EP1052157B1 - Electrical connecting device for automatic railway couplings - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates a automatic coupling with an electric coupling device as well as a coupling and release process for the automatic train coupling.

Automatic train couplings enable automated connection two rail vehicles, two of which are in the coupled state Couplings establish a rigid connection between the vehicles.

• Peter Nolle, Hans Friedrich "Die automatische Kupplung in Europa", ETR Eisenbahntechnische Rundschau, Heft 4/92
• Adolf Felsing, Eberhardt Hoffmann "Die automatische Zugkupplung - Stand der Entwicklung und Versuchsprogramm", ETR Eisenbahntechnische Rundschau, Heft 4/95.

Automatic train couplings are described in detail in the following articles:

• Peter Nolle, Hans Friedrich "The automatic clutch in Europe", ETR Eisenbahntechnische Rundschau, issue 4/92
• Adolf Felsing, Eberhardt Hoffmann "The automatic train coupling - state of development and test program", ETR Eisenbahntechnische Rundschau, issue 4/95.

When air lines and electrical lines are automatically coupled are called fully automatic train couplings.

From A. Felsing, E. Hoffmann "The automatic train coupling - Stand the development and test program ", ETR Eisenbahntechnische Rundschau, Issue 4/95 in Image 2 automatic Zugkupplung, the electric clutch was still a separate clutch trained, connected manually after coupling the coupling body has been.

An EP 05 01 244 is an automatic train coupling become known, comprising a coupling head and a Cable coupling with standing, elastically push-back and in Coupling condition pneumatically forward, in the pressing direction on one Mating line coupling head, loaded line coupling head.

DE 43 10 741 shows an automatic train coupling with a Coupling body and an electric clutch, which subsequently, i.e. to Completion of mechanical coupling, is coupled. Such one Except for the compensation of certain transverse play between the mechanical couplings can only be moved lengthways.

Furthermore, the electric clutch known from DE 43 10 741 is of this type designed that the electrical coupling before mechanical uncoupling is solved so that by the mechanical coupling forced transverse movements not the longitudinal guidance of the electric coupling is damaged.

An electric coupling device has become known from DE 15 63 964 with two retractable coupling halves, which come from the Half of the housing extendable shift rods are equipped. To The coupling halves are centered using the shift rods and piston drives electrically connected to each other.

A disadvantage of the electric coupling devices according to the state of the Technology is, among other things, that the coupling of the line elements or Electrical coupling must either be done mechanically or after Completion of the mechanical coupling process.

Another disadvantage of the electric coupling device according to the prior art Technology is that the couplings are often prone to failure because they Temperature and environmental influences are exposed unprotected.

The object of the invention is therefore an electric coupling device for a Automatic train coupling to specify the disadvantages of the stand the technology can be avoided, in particular on the one hand Safe and automated coupling of the electric coupling at the same time the mechanical coupling are made possible, on the other hand, the Electric clutch both in the coupled and in the uncoupled Adequate protection against weather and Have environmental influences.

According to the invention, this object is achieved in a first embodiment solved in that the centering device of the electric coupling device an actuating device with means for actuating at least one Protective plate comprises, the protective plate in this way on the centering device is arranged that with the help of the actuator from a first Position in the plug contact devices of the electric coupling are covered, in a second position, in which the Plug contact devices of the electrical coupling are released, spent can be when the locking devices of the coupling Snap the centering devices together.

In a further development of the invention it is provided that the Actuating device in addition to the means for actuating the protective plate Means for moving the plurality of plug contact devices includes electrical clutch. In a particularly advantageous Design is provided that the means for actuating the protective plate or the forward and backward movement of the plug contact devices Grip the drive lever.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, that the means for actuating at least the protective plate, in particular the Drive lever, a return spring or pre-compression spring, so that the Drive lever automatically releases into a ready-to-clutch when a clutch is released Position is returned.

It is advantageously provided that the drive lever for actuating the Protection plate and the plug contact pins each have a toothing that with the components to be actuated are in engagement.

It is particularly advantageous if these two toothings on Drive levers are arranged such that in a coupling operation Electric coupling device first the protective plate from a first into a second position, in which the plug contact devices are released, is spent and then the released Plug contact devices from a withdrawn into one ready to be moved. A process of Plug contact devices together with the protective plate is in particular advantageous when designing the plug contacts as a pin and socket.

To provide an even more secure seal against environmental influences, in particular The electrical coupling is intended to provide moisture and moisture a sealing element, preferably in the form of a sealing ring or Has sealing lip. The sealing element or the sealing lip of the Electric clutch is particularly preferred in the field of Plug contact devices arranged such that when the protective plate covers the plug contacts, a seal between the protective plate and the Recording for the plug contact devices are formed and in released condition a seal between the Plug contact connections themselves and the recording exists. The electrical Coupling is by such an arrangement both in the coupled as in decoupled state completed dust and waterproof. Around Avoiding condensation is a drainage hole for condensation intended.

By designing the electric coupling device according to the invention with one that can be automatically brought into two positions when coupling Protective plate and plug-in contact devices, which only occur during the coupling process Being placed in an advanced position will increase the risks for an electric shock that a shunting worker can suffer, largely excluded and the clutch from weather influences such as also safely protected against mechanical impacts on the coupling side.

To ensure sufficient redundancy and high reliability of a To ensure uninterrupted current flow is advantageously provided that the coupling has a large number of plug contact devices, in particular has two times eight plug contact devices, without this to be limited. Regardless of how a car to be coupled in the Train stands, to allow a coupling constantly, is advantageously provided to design the electric coupling symmetrically, i.e. with 50% Connector pins and 50% connector sleeves.

It is particularly preferred if all connector pins or Plug sleeves are of the same size, which means that the contacts are the same size Be provided and good continuity for both Maximum currents as well as the train / bus signals.

In particular, the electrical coupling is designed such that the UIC Mb 541-5 certain electrical functions with the exception of the Emergency signals can be realized.

In a preferred embodiment of an electric clutch with Protective plate are the plug contact devices as knife contacts executed.

When using knife contacts instead of pin and socket contacts, needs a parallel feed in the axis, as with pin and socket necessary, not taken into account. Furthermore, there is no drive for the knife contacts.

If only a few knife contact points are provided, the Grasp the drive lever with the protective plate. In such a Embodiment, the protective plate is designed so that it only from the protection plate of the counter coupling can be opened.

In one embodiment of the invention, the Protection plate dispensed and the contact devices in the uncoupled Position sunk in a recess of the centering device protected.

When coupling, the contact devices are in the dome level pivoted.

The contact devices which are preferably designed as side contacts are pressed against the centering frame with spring force and rubbed bare. The process is repeated when disconnecting. By the The contact security of the electrical couplings will be rubbed blank Embodiment increased. One forms the in an advantageous embodiment Drive lever of the electric clutch as a swivel lever, so the Inertia of the socket in the event of an impact impact the socket in the direction Thrown dome level. Furthermore, the impulsive power of Mating coupling on the drive lever in a form-fitting manner in the coupling direction. This means that the socket is also in the case of icing or heavy soiling broken loose and increased dome security.

If one arranges the spring support in a further development of the invention Drive lever in such a way that the pre-compression springs at the impact Suspension when entering the dome level and if necessary the Socket can also be damped, so the centering and Dome security increased.

By arranging the spring bearing on the drive lever and on the Socket in the centering frame becomes the pre-compression spring for the centering frame also used as a return spring for the socket. This will result in a special design constant force ratios of Pushing force, interlocking force, return force and cushioning force reached. Spring force tolerances through an additional return spring avoided and increased coupling and separation security.

In a special embodiment of the third embodiment of the Invention are the contact devices as side plug contact devices educated.

Wear occurring on the brightly rubbed side plug contacts or on the opposite centering frame contour is continuous the connector spring compensated for up to approx. 2 mm of abrasion, since side connectors with a lead of approximately 2.5 mm can be carried out. Through the Arrangement of swivel bearings on the spring bearing, socket mounting and drive lever bearing, is in the third embodiment of the Invention achieved great smoothness and robustness.

A configuration with side contacts reduces the frictional force Knife contacts or pin and socket essential. Another advantage lies in that the side contacts can be designed as identical components. In a Further development of the third embodiment of the invention seals Sealing ring the contacts in the coupled and uncoupled state relatively waterproof and dustproof.

The frames with the sealing ring have one when coupled Inclination of approximately 6 °.

It is particularly advantageous if the centering device Electric coupling device a guide frame and a height and Has self-centering device, so that the electric clutches two are automatically centered on one another when the couplings run together, without the two electric clutches coming into contact with each other.

The height and side centering is advantageously carried out using a Impingement surface reached, the impact surface a first, a second and has a third section and the baffles of the first and third Section parallel to each other and the baffles of the second section with the baffle of the first or third section enclose an angle 0 <α <90 °.

It has been found that the angle α, the baffle of the second section with that of the first or third section, is preferably in the range 30 <α <45 °. One is particularly preferred Arrangement at an angle α = 45 °.

In an advantageous embodiment, the baffle is part of a Baffle frame by a guide frame of the centering device to be led. Adequate mobility of the baffle as well Protection of the electrical coupling against damage during the coupling process thereby achieved that the centering device with a handlebar arrangement a pre-pressing device, which is designed such that the Baffle surface before coupling in a position ready for coupling with a lead the coupling level of the electrical coupling is maintained.

This lead is particularly preferably 10 to 60 mm.

Advantageously, a delay device is provided which is designed so that they run-up forces that when the impact surfaces of the Electric clutch arise, delay.

To ensure sufficient mobility of the coupled electric clutch ensure and at the same time a secure connection in coupled Condition, it is advantageously provided that the locking and releasing device at least one lead and at least one undercut includes.

To prevent the baffle frame from centering two overlapping electrical clutches are without getting caught, it is advantageously provided that the locking and Release device further comprises a catch hook.

Such sliding over occurs when at high Acceleration speeds due to the impact of the impact frame was pushed back very far, but on the other hand the automatic Towing coupling has continued the centering process so that the lateral Shift in the hooking direction was continued before the compression spring could push the impact frame back in the direction of the dome.

The leading catch hook is used in such operating situations the continuation of the lateral shift prevented.

Furthermore, the catch hook is used for a clutch that is iced up repeated emergence and after defrosting the ice layer a subsequent one Allow to snap into place when the automatic pull coupling is coupled.

An embodiment of the invention is particularly preferred in which the Centering device, the electric coupling device at an angle β is arranged opposite the carriage axis. This is preferably located Angle in the range 20 <β <40 °. In addition to the centering device and the automatic train coupling, comprising such a device, gives the Invention also a coupling and a release method for the Electric coupling device as described above.

In the coupling method according to the invention, the Baffles of the centering devices on each other and slide towards each other until the locking devices of those to be coupled Snap the centering devices together. When the Locking devices actuate the centering devices the drive lever to actuate the protective plate, whereby the protective plate from a first Position is moved to a second position. In the second position is the Protective plate arranged so that in the first position by the Protective plate covered plug contact devices are released.

By further pushing the drive lever back after release of the plug contact devices through the protective plate from a retracted position in a dome-ready second position.

In addition to the coupling method, the invention also provides a method available for releasing such an automatic train coupling. In the release process, the centering devices of the two Electric coupling devices threaded apart. Due to the the drive lever is in its returning force dome-ready starting position pushed. As a result, the Plug contact connections placed in a retracted position and then the protective plate in a position in which the Plug contact connections are covered.

In the following, the invention is intended to be based on the exemplary embodiments are described by way of example.

Figuren 1a bis 1e:

Ansicht einer ersten erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsform einer Elektrokuppeleinrichtung mit Mitteln zum Betätigen der Schutzplatte sowie Mitteln zum Verfahren der elektrischen Steckkontakte

Figur 2:

Aufeinanderlaufen zweier erfindungsgemäßer Elektrokuppeleinrichtungen gemäß Fig. 1 mit Antriebshebel in kuppelbereiter Stellung

Figur 3:

Zwei Elektrokuppeleinrichtungen gemäß Fig. 1 mit Antriebshebel in gekuppelter Stellung

Figur 4:

Vorderansicht einer ersten erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsform einer Elektrokupplung

Figuren 5a bis 5b:

Detaildarstellung der Schutzplatte sowie der verfahrbaren Steckkontakteinrichtungen vor und nach dem Kuppeln.

Figur 6:

Draufsicht auf eine zweite Ausführungsform einer Elektrokupplung mit Messerkontakten.

Figur 7:

Vorderansicht einer Ausführungsform gemäß Figur 6 mit Messerkontakten.

Figuren 8a bis 8b:

Kuppelvorgang einer dritten Ausführungsform einer Elektrokupplung mit Seitenkontakten.

Figur 9:

Detailansicht eines Seitenkontaktes.

Figur 10:

Detailansicht zweier Elektrokupplungen mit Seitenkkontakt in kuppelbereiter Stellung.

Show it:

Figures 1a to 1e:

View of a first embodiment of an electric coupling device according to the invention with means for actuating the protective plate and means for moving the electrical plug contacts

Figure 2:

Two electric coupling devices according to the invention, as shown in FIG. 1, run on top of one another with the drive lever in the position ready for coupling

Figure 3:

Two electric coupling devices according to FIG. 1 with the drive lever in the coupled position

Figure 4:

Front view of a first embodiment of an electric clutch according to the invention

Figures 5a to 5b:

Detailed representation of the protective plate and the movable plug contact devices before and after coupling.

Figure 6:

Top view of a second embodiment of an electrical coupling with knife contacts.

Figure 7:

Front view of an embodiment according to FIG. 6 with knife contacts.

Figures 8a to 8b:

Coupling process of a third embodiment of an electrical coupling with side contacts.

Figure 9:

Detailed view of a side contact.

Figure 10:

Detailed view of two electrical couplings with side contact in the position ready for coupling.

A first embodiment is shown in FIGS. 1a to 1e Electric coupling device 1 according to the invention in plan view again presented in more detail. Figure 1a shows an overview of the Electric coupling device. The centering device 10 comprises one Guide frame 20, the connection points, not shown, with the mechanical coupling head 3 is connected. In the lead frame 20 Vordrückfeder 22 is supported, which in turn via a handlebar arrangement 24 and a deceleration spring, not shown, the impact frame 28 support. The baffle frame 28 in turn has a baffle surface 30, which in the present three sections is divided, a first section 32, a second section 34 and a third section 36. First and third section 32, 36 run parallel to one another. The baffle of the second section 34 makes an angle α with both the surface of the first section 32 as with the surface of the third section 36. The Angle α, at which the area in the middle area compared to that of the first or third area is inclined, any angle greater than 0 and occupy less than 90 °, preferably it is in the range between 30 and 60.

The receiving device 40 for the central, i.e. middle area of the electric clutch. The receiving device 40 further comprises a catch device 50 with a catch arm 52, one Undercut 54 and a projection 56.

The baffle frame 28 is not coupled by the compression spring 22 State brought into a forward position in front of the dome level 60. hereby it is guaranteed that when the mating clutch opens, the electric clutch does not come into contact with the electrical coupling of the counter coupling before the mechanical coupling process is completed. Damage is avoided.

Furthermore, the electric coupling device according to the invention comprises as in 1a, a drive lever 100 for actuating both the Protection plate 102 such as the one designed as an electrical plug 104 Plug contact devices during the coupling process.

The individual for the actuating device according to the invention crucial components are again shown in Figures 1b - 1e shown.

1b shows the handlebar arrangement 24.

The drive lever 100 is shown in detail in FIG. 1c. The drive lever 100 comprises a lever arm 110, on which the counter coupling running exerts a force so that the lever arm 110 in the drawn Direction of arrow 112 is driven. The drive lever 100 rotates around the Pivot point 114, which is the pivot point of the handlebar assembly 24 coincides. The drive lever 100 has in the embodiment according to Figure 1-55 the task, the protective plate, in the third in Figures 8a-10 illustrated embodiment, the lowered version for the To drive side contacts.

On the drive lever 100, a first toothing 116 is provided, which in the in Figure 1d and the teeth 118 of that shown in Figure 1d Protective plate 102 engages and from a first position in which the Electrical plugs 104 are covered in a second position in which this Plugs are released, spent. The direction shown Protection plate that is moved when coupling is with reference number 120 characterized.

In addition to the first toothing 116, the one shown in FIG. 1c includes Drive lever 100 has a second toothing 122, which in the toothing 124th the electrical connector 104 engages and this after the protective plate Has released connector from a retracted position to one advanced position so that the connector with those of the Can lock counter clutch. The direction in which the Moving the connector is indicated by arrow 126. In the illustrated Electrical connector 104 is a connector with pin 128, which in a socket, not shown, of an electrical connector of the mating coupling can snap into place.

The coupling process is shown in more detail in FIGS.

In FIG. 2, the counter electric coupling device runs on the electric coupling device 1 1000 on. The baffles 30 of the centering device touch in the middle beveled area 34 and slide on each other. Since the baffles in the central area 34 are just beginning to System come, the hatched drive lever 100 through the mating clutch has not yet been driven back in this position. thats why the protective plate is closed and the electrical connector 104 is in a retracted position.

If the clutch continues to run, as shown in Figure 3, due to the Opening of the mating clutch of the levers 110 of the drive lever 100 actuated and the entire drive lever shown hatched in Figure 3 is moved to the position shown. This will make the protective plate withdrawn and the electrical connector 104 in the extended position emotional. This allows the pin 128 in the socket 130 of the plug contacts engage the mating clutch. In this way, the electrical Contact between the two couplings made.

In Figure 4 is a front view of an inventive Electric coupling device shown. They are clearly recognizable a total of 8 electrical plugs 104 on each side of the electrical coupling. The Electrical plugs 104 are covered with a cover plate 102 and are protected against damage in this way. The Cover plate 102 is withdrawn when the mating clutch opens from the position shown, in which the electrical connector 104 are covered, along the direction of movement 120 in the illustrated dash-dotted position 132.

This releases the electrical connector 104.

Figures 5a and 5b show a top view of the invention Electric coupling device, namely Figure 5a the electric coupling device in position ready for coupling before opening the counter-coupling and Figure 5b the Coupling in the coupled position after the counter coupling has opened.

As can be clearly seen in FIG. 5a, the protective plate 102 covers up Overrun of the mating coupling the electrical connector 104. Clearly recognizable also the sealing ring 140 according to the invention, with which the electrical connector 104 are sealed against the protective plate 102.

If the counter coupling is fully opened, it is actuated the drive lever 100 as shown in the previous figures, the protective plate 102 in the position shown in FIG. 5b withdrawn. This releases the electrical connector 104. Of further with the help of the drive lever, the electrical connector from one retracted position into the advanced position shown in Figure 5b Position so that the pins 128 into the sockets 130 of each Mating clutch can engage and this way a more secure electrical contact is established. Again, the Sealing devices 140. In the case of the electrical plug with pin 128, the Seal 140 against the receiving opening, whereas the seal 140 for plug 104 with socket 130 are applied to the front, so that here a seal of pin and socket is formed. By these measures will both the receiving openings for the Electrical plug 104 before the ingress of water and others Protected from environmental influences like the connector itself.

FIGS. 6 and 7 show an alternative embodiment for a Electric coupling device shown. This second embodiment includes instead of plug / socket contacts, so-called knife contacts 200. The same components as in Figures 1 to 5 are given the same reference numerals busy. The impact surface can be clearly seen in the top view in FIG 30 with the sections 32, 34, 36, the coupling level 60, the Vordruckfeder 22, the handlebar assembly 24 and the undercut 54th and the protrusion 56 of the catching device 50. The knife contacts 200 are received by a holder 202 which is connected to the baffle frame 28 is connected, the baffle frame 28 from the compression spring 22 and the Handlebar assembly is supported. The advantage of using Knife contacts 200 versus plug / socket contacts such as for example in the first embodiment is the simpler structure.

Another advantage of the knife contacts 200 can be seen from FIG. 7.

In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical plug comprises a total six knife contacts 200.1, 200.2, 200.3, 200.4, 200.5, 200.6. The Knife contact pins 200.1, 200.2, 200.3, grip when the Couplings in the knife contact sockets of the opposite Electrical connector, which is analogous to the knife contact sockets shown 200.4, 200.5, 200.6 are executed. The knife contact sockets 200.4, 200.5, 200.6 each comprise two spring contact elements 204.1, 204.2. At the The knife contact pin 200.1, 200.2, 200.3 through the larger opening 206 of the opposite respective Knife contact socket 200.4, 200.5, 200.6 centered, the safe electrical Contact between the pin and the socket is made by the spring contact elements 204.1, 204.2 guaranteed. The electrical plugs thus have a kind Self-centering, additional centering means can be omitted.

Figures 8a to 8d show the coupling process of a third Embodiment of an electrical coupling with side contacts. Same Components as in the previous figures are again the same Reference numbers occupied.

In the uncoupled state - as shown in Figure 8a - with Vordruckfeder 22 on the spring bearing of the drive lever 100 of the third Embodiment of the invention pressed into the dome-ready position. The Drive lever 100 sinks the socket 302 of the electrical connector 304 with the four side contacts 306.1, 306.2, 306.3, 306.4 in the impact frame 28 with baffle 30. The baffle frame 28 is in the bearing bracket 308 a predetermined degree of freedom in the three axes.

The impact frame 28 is moved via the spring bearing 300, the propulsion lever 310 and pressed and takes the mount against the bearing bracket 308 so that the dome-ready layer with a lead of approx. 23 mm and one lateral adjustment of approx. 6 mm against the hooking direction. The The abutment of the pre-compression spring 22 is on the bearing bridge 308 arranged.

The height and angle centering of the baffle frame 28 is by the arranged centering hook or the undercut 54 and the Centering surface 30 with the centering sections 32, 34, 36 of the impact frame 28 the opposite clutch is reached. The baffle frame 28 has one Countersink 312 so that the drive lever 100 only from the Counter electric coupling is operated after the height centering of the Couplings are largely completed. In the in Figure 8a shown position, the contacts are sunk and sealed. The Drive lever has a large safety distance from the counter coupling.

In Figure 8b, the height centering is 3/4 completed. The The drive lever runs onto the mating clutch and starts the version of the To drive the side contact device into the coupling plane. When sliding in at about 40 ° into the hooking and coupling axis device Drive lever 100 pushed back about half the way and drives the version 302 to the half way portion in the dome position, as in Figure 8c shown. In the position shown in Figure 8c, the contacts and Versions still have a large safety distance.

From the beginning to the end of the hooking movement, the drive lever 100 pushed back and thus drives the socket 302 into the coupling plane. The two electric clutches are thus under the pretensioning force of the two Compression springs in the hooking direction and dome travel direction, as in Figure 8d shown, compressed: In the position shown in Figure 8d the hooking has already ended, but the drive lever 100 is Start slope further driven and the socket 302 from the drive lever 100 driven to the dome level.

The reach of the centering of the electric clutch is designed so that the Tolerance of the coupling center of the automatic train coupling or Z-AK is balanced with the electric clutch. The Z-AK can also order the wagon axis assume a certain angle of rotation or at Alternating load from train to pressure and the associated rearing up or take a certain spread angle to each other when cornering, while the electric clutch is always under the pretensioning force of the Advance spring 22 forms a block unit.

Due to the handlebar arrangement, the electric coupling from the horn Counter-Z-AK are pushed back so far that the inlet contours of the Z-AK be fully considered.

The arrangement of the electric clutch with the handlebars and the Centering frame is designed so that the centering forces as well as the centering path the Z-AK can be coordinated and harmonized with that of the electric clutch.

The drive lever 100 is arranged so that the counter air clutch, the Counter horn or the counter electric coupling at distant Coupling center can not be driven.

In Figure 9 is a section through an inventive Side contact device according to the third embodiment of the invention shown.

Version 302 and one of the four side contacts are clearly visible 306.1, which in the present case is designed as a pin. The pins of the side contacts are in the respective socket of the opposite Side contact device pressed when the compression spring 22 the Baffle frame drives into the stop plane. Every side contact itself is over the pivot bearing 316 by means of the compression spring 314, which is in the socket 302 is arranged, pivotable. They are in the coupled state Sealing surfaces 318 of the two sockets against each other and protect the Side contacts 306.1, 306.2, 306.3 and 306.4 before weather influences.

FIG. 10 shows the situation of two clutches running on one another Start of interlocking, i.e. in the dome phase shown in Figure 8c shown. You can clearly see the remaining distance between the two side contact devices 350.1, 350.2, which prevents the Pins the one side contact device into the sockets of the engage opposite side contact device. each Side contact device comprises a total of four side contacts, two of which of the side contacts of each row contact device as pins 306.1,306.2 and two are designed as a socket 306.3, 306.4.

With the arrangement according to the invention is thus a first Electric coupling device specified that a safe fully automatic Latching electrical plug connections enables.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1:

Electric coupling device

3:

mechanical coupling head

10:

centering

20:

guide frame

22:

Vordrückfeder

24:

link arrangement

28:

plump frame

30:

baffle

32:

first section of the baffle

34:

second section of the baffle

36:

third section of the baffle

40:

recording device

50:

catcher

52:

tentacle

54:

undercut

56:

head Start

60:

coupling plane

100:

drive lever

102:

protection plate

104:

electric plug

110:

lever arm

112:

arrow

114:

pivot point

116:

first toothing of the drive lever

118:

Interlocking of the protective plate

120:

Direction of movement of the protective plate

122:

second toothing

124:

Teeth of the electrical connector

126:

movement direction

128:

pen

130:

Rifle

140:

sealing elements

200.1, 200.2, 200.3

Diameter pins

200.4, 200.5, 200.6

Blade contact sockets

202

Socket for knife contacts

204.1, 204.2

Spring contact elements

206

opening

300

spring camp

302

Socket for side contact electrical connector

304

Side contact electric plug

306.1, 306.2

Page pins

306.3, 306.4

Side contact sockets

308

storage bridge

310

propulsion lever

312

depression

314

compression spring

316

pivot bearing

318

Sealing surface of the side contact device

350.1, 350.2

Side contact devices

1000:

Counter-electric coupling device

α:

Angle between the different baffles

β:

Angle at which the centering device compared to the Carriage axis is arranged.

Claims (35)

1. Automatic railway coupling comprising a mechanical coupler head and an electric coupling device (1) connected to said mechanical coupler head via connecting sites, with said electric coupling device (1) comprising:

   1.1 a centring device (10) with an impact surface (30);

   1.2 a locking and disconnecting means for coupling and decoupling;

   1.3 an electric coupler including a plurality of plug contact means (104) as well as a guard plate (102), wherein

   1.4 said centring device (10) is received in said electric coupler, with structural independence from a centring device of a mechanical coupler, and includes an operating device with means for actuating at least said guard plate (102), which means are so disposed on said centring device (10) that said guard plate (102) is moved from a first position, in which said plug contact means (104) are covered, into a second position, in which said plug contact means (104) are exposed, when said locking devices of said mutually coupling centring devices (10) are locked in each other.
2. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to Claim 1, characterised in that said operating device comprises moreover means for shifting said plurality of plug contact means (104).
3. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 1 to 2, characterised in that said means for operating at least said guard plate (102) comprise a driving lever (100).
4. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 1 to 3, characterised in that said means for operating at least said guard plate (102) comprise moreover a return spring.
5. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 3 or 4, characterised in that said driving lever (100) comprises a first toothing (116) for actuating said guard plate (102).
6. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 3 to 5, characterised in that said driving lever (100) comprises a second toothing (122) for operating said plug contact means (104).
7. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to Claim 6, characterised in that said first and second toothings (116, 122) are so disposed on said driving lever (100) that when said electric coupling device (1) is coupled first said guard plate (102) is moved from a first position into a second position, in which said plug contact means (104) are exposed, that subsequently said plug contact means (104) are moved from a retracted position into a position ready for coupling, and that when said electric coupling device (1) is disconnected first said plug contact means (104) is moved from the coupling position into the retracted position and subsequently said guard plate (102) is moved from said second position into said first position.
8. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 1 to 6, characterised in that said electric coupling device comprises sealing elements (140) in the form of a sealing ring or a sealing lip, respectively.
9. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to Claim 8, characterised in that said sealing elements (140) are disposed on said electric coupling device in the zone of said plug contact means (104).
10. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the first half of said plug contact means are male plugs (128) whilst the second half are plug sockets (130).
11. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 1 to 9, characterised in that said plug contact means comprise blade contacts.
12. Automatic railway coupling comprising a mechanical coupler head and an electric coupling device (1) connected to said mechanical coupler head via connecting sites, with said electric coupling device (1) comprising:

    12.1 a centring device (10) with an impact surface (30);

    12.2 a locking and disconnecting means for coupling and decoupling;

    12.3 an electric coupler including a plurality of contact means, wherein

    12.4 said centring device (10) includes an operating device with means for actuating at least said electric coupler with contact means, which means are so configured that said contact means of said electric coupler are arranged, in a first position, in a recessed position in a recess of said centring device for being protected, and

    12.5 can be moved into a second position, in which said contact means of said electric coupler are passed out of said recess and are exposed, when said locking device and said mutually coupling centring devices (10) are locked in each other.
13. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to Claim 12, characterised in that said operating device moreover comprises a driving lever (100).
14. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to Claim 12 or 13, characterised in that said operating device comprises a spring hanger supported against a pre-biasing spring (22), with said driving lever (100) being held via said spring hanger in a position ready for coupling in said first position of said contact means and with said contact means being urged by a pre-biasing force against the contact means of the mating coupler in the second position of said contact means.
15. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 12 to 14, characterised in that said contact means comprises a mount (302) in which one or several contacts are disposed.
16. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to Claim 15, characterised in that said mount (302) is connected to a driving lever (100) in such a way that said contacts slide along the surfaces of the recesses in said centring frame when said driving lever is pivoted.
17. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 15 to 16, characterised in that said mount (302) comprises sealing elements (318) for the contacts in the form of a sealing ring or a sealing lip.
18. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 15 to 17, characterised in that said contacts are flat contacts.
19. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 15 to 17, characterised in that said contacts are contacts with a male plug (306.1, 306.2) and a plug socket (306.3, 306.4).
20. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to Claim 19, characterised in that said operating device comprises means for actuating said male plugs when said electric coupler is moved into the second position.
21. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 12 to 20, characterised in that said mount comprises means for resiliently supporting said contact means.
22. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 1 to 21, characterised in that said centring device (10) comprises:

    22.1 a guiding frame (20);

    22.2 a device for vertical and lateral centring, which is so configured that said electric couplers of two railway couplings overrunning on each other are automatically centred without the two electric couplers coming into contact with each other.
23. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to Claim 22, characterised in that said device for vertical and lateral centring comprises an impact surface (30) with a first section (32), a second section (34) as well as a third section (36), with said impact surfaces (30) of said first (32) and third sections (36) extending in parallel with and at an offset from each other and the impact surface (30) of said second section (32) forming an angle of 0 < α < 90° relative to the impact surface (30) of said first or third section, respectively.
24. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to Claim 23, characterised in that said angle α is in the range of 30 < α < 60°.
25. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to Claim 24, characterised in that the angle amounts to α = 45° approximately.
26. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 24 to 25, characterised in that said impact surface (30) is part of an impact frame that is guided by said guiding frame of said centring device (10).
27. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 24 to 26, characterised in that said centring device (10) comprises a guide system (24) including a pre-biasing means (22) that holds said impact surface (30) in a position ready for coupling with an advance ahead of the coupling plane (60) of said electric coupler.
28. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to Claim 27, characterised in that said advance has a length of 10 to 60 mm.
29. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 24 to 28, characterised in that a delaying means is provided that serves to absorb strong overrunning forces.
30. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 24 to 29, characterised in that said locking and disconnecting means comprises a projection as well as at least one undercut (54).
31. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to Claim 30, characterised in that said locking and disconnecting means comprises moreover a catch hook (52).
32. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to any of the Claims 1 to 31, characterised in that said centring device (10) is arranged at an angle β relative to the wagon axis.
33. Automatic railway coupling comprising an electric coupling device according to Claim 32, characterised in that said angle β, at which said centring device (10) is arranged relative to the wagon axis, is within the following range: 20° < β < 40°.
34. Method of coupling an automatic railway coupling comprising a mechanical coupler head and an electric coupling device that is connected to said mechanical coupler head via connecting sites, according to any of the Claims 1 to 33, comprising the following steps of operation:

    34.1 said centring devices (10) of two electric coupling devices overrun on each other, with the impact surfaces (30) sliding on each other until the locking devices of said mutually coupling centring devices are locked in each other;

    34.2 when said locking device is locked the driving lever (100) is driven for actuating said guard plate (102) so as to carry said guard plate (102) from a first position into a second position in such a way that said plug contact means (104), which are covered by said guard plate (102) in the first position, will be exposed;

    34.3 upon disconnection of said plug contact means (104), said driving lever (100) moves them from a retracted first position into a second position ready for coupling.
35. Method of disconnecting an automatic railway coupling comprising a mechanical coupler head and an electric coupling device that is connected to said mechanical coupler head via connecting sites, according to any of the Claims 1 to 33, comprising the following steps of operation:

    35.1 the automatic railway coupling is disconnected, which pulls the mutually locked locking means apart;

    35.2 when said locking device is pulled apart the driving lever (100) is driven by the restoring force of said return spring, which carries said exposed plug contact means (104) from the second position ready for coupling into a retracted first position;

    35.3 upon retraction of said plug contact means (104), said guard plate (102) is driven, which carries said guard plate (102) from said second position into said first position so that said guard plate (102) covers said plug contact means (104) in the first position.

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