. It is to be understood, however, that the applicator (40) of the present invention can be used with an arc-shaped solid compo 4ion stick of any length, or cross-scetional shape, which has an arc that is complex entary to that of the 10 arc-shaped conduit (80) defined by the housing. As described abive, the composition sticks may comprise features that permit their fitting together, for example a male end and a corresponding female receiving end. However, such ends a:e not required, and any end, including a flat surface, may be used on a composition s ick. 15 The applicator of the present invention may include a rubi er seal or a brush seal, for example, which is not to be considered limiting, made of nylon or other flexible material, to seal the opening that leads to passageway (IQ 3) to prevent dirt and oil from entering into the applicator housing (40), yet allowing movement of a contact stick (I10) through passageway (100). 20 The applicator housing (40) comprises several attachmenr openings (120, 125) that can be accessed for attaching the applicator (40) to a mointir g bracket (not shown) when in use. The applicator may be attached to the mouA ting bracket through one, or more than one reinforcemen&ip4lte (130; see Figure 6) als. comprising an arc 25 shaped opening (140). The reinforcement plate (130) maybe artathed to the applicator housing (40) at openings (70; see Figures 6-7, 1 lA-B, 2A-C and 13). Fasteners (150; see Figures 8 and 13) together with suitable repair ers, such as nuts (155, 157) and washer (158) may be used with each attachment opening (120, 125) for connecting the applicator housing (40) to the mounting brack t. The openings 30 (120, 125) in the top and bottom of the housing, and the opening 140) in the reinforcement plate (130), are each of a sufficient size to permit a. least partial lateral movement of the fastener (150) within each opening to permit use of mounting brackets of varying size and to adjust the position of the applicato e when in use. For example, once the housing (40) is connected to the undercarriage af a railcar, its I I position relative to a rail car wheel can be adjusted by sliding the housing relative to the mounting bracket to bring a surface of the solid composition s ick (90) protruding from the housing, in contact with the flange of the rail car wheel (ee figure 14). 5 The applicator housing (40) includes an inlet (160) and an outlet (170) in communication with the conduit (80). The applicators shown in F igures 2-7, 9, 1 LA B, 12A-C and 13 define an are of about 2700 extending from the i ilet (160), along the conduit (80), to the outlet (170). However, other lengths of circus iference, or arc, of the conduit may also be used for example, but not limited to, an applicator defining an 10 arc from about 1800 to about 320*, an arc from about 1850 to aboi it 300*, or an arc from about 220* to 280*. If the arc is too small (i.e. less than about 1804), then there may be insufficient reservoir space within the conduit to contain an adequate amount of the composition stick. This would require more frequent refilli ag of the applicator. However, for some uses an applicator comprising a conduit descri bing an arc of less 15 than 1800 may be suitable, for example for treating fifth wheel su faces, guide rails in elevators, or closed loop rail-transit systems. In situations where onger periods of use are desired between refilling the applicator, a longer length of arc may be required, so that the conduit reservoir is larger and houses more c imposition sticks. The length of arc of the conduit in these circumstances may exceeL 320*, and will be 20 limited by the size of the opening required between the inlet (160' and the outlet (170). This opening size may be limited by the thickness of steel surfacee to be treated, and the size of the composition stick (90) to be inserted within the applicator. By increasing the length of the arc-shaped condui-, either by U ig L .We 25 circumference to for example about 2604, 280*, 300*, or 320*, or 3y increasing the diameter of the housing, more composition stick can be introduce. I into the applicator per loading, thereby reducing the frequency of refilling.the-applic tor. As shown in Figure 2, a guide track (180) may be present in the inside of the 30 upper section (50). Alternatively, the guide track may be present >n the inside of the lower section (60), or the inside of both the upper and lower secti, ins (50, 60), for mating engagement with a channel on the composition stick (90). This feature may be used to ensure that an interlocking solid composition stick (90: is inserted into the 12 applicator housing in an orientation that will allow it to properly interconnect with other segments preceding or following it. The applicator housing (40) also includes a biasing assembly (227) comprising a biasing element (180) and a contact stick (110), as illustrated in Figures 3A, 4, 1 OA 5 C and 13). The biasing element (180) advances contact stick (110) through the conduit (80) and ensures that the contact stick (110) presses against and pushes the composition stick (90; Figures 3A and B) through the conduit (80). The contact stick (110) also ensures contact of the composition stick (90) with a surface to be treated, for example, but not limited to the flange of a rail car wheel (e.g. Figure 14). The 10 biasing assembly also comprises a hub (240) having a spindle (230), as seen in Figures lOA-C. Hub (240) comprises a channel (250) for accommodating and securing a straight end (260) of biasing element (180). Securement of straight end (260) within channel (250) retains spring assembly (180) in place around spindle (230). Biasing element (180) also has an end loop portion (270) for connecting to a 15 bearing (280) that surrounds a bolt (290) secured near the front of passageway (100), as illustrated in Figure 13. The contact stick (110) is disposed within, and may extend through, passageway (100), and into conduit (80). The spindle (230) is pivotally attached to the applicator housing (40) using, for example, bushings (190, 200). Although the contact stick (110) and the hub (240) are shown as separate components, 20 they can be fabricated as a single unit. The contact stick (110), connected through hub (240) to the biasing member (180), for example but not limited to, a spring loader assembly, is moveable through an area contained within the passageway (100) and the conduit (80). It is preferred that the biasing element (180) be made of a material that is lightweight and strong. 25 Non-limiting examples of such a material include aluminum, high density polyethylene (HDPE), nylon, steel and fiber-reinforced plastic. It is particularly preferred that the biasing member (180), if it is a spring, be made of anodized aluminum to improve wear. To load the applicator, the spindle (230) can be wound back to retract the 30 biasing member (180) and move the contact stick (110) out of the passageway (100) until one, or more than one composition stick (90) has sufficient space to enter into 13 inlet (160). Alternatively, the composition sticks may be fed thro igh the outlet (t 70) and push the contact stick back along the passageway (100). The outlet (170) of the applicator (40) is then brought in close proximity to the steel surface to be treated, for example, but not limited to a flange of a rail car wheel (see Figuri 14). The contact 5 stick (110) is then brought into contact with a surface of the composition stick (90) biasing an end of the one, or more than one composition stick (90 1 to engage the steel surtce. Therefore, the applicator as described herein may be eas: ly refilled. Thq. applicator may be refilled by inserting one or more than one arc-s iaped composition stick through the outlet of the conduit, in a process that loes not r:quire disassembly 10 of the applicator housing. In another example, the biasing assembly may comprise a leaf spring biasing member, comprising for example, spring steel that is fiued alongside the passageway (100) anl extending from the outlet (170) to the inlet (160). One :nd of the leaf 15 spring biasing member is in communication with a contact mevmbfr (not shown), so that the contact member engages a surface of the composition stick (90). The other end of the leaf spring biasing member is anchored at one or both c f the upper section (50) and lower section (60) at the outlet (170). i this example, tI e applicator (40) may be loaded by extending the biasing assembly along passagewk ay (100) from the 20 outlet (170) to a position at or near the inlet (160). A stop member r (not shown) may be used to hold the biasing assembly in place. The interlocking, s tgmented solid composition sticks (90) can then introduced through outlet (170). Alternatively, the composition sticks may be feed through the outlet (170) and push the contact member and leaf-spring biasing member back along the passageway (100) and if desired the 25 stop member engaged. Outlet (170) of the applicator (40) may th :n be brought in close proximity to the flange of a steel surface to be Treated, for ei ample a rail car wheel. The stop member is then released, and the. contact membe -is forced against the composition stick by the action of the biasing member forcing an end of the composition stick to engage the steel surface. 30 In other examples, the arc-shaped composition stick is loa, led through openings present in the top, bottom or side of the housing.

14 Therefor&, the present invention provides an applicator fol an arc-shaped solid composition stick, comprising: - a housing defining an arc-shaped aonduit; th-reshapehuni-dzedto accept the arc-shaped solid compositio.nsticl the comprising:-- 5 - one, or more than one opening for engaging a fastener, t0 e one, or more than one opening being of a sufficient size to permit at least partial lateral movement of the fastener; - an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and the outlet in commun cation with the conduit, and 10 - a biasing assembly for advancing the arc-shaped-solid compition atiek within the arc-shaped conduit. The present invention also relates to the applicator describ.-d above in combination with the arc-shaped solid composition stick. 15 If desired, an indicator, for example an arrow (235) that p< ints in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the contact stick, may be molded into Cl.e top of spindle (230) to indicate the position of the contact stick (110) within passageway (100). This indicator will rotate with the contact stick as the one, or more thar one composition . 20 stick reduce in size during use. However, other methods for indic iting the position of the conmact stick (110) or composition stick may be used, includin g, for example, visual inspection through openings, for example, attachment open lags (120, 125). Referring to Figure 5, there is shown a variant of the prese ar invention, in 25 which the upper (50), lower (60), or both sections of the housing < an include a series of injection-molded ribs (210), which provide strength and durabi ity to the overall structre of the housing. The ribs (210) rigidify the housing, and >rovide further resistance to vibrations and shocks that may be encountered dunn; use of the applicator (40). 30 Referring to Figures 6 and 7, there is shown an alternate v, riant of the applicator (40) of the present invention, in which one, or more th: 3 one reinforcement (attachment) plate (130) constructed of, for example, but not limit d to, a durable metal, such as steel, or a suitable polymer, are connected to the u: per section (50), the lower section (60), or both the upper and lower sections (50, 60). The reinforcement plate (130) has an apermre of similar shape and size (140) a the cpeumgs (120), to permit lateral movement of fastener (150, see Figures 4 and 8) wit hin the aperture of each of the reinforcement plates (130) when the applicator (40) is mounted, for 5 example, to an undercarriage of a rail car, permitting, if required, -epositioning of the applicator. The plate (130) can also have one or more than one helIt (220) at ether end, for accommodating a fastener, such as a bolt, to secure the pl ite to the upper section (50), the lower section (60), or both the upper and-lower si:ctious (50, 60). However, any other means of attachment may be used to secure d e plate to the upper, 10 lower, or both housings. Two reinforcement plates may be used T cover both sides of the upper section (50), the lower section (60), or both sections (SC, 60), or a single large reinforcement plate (135, Figures 12C and 13) may bc used. The reinforcement plates reinforce the applicator as well as re-distribute and reduce t -e bending forces on the applicator under vibration. 15 Referring to Figure 8, there is shown a cross-section of the applicator (40) shown in Figure 7, which illustrates how the fastener (150) may b: positioned relative to a reinforcement plate (130) and the upper section (50) or the lo ver section (60). 20 Additional reinforcement may be provided by additional r enforcement brackets, for example, but not limited to the brackets (225) showr in Figure 9, mounted on the upper section (50), the lower section (60) or both sections. These reinforcement brackets may also be combined with reinforcement plates (130). The brackets are preferably constructed of a strong durable material fc r example steel or 25 suitable polymer. It is preferred that the applicator be fabricated of a light w eight material, so that it does not cause excessive loading on the undercarriage of lu t rail car that supports it. An example of a material that can be used in the forn ation of the 30 applicator of the present invention, includes, without limitation, a steel, for example aluminum, or a polymer having a tensile strength of at least about 4500 psi, or a compression strength of at least about 500 psi, or both, for examp te, but not limited to, high density polyethylene, HDPE, nylon or other material. If i equired, the outlet (170) of the applicator (40) may be reinforced, to provide addition al support for the 16 portion of the composition stick that contacts the steel surface, as this region may be subjected to high vibrations. Such reinforcement may include inc ceased thickness of the housing material, or the addition of a reinforcing band of mate rial, for example an aluminum band that may be fastened to the housing at or near the outlet. 5 The rugged design of the applicator of the present inventic n allows it to be used in environments where dusty, oily, harsh vibration or severe shock conditions, and changes in temperature are encountered. 10 The above description is not intended to limit the claimed invention in any manner, furthermore, the discussed combination of features migh1 not be absolutely necessary for the inventive solution. The present invention will be further illustrated in the folowing examples. 15 However it is to be understood that these examples are for illustra ive purposes only, and should not to be used to limit the scope of the present inventit n in any manner. Example 20 The applicators of the present invention were subjected to testing to determine their suitability under standard conditions of random vibration lev is (Long Life Test), and their resistance to shock (Shock Test). Both tests were performed in the vertical direction and were conducted in accordance to the proced ires of MC specification 61373. 25 In the long life test, the applicators of the present inventio. were subjected to an equivalence of 34.6 hours of vibration at a level of 42.5 m/s2 1 MS from 5 to 250 Hz. For bogie mounted equipment, the IEC 61 373 specification: pecifies a 5 hour duration at this vibration level to represent a field life of 6.25 year, based on 300 days 30 of service per year and 10 hours of service per day. There was no ndication of fatigue failure or loss of integrity to any of the applicators after this test. After the conclusion of the long life test at increased rande m vibration levels, the ability of the applicators of the present invention to withstand ;hocks was tested.

[7 The shock test was performed using a 30G half sine pulse with a pulse duration of I I milliseconds. All applicators were subjected to 10 negative pulse, and 3,310 positive pulses in the vertical direction. The time between pulses was set :t 1 second. For bogie-mounted equipment, the IEC 61 373 specification specifies 3 pulses in both the 5 positive and negative directions with a half sine pulse of 30.6 G a a duration of 18 milliseconds. There was no indication of failkre or loss of integril Y to any of the applicators after this test even though the test severity greatly exc :eded the IEC 61373 specifications. 10 Test Specifications and Procedures The vibration tests were conducted at the National Resear:h Council of Canada, Centre for Surface Transportation Technology test lab in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada. NRC, using [EC 61373: 1999( Simulated Long L fe Testing at 15 Increased Random Vibration Levels: Section 9) and fEC 61373: 1999 ( Shock Testing Conditions: Section 10). The Shock and Vibration Equipment inc luded a LDS (Ling Dynamic Systems), Shock and Vibration Table Model: V894 122)C. The instrumentation and control equipment used for the te ;ts were as follows: 20 - Control System: Spectral Dynamics Vibration Control System b 4odel:2252-9704-1 - Control Accelerometer: PCB - Model: 302A02 Serial: 16914 - Response Accelerometers: PCB - Model: 353B15 Serial: 64746 25 - Model: 353B1S Serial: 64747 - Model: 353B16 Serial: 64983 - Model: 353B16 Serial: 64984 Four solid applicators were tested. 30 Model #1: PA073LO00; HDPE applicator -no ribs; (Figure 2) Model #2: PA073LOOOO/I; ribbed applicator made from HDPE; (Figure 5) Model #3: PA073LOOOO/I; ribbed applicator raade from HDPE w th Attachment 'Plates; (Figure 6) Model #4: PA073LOOOO/I; ribbed applicator made from Nylon; (I igure 5) 18 A custom designed fixture for the shaker table was prepar:d comprising the brackets used to mount the applicator as used in the field. The fix ure was designed.to hold four applicators so that the vibration test was conducted on It applicators at the same time. This design ensured that all applicators woud be expt sed to the same 5 vibration severity levels and for the same period of time prior to , ny possible occurrence of failures. The base of the fixture was designed to mi tch the holes on the base of the vibration table. The applicators were set up on the fixture, and the control accelerometer was 10 attached to the base plate of the fixture. A response acceletometei was attached to each of the applicators by the outlet (170) where the composition stick meets the wheel flange. Each applicator was loaded with 6 interlocking couiposition sticks (90). Simulation of composition stick contact with the wheel flange wq s done during the tests. A restraining stucture was designed to simulate the wheel aange surfacc. The 15 restraining structure for each applicator was fixed outside of the s ftaker table and applicator fixture; this was to approximate the independent motio as of the bogie frame, to which the applicators are mounted, and the wheel flange. Sine Sweep Test 20 A sine sweep was performed on the applicators to determine whether there were any natural resonance frequencies in the frequency spectrum of interest. The sweep was from 5 to 250 Hz at 0.5 G, at a sweep rate was at one octave per minute. For each applicator, the response as well as the Q factor (respons vs. control ratio) 25 were measured. The testing showed that there were no significant. resonances, especially in the 10 to 100 Hz range where higher acceleration oc :urs. For the Model #1, there was a small broadband resonance below 100 Hz that wa not'observed in the other three designs. The applicator showing the least amount of r sponse in thelO to 100 Hz range was Model #2. Models #3 and #4 had similar respo ises. 30 ' Simulated Long Life resting at Increased Random Vibrati n Levels (Response of applicator at the various vibrational severity levels). For this test, the initial vibration level was set at 8.32 m/s2 RMS. This value was calculz red from a fatigue damage equation and the field vibration levels defined in IEC spe:ification 61373.

19 The power factor "im" was set at I5 (a value used in vibration test ng of plastic automotive parts). As defined by the JEC specification, the ASD ;pectrurn for bogie mounted equipment is from 5 to 250 Hz. In the 5 to 10 Hz range, there is an acceleration rise of 9 db per octave. In the 100 to 250 Hz range, t 1ere is an 5 acceleration drop of 6 db per octave. During the test the applicators were visually inspected for :racks and signs of fatigue failure. Due to the logarithmic nature of the SN curve, a I garithmic inspection of the applicators was conducted. At every niew vibrati in level applied, the 10 applicators were inspected after 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, and 30 minutes of, ibration testing. If the test at one vibration level exceeded one hour, the inspection it tervals remained at 30 minutes thereafter. No signs of craoka or fatigue failure were aoticed during tie tesr. Table 1 15 summarizes, in chronological order, the vibration levels and dural lons of the random vibration test over a 3-day testing period. Table 1: Random Vibration Test Runs Vibration Run Vibration Level Duration (M/s2 RMS) (Minutes) 1 8.32 194 2 16. 123 3 25.0 120 4 31.5 60 5 42.5 60 6 50.0 60 7 60.0 120 8 65.0 122 9 60.0 180 20 At the end of each vibration run, the applicators were vis4 dly inspected for cracks and damage. There were no indications of failre or loss af integrity on any of 20 the applicators. The results of this test showed there were no sign ticant resonances, especially in the 10 to 100 Hz range. The Model #I design was m ire responsive than the other applicators from approximately 50 to 100 Hz. Sunming the nine vibration runs using the power factor (m) of 4, the applicators were subject< d to an equivalent 5 of 34.6 hours of vibration at a level of 42.5 n/s 2 P(MS from 5 to 250 Hz. For bogie mounted equipment, the IEC 61 373 specification specifies a 5 hour duration at this vibration level to represent a field life of 6.25 years based on 300 lays of service per year and 10 hours of service per day. The applicators endured nearly 7 times the vibration duration specified in the FEC specification. 10 Shock Test A shock test was conducted to evaluate the ability of the d ifferent applicator designs of the present application to withstand shuck in the vertical direction. The 15 shock test was performed using a 30G haLf sine pulse with a pulse duration of I1 milliseconds. The IEC 61373 specification specifies a half sine pt Ise of 30.6 G and a duration of 18 milliseconds. However, the LDS system could noi achieve the 18 millisecond duration due to the mass of the fixture and applicator:.. The pulse level on the existing set-up was, therefore used, since multiple pulses could I be achieved in a 20 relatively short time. The time between pulses was set at I second. Initially, all applicators were subjected to 10 pulses both i i the positive and negative directions. The responses were very similar in nature t beforee, oJily pulses in the positive direction would be applied. For bogie-mounted equ ipment, the ISC 61 25 373 specification specifies 3 pulses in both the positive and negaNve directions to be applied. An additional 3,300 pulses were then applied to the applicators. Inspections were made after every 500 pulses. There was no indication of failure or loss of 30 integrity to any of the Circ III applicators after this test. Model #1 was more susceptible to shock than the oThers, vhcre for very small time durations, response peaks reached as high as 150 G. Model 14 (ribbed and made 21 from Nylon) was tie least susceptible to shock. No response peak from this applicator reached beyond 50 G. All citations are herein incorporated by reference. The present invention has been described with regard Wo pi eferred embodiments. However, it will be obvious to persons skilled in ILe arT that a number of variations and modifications can be made without departing frc m the scope of the invention as described herein. 10

Claims (22)

1. An applicator for a circular arc-shaped solid composition stick, comprising: a housing defining a conduit having a first end and a second end, the second end being open, the conduit having a continuous circular arc-shape from the first end to the second end, and the conduit sized to accept the circular are-shaped solid composition stick, the housing comprising: one, or more than one opening for engaging a fastener, the one, or more than one opening being of a sufficient size to permit at least partial lateral movement of the fastener; an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and the outlet sized to accent the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick and in communication with the conduit, the outlet in communication with the second end, and a biasing assembly for advancing the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick within the conduit, wherein activation of the biasing assembly advances the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick through the conduit, the second end of the conduit, and the outlet of the applicator.

2. The applicator of claim 1, further comprising the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick.

3. The applicator of any one of claims I or 2, further comprising one, or more than one radially extending rib.

4. The applicator of any one of claims I to 3, wherein the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick comprises one, or more than one interlocked segments.

5. The applicator of any one of claims I to 4, wherein the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick is a circular arc-shaped solid lubricant stick.

6. The applicator of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the housing is fabricated from a polymer having a tensile strength of at least about 4500 psi, a compression strength of at least about 500 psi, or both.

7. The applicator of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the housing is made of high density polyethylene (HDPE), Nylon*, steel or fiber reinforced plastic (FRP).

8. The applicator of any one of claims I to 5, wherein the housing is made of aluminum.

9. The applicator of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the applicator is refillable. 23

10. The applicator of any one of claims I to 9, wherein the biasing assembly comprises a biasing element and a contact member, wherein the biasing element biases the contact member against the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick.

11. The applicator of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the biasing element is a spring assembly.

12. The applicator of any one of claims I to 11, wherein the contact member is a contact stick, the contact stick in operative association with the spring assembly, and pivotally connected to the applicator housing, the contact stick moveable through an area contained within the conduit.

13. The applicator of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the conduit comprises a continuous outer wall, a continuous top wall, a continuous bottom wall, a flange extending from the inner edge of the top wall, and a flange extending from the inner edge of the bottom wall.

14. The applicator of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the housing comprises an upper and a lower section, the upper section, the lower section, or both the upper and lower sections comprising one, or more than one opening for inserting a fastener for installing the applicator while in use, the one, or more than one opening being of a sufficient size to permit at least partial lateral movement of the fastener within the opening.

15. The applicator of claim 14, further comprising one or more than one attachment plate attached to the upper section, the lower section, or both the upper and lower sections.

16. The applicator of any one of claims I to 15, wherein the arc shaped conduit has a circumference of about 185' to about 300.

17. An applicator for a circular arc-shaped solid composition stick, comprising: a housing, the housing defining a conduit having a first end and a second end, the second end being open, the conduit having a continuous circular arc-shape from the first end to the second end, the conduit sized to accent the circular arc-shaped composition stick, the housing comprising: an upper and a lower section, the upper section, the lower section, or both the upper and lower sections comprising one, or more than one opening for engaging a fastener, the one, or more than one opening being of a sufficient size to permit at least partial lateral movement of the fastener, the upper section, the lower section or both the upper and lower sections further comprising one, or more than one radially extending rib; 24 a biasing assembly for advancing the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick within the conduit, the biasing assembly comprising a spring assembly and a contact stick, the spring assembly biasing the contact stick against the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick, the contact stick pivotally connected to the housing, and moveable through an area contained within the conduit, and an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and the outlet sized to accent the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick and in communication with the conduit, the outlet in communication with the second end, wherein activation of the biasing assembly advances the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick through the conduit, the second end of the conduit, and the outlet of the applicator.

18. The applicator of claim 17, wherein the housing is fabricated from a polymer having a tensile strength of at least about 4500 psi, a compression strength of at least about 500 psi, or both.

19. The applicator of any one of claims 17 or 18, wherein the housing is made of high density polyethylene (HDPE), Nylon*, steel or a fiber reinforced plastic (FRP).

20. The applicator of claim 17, wherein the housing is made of aluminum.

21. The applicator of any one of claims 17 to 20, further comprising the arc-shaped solid composition stick.

22. The applicator of any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein the circular arc-shaped solid composition stick comprises one, or more than one interlocked segments.