EP4063230A1 - A railway switch assembly - Google Patents
A railway switch assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP4063230A1 EP4063230A1 EP22163050.2A EP22163050A EP4063230A1 EP 4063230 A1 EP4063230 A1 EP 4063230A1 EP 22163050 A EP22163050 A EP 22163050A EP 4063230 A1 EP4063230 A1 EP 4063230A1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- switch
- elongated
- rail
- motion
- frame structure
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 52
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 claims description 63
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- 239000003351 stiffener Substances 0.000 claims description 32
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 22
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000003507 refrigerant Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 22
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 15
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 8
- 239000004567 concrete Substances 0.000 description 6
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 6
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 4
- 239000010426 asphalt Substances 0.000 description 4
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- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 3
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- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000000314 lubricant Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 210000002105 tongue Anatomy 0.000 description 3
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- 208000032368 Device malfunction Diseases 0.000 description 1
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Images
Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B61—RAILWAYS
- B61L—GUIDING RAILWAY TRAFFIC; ENSURING THE SAFETY OF RAILWAY TRAFFIC
- B61L5/00—Local operating mechanisms for points or track-mounted scotch-blocks; Visible or audible signals; Local operating mechanisms for visible or audible signals
- B61L5/02—Mechanical devices for operating points or scotch-blocks, e.g. local manual control
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B61—RAILWAYS
- B61L—GUIDING RAILWAY TRAFFIC; ENSURING THE SAFETY OF RAILWAY TRAFFIC
- B61L5/00—Local operating mechanisms for points or track-mounted scotch-blocks; Visible or audible signals; Local operating mechanisms for visible or audible signals
- B61L5/08—Underground actuating arrangements, e.g. for tramways
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01B—PERMANENT WAY; PERMANENT-WAY TOOLS; MACHINES FOR MAKING RAILWAYS OF ALL KINDS
- E01B25/00—Tracks for special kinds of railways
- E01B25/28—Rail tracks for guiding vehicles when running on road or similar surface
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01B—PERMANENT WAY; PERMANENT-WAY TOOLS; MACHINES FOR MAKING RAILWAYS OF ALL KINDS
- E01B7/00—Switches; Crossings
- E01B7/02—Tongues; Associated constructions
- E01B7/08—Other constructions of tongues, e.g. tilting about an axis parallel to the rail, movable tongue blocks or rails
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01B—PERMANENT WAY; PERMANENT-WAY TOOLS; MACHINES FOR MAKING RAILWAYS OF ALL KINDS
- E01B7/00—Switches; Crossings
- E01B7/10—Frogs
- E01B7/14—Frogs with movable parts
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01B—PERMANENT WAY; PERMANENT-WAY TOOLS; MACHINES FOR MAKING RAILWAYS OF ALL KINDS
- E01B2202/00—Characteristics of moving parts of rail systems, e.g. switches, special frogs, tongues
- E01B2202/02—Nature of the movement
- E01B2202/021—Turning or tilting or elastically bending
- E01B2202/022—Turning or tilting or elastically bending about horizontal axis
Abstract
Description
- The present disclosure relates to a railway switch assembly, in particular a railway switch assembly for a tram line, trolley line, or similar types of light rail transit, but also suitable for heavy rail transit applications. Hence, the disclosure relates both to a railway switch assembly and a tram switch assembly. The disclosure further relates to a method for providing a railway switch assembly, as well as a method for removing an elongated motion casing from a first switch unit of a railway switch assembly.
- Moreover, even if the railway switch assembly according to the disclosure will be described primarily in connection with implementation as a tram switch, the railway switch assembly according to the disclosure is not strictly restricted to this particular type of implementation, but may alternatively be installed or implemented in other types of railway switch assembly implementations, such as for example conventional heavy railway installations, high-speed railway installations, metro (underground) railway installations, freight railway installations, etc.
- In the field of conventional railway switches with horizontally moving switching tongues, there has generally been a problem with blocked switching motion of the switches, especially during winter condition with ice and snow. One solution to this problem involves using vertically moving switch tongues, as for example showed in documents
WO2016/148631 A1 andWO2019/098925 A1 , because vertically moving switch tongues are generally less sensitive to motion blocking by ice or snow. However, despite the activities in the field, there is a demand for an improved railway switch assembly, which is capable of meeting the requirements as to improved compactness, height, modularity, maintenance friendly and simple installation. Moreover, there is a demand for providing a railway switch assembly that is particularly suitable for a tram line, trolley line, or similar types of light rail transit. - An object of the present disclosure is to provide a railway switch assembly where the previously mentioned problems are avoided. This object is at least partly achieved by the features of the independent claims.
- According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a railway switch assembly comprising a first switch unit configured for controlling switching movement of a first switch rail and a second switch unit configured for controlling switching movement of a second switch rail. Each of the first and second switch units includes: a rigid elongated metal frame structure defining a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction and configured for being fastened to a underlying support structure, wherein the frame structure has an elongated bottom wall and first and second elongated side walls jointly defining an elongated space, and an elongated stock rail support region located next to the elongated space and arranged for receiving a stationary stock rail; an elongated motion casing arrangeable in the elongated space, wherein the motion casing holds a vertical displacement mechanism that is arranged to translate a linear switching motion of a driving assembly to a vertical switch motion of a vertical motion assembly or the switch rail, wherein the driving assembly is arranged to be displaced in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the switch rail or substantially parallel with a longitudinal direction of the switch unit; a driving actuator fastenable to the frame structure and operatively connectable with the driving assembly for controlling displacement of the driving assembly; a switch rail attachable to a top side of the motion casing, wherein the switch rail is vertically displaceable by means of the vertical displacement mechanism for enabling a vertical switch movement of the switch rail between an upper and lower switch state; and a stationary stock rail fastenable to the elongated stock rail support region of the frame structure.
- According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for providing a railway switch assembly comprising a first switch unit configured for controlling switching movement of a first switch rail and a second switch unit configured for controlling switching movement of a second switch rail. The method comprises, for each of the first and second switch units: fastening a rigid elongated metal frame structure to a underlying support structure, wherein the metal frame structure has an elongated bottom wall and first and second elongated side walls jointly defining an elongated space, and an elongated stock rail support region located next to the elongated space and arranged for receiving a stationary stock rail; installing an elongated motion casing in the elongated space, wherein the elongated motion casing has a vertical displacement mechanism that is arranged to translate a linear switching motion of a driving assembly to a vertical switch motion of a vertical motion assembly or the switch rail, wherein the driving assembly is arranged to be displaced in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the switch rail or substantially parallel with a longitudinal direction of the switch unit; fastening a driving actuator to the frame structure and operatively connecting the driving actuator with the driving assembly for controlling displacement of the driving assembly; attaching a switch rail to a top side of the motion casing, wherein the switch rail is vertically displaceable by means of the vertical displacement mechanism for enabling a vertical switch movement of the switch rail between an upper and lower switch state; and fastening a stationary stock rail to the elongated stock rail support region of the frame structure.
- According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for removing an elongated motion casing from a first switch unit of a railway switch assembly that comprises a first switch unit configured for controlling switching movement of a first switch rail and a second switch unit configured for controlling switching movement of a second switch rail. The method comprises: removing a removable maintenance cover from a stationary rigid elongated metal frame structure of the first switch unit for enabling access to a maintenance space located within the frame structure, wherein the metal frame structure is fastened to an underlying support structure and is made of an elongated bottom wall and first and second elongated side walls, which walls jointly define the maintenance space and a neighbouring elongated space, and wherein a stationary stock rail is located next to the elongated space and attached to an elongated stock rail support region of the metal frame structure; detaching or unfastening a motion casing, which is located in the elongated space, from the metal frame structure and subsequently lifting and/or rotating the motion casing vertically upwards for removing the elongated motion casing from the first switch unit, wherein the elongated motion casing has a switch rail attached to a top side of the motion casing and a vertical displacement mechanism that is arranged to translate a linear switching motion of a driving assembly to a vertical switch motion of a vertical motion assembly or the switch rail, and wherein, in an installed state of the motion casing, the driving assembly is arranged to be displaced in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the switch rail or substantially parallel with a longitudinal direction of the first switch unit, and the switch rail is vertically displaceable by means of the vertical displacement mechanism for enabling a vertical switch movement of the switch rail between an upper and lower switch state.
- In this way, a particularly compact, modular and maintenance friendly railway switch assembly is provided, which railway switch assembly enables a very simple installation and removal of the elongated motion casing with the vertical displacement mechanism.
- Specifically, by providing each of the first and second switch units with a rigid elongated metal frame structure, the switch units may be made smaller and more compact due to the inherent strength of a metal frame. Moreover, the integral elongated stock rail support region results in further improved compactness of the switch, and the elongated motion casing arrangeable in the elongated space simple removal and mounting of the motion casing to the frame structure, and the side wall of the frame provides good lateral support to the motion casing. Finally, by also having the driving actuator integrated and fastenable to the frame structure, a higher level of pre-manufacturing is enabled, thereby further simplifying installation.
- Moreover, the rigid elongated metal frame structure, the integral elongated stock rail support region, the removable elongated motion casing and the higher level of possible pre-manufacturing provides a railway switch assembly that is particularly suitable for a tram line, trolley line, or similar types of light rail transit.
- The modular and free-standing design of each switch unit of the railway switch assembly enables installation on existing support plate, for example in connection with modernisation of a railway switch assembly, thereby eliminating the need for replacing also the underlying existing support plate that may be re-used.
- The vertical shift motion of the first and second switch units further renders the tem particularly suitable for winter condition, because ice and snow cannot easily enter into the switching mechanism when inactive, contrary to conventional laterally shifting switches where snow and ice easily enters the switching mechanism. Moreover, the individual switch control of the first and second switch units enables both the first and second switch units to be located in the upper switch state when waiting for the next activity, thereby further reducing the risk for snow and ice entering the switch mechanism.
- Further advantages are achieved by implementing one or several of the features of the dependent claims.
- In some example embodiments, the motion casing is removably attached to the frame structure.
- In some example embodiments, the frame structure is a monoblock frame structure, i.e. metal parts welded together to form one single rigid body.
- In some example embodiments, the interior dimension of the elongated space in the lateral direction substantially matches the corresponding exterior dimension of the motion casing for enabling lateral support to the motion casing. Matches here refers to a lateral gap of about 1-10 mm between the elongated space and the exterior dimension of the motion casing.
- In some example embodiments, the interior dimension of the elongated space in the longitudinal exceeds the corresponding exterior dimension of the motion casing with about 5 - 100 mm for enabling simple installation and longitudinal fixation of the motion casing in the elongated space.
- In some example embodiments, the first and second switch units are interconnected by a plurality of rigid lateral distance keepers, each of which is fastened to the frame structure of each of the first and second switch units.
- In some example embodiments, the motion casing has a first permanent projection or recess arranged at a first longitudinal end region thereof and second permanent projection or recess arranged at a second longitudinal end region thereof, wherein the frame structure has a permanent projection or recess arranged at a first longitudinal end region of the elongated space and adjustable projection arranged at a second longitudinal end region of the elongated space, wherein the motion casing is arranged to be installed in the elongated space and secured to the frame structure by first moving the motion casing in the longitudinal direction until the first permanent projection or recess of the motion casing becomes interlockingly engaged with the permanent projection or recess of the frame structure, and subsequently adjusting the adjustable projection for interlocking engagement with the second permanent projection or recess of the motion casing.
- In some example embodiments, the motion casing has a base part with a bottom wall and two lateral side walls extending mainly in the lateral direction and two longitudinal side walls extending mainly in the longitudinal direction, wherein the bottom wall protrudes outwards relative to the two lateral side walls in the longitudinal direction, thereby defining the first and second permanent projections arranged at the first and second longitudinal end regions, respectively, for securing the motion casing to the frame structure.
- In some example embodiments, the driving assembly includes a metal plate that is in contact with, and slidably arranged in the longitudinal direction relative to, a bottom plate of the motion casing, and wherein the bottom plate of the motion casing rests on and is in contact with the bottom wall of the frame structure.
- In some example embodiments, the driving actuator of each switch unit is controllable independently from each other for enabling independent and individual switch movement of each of the first and second switch rails.
- In some example embodiments, the elongated bottom wall and the first and second elongated side walls of the frame structure further jointly defines a maintenance space, and the driving actuator fastened to the frame structure within the maintenance space.
- In some example embodiments, the maintenance space is closed in the vertical direction by means of a removable maintenance cover.
- In some example embodiments, the driving assembly of the vertical displacement mechanism is secured to the motion casing, in the vertical direction, by means of a removable elongated locking member that extends along a substantial length of the motion casing and engages an upwards directed abutment surface of the driving assembly and a downwards directed abutment surface of the motion casing, in particular a side wall of the motion casing.
- In some example embodiments, the vertical displacement mechanism includes a plurality of linkage arm assemblies that are pivotally connected to both the driving assembly and the vertical motion assembly or the switch rail, such that a linear switching motion of a driving assembly results in vertical switch motion of a vertical motion assembly or the switch rail, wherein the vertical displacement mechanism further includes a first set of load carrying blocks associated with the driving assembly and a second set of load carrying blocks associated with the vertical motion assembly or the switch rail, wherein the first and second set of load carrying blocks are facing each other in the vertical direction and in load-transmitting contact with each other when the switch rail is in the upper switch state, and wherein the first and second set of load carrying blocks are interleaved when the switch rail is in the lower switch state.
- In some example embodiments, the vertical displacement mechanism may include a plurality of motion control arrangements, each including an upper motion control member fastened to vertical motion assembly or the switch rail and a lower motion control member fastened to the driving assembly, wherein the upper and lower motion control members are configured to interact such that a linear switching motion of a driving assembly results in vertical switch motion of a vertical motion assembly or the switch rail, wherein the vertical displacement mechanism further includes a first set of load carrying blocks associated with the driving assembly and a second set of load carrying blocks associated with the vertical motion assembly or the switch rail, wherein the first and second set of load carrying blocks are facing each other in the vertical direction and in load-transmitting contact with each other when the switch rail is in the upper switch state, and wherein the first and second set of load carrying blocks are interleaved when the switch rail is in the lower switch state.
- In some example embodiments, the vertical displacement mechanism may include a first set of load-carrying wedges associated with the driving assembly and a second set of load-carrying wedges associated with the vertical motion assembly or the switch rail, wherein the first and second sets of load-carrying wedges are configured such that a linear switching motion of the driving assembly results in vertical switch motion of a vertical motion assembly or the switch rail.
- In some example embodiments, when the switch rail is in the lower switch state, the first set of load carrying blocks are in contact with a metal plate of vertical motion assembly or with the switch rail, and the second set of load carrying blocks are in contact with a metal plate of driving assembly.
- In some example embodiments, the motion casing has a stationary base part with four side walls extending upwards from a bottom wall, and wherein the vertical motion assembly or switch rail has four corresponding side walls extending downwards and telescopically engaged on an outer side of the side walls associated with the bottom wall.
- In some example embodiments, the maintenance space and the elongated space are separated by an intermediate wall that is part of the frame structure.
- In some example embodiments, the maintenance space corresponds to the space below the maintenance cover, and the elongated space corresponds to the space below the switch rail.
- In some example embodiments, the stationary stock rail is arranged for being fastened on a top surface of the first side wall of the frame structure.
- In some example embodiments, the frame structure comprises a plurality of spaced apart stiffener plates welded to an outside of the first side wall and an upper side of the bottom plate for improved stability of the first side wall, wherein the stiffener plates in the elongated stock rail support region have a horizontal upper surface configured for receiving the stationary stock rail.
- In some example embodiments, at least some, specifically all, of the stiffener plates in the elongated stock rail support region have a thoroughgoing or blind hole configured for receiving a threaded fastener for fastening the stationary stock rail to the frame structure.
- In some example embodiments, the vertical motion assembly of the motion casing has a plurality of thoroughgoing or blind holes configured for receiving a threaded fastener for fastening the switch rail to the vertical motion assembly.
- In some example embodiments, the frame structure comprises a plurality of spaced apart stiffener plates welded to an outside of the second side wall and an upper side of the bottom plate for improved stability of the second side wall.
- In some example embodiments, an upper surface of the switch rail is substantially flush with an upper surface of second side wall when the switch rail is arranged in the upper switch state.
- In some example embodiments, a longitudinal length of each of the first and second switch units is in the range of 1.5 - 4 metres, specifically in the range of 2 - 3 metres, and wherein a vertical height of each of the first and second switch units is in the range of 0.2 - 0.5 metres, specifically in the range of 0.25 - 0.4 metres.
- In some example embodiments, a ratio between a longitudinal length and a maximal height of each of the first and second switch units is in the range of 4 - 15, specifically in the range of 5 - 9.
- In some example embodiments, the elongated bottom wall of the frame structure is made in one piece and a lateral length of the bottom wall is in the range of 1.5 - 3 times larger, specifically in the range of 1.75 - 2.5 times larger, than a vertical length of the second side wall of the frame structure.
- In some example embodiments, a ratio between a length of the stationary stock rail in the lateral direction and a height of the stationary stock rail in the vertical direction is more than 0.75, specifically more than 1.0. Thereby, good tilt stability of the stationary stock rail is provided and the ratio enables direct attachment to frame by means of threaded members.
- In some example embodiments, each of the first and second switch units is configured to be embedded in surrounding fill material, possibly including a top layer of pavement material, such as for example asphalt, cement, concrete, up to a vertical height corresponding to the height of a top surface of the stationary stock rail and/or height of a top surface of switch rail in the upper switch state. Thereby, a flush installation of the railway switch assembly is accomplished.
- In some example embodiments, a stationary base part of the motion casing is partly filled with a lubricant fluid and/or is provided with a friction reducing sliding surface for reducing sliding resistance associated with linear switching motion of a driving assembly relative to the base part.
- In some example embodiments, the frame structure has at least one elongated heating channel or duct arranged for removably holding an elongated heating device, in particular an electrical resistance heating cable or a tube for circulating a heat transfer medium.
- In some example embodiments, an opening of the at least one elongated heating channel or duct, for enabling insertion and/or removal of an elongated heating device within the at least one elongated heating channel or duct, is located in the maintenance space.
- In some example embodiments, the frame structure has at least one elongated heating channel or duct integrated and/or fastened to one or both of the first and second elongated side walls and/or to the bottom wall.
- Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent when studying the appended claims and the following description. The skilled person in the art realizes that different features of the present disclosure may be combined to create embodiments other than those explicitly described hereinabove and below, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
- The disclosure will be described in detail in the following, with reference to the attached drawings, in which
- Fig. 1
- shows schematically a top view of a railway switch assembly according to the disclosure in installed state,
- Fig. 2
- shows schematically a top-view of the first and second switch units,
- Fig. 3
- shows schematically a perspective view of the first and second switch units of the disclosure in installed state,
- Fig. 4A-4B
- show schematically a cross-section of the first switch units in upper and lower switch state, respectively,
- Fig. 5
- shows schematically a perspective view of the switch assembly in installed state without surrounding fill material,
- Fig. 6-7
- show schematically two different perspective views of the first and second frame structures,
- Fig. 8
- shows schematically a cross-section of the maintenance space of a switch unit,
- Fig. 9-10
- show schematically details of the rear and front end plates of the frame structure,
- Fig. 11-12
- show schematically the maintenance cover and maintenance space with cover removed, respectively,
- Fig. 13
- shows schematically the maintenance space with driving actuator,
- Fig. 14
- shows schematically details of the removable attachment of the motion casing,
- Fig. 15-16
- show details of the motion casing,
- Fig. 17A-18B
- show schematically a first example embodiment of the vertical displacement mechanism,
- Fig. 19-20
- show schematically alternative designs for mounting the motion casing and for placement of the driving actuator,
- Fig. 21-25
- show schematically various design possibilities relating to the vertical displacement mechanism,
- Fig. 26A-30
- show schematically cross-sections of the switch unit according to various example embodiments,
- Fig. 31
- shows schematically a cross-section of an installed railway switch assembly, and
- Fig. 32-33
- show schematically the main steps of a method for providing a railway switch assembly according to the disclosure, and a method for removing an elongated motion casing from a first switch unit of a railway switch assembly according to the disclosure.
- Various aspects of the disclosure will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings to illustrate and not to limit the disclosure, wherein like designations denote like elements, and variations of the described aspects are not restricted to the specifically shown embodiments, but are applicable on other variations of the disclosure.
-
Figures 1 - 3 ,4A-4B and5 - 7 schematically shows different views and sections of arailway switch assembly 1 according to a first example embodiment of the disclosure. In particular,figure 1 shows a schematic top view of theswitch assembly 1 including switch rails and stock rails,figure 2 shows a schematic top view of the switch assembly with some more details,figure 3 schematically shows a three-dimensional view of theswitch assembly 1 in a ready to use state, andfigures 4a and 4b shows a cross-section through a switch unit of theswitch assembly 1 in an upper switch state and a lower switch state, respectively. Moreover,figure 5 schematically shows a three-dimensional view of therailway switch assembly 1 mounted on anunderlying support structure 4,figure 6 schematically shows a three-dimensional view of a frame structure of therailway switch assembly 1 mounted on theunderlying support structure 4, andfigure 7 schematically shows the frame structure again but from a different point of view. - The
railway switch assembly 1 comprises afirst switch unit 11 configured for controlling switching movement of afirst switch rail 21 and asecond switch unit 12 configured for controlling switching movement of asecond switch rail 22. Thefirst switch unit 11 includes a first rigid elongatedmetal frame structure 31 defining a longitudinal direction LO and a lateral direction LA and configured for being fastened to anunderlying support structure 4. Similarly, thesecond switch unit 12 includes a second rigid elongatedmetal frame structure 32 defining a longitudinal direction LO and a lateral direction LA and configured for being fastened to anunderlying support structure 4. The longitudinal direction LO and lateral direction LA of the first and second frame structures, 31, 32 respectively, are for example substantially identical or simply the same. Theunderlying support structure 4 may for example be a common plate made of concrete or the like. - The
first frame structure 31 has an elongatedbottom wall 5 and first and secondelongated side walls elongated space 8, and an elongated stockrail support region 9 located next to theelongated space 8 and arranged for receiving a firststationary stock rail 41. - Similarly, the
second frame structure 32 has an elongatedbottom wall 5 and first and secondelongated side walls elongated space 8, and an elongated stockrail support region 9 located next to theelongated space 8 and arranged for receiving a secondstationary stock rail 42. - The
first switch unit 11 further includes a firstelongated motion casing 51 arrangeable in theelongated space 8, and thesecond switch unit 12 further includes a second elongated motion casing 52 arrangeable in theelongated space 8. - Each of the first and
second motion casings 51, 52 holds a vertical displacement mechanism that is arranged to translate a linear switching motion of a drivingassembly 14 to a vertical switch motion of avertical motion assembly 15 or the associated first orsecond switch rail assembly 14 is arranged to be displaced in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of theswitch rail switch unit - The
first switch unit 11 further includes a drivingactuator 13 fastenable to thefirst frame structure 31 and operatively connectable with the drivingassembly 14 for controlling displacement of the drivingassembly 14, and thesecond switch unit 12 further includes a drivingactuator 13 fastenable to thesecond frame structure 32 and operatively connectable with the drivingassembly 14 for controlling displacement of the drivingassembly 14. - The
first switch unit 11 includes afirst switch rail 21 attachable to a top side of thefirst motion casing 51, and thesecond switch unit 12 includes asecond switch rail 22 attachable to a top side of the second motion casing 52. - Each of the first and
second switch rail switch rail - In addition, the
first switch unit 11 includes a first stationaryfirst stock rail 41 fastenable to the elongated stockrail support region 9 of thefirst frame structure 31, and thesecond switch unit 12 includes a secondstationary stock rail 42 fastenable to the elongated stockrail support region 9 of the associatedframe structure - With reference to
figure 1 , therailway switch assembly 1 may thus according to some example embodiments be implemented for right turnout, i.e. a switch that selectively controls a rail vehicle to travel either straight forwards, or depart to the right on a new track. In such an implementation, therailway switch assembly 1 typically comprise a first, left,switch unit 11 configured for controlling switching movement of afirst switch rail 21 associated with acurved closure rail 16 and a second, right,switch unit 12 configured for controlling switching movement of asecond switch rail 22 associated with astraight closure rail 17. - Consequently, when the
railway switch assembly 1 is controlling a rail vehicle traveling along a direction indicated by arrow 18 infigure 1 to continue straight forwards infigure 1 , thefirst switch unit 11 is controlled to lower thefirst switch rail 21 or keep it low, while thesecond switch unit 12 is controlled to raise thesecond switch rail 22 or keep it raised, as depicted infigure 3 . Thereby, the steering flange of the right side wheel of the rail vehicle will be controlled by thesecond switch rail 22 to pass over to thestraight closure rail 17, while the steering flange of the left side wheel of the rail vehicle will be allowed to pass over the loweredfirst switch rail 21 and continue straight forwards on thestraight stock rail 19. - On the other hand, when the
railway switch assembly 1 is controlling a rail vehicle traveling along a direction indicated by arrow 18 infigure 1 to depart to the right in the switch, thefirst switch unit 11 is controlled to vertically raise thefirst switch rail 21 or keep it raised, while thesecond switch unit 12 is controlled to vertically lower thesecond switch rail 22 or keep it lowered. Thereby, the steering flange of the left side wheel of the rail vehicle will be controlled by thefirst switch rail 21 to pass over to thecurved closure rail 16, while the steering flange of the right side wheel of the rail vehicle will be allowed to pass over the loweredsecond switch rail 22 and continue along thecurved stock rail 20. - Each of the first and
second switch units figure 2 , namely a firstelongated section 25 corresponding the first and second switch rails 21, 22, respectively, andsecond section 26 corresponding to amaintenance space 29 for enabling for example installation and removal of the associatedmotion casing 51, 52, andthird section 27 corresponding to the associatedstationary stock rail - With reference again to in particular
figures 6 and7 , each of the first and second rigid elongated stationarymetal frame structures frame structure second switch units lateral distance keepers 10, each of which may be fastened to the first andsecond frame structures lateral distance keepers 10 primarily serves to ensure correct lateral distance between the first andsecond frame structures lateral distance keepers 10 may for example be welded or clamped to the first andsecond frame structures second frame structures - By having each of the first and
second frame structures steel bottom wall 5 configured for being positioned flat onto anunderlying support structure 4, such as a flat concrete plate, and a first and second elongated rectangularsteel side walls second switch units - Moreover, with reference to
figure 9 and 10 , which show magnifications of the longitudinal ends of thesecond frame structure 32 offigure 7 , afirst end plate 23 andsecond end plate 24 made of steel may be attached to thebottom wall 5 and the first andsecond side walls second side walls - An
intermediate wall 28 may be located within said large elongated cavity. Theintermediate wall 28 may separate the cavity into themaintenance space 29 and theelongated space 8. Alternatively, themaintenance space 29 corresponds to the space below themaintenance cover 37 and theelongated space 8 corresponds to the space below theswitch rail maintenance space 29 corresponds to the space outside of themotion casing 51, 52 and theelongated space 8 corresponds to the space of themotion casing 51, 52. - The
intermediate wall 28 may for example be welded to the first andsecond side wall bottom wall 5. - As illustrated for example in
figure 3 andfigure 5 , an upper surface of each of the first and second switch rails 21, 22 may be arranged to be substantially flush with an upper surface ofsecond side wall 7, and possibly also with an upper surface of the first andsecond end walls switch rail second side wall 7 and first andsecond end walls elongated space 8 and/or themaintenance space 29. - Consequently, each of the first and
second switch units stationary stock rail second switch rail - However, the first and
second end walls outs 30 in the top surface for enabling connection of the associatedstationary stock rail switch rail - For even further improving the strength, rigidity and compactness, each of the first and
second frame structures first stiffener plates 33 welded to an outside of thefirst side wall 6 and an upper side of thebottom plate 5, as showed for example in the example embodiment offigures 6-7 and9-10 . Thefirst stiffener plates 33, also referred to as first corner stiffening plates or first stiffening angle plates, typically have a planar shape and may be cut from a metal plate. The firstplanar stiffener plates 33 are typically arranged in a vertical plane that is parallel with the longitudinal direction LO. - The
first stiffener plates 33 may have a substantially triangular shape, in particular a right-angled triangular shape, for enabling welding of the right-angle sides of the tringle to thebottom wall 5 andfirst side wall 6, respectively. However, in the example embodiment of the first andsecond frame structure figures 6-7 and9-10 , thefirst stiffener plates 33 have a more rectangular shape instead, with a lower side being welded to thebottom wall 5 of theframe structure first wall 6, and with a top side providing a flat and horizontal support surface for supporting and carrying the associatedstationary stock rail first stiffener plates 33 are located in the elongated stock rail support region and are configured for receiving and carrying part of the associatedstationary stock rail - Similarly, for even further improving the strength, rigidity and compactness, each of the first and
second frame structures second stiffener plates 34 welded to an outside of thesecond side wall 7 and the upper side of thebottom plate 5 for improved stability of thesecond side wall 7, as showed for example in the example embodiment offigures 5-7 and9-10 . Thesecond stiffener plates 34 typically have a planar shape and may be cut from a metal plate. - The second
planar stiffener plates 34 are typically arranged in a vertical plane that is parallel with the longitudinal direction LO. - The
second stiffener plates 34 may have a substantially triangular shape, in particular a right-angled triangular shape, for enabling welding of the right-angle sides of the tringle to thebottom wall 5 andsecond side wall 7, respectively. - As mentioned above, the
elongated bottom wall 5 and the first and secondelongated side walls frame structure maintenance space 29. In the example embodiment of 4a and 4b, and in the example embodiment offigures 8 and11 - 12 , a drivingactuator 13 is fastened within themaintenance space 29 of eachswitch unit maintenance space 29 is easily accessible via adedicated maintenance cover 37, i.e. a lid. - In
figure 8 , which shows a perspective side of thefirst switch unit 11, the second side wall is 7 removed for enabling a better view of the interior of themaintenance space 29, theintermediate wall 28 and the elongated space with thefirst motion casing 51. - Moreover, both
figure 11 and 12 show a perspective side of thefirst switch unit 11, whereinfigure 11 shows thefirst switch unit 11 with themaintenance cover 37 mounted over themaintenance space 29, andfigure 12 shows the same view but with themaintenance cover 37 removed, thereby giving access to the interior of themaintenance space 29. - Hence, the
maintenance space 29 may be closed in the vertical direction by means of aremovable maintenance cover 37. This enables opening and service operation of for example the drivingactuator 13 without removal of the first or second switch rails 21, 22, or the first and secondstationary stock rail second switch unit - As described above, each of the first and
second switch units elongated motion casing 51, 52 arrangeable in theelongated space 8. According to some example embodiments, each of the first and secondelongated motion casings 51, 52 is removably attached to the first andsecond frame structure motion casings 51, 52 may be manufactured separately from the frame structure and subsequently merely installed within theelongated space 8 of eachframe structure 51, 52 when suitable. Moreover, theremovable motion casings 51, 52 may also more easily be removed for maintenance or replacement if needed, thereby simplifying and reducing overall cost for maintenance and increasing efficiency. - According to some example embodiments, installation of each of the first and
second motion casings 51, 52 may performed by first lowering themotion casing 51, 52 into theelongated space 8 until at least a firstlongitudinal end 35 thereof, i.e. the end configured for being located remote from theintermediate wall 28, contacts the bottom of theelongated space 8. This position may be accomplished with the secondlongitudinal end 36 of themotion casing 51, 52 still being located slightly above theframe structure elongated space 8, or somewhere there between. - Thereafter, the
motion casing 51, 52 may be pushed horizontally towards therear end plate 24 of the associatedframe structure first end 35 ofmotion casing 51, 52 engages and vertically interlocks with a longitudinal end of theframe structure rear end plate 24. Vertical interlock herein refers to a locking engagement that prevents the firstlongitudinal end 35 of themotion casing 51, 52 to move vertically relative to theframe structure longitudinal end 36 of themotion casing 51, 52 may be lowered, unless this was not already performed, such that theentire motion casing 51, 52 rests on the bottom of theelongated space 8. Vertical interlocking of the secondlongitudinal end 36 of themotion casing 51, 52 to theframe structure motion casing 51, 52 may be connected to the associatedframe structure - Said vertical interlocking of the second
longitudinal end 36 of themotion casing 51, 52 to theframe structure maintenance space 29, because thereby themotion casing 51, 52 may be fastened to, and removed from, theframe structure underlying support structure 4 and embedded in fill material up the top of theframe structure - According to some example embodiments, as schematically illustrated in
figures 7-9 ,13 - 14 , and17a and18a , eachmotion casing 51, 52 has a first permanent projection orrecess 38 arranged at the firstlongitudinal end region 35 thereof and second permanent projection orrecess 39 arranged at a secondlongitudinal end region 36 thereof, wherein the associatedframe structure recess 43 arranged at a first longitudinal end region of theelongated space 8, i.e. near therear end plate 24, and anadjustable projection 40, such as for example a threaded fastener or the like, arranged at a second longitudinal end region of theelongated space 8, i.e. near theintermediate wall 28, wherein themotion casing 51, 52 is arranged to be installed in theelongated space 8 and secured to the associatedframe structure motion casing 51, 52 in the longitudinal direction LO until the first permanent projection orrecess 38 of themotion casing 51, 52 becomes interlockingly engaged with the corresponding permanent projection orrecess 43 of theframe structure adjustable projection 40 in the longitudinal direction LO for interlocking engagement with the second permanent projection orrecess 39 of themotion casing 51, 52. - According to some example embodiments, as for example schematically illustrated in
figures 7-9 ,13 - 14 , and17a and18a , eachmotion casing 51, 52 may have a base part with abottom wall 44 and twolateral side walls 45 extending mainly in the lateral direction LA and twolongitudinal side walls 45 extending mainly in the longitudinal direction, wherein thebottom wall 44 protrudes outwards relative to the twolateral side walls 45 in the longitudinal direction LO, as indicated bydistance 46 infigure 14 , thereby defining the first and secondpermanent projections longitudinal end regions motion casing 51, 52 to theframe structure -
Figure 13 shows a perspective view of themaintenance space 29 with themaintenance cover 37 removed, andfigure 14 shows a similar view but more from the side and with thesecond wall 7 of theframe structure members 40 are mounted in holes in theintermediate wall 28 and configured to engage aside wall 45 of themotion casing 51, 52 for pushing themotion casing 51, 52 in the longitudinal direction LO towards therear end plate 24. The threadedmembers 40 may additional protrude above thebottom wall 44 of the motion casing for vertically securing themotion casing 51, 52 to theframe structure - Alternatively, according to some other example embodiments, each
motion casing 51, 52 may be removably connected to the associatedframe structure frame structure rear end plate 24. Eachmotion casing 51, 52 may have corresponding protrusions at the longitudinal sides thereof, such as for example cylindrical protrusions, for example extending about 5 - 25 mm outwards, and adapted to side along said grooves. There may be for example two grooves/protrusions on each longitudinal side, adjacent the longitudinal ends, of the motion casing/elongated space. Removable installation of amotion casing 51, 52 in to an associatedframe structure motion casing 51, 52 into theelongated space 8 while said protrusions are sliding along said grooves, and when themotion casing 51, 52 has come in contact with the bottom of theelongated space 8, themotion casing 51, 52 is displaced slightly, e.g. about 20 - 50 mm, in a longitudinal direction LO, for example toward therear end plate 24, and finally fixed in this position, for example by means of threaded fasteners, thereby effectively locking themotion casing 51, 52 within the associatedframe structure - According to still some other example embodiments, each
motion casing 51, 52 may be removably connected to the associatedframe structure motion casing 51, 52 and the corresponding longitudinal sides of the associatedframe structure - Each of the first and
second frame structure duct 47 arranged for removably holding an elongated heating device (not showed), such as for example an electrical resistance heating cable or a heating tube for circulating a heat transfer medium, such as water or a refrigerant or the like. - An electrical resistance heating cable operates by feeding an electrical current through a resistive material for generating heat. A heating tube for circulating a heat transfer medium operates for example by driving a compressor for compressing the heat transfer medium, which raises its temperature. The warm heat transfer medium (gas) is then allowed to circulate through the heating tube for heating the
frame structure - According to some example embodiments, each
frame structure duct 47 integrated and/or fastened to one or both of the first and secondelongated side walls bottom wall 5. For example, aframe structure elongated heating channels 47 integrated in both of the first and secondelongated side walls figures 7-9 ,12 ,13 ad 15 . Specifically,figure 15 shows a perspective view of theelongated space 8 having the base part of themotion casing 51, 52 installed therein, and with theintermediate wall 28 omitted. Alongitudinally extending groove 48 may for example be machines or otherwise provided in thefirst side wall 6, and a heating channel orduct 47 may be arranged within thegroove 48 and adapted for receiving a heating device. Theheating channel 47 may for example extend all the way to therear end plate 24. - The
heating channel 47 may be arranged to be substantially flush with the interior side of thefirst side wall 6, i.e. not protrude into the elongated space, for avoiding undesired interference between a moving part of themotion casing 51, 52. - As illustrated in
figure 13 , an opening of the at least oneelongated heating channel 47 is located in themaintenance space 29 for enabling insertion and/or removal of an elongated heating device within the at least one elongated heating channel orduct 47, also while theframe structure maintenance cover 37, pulling out the heating device from theheating channel 47, inserting a new heating device in theheating channel 47 and connecting it to a heat/power source, and then reinstall themaintenance cover 37. - The opening of the
heating channel 47 for enabling access to theheating channel 47 may extend over length of about 10 - 50 cm within themaintenance space 29 for simplifying insertion of an elongated heating cable or heating pipe into theheating channel 47. - In
figure 13 , aheating channel 47 is arranged in each of the first andsecond side walls - As indicated above, each of the first and
second switch units linear driving actuator 13 fastenable to the associatedframe structure -
Figures 17a and 17b schematically shows a cross-section of aswitch unit maintenance space 29, in the upper and lower switch state, respectively, andfigure 18a and 18b shows corresponding cross-sections of a rear end of theswitch unit - The
linear driving actuator 13 may according to same example embodiments include an electrical machine having a rotatable rotor rotationally connected to ashaft 49, which may be threadingly engaged with a the driving assembly of the vertical displacement mechanism, such that rotation of theshaft 49 by means of the electrical machine generates longitudinal displacement of the driving assembly. Another type of linear actuator may alternatively be used, such as hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder/piston actuator, or electrical linear actuator. - According to some example embodiments, the driving assembly includes a
metal plate 50 that is in contact with, and slidably arranged in the longitudinal direction LD relative to, thebottom wall 44 of the motion casing, and wherein thebottom wall 44 of themotion casing 51, 52 rests on and is in contact with thebottom wall 5 of theframe structure - Furthermore, the stationary base part of the
motion casing 51, 52 may be partly filled with a lubricant fluid and/or may be provided with a friction reducing sliding surface for reducing sliding resistance associated with linear switching motion of the driving assembly relative to the base part, e.g. linear switching motion of themetal plate 50 of the driving assembly relative to thebottom wall 44 of themotion casing 51, 52. - The metal plate of the driving assembly may include, at a longitudinal end thereof, a part with
internal threads 63 for engagement with the exterior threads of theshaft 49. - Since the driving
actuator 13, such as an electric motor, of eachswitch unit motion casing 51, 52, may also be controlled independently from each other, thereby enabling independent and individual switch movement of each of the first and second switch rails 21, 22. As a result, both the first and second switch rails 21, 22 may be arranged in their upper switch state, as default, when no rail vehicle is near therailway switch assembly 1, thereby providing a smoother upper surface of therailway switch assembly 1, which may be desired when the railway switch assembly is located integrated in a city road that is also used be cars, buses, bicycles, pedestrians, etc. As soon as a rail vehicle is approaching therailway switch assembly 1, one of the first and second switch rails 21, 22 is temporarily lowered vertically for providing the desired switching. - Actuation of the driving
actuator 13 in the example embodiment offigures 17A and 17B for moving the driving assembly from the position depicted infigure 17A to the position depicted infigure 17B results in a lowering motion of the associatedswitch rail - In the example embodiment illustrated in
figures 4B, 4B ,17A and 17B , the vertical displacement mechanism includes a plurality oflinkage arms 53 that are pivotally connected to the driving assembly at afirst pivot point 57 and the vertical motion assembly at asecond pivot point 58, such that a linear longitudinal switching motion of a driving assembly results in vertical switch motion of a vertical motion assembly. - In particular, in the example embodiment of
figures 4B, 4B ,17A and 17B , the vertical motion assembly can only move in the vertical direction, for example by because the motion casing has a stationary base part with fourside walls 45 extending upwards from thebottom wall 44, and the vertical motion assembly or switchrail corresponding side walls 54 extending downwards and telescopically engaged on an outer side of theside walls 45 associated with the base part. Due to the stationary nature of the base part of themotion casing 51, 52 within theelongated space 8 in the longitudinal and lateral directions, the telescopedside walls longitudinal end switch rail - Consequently, when the driving assembly moved from the position depicted in
figure 17A towards the position depicted infigure 17B , the vertical motion assembly is first caused to displace vertically upwards due to thelinkage arms 53 moving from an over centre position to a centre position, i.e. vertically aligned position, and thereafter caused to displace vertically downwards due to thelinkage arms 53 moving from the centre position to an the position showed infigure 17B . - In the example embodiment of
figures 4B, 4B ,17A and 17B , the vertical displacement mechanism further includes a first set ofload carrying blocks 55 associated with the driving assembly and a second set ofload carrying blocks 56 associated with the vertical motion assembly. The first and second set of load carrying blocks 55, 56 are facing each other in the vertical direction V and are arranged in load-transmitting contact with each other when theswitch rail figure 17A and18A . On the other hand, the first and second set of load carrying blocks 55, 56 are interleaved when theswitch rail figures 17B and18B . This is accomplished by the longitudinal motion of the first set ofload carrying blocks 55 during the switch motion. - Consequently, when the
switch rail load carrying blocks 55 are in contact with ametal plate 59 of vertical motion assembly or with theswitch rail load carrying blocks 56 are in contact with themetal plate 50 of driving assembly. - The first pivot points 57 may for example be arranged in the region of the first set of load carrying blocks 55, and the second pivot points 58 may for example be arranged in the region of the second set of load carrying blocks 56, because thereby the attachment of the
linkage arms 53 is simplified due to the increased material thickness in the region of the load carrying blocks 55, 56. -
Figure 19 shows an alternative example embodiment of the first andsecond switch units actuator 13 is mounted within themotion casing 51, 52 instead. In particular, the drivingactuating 13 may be mounted to alongitudinal extension 44a of thebottom wall 44 of themotion casing 51, 52. This design may possibly reduce the need for connecting the drivingactuator 13 with the driving assembly after installation of themotion casing 51, 52, or upon removal of themotion casing 51, 52. However, the drivingactuator 13 is still mounted outside of theside walls 45 of the base part ofmotion casing 51, 52. - The
intermediate wall 28 is in this example embodiment mounted in a region located between the drivingactuator 13 and the front end plate of theframe structure members 40 are mounted in holes in theintermediate wall 28 and configured to engage afurther side wall 62 of themotion casing 51, 52 for pushing themotion casing 51, 52 in the longitudinal direction LO towards therear end plate 24. The threadedmembers 40 may additional protrude above thebottom wall extension 44a of the motion casing for vertically securing themotion casing 51, 52 to theframe structure -
Figure 20 shows still a further alternative example embodiment of the first andsecond switch units actuator 13 is mounted within themotion casing 51, 52 and within theside walls 45 of the base part of themotion casing 51, 52. This design may possibly provide a more protected installation of the drivingactuator 13, but also less simple to repair in case of malfunction. The fixation of themotion casing 51, 52 via a threadedmembers 40 extending through theintermediate wall 28 is similar to that described with reference to 17A-17B. - In the example embodiment showed in
figures 17A, 17B ,18A and 18B , the vertical motion assembly may include themetal plate 59 carrying the second set of load carrying blocks 56, as well as alid 60 including theside walls 54 of the vertical motion assembly. Theswitch rail lid 60, for example by means of threadedfasteners 61. However, many alternative example embodiments are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. - For example,
figure 21 schematically shows an alternative embodiment, in which the secondload carrying blocks 56 are attached directly to, or integrated within, thelid 60 of themotion casing 51, 52. - Moreover,
figure 22 schematically shows still a further alternative embodiment, in which thelid 60 also is omitted and the secondload carrying blocks 56 are attached directly to, or integrated within, theswitch rail 21. Moreover, theside walls 54 of the vertical motion assembly may then be fastened, or integrated within, theswitch rail - Yet a further example embodiment is schematically illustrated in
figure 23 , in which thelinkage arms 53 are replaced with a motion control arrangement 69 including a guide path 64 arranged in a guide path holder 65 connected to, or integrated in, the driving assembly, such as themetal plate 50 of the driving assembly. The motion control arrangement further incudes a guide member 66 arranged in aguide member holder 67 connected to, or integrated in, the vertical motion assembly, such as themetal plate 59 or thelid 60 of vertical motion assembly. The functionality of the lower and upperload carrying blocks figures 17A-17B . - In other words, the vertical displacement mechanism may include a plurality of motion control arrangements 69, each including an upper
motion control member 67 fastened to vertical motion assembly or theswitch rail motion control members 67, 65 are configured to interact such that a linear longitudinal switching motion of a driving assembly results in vertical switch motion of a vertical motion assembly or theswitch rail load carrying blocks 55 associated with the driving assembly and a second set ofload carrying blocks 56 associated with the vertical motion assembly or theswitch rail switch rail switch rail - Moreover, the example embodiment of
figure 23 also shows another type a drive actuator, such as a linear actuator having apiston rod 68 that is connected to the driving assembly, in particular to themetal plate 50 of the driving assembly. - Yet a further example embodiment is schematically illustrated in
figure 24 , which differs from the embodiment described with reference to 23 merely in that the lower and upperload carrying blocks switch rail load carrying blocks - In other words, the vertical displacement mechanism may include a first set of load-carrying
wedges 55 associated with the driving assembly and a second set of load-carryingwedges 56 associated with the vertical motion assembly or theswitch rail wedges switch rail - In fact, in the example embodiment of
figure 24 , the motion control arrangement 69 is primarily arranged for lowering theswitch rail switch rail 21 from the upper switch state to the lower switch state. If proper lowering can be provided by means of the wedge-shaped lower and upperload carrying blocks figure 24 . - Finally, still a further example embodiment is schematically illustrated in
figure 25 , which differs from the embodiment described with reference to 24 in that the upper load carrying blocks 66 are integrally formed in theswitch rail 21. Moreover, the side walls ofvertical motion assembly 54 are integrally formed by, or attached to, theswitch rail 21, thereby omitting the need orlid 60 andmetal plate 59 of vertical motion assembly. Moreover, if necessary, a motion control arrangement 69 made of an upper wedge-shaped member 71 integrally formed with, or connected to, the metal plate of the drivingassembly 50, and a lower wedge-shape member 72, integrally formed with, or connected to, theswitch rail 21, may be included. -
Figure 26A schematically shows a cross-section of thefirst switch unit 11 along cut A-A infigure 2 and with thefirst switch rail 21 in the upper switch state, andfigure 26B shows a magnification of a detail offigure 26A . Furthermore,figure 27 schematically shows a cross-section of thefirst switch unit 11 along cut B-B infigure 2 and with thefirst switch rail 21 in the upper switch state, andfigure 28 schematically shows a cross-section of thefirst switch unit 11 along cut A-A infigure 2 and with thefirst switch rail 21 in the lower switch state. - Clearly visible in
figures 26A, 27 and28 is the rigid elongatedmetal frame structure 31 including the horizontally arrangedbottom wall 5 and first and second parallel and vertically arrangedside walls bottom wall 5 and joined, in particularly welded, to theupper side 74 of thebottom wall 5. Thebottom wall 5 and the first andsecond side walls elongated space 8 and themaintenance space 29. - Moreover,
figures 26A, 27 and28 also show how each of the plurality of spaced apartfirst stiffener plates 33 are joined to, in particular welded to, anoutside surface 73 of thefirst side wall 6 and anupper side 74 of thebottom plate 5. Thefirst stiffener plates 33 may have a rectangular shape for providing a horizontal support surface for thestationary stock rail 19. - In fact, said figures clearly illustrates the elongated stock
rail support region 9 located next to theelongated space 8 and carrying a stationarystraight stock rail 19. The firststationary stock rail 19 is thus fastened partly on a top surface of thefirst side wall 6 and partly on the top surface of a plurality offirst stiffener plates 33. - For accomplishing the desired switching effect when raising and lowering the
switch rail elongate stock rail 19 facing in the lateral direction LA towards theswitch rail interior surface 79 of thefirst side wall 6, and the outer side ofswitch rail stock rail 19 is also arranged aligned with aninterior surface 79 of thefirst side wall 6. Thereby, an interior flange of aconventional rail wheel 81 may enter arecess 81 of theswitch rail rail wheel 80 to follow thecurved closure rail 16. - The stationary
straight stock rail 19 include a railwheel contact region 82 that is adapted and designed for supporting and contacting therail wheels 80, and afastening region 83 that is adapted to be used for securing thestock rail 19 to theframe structure -
Figures 26A, 27 and28 also show the arrangement of the plurality of spaced apartsecond stiffener plates 34 that are joined, in particularly welded to, anoutside surface 75 of thesecond side wall 7 and theupper side surface 74 of thebottom plate 5 for improved stability of thesecond side wall 7. As shown in said figures, thesecond stiffener plates 34 may have a substantially triangular shape, in particular a right-angled triangular shape. - Consequently, the
maximal width 76 of theframe structure 31 in the lateral direction LA is typically significantly larger than theouter width 77 between the first andsecond side walls - In addition, the
maximal width 76 of theframe structure 31 in the lateral direction LA is typically significantly larger than themaximal height 76 of theframe structure 31, as measured in the vertical direction V, such as for example about 1.5 - 3 times larger, specifically in the range of 1.75 - 2.5 times larger. Thereby, a good tilt stability of eachswitch unit - A longitudinal length of each of the first and
second switch units vertical height 78 of each of the first andsecond switch units - Moreover, a ratio between a longitudinal length and a
maximal height 78 of each of the first andsecond switch units - In addition, a ratio between a
length 90 of thestationary stock rail 19 in the lateral direction LA and aheight 91 of thestationary stock rail 19 in the vertical direction V is more than 0.75, specifically more than 1.0. This provides good tilt stability of thestock rail 19 and enables direct attachment to framestructure - An
elongated metal plate 2 may be provided at the outer side of eachstock rail 19 for protecting the stock rail from fill material and/or asphalt or the like when embedding the switch unit in the ground. - The arrangement of the
heating channels 47 within the first andsecond side walls figures 26A, 27 and28 . By providing thegroove 48 andheating channel 47 in the inner surface of the first andsecond walls maintenance space 29. This is particularly advantageous considering that the entire switch unit is intended to be embedded in fill material, as illustrated infigure 31 , thereby making maintenance more problematic if access to theheating channels 47 was provided on an exterior side of the first andsecond walls - The first
elongated motion casing 51 is arranged in theelongated space 8 and is removably attached to thefirst frame structure 31, and thefirst switch rail 21 is fastened to a top side of themotion casing 51. Thefirst motion casing 51 has a base part with abottom wall 44 andside walls 45 made of metal extending upwards from thebottom wall 44. A vertical displacement mechanism is arranged within the motion casing, wherein the vertical displacement mechanism includes thelinkage arms 53, the driving assembly having themetal plate 50 controlled by means of theshaft 49, and the vertical motion assembly having thelid 60 with vertically extendingside wall 54 and themetal plate 59. - The driving assembly is secured to the
motion casing 51, in the vertical direction V, by means of a removableelongated locking members 84, that may be designed as square-bars, and that extends along a substantial length, such as at least 75%, specifically at least 90%, of the motion casing. - As shown in the magnification of
figure 26B , each of the elongated, in particular square-shapedlocking members 84 engages along said substantial length an upwards directedabutment surface 85 of the driving assembly and a downwards directedabutment surface 86 of themotion casing 51, in particular aside wall 45 of the motion casing. Thereby, the driving assembly is prevented from moving in the vertical direction V. Moreover, each of said lockingmembers 84 may additionally engage alateral abutment surface 87 of the driving assembly facing outwards and an oppositely lateral abutment surface 88 of themotion casing 51 facing inwards. - Installation of the
elongated locking members 84 may be accomplished by providing alongitudinal side wall 45 of the base part withaccess openings 114, e.g. windows. Hence, manufacturing of a motion casing may for example be accomplished by first providing a base part of the motion casing and a correspondinglid 60, providing a driving assembly including ametal plate 50 having a first set of load carrying blocks 55, providing a vertical motion assembly including ametal plate 59 having a second set of load carrying blocks 56. Thereafter, the vertical motion assembly may be connected to thelid 60, for example via threaded fasteners, and subsequently connecting the driving assembly with the vertical motion assembly vialinkage arms 53 or another type of motion transfer arrangement. Finally, installation of the resulting unit, which includes the driving assembly, the vertical motion assembly and the lid, into the base part may be accomplished by lowering said unit into the base part and subsequently inserting theelongated locking members 84 through theopenings 114 in theside wall 45 for interlocking themetal plate 50 of the driving assembly with the base part, in particular theside walls 45, of the base part of themotion casing 51, 52. Aopening cover 115 may subsequently be installed in theopening 114 for reducing the risk that contamination or dirt may enter themotion casing 51, 52, or that a fluid lubricant may leak from the motion casing. -
Figure 16 schematically shows an end of the installed elongated lockingmembers 84 through theopenings 114 in theside wall 45 for interlocking themetal plate 50 of the driving assembly with the base part, in particular theside walls 45, of the base part of themotion casing 51, 52, andfigure 15 shows theopenings 114 being closed by opening covers 115. - For providing good lateral support from the frame structure, the interior dimension of the
elongated space 8 in the lateral direction substantially matches, e.g. has a gap of about 1-10 mm, from the corresponding maximal exterior dimension of the motion casing. In addition, or separately, the interior dimension of theelongated space 7 in the longitudinal direction LO exceeds the corresponding maximal exterior dimension of the motion casing with about 5 - 100 mm for enabling simple installation and longitudinal fixation of the motion casing in the elongated space. -
Figure 27 shows the same embodiment of theswitch unit 11 asfigure 26A , but at cross-section B-B instead, i.e. including the fasteners for fastening thefirst stock rail 19 to thefirst frame structure 31 and for fastening thefirst switch rail 21 to the underlyingfirst motion casing 51. Other parts are the same as described with reference tofigure 26A and will not be repeated here. - At least some, specifically all, of the first set of
stiffener plates 33 arranged in the elongated stock rail support region have a thoroughgoing orblind holes 92 configured for receiving afastener 93, in particular a threaded fastener, for fastening and/clamping thestationary stock rail 19 to thefirst frame structure 31. Theholes 92 may for example have a vertical orientation. - Moreover, the stationary
straight stock rail 19 may be provided withcorresponding holes 70 in thefastening region 83 that is adapted to be used for securing thestock rail 19 to theframe structure 31. Hence, fastening of thestock rail 19 to thefirst frame structure 31 may be accomplished by first placing the stock rail on thefirst frame structure 31 and subsequently inserting a set of individual fasteners through theholes 70 of thestock rail 19 and engaging internal threads of thehole 92 in each of some of thefirst stiffener plates 33. - In addition, as shown in
figure 27 , the vertical motion assembly of themotion casing 51 may be provided with a plurality of thoroughgoing orblind holes 94, in particular threadedholes 94, which are configured for receiving a plurality of threadedfasteners 95 for fastening thefirst switch rail 21 to the vertical motion assembly. Theholes 94 in the motion casing may for example be arranged in thelid 60 and/or theplate 59 of the vertical motion assembly. Theholes 94 may for example have a vertical orientation. - The
first switch rail 21 may be provided withcorresponding holes 95 in a fastening region of theswitch rail 21 that is adapted for securing theswitch rail 21 to themotion casing 51. Fastening of theswitch rail 21 to thefirst motion casing 51 may be accomplished by first placing the switch rail on a top side of themotion casing 51 and subsequently inserting a set ofindividual fasteners 61 through the holes of theswitch rail 21 and engaging internal threads of thehole 94 in the vertical motion assembly of themotion casing 51. - The
plate 59 of the vertical motion assembly may for example be bolted to thelid 60 of themotion casing 51 by means of threadedfasteners 96, or oppositely. -
Figure 28 shows the same embodiment of theswitch unit 11 asfigure 26A , but here with thefirst switch unit 11 in the lower switch state. Reference is made tofigure 26A for details and will not be repeated here. As can be seen infigure 28 , theinterior flange 89 of therail wheel 80 will pass over theswitch rail 21 without engaging it, thereby enabling therail wheel 80 to follow thestraight stock rail 19. -
Figure 29 shows an embodiment of theswitch unit 11 similar to described with reference tofigure 27 , but with a more conventional design of thestock rail 19. The other parts remain largely unchanged and reference is made tofigure 27 for common details and will not be repeated here. - The
stock rail 19 may have awheel contact portion 97 at the top of therail 19, anintermediate web region 98, and afoot 99 at the lower region of therail 19. Thewheel contact portion 97 includes a certainwheel contact region 82. The web region is typically relatively narrow and thin compared withwheel contact portion 97 andfoot 99. Thefoot 99 on the other hand is relatively wide in the lateral direction LA for providing good support and protection against tilt movement of thestock rail 19. - The
stock rail 19 may be arranged partly on thefirst side wall 6 and partly on thefirst stiffener plates 33. The foot may be provided withholes 70 adapted to be used for securing thestock rail 19 to theframe structure 31, similar to the design offigure 27 . However, a clampingmember 100 may alternatively be used for clamping and securing thestock rail 19 to theframe structure 31, in case nointegrated holes 70 are available in thefoot 99. - One
individual clamping member 100 may be provided at eachstiffener plate 33, or everysecond stiffener plate 33, or the like. Each clampingmember 100 may have ahole 101 for receiving afastener 93, afirst clamping portion 102 arranged for contacting and abutting an upper support surface of thefirst stiffener plates 33, and asecond clamping portion 103 arranged for contacting and abutting thefoot 99 and/or at least part of theweb region 98. - If the
foot 99 lacks anattachment hole 70 thefirst side wall 6 may form or define a lateral motion barrier that prevents thestock rail 19 from displacing in the lateral direction LA towards themotion casing 51. For example, the foot may have a recess in the corner region, which recess engages an upwards protrudingpart 104 of thefirst side wall 6, or theentire side wall 6, or the like. Similarly, thefirst stiffener plates 33 may have a corresponding upwards protrudingportion 105 that stops thefoot 99 from moving in the opposite lateral direction LA. - Hence, fastening of the
stock rail 19 to thefirst frame structure 31 may be accomplished by first placing the stock rail on thefirst frame structure 31 and subsequently inserting a set of individual fasteners through theholes 70 of thestock rail 19 and engaging internal threads of thehole 92 in each of some of thefirst stiffener plates 33. -
Figure 30 shows an embodiment of theswitch unit 11 similar to described with reference tofigure 27 , but with hollow first andsecond side walls figure 27 for common details and will not be repeated here. As showed infigure 30 , each of the first andsecond side walls interior space 107 enclosed by lateral side walls and top and bottom side walls. The hollow first and second side walls may made in one piece, for example by longitudinally folding a flat steel plate into an hollow elongated member that is subsequently rolled into a rectangular hollow structural beam that may be used as first andsecond side walls - By using hollow first and/or
second side walls side walls side walls maintenance space 29 for insertingheating channels 47 and/or heating devices into the hollowinterior space 107 of theside walls second side walls side walls -
Figure 31 schematically shows a cross-section of an installation of the railway switch assembly according to the disclosure, for example similar to that illustrated infigure 3 . The installation include an underlying support structure, such as flat concrete plate, and with first andsecond switch units figure 31 , both the first andsecond switch units Fill material 108, such as gravel or the like, is filling the area surrounding the first andsecond switch units top surface 109 over the area of therailway switch assembly 1. Atop layer 110 of asphalt or concrete or road bricks or similar road material may be provided if the railway switch assembly is installed in a road jointly used by others, such as cars, busses, bicycles or pedestrians. Atop surface 109 of thefill material 108 ortop layer 110 may be arranged substantially flush with a top surface of the first andsecond switch units - With reference to
figure 32 , the main steps of a method for providing a railway switch assembly according to the disclosure is illustrated. The railway switch assembly comprises afirst switch unit 11 configured for controlling switching movement of afirst switch rail 21 and asecond switch unit 22 configured for controlling switching movement of asecond switch rail 23. The method comprises, for each of the first and second switch units: a first step S10 of fastening a rigid elongated metal frame structure to a underlying support structure, wherein the metal frame structure has an elongated bottom wall and first and second elongated side walls jointly defining an elongated space, and an elongated stock rail support region located next to the elongated space and arranged for receiving a stationary stock rail. The method further comprises a second step S20 of installing an elongated motion casing in the elongated space, wherein the elongated motion casing has a vertical displacement mechanism that is arranged to translate a linear switching motion of a driving assembly to a vertical switch motion of a vertical motion assembly or the switch rail, wherein the driving assembly is arranged to be displaced in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the switch rail or substantially parallel with a longitudinal direction of the switch unit. The method further comprises a third step S30 of fastening a driving actuator to the frame structure and operatively connecting the driving actuator with the driving assembly for controlling displacement of the driving assembly. The method additionally comprises a fourth step S40 of attaching a switch rail to a top side of the motion casing, wherein the switch rail is vertically displaceable by means of the vertical displacement mechanism for enabling a vertical switch movement of the switch rail between an upper and lower switch state. Finally, the method further comprises a fifth step S50 of fastening a stationary stock rail to the elongated stock rail support region of the frame structure. - For also installing the railway switch assembly in a railway grid network, the following method step is additionally required: connecting, e.g. welding, the ends of the
first stock rail 41 to the corresponding ends of the straight stock rails 19 at first connection points 110, connecting, e.g. welding, the ends of thesecond stock rail 42 to the corresponding ends of thecurved stock rail 20 19 at second connection points 111, connecting, e.g. welding the end of thecurved closure rail 16 to thefirst switch unit 11 at athird connection point 112 located adjacent a longitudinal end of thefirst switch rail 21, and connecting, e.g. welding the end of thestraight closure rail 17 to thesecond switch unit 12 at afourth connection point 113 located adjacent a longitudinal end of thesecond switch rail 22. - With reference to
figure 33 , the main steps of a method for removing an elongated motion casing from a first switch unit of a railway switch assembly according to the disclosure is illustrated, wherein the railway switch assembly comprises a first switch unit configured for controlling switching movement of a first switch rail and a second switch unit configured for controlling switching movement of a second switch rail. The method comprises a first step S100 of removing a removable maintenance cover from a stationary rigid elongated metal frame structure of the first switch unit, by at least partly lifting the maintenance cover in the vertical direction, for enabling access to a maintenance space located within the frame structure, wherein the metal frame structure is fastened to an underlying support structure and is made of an elongated bottom wall and first and second elongated side walls, which walls jointly define the maintenance space and a neighbouring elongated space, and wherein a stationary stock rail is located next to the elongated space and attached to an elongated stock rail support region of the metal frame structure. The method further comprises a second step S200 of detaching or unfastening a motion casing, which is located in the elongated space, from the metal frame structure and subsequently lifting and/or rotating the motion casing vertically upwards for removing the elongated motion casing from the first switch unit, wherein the elongated motion casing has a switch rail attached to a top side of the motion casing and a vertical displacement mechanism that is arranged to translate a linear switching motion of a driving assembly to a vertical switch motion of a vertical motion assembly or the switch rail, and wherein, in an installed state of the motion casing, the driving assembly is arranged to be displaced in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the switch rail or substantially parallel with a longitudinal direction of the first switch unit, and the switch rail is vertically displaceable by means of the vertical displacement mechanism for enabling a vertical switch movement of the switch rail between an upper and lower switch state. - An intermediate step S150 of disconnecting a driving actuator from a driving assembly of a vertical displacement mechanism of the elongated motion casing may additionally be performed, if necessary.
- It will be appreciated that the above description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, its application or uses. While specific examples have been described in the specification and illustrated in the drawings, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined in the claims. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular examples illustrated by the drawings and described in the specification as the best mode presently contemplated for carrying out the teachings of the present disclosure, but that the scope of the present disclosure will include any embodiments falling within the foregoing description and the appended claims. Reference signs mentioned in the claims should not be seen as limiting the extent of the matter protected by the claims, and their sole function is to make claims easier to understand.
-
- 1:
- railway switch assembly
- 2:
- Metal plate of stock rail
- 4:
- underlying support structure
- 5:
- bottom wall
- 6:
- first side wall
- 7:
- second side wall
- 8:
- elongated space
- 9:
- stock rail support region
- 10:
- lateral distance keepers
- 11:
- first switch unit
- 12:
- second switch unit
- 13:
- Driving actuator
- 14:
- Driving assembly
- 15:
- Vertical motion assembly
- 16:
- curved closure rail
- 17:
- straight closure rail
- 18:
- Driving direction
- 19:
- straight stock rail
- 20:
- curved stock rail
- 21:
- first switch rail
- 22:
- second switch rail
- 23:
- front end plate
- 24:
- rear end plate
- 25:
- first section
- 26:
- second section
- 27:
- third section
- 28:
- intermediate wall
- 29:
- maintenance space
- 30:
- cut-out
- 31:
- first metal frame structure
- 32:
- second metal frame structure
- 33:
- first stiffener plates
- 34:
- second stiffener plates
- 35:
- first longitudinal end
- 36:
- second longitudinal end
- 37:
- maintenance cover
- 38:
- first permanent projection
- 39:
- second permanent projection
- 40:
- adjustable projection
- 41:
- first stationary stock rail
- 42:
- second stationary stock rail
- 43:
- corresponding projection
- 44:
- bottom wall of base part
- 45:
- side walls of base part
- 46:
- Protruding distance
- 47:
- Heating channel
- 48:
- Groove
- 49:
- shaft
- 50:
- metal plate of driving assembly
- 51:
- first motion casing
- 52:
- second motion casing
- 53:
- linkage arm
- 54:
- side wall
- 55:
- first load carrying block
- 56:
- second load carrying block
- 57:
- first pivot point
- 58:
- second pivot point
- 59:
- metal plate
- 60:
- lid
- 61:
- Threaded fasteners
- 62:
- further side wall
- 63:
- internal threads
- 64:
- guide path
- 65:
- guide path holder
- 66:
- Guided member
- 67:
- guide member holder
- 68:
- piston rod
- 69:
- motion control arrangement
- 70:
- holes in stock rail
- 71:
- upper wedge-shape member
- 72:
- lower wedge-shape member
- 73:
- outside surface of first side
- 74:
- upper surface of bottom wall
- 75:
- outside surface of second side
- 76:
- maximal width of frame
- 77:
- outer width of side walls
- 78:
- maximal height of frame
- 79:
- interior surface of first side wall
- 80:
- rail wheel
- 81:
- recess
- 82:
- contact region
- 83:
- fastening region
- 84:
- locking members
- 85:
- upwards abut surface
- 86:
- downwards abut surface
- 87:
- lateral abutment surface
- 88:
- opposite lateral abut surface
- 89:
- flange of wheel
- 90:
- length of stock rai
- 91:
- height of stock rail
- 92:
- hole in first stiffener plate
- 93:
- stock rail fastener
- 94:
- holes in vertical motion casing
- 95:
- holes in switch rail
- 96:
- fastener vertical motion assembly
- 97:
- wheel contact portion
- 98:
- web region of stock rail
- 99:
- foot of stock rail
- 100:
- clamping member
- 101:
- hole in clamping member
- 102:
- first clamping portion
- 103:
- second clamping portion
- 104:
- upwards protruding portion
- 105:
- upwards protruding portion
- 107:
- threaded fastener
- 108:
- Fill material
- 109:
- Top surface
- 110:
- first connection points
- 111:
- second connection point
- 112:
- third connection point
- 113:
- Fourth connection point
- 114:
- Openings
- 115:
- Opening covers
Claims (15)
- A railway switch assembly comprising a first switch unit (11) configured for controlling switching movement of a first switch rail (21) and a second switch unit (12) configured for controlling switching movement of a second switch rail (22), wherein each of the first and second switch units (11, 12) includes:a rigid elongated metal frame structure (31, 32) defining a longitudinal direction (LO) and a lateral direction (LA) and configured for being fastened to a underlying support structure (4), wherein the frame structure (31, 32) has an elongated bottom wall (5) and first and second elongated side walls (6, 7) jointly defining an elongated space (8), and an elongated stock rail support region (9) located next to the elongated space (8) and arranged for receiving a stationary stock rail (19, 20),an elongated motion casing (51, 52) arrangeable in the elongated space (8), wherein the motion casing (51, 52) holds a vertical displacement mechanism that is arranged to translate a linear switching motion of a driving assembly (14) to a vertical switch motion of a vertical motion assembly (15) or the switch rail (21, 22), wherein the driving assembly (14) is arranged to be displaced in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction (LO) of the switch rail (21, 22) or substantially parallel with a longitudinal direction (LO) of the switch unit (11, 12),a driving actuator (13) fastenable to the frame structure (31, 32) and operatively connectable with the driving assembly (14) for controlling displacement of the driving assembly (14),a switch rail (21, 22) attachable to a top side of the motion casing (51, 52), wherein the switch rail (21, 22) is vertically displaceable by means of the vertical displacement mechanism for enabling a vertical switch movement of the switch rail (21, 22) between an upper and lower switch state, anda stationary stock rail (19, 20) fastenable to the elongated stock rail support region (9) of the frame structure (31, 32).
- The railway switch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the motion casing (51, 52) is removably attached to the frame structure (31, 32).
- The railway switch assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the motion casing (51, 52) has a first permanent projection (38) or recess arranged at a first longitudinal end region thereof and second permanent projection (39) or recess arranged at a second longitudinal end region thereof, wherein the frame structure has a permanent projection (43) or recess arranged at a first longitudinal end region of the elongated space and adjustable projection (40) arranged at a second longitudinal end region of the elongated space, wherein the motion casing (51, 52) is arranged to be installed in the elongated space (8) and secured to the frame structure (31, 32) by first moving the motion casing (51, 52) in the longitudinal direction until the first permanent projection (38) or recess of the motion casing becomes interlockingly engaged with the permanent projection (43) or recess of the frame structure, and subsequently adjusting the adjustable projection (40) for interlocking engagement with the second permanent projection (39) or recess of the motion casing (51, 52).
- The railway switch assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the elongated bottom wall (5) and the first and second elongated side walls (6, 7) of the frame structure further jointly defines a maintenance space (29), and wherein the driving actuator (13) is fastened to the frame structure (31, 32) within the maintenance space (29).
- The railway switch assembly according to claim 4, wherein the maintenance space (29) is closed in the vertical direction by means of a removable maintenance cover (37).
- The railway switch assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the driving assembly (14) of the vertical displacement mechanism is secured to the motion casing (51, 52), in the vertical direction, by means of a removable elongated locking member (84) that extends along a substantial length of the motion casing (51, 52) and engages an upwards directed abutment surface of the driving assembly (14) and a downwards directed abutment surface of the motion casing (51, 52), in particular a side wall of the motion casing.
- The railway switch assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the motion casing (51, 52) has a stationary base part with four side walls (45) extending upwards from a bottom wall (44), and wherein the vertical motion assembly or switch rail has four corresponding side walls (54) extending downwards and telescopically engaged on an outer side of the side walls (45) associated with the bottom wall (44).
- The railway switch assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the stationary stock rail (19, 20) is arranged for being fastened on a top surface of the first side wall (6) of the frame structure (31, 32).
- The railway switch assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame structure (31, 32) comprises a plurality of spaced apart stiffener plates (33) welded to an outside of the first side wall (6) and an upper side of the bottom plate (5) for improved stability of the first side wall (6), wherein the stiffener plates (33) in the elongated stock rail support region have a horizontal upper surface configured for receiving the stationary stock rail (19, 20).
- The railway switch assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein an upper surface of the switch rail (21, 22) is substantially flush with an upper surface of second side wall (7) when the switch rail (21, 22) is arranged in the upper switch state.
- The railway switch assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein frame structure (31, 32) has at least one elongated heating channel (47) or duct arranged for removably holding an elongated heating device, in particular an electrical resistance heating cable or a tube for circulating a heat transfer medium (water, refrigerant).
- The railway switch assembly according to claim 11, wherein an opening of the at least one elongated heating channel (47) or duct, for enabling insertion and/or removal of an elongated heating device within the at least one elongated heating channel or duct, is located in the maintenance space (29).
- The railway switch assembly according to any of the preceding claims 11 - 12, wherein frame structure (31, 32) has at least one elongated heating channel or duct integrated and/or fastened to one or both of the first and second elongated side walls (6, 7) and/or to the bottom wall (5).
- A method for providing a railway switch assembly comprising a first switch unit (11) configured for controlling switching movement of a first switch rail (21) and a second switch unit (12) configured for controlling switching movement of a second switch rail (22), wherein the method comprises, for each of the first and second switch units (11, 12):fastening a rigid elongated metal frame structure (31, 32) to a underlying support structure (4), wherein the metal frame structure (31, 32) has an elongated bottom wall (5) and first and second elongated side walls (6, 7) jointly defining an elongated space (8), and an elongated stock rail support region (9) located next to the elongated space (8) and arranged for receiving a stationary stock rail (19, 20),installing an elongated motion casing (51, 52) in the elongated space, wherein the elongated motion casing (51, 52) has a vertical displacement mechanism that is arranged to translate a linear switching motion of a driving assembly (14) to a vertical switch motion of a vertical motion assembly (15) or the switch rail (21, 22), wherein the driving assembly (14) is arranged to be displaced in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the switch rail (21, 22) or substantially parallel with a longitudinal direction of the switch unit (11, 12),fastening a driving actuator (13) to the frame structure (31, 32) and operatively connecting the driving actuator (13) with the driving assembly (14) for controlling displacement of the driving assembly (14),attaching a switch rail (21, 22) to a top side of the motion casing (51, 52), wherein the switch rail (21, 22) is vertically displaceable by means of the vertical displacement mechanism for enabling a vertical switch movement of the switch rail (21, 22) between an upper and lower switch state, andfastening a stationary stock rail (19, 20) to the elongated stock rail support region (9) of the frame structure (31, 32).
- A method for removing an elongated motion casing (51) from a first switch unit (11) of a railway switch assembly that comprises a first switch unit (11) configured for controlling switching movement of a first switch rail (21) and a second switch unit (12) configured for controlling switching movement of a second switch rail (22), the method comprises:removing a removable maintenance cover (37) from a stationary rigid elongated metal frame structure (31) of the first switch unit (11) for enabling access to a maintenance space (29) located within the frame structure (31), wherein the metal frame structure (31) is fastened to an underlying support structure (4) and is made of an elongated bottom wall (5) and first and second elongated side walls (6, 7), which walls (5-7) jointly define the maintenance space (29) and a neighbouring elongated space (8), and wherein a stationary stock rail (19) is located next to the elongated space (8) and attached to an elongated stock rail support region (9) of the metal frame structure (31),detaching or unfastening a motion casing (51), which is located in the elongated space (8), from the metal frame structure and subsequently lifting and/or rotating the motion casing (51) vertically upwards for removing the elongated motion casing from the first switch unit (11), wherein the elongated motion casing (51) has a switch rail (21) attached to a top side of the motion casing and a vertical displacement mechanism that is arranged to translate a linear switching motion of a driving assembly (14) to a vertical switch motion of a vertical motion assembly (15) or the switch rail (21), and wherein, in an installed state of the motion casing (51), the driving assembly (14) is arranged to be displaced in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the switch rail (21) or substantially parallel with a longitudinal direction of the first switch unit (11), and the switch rail (21) is vertically displaceable by means of the vertical displacement mechanism for enabling a vertical switch movement of the switch rail (21) between an upper and lower switch state.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
SE2150323A SE2150323A1 (en) | 2021-03-19 | 2021-03-19 | A railway switch assembly |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP4063230A1 true EP4063230A1 (en) | 2022-09-28 |
Family
ID=80820266
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP22163050.2A Pending EP4063230A1 (en) | 2021-03-19 | 2022-03-18 | A railway switch assembly |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP4063230A1 (en) |
SE (1) | SE2150323A1 (en) |
Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CH642698A5 (en) * | 1981-05-13 | 1984-04-30 | Willy Taillard | Railway switch |
EP0310627B1 (en) * | 1986-06-23 | 1991-08-14 | Tage LÖNNBERG | A method for switching railway switches and a railway switch for carrying out the method |
WO2016148631A1 (en) | 2015-03-16 | 2016-09-22 | Ve'rtex Sweden Ab | Railway switch mechanism and method for operating a railway switch mechanism |
WO2019098925A1 (en) | 2017-11-14 | 2019-05-23 | Ve'rtex Sweden Ab | Railway switch mechanism and method for operating a railway switch mechanism |
Family Cites Families (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE2931243C2 (en) * | 1979-08-01 | 1985-04-04 | Daimler-Benz Ag, 7000 Stuttgart | Switch for trough-like roads |
-
2021
- 2021-03-19 SE SE2150323A patent/SE2150323A1/en unknown
-
2022
- 2022-03-18 EP EP22163050.2A patent/EP4063230A1/en active Pending
Patent Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CH642698A5 (en) * | 1981-05-13 | 1984-04-30 | Willy Taillard | Railway switch |
EP0310627B1 (en) * | 1986-06-23 | 1991-08-14 | Tage LÖNNBERG | A method for switching railway switches and a railway switch for carrying out the method |
WO2016148631A1 (en) | 2015-03-16 | 2016-09-22 | Ve'rtex Sweden Ab | Railway switch mechanism and method for operating a railway switch mechanism |
WO2019098925A1 (en) | 2017-11-14 | 2019-05-23 | Ve'rtex Sweden Ab | Railway switch mechanism and method for operating a railway switch mechanism |
US20200340186A1 (en) * | 2017-11-14 | 2020-10-29 | Ve'rtex Sweden Ab | Railway switch mechanism and method for operating a railway switch mechanism |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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SE544533C2 (en) | 2022-07-05 |
SE2150323A1 (en) | 2022-07-05 |
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