GB389656A - Apparatus for the automatic coupling of railway vehicles and the like - Google Patents

Abstract

389,656. Convertible couplings for railway vehicles. SKODA WORKS, PLZEN, 37n, Jungmannova, Prague. April 5, 1932, No. 9799. Convention date, April 16, 1931. [Class 103 (v).] In replacing a system of non-automatic screw-couplings by automatic couplings, a coupling for use during the transition period comprises the ultimate coupler-head 1 of any desired type, to which is pivoted a second coupler-head 2 designed, when supported in its operative position, to couple automatically with the hook 3 of another wagon or the like, or, when swung rearwardly as indicated in dotted lines, to permit coupling of two automatic coupler-heads 1. Conveniently, a pivoted link 4 may, by engaging alternatively with a recess in the coupler-head 1 or with a hook 5, support the transitional head 2 in its operative or inoperative position. When substituting the new and transitional heads for the old automatic coupling, it may be desirable simultaneously to replace the old side buffers by new buffers fitted with weaker springs. In the construction shown, Fig. 3, the coupler-head 2 is provided with a hook-engaging projection 9 and with a pivoted latch 11 adapted when forced rearwardly by the hook 3 to be locked by a dropping pawl 13 so as to prevent withdrawal of the hook. For uncoupling, the pawl 13 is raised by a pull on a connection 15.