CA2125437C - Male connector member for a slackless drawbar assembly using a ball and race assembly - Google Patents
Male connector member for a slackless drawbar assembly using a ball and race assembly Download PDFInfo
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- CA2125437C CA2125437C CA 2125437 CA2125437A CA2125437C CA 2125437 C CA2125437 C CA 2125437C CA 2125437 CA2125437 CA 2125437 CA 2125437 A CA2125437 A CA 2125437A CA 2125437 C CA2125437 C CA 2125437C
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Abstract
A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use with a female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless drawbar assembly designed to connect together adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway cars. Such male connection member includes a first end portion having a portion thereof capable of being movably disposed within a cavity formed in such female connection member and defined by inner surfaces of a back wall portion and a pair of side wall portions. An aperture is formed through a portion of such first end portion. Such aperture capable of receiving therein both at least a portion of a spherical shaped member having a pair of horizontally disposed shaft members extending outwardly from opposed surfaces thereof which are engageable in respective first and second opposed openings formed in a pair of side wall portions of such female connection member and at least a portion of a race assembly. A second end portion of such male connection member is secured to such first end portion. An elongated rod-like member is connected to the second end portion of such male connection member.
A securing device is engageable with such second end portion and such elongated rod-like member for securing such second end of such male connection member to a second end of another male connection member to form a slackless type drawbar assembly.
A securing device is engageable with such second end portion and such elongated rod-like member for securing such second end of such male connection member to a second end of another male connection member to form a slackless type drawbar assembly.
Description
2~ 25437 A MALE CONNECTION MEMBER FOR A SLACKLESS DRAWBAR
ASSEMBLY USING A BALL AND RACE ASSEMBLY
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates, in general, to slackless type drawbar assemblies which are used in the railway industry to couple together the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway type freight cars in a substantially semi-permanent fashion and, more particularly, this invention relates to a male connection member which is adapted to carry a ball and race assembly at one end thereof that is utilized in an improved slackless type drawbar assembly and, still more specifically, this invention provides a male connection member which can, also, be utilized effectively in combination with a prior art type connection at an opposed end of such slackless type drawbar assembly.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
As is well known in the railroad industry, these slackless type drawbar assemblies have 'been used for several years to connect together the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway freight i~' 1 ..aY .:
cars, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, prior to the development of the present invention.
These particular railway cars are normally of the type used in what is most commonly referred to, in the railroad industry, as dedicated service. Railway freight cars of such dedicated service type will at least include: those cars which are normally utilized to haul coal, coke, and/or various other types of raw minerals;
automotive type transport carriers, tank cars which transport various types of liquids, as well as, railway cars which are used in transporting various types of building materials.
Examples of some other raw minerals transported in these dedicated service railway cars include: various ores, cement and stone. The various types of liquids transported by such dedicated service railway cars will at least include a number of different chemicals. Building materials transported in this manner include:
lumber, dry wall, plywood, paneling, etc.
Most, if not all, of the slackless type drawbar assemblies, which are known by applicants to be in use prior to the present invention, include a relatively large number of surfaces located on a number of different components which require that they be placed into frictional engagement» Each pair of these frictionally engaged surfaces is designed in a manner to allow movement to occur relative to one another.
The frictional wear exhibited by these engaged surfaces will usually result in rather frequent and costly maintenance having to be performed on these prior art slackless drawbar assemblies in order to maintain them in both an acceptable and relatively safe operating condition for in-track service.
In addition to the rather substantial and, also, verifiable direct out of pocket expenses which are incurred by the railroad industry for both the labor arid materials required to maintain these slackless drawbar assemblies, this relatively frequent maintenance requirement has a significantly higher indirect cost that is associated therewith.
One of such indirect costs incurred is directly related to th~,e fact that such railway freight cars will have to be, at least temporarily, removed from any type of revenue generating service, during the period of time that either a necessary repair or such routine maintenance on the slackless type drawbar assembly is being carried out. Obviously, not only the direct cost but all of the indirect cost incurred by the railroads must be passed on to their customers, usually, in the form of higher freight rates.
One example of a prior art slackless type drawbar assembly is taught in U.S. Patent No. 5,000,330. Illustrated therein is a pair of railway cars having their adjacently disposed ends connected together by a slackless drawbar assembly. This particular drawbar assembly, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, is constructed to operate with a positioner apparatus.
This drawbar includes a shank portion having a non-rotatable fiaced end secured to the center sill of a first railway car, and a roitatable end received in the center sill of an adjacently disposed second railway car. Each of the fixed end and the rotatable end e:rctend into pocket castings and follower block members which differ s:Lightly but, otherwise, the center sill portions and the pocket casting components of both cars are substantially identical.
The fixed end of the drawbar is held in place against the follower block disposed in the pocket casting by a key. The pocket casting is positioned in the center sill opening, which is defined ai: it's inboard end by rear stops which butt against the side wall extensions of the pocket casting.
The pocket casting has a cup-like cavity. Such cavity is formed by an end wall and an encircling skirt. Within the cavity the end wall presents an inclined face formed with a generally shallow V'-shaped concavity .
A wedge is seated in the cavity and frictionally engages the face of the pocket casting. Such wedge has an inboard inclined bearing surface which is convex-shaped to be complementary to the concave face of the pocket casting. An outboard wedging surface on the wedge is formed as a shallow V-shaped concavity that engages a follower block. The follower block is formed with a complementary inboard wedging convex V-shaped face which engages such concave outboard surface of the wedge.
The wedge is provided with laterally projecting guide tabs to minimize lateral shifting. Hook shaped lifting lugs project from the sides of such wedge. Access to the lifting lugs and wedge is accomplished by access openings formed in the skirt of the pocket casting and corresponding apertures located in the top web of the center sill and in a lower channel (which supports the pocket casting ) so a tool to engage the wedge lifting lugs can be inserted without having to remove the pocket casting. The wedge may be positioned vertically by inserting a tool through an opening formed in the pocket casting and the side walls of the center sill.
Another embodiment of the wedge has a depending tail piece which extends downwardly through a bottom opening in the skirt and in a lower channel to facilitate vertical repositioning of the wedge.
The outboard face of the follower block is formed with a spherical. concave face which receives a convex spherical butt portion disposed on the fixed end of the drawbar shank. Retaining ttie fixed end in the center sill pocket is a key that extends through slots in such center sill side castings and a key slot provided in the shank of the drawbar.
The end of the key slot has a concave surface concentric to the follower block spherical conr_ave face and convex spherical butt er,~d of the drawbar shank. Bearing against the concave surface is a convex face of a key bearing block to facilitate horizontal angling of the drawbar. The bearing block has a groove of semicircular cross section along it's edge opposite such convex face. Seated therein is a complementary convex edge of the key. A
resilient pad is disposed between the top of the key slot and the top face of the key to permit vertical angling of the drawbar.
The rotatable end of the drawbar is received in another center sill opening. Within the center sill opening is a pocket casting, having a wedge, and a follower block of structure similar to that described above, although it may extend outwardly of the pocket casting t,o engage a portion of the rotatable end. Similar wedge access slots are provided in the pocket casting and the top web and sides of the center sill.
The rotatable end of this drawbar is formed as a ball having t~~o spherically shaped portions generated from a common center disposed inwardly and outwardly, respectively, of the follower block. These spherically shaped portions are attached to a cylindrical barrel having a smaller diameter. The outward spherical surface engages the spherical concave face of the follower block. To retain the ball end in the center sill pocket there is provided a bottom pulling block and an interlocking top pulling block which engage the inward spherical surface.
The bottom pulling block is generally in the form of a semicircular ring provided with a base and a pair of upstanding wall portions. This bottom pul7.ing block has a concave partially spherical surface engaging the inwardly disposed portion of the spherical ball. The base of the lower pulling block includes a generally "V" shaped notch to reduce the lowermost bearing area of the concave surface.
A pair of lugs project from the top of the lower pulling block and are seated in notches formed in the upper pulling block. The upper and lower pulling blocks include complementary semicircular openings through which the shank of the drawbar extends. These partially spherical surfaces are non-symmetrical with the concave surface of the lower pulling block being notably larger.
ASSEMBLY USING A BALL AND RACE ASSEMBLY
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates, in general, to slackless type drawbar assemblies which are used in the railway industry to couple together the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway type freight cars in a substantially semi-permanent fashion and, more particularly, this invention relates to a male connection member which is adapted to carry a ball and race assembly at one end thereof that is utilized in an improved slackless type drawbar assembly and, still more specifically, this invention provides a male connection member which can, also, be utilized effectively in combination with a prior art type connection at an opposed end of such slackless type drawbar assembly.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
As is well known in the railroad industry, these slackless type drawbar assemblies have 'been used for several years to connect together the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway freight i~' 1 ..aY .:
cars, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, prior to the development of the present invention.
These particular railway cars are normally of the type used in what is most commonly referred to, in the railroad industry, as dedicated service. Railway freight cars of such dedicated service type will at least include: those cars which are normally utilized to haul coal, coke, and/or various other types of raw minerals;
automotive type transport carriers, tank cars which transport various types of liquids, as well as, railway cars which are used in transporting various types of building materials.
Examples of some other raw minerals transported in these dedicated service railway cars include: various ores, cement and stone. The various types of liquids transported by such dedicated service railway cars will at least include a number of different chemicals. Building materials transported in this manner include:
lumber, dry wall, plywood, paneling, etc.
Most, if not all, of the slackless type drawbar assemblies, which are known by applicants to be in use prior to the present invention, include a relatively large number of surfaces located on a number of different components which require that they be placed into frictional engagement» Each pair of these frictionally engaged surfaces is designed in a manner to allow movement to occur relative to one another.
The frictional wear exhibited by these engaged surfaces will usually result in rather frequent and costly maintenance having to be performed on these prior art slackless drawbar assemblies in order to maintain them in both an acceptable and relatively safe operating condition for in-track service.
In addition to the rather substantial and, also, verifiable direct out of pocket expenses which are incurred by the railroad industry for both the labor arid materials required to maintain these slackless drawbar assemblies, this relatively frequent maintenance requirement has a significantly higher indirect cost that is associated therewith.
One of such indirect costs incurred is directly related to th~,e fact that such railway freight cars will have to be, at least temporarily, removed from any type of revenue generating service, during the period of time that either a necessary repair or such routine maintenance on the slackless type drawbar assembly is being carried out. Obviously, not only the direct cost but all of the indirect cost incurred by the railroads must be passed on to their customers, usually, in the form of higher freight rates.
One example of a prior art slackless type drawbar assembly is taught in U.S. Patent No. 5,000,330. Illustrated therein is a pair of railway cars having their adjacently disposed ends connected together by a slackless drawbar assembly. This particular drawbar assembly, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, is constructed to operate with a positioner apparatus.
This drawbar includes a shank portion having a non-rotatable fiaced end secured to the center sill of a first railway car, and a roitatable end received in the center sill of an adjacently disposed second railway car. Each of the fixed end and the rotatable end e:rctend into pocket castings and follower block members which differ s:Lightly but, otherwise, the center sill portions and the pocket casting components of both cars are substantially identical.
The fixed end of the drawbar is held in place against the follower block disposed in the pocket casting by a key. The pocket casting is positioned in the center sill opening, which is defined ai: it's inboard end by rear stops which butt against the side wall extensions of the pocket casting.
The pocket casting has a cup-like cavity. Such cavity is formed by an end wall and an encircling skirt. Within the cavity the end wall presents an inclined face formed with a generally shallow V'-shaped concavity .
A wedge is seated in the cavity and frictionally engages the face of the pocket casting. Such wedge has an inboard inclined bearing surface which is convex-shaped to be complementary to the concave face of the pocket casting. An outboard wedging surface on the wedge is formed as a shallow V-shaped concavity that engages a follower block. The follower block is formed with a complementary inboard wedging convex V-shaped face which engages such concave outboard surface of the wedge.
The wedge is provided with laterally projecting guide tabs to minimize lateral shifting. Hook shaped lifting lugs project from the sides of such wedge. Access to the lifting lugs and wedge is accomplished by access openings formed in the skirt of the pocket casting and corresponding apertures located in the top web of the center sill and in a lower channel (which supports the pocket casting ) so a tool to engage the wedge lifting lugs can be inserted without having to remove the pocket casting. The wedge may be positioned vertically by inserting a tool through an opening formed in the pocket casting and the side walls of the center sill.
Another embodiment of the wedge has a depending tail piece which extends downwardly through a bottom opening in the skirt and in a lower channel to facilitate vertical repositioning of the wedge.
The outboard face of the follower block is formed with a spherical. concave face which receives a convex spherical butt portion disposed on the fixed end of the drawbar shank. Retaining ttie fixed end in the center sill pocket is a key that extends through slots in such center sill side castings and a key slot provided in the shank of the drawbar.
The end of the key slot has a concave surface concentric to the follower block spherical conr_ave face and convex spherical butt er,~d of the drawbar shank. Bearing against the concave surface is a convex face of a key bearing block to facilitate horizontal angling of the drawbar. The bearing block has a groove of semicircular cross section along it's edge opposite such convex face. Seated therein is a complementary convex edge of the key. A
resilient pad is disposed between the top of the key slot and the top face of the key to permit vertical angling of the drawbar.
The rotatable end of the drawbar is received in another center sill opening. Within the center sill opening is a pocket casting, having a wedge, and a follower block of structure similar to that described above, although it may extend outwardly of the pocket casting t,o engage a portion of the rotatable end. Similar wedge access slots are provided in the pocket casting and the top web and sides of the center sill.
The rotatable end of this drawbar is formed as a ball having t~~o spherically shaped portions generated from a common center disposed inwardly and outwardly, respectively, of the follower block. These spherically shaped portions are attached to a cylindrical barrel having a smaller diameter. The outward spherical surface engages the spherical concave face of the follower block. To retain the ball end in the center sill pocket there is provided a bottom pulling block and an interlocking top pulling block which engage the inward spherical surface.
The bottom pulling block is generally in the form of a semicircular ring provided with a base and a pair of upstanding wall portions. This bottom pul7.ing block has a concave partially spherical surface engaging the inwardly disposed portion of the spherical ball. The base of the lower pulling block includes a generally "V" shaped notch to reduce the lowermost bearing area of the concave surface.
A pair of lugs project from the top of the lower pulling block and are seated in notches formed in the upper pulling block. The upper and lower pulling blocks include complementary semicircular openings through which the shank of the drawbar extends. These partially spherical surfaces are non-symmetrical with the concave surface of the lower pulling block being notably larger.
212543' A front draft stop restrains the pulling blocks against longitudinal movement out of the center sill opening. A cross p_Late fastened across the bottom flanges of the center sill member 'supports the pulling blocks therein. Channels are, also, secured across the center sill to support the pocket casting and wedge for the fixed and rotatable ends of the drawbar. This reference considers two features of the construction receiving the rotatable end significant. These features are a horizontal shim positioned between the upper pulling block and the top of the center sill, and a cradle located on a cross plate to support the ball.
It is taught that the centers for generating the arcuate surfaces should be horizontally aligned; however, when draft loads are applied to the drawbar, the ball will tend to rise across the lower pulling block and spread the pulling blocks apart. Should that occur the aforementioned centers for the pulling blocks will separate vertically and lose concentricity with the abutting ball surface. The result of this is to increase resistance to angling anal rotation of the drawbar. Also, the ball moves so as to cause th.e wedge to drop and reposition the follower block to reduce the available wedge and follower adjustment for wear compensation.
The cradle supports the ball at the desired position for alignment with the follower block and pulling block during or when the drawbar is unloaded, as occurs at the transition from buff to draft loading (or vice versa) or when the car is rotated and the wedge slightly retracts. The cradle has a concave arcuate surface to receive the barrel of the ball.
It is taught that the centers for generating the arcuate surfaces should be horizontally aligned; however, when draft loads are applied to the drawbar, the ball will tend to rise across the lower pulling block and spread the pulling blocks apart. Should that occur the aforementioned centers for the pulling blocks will separate vertically and lose concentricity with the abutting ball surface. The result of this is to increase resistance to angling anal rotation of the drawbar. Also, the ball moves so as to cause th.e wedge to drop and reposition the follower block to reduce the available wedge and follower adjustment for wear compensation.
The cradle supports the ball at the desired position for alignment with the follower block and pulling block during or when the drawbar is unloaded, as occurs at the transition from buff to draft loading (or vice versa) or when the car is rotated and the wedge slightly retracts. The cradle has a concave arcuate surface to receive the barrel of the ball.
It can-be readily determined from the above description of a typical prior art type slackless drawbar assembly that there is a need for an improved slackless drawbar assembly which substantially rE~duces the number of components which must move relative to one another a.nd, therefore, be subjected to excessive frictional wear.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a male connection member which is capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof. Such male connection member is specifically designed for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly. This slackless type drawbar assembly connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway cars. Such male connection member includes a first end portion which exhibits a first predetermined configuration. At least a portion of such first end portion of the male connection member is capable of being movably disposed within a cavity formed in such female connection member. This cavity is defined by an inner surface of a back wall portion, having a second predetermined configuration, and an inner surface of each of a pair of side wall portions, having a third predetermined configuration.
An aperture, having a fourth predetermined configuration, is formed through a predetermined portion of the first end portion of such male connection member. Such aperture is capable of receiving therein bath at least a portion of a spherical shaped member having a :pair of horizontally disposed shaft members extending outwardly from opposed surfaces thereof which are engageable in respective first and second opposed openings, having respective fifth and sixth predetermined configurations, formed in a pair of side wall portions of such female connection member and at least a portion of a race assembly. The male connection member of this invention has a second end portion, having a seventh predetermined configuration, secured to such first end portion. An elongated rod-like member is connected to the second end portion of such male connection member.
Additionally, there is provided a means engageable with such second end portion of the male connection member and such elongated rod-like member for securing such second end of the male connection member to a second end of another male connection member to form a sT.ackless type drawbar assembly.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
It is, therefore, one of the primary objects of the present invention to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use with a sl.ackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway freight cars in which such ball and race assembly can be utilized in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed adjacent at least one end of such slackless drawbar assembly.
Another important object of the present invention is to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a 212543' specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway freight cars which will enable a:n absolute minimum number of components which must move relative t~o each other to be used, especially, when compared to the relatively high number of components that are required to move with respect to each other in the presently known prior art type s:Lackless drawbar assemblies.
Still another significant object of the present invention is to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway freight cars which will, generally, require substantially less repair and/or routine maintenance, particularly, when compared to the repair and/or routine maintenance requirements of presently known prior art type sl.ackless drawbar assemblies.
Yet another important object of the present invention is to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at. one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway freight cars which will exhibit a relatively long operating service life, especially when compared to the normal operating service life exhibited by such presently known prior art type slackless drawbar assemblies.
A further object of the present invention is to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially c~~nfigured female connection member disposed at least at one end o:f a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends o:E a pair of railway freight cars which will be significantly more cost effective for the user.
An additional object of the present invention is to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly ai: a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end oi: a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends oi: a pair of railway freight cars which can be easily retrofitted into existing railway freight cars.
Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at. one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway freight cars which is lighter in weight than previously used conventional type couplers that require t:he use of yokes, draft gear, draft key members and follower m~smbers .
It is a still further object of the present invention to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least ai: one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently d~_sposed ends of a pair of railway freight cars which requires an ak>solute minimum number of frictionally engageable surfaces to be subjected to excessive frictional wear.
An additional object of the present invention is to provide a male connection member capable o:f carrying a ball and race assembly at. a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway freight cars which does not require the use of any specialized tools and/or other equipment to install on a railway freight car.
Although a number of specific objects and advantages of the present invention have been described in some detail above, various additional objects and advantages of such male connection member for use with a slackless type drawbar assembly which incorporates :12 a ball and race assembly at one end thereof will become much more readily apparent to those persons who are skilled in the railway freight car coupling art from the following more detailed description of the invention, particularly, when such detailed description is taken in conjunction with both the attached drawing Figures and with the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a top view, partially in cross section, which illustrates one presently preferred embodiment of a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connectian member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly constructed according to the present invention;
Figure 2 is a side elevation view, partially in cross section, oj: such male connection member illustrated in Figure 1; and Figure 3 is an end view taken along the lines III-III of Figure 1 which is, also, partially in cross section.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY
PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
.20 Prior to proceeding to the considerably more detailed description of the present invention, it should be noted that, for th.e sake of clarity, identical components, which have identical functions, have been designated with identical reference numerals throughout the several views that have been illustrated in the drawings.
Additionally, it should be noted that, even though the male connection member of the present invention will be described in detail as it would apply to a complete slackless type drawbar assembly having such male connection member disposed at each end thereof, such male connection member can be used effectively in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member equally as well at a single end such slackless drawbar assembly.
This feature is particular desirable because it enables conversion to the improved slackless drawbar assembly in stages when repairs to existing prior art type slackless drawbar assemblies are required.
Reference is now made, more particularly, to the attached drawing Figures 1 through 3. Illustrated therein is a male connection member, generally designated, 10. The male connection member 10 is specifically designed to carry a ball and race assembly, generally designated, 20 at a first end portion 12 thereof. Such male connection member 10 is, also, designed for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member, generally designated, 30 disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, generally designated, 40. This slackless drawbar assembly 40 is designed to connect together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends (not shown) of a pair of railway cars (not shown).
The shape of the first female connection member 30 is designed in such a manner that it will enable the first female connection member 30 to be substantially disposed entirely within and engaged with a first end of a center sill portion 13 secured to a bottom 1. 4 portion ( not shown ) of a car body member ( not shown ) of a first r~~ilway car (not shown).
In the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, the first end portion 12, of such male connection member 10, has a first predetermined configuration. At least a portion of the first end portion 12 of such male connection member 10 must be capable of being movably disposed within a cavity 14 formed in such female connection member 30.
The configuration of cavity 14 formed in the female connection member 30 is defined by an inner surface 16 of a back wall portion lfl, having a second predetermined configuration, and a respective inner surface 22 and 24 of each of a pair of side wall portions 26 ar.~d 28. Inner surfaces 22 and 24 have a third predetermined configuration. The second predetermined configuration of the inner surface 16 of such back wall portion 18 will, preferably, be generally concave in both a vertical direction and a horizontal direction. The third predetermined configuration of such inner surfaces 22 and 24, on the other hand, will normally exhibit a convex shape in at least a horizontal direction. Preferably, such inner surfaces 22 and 24 will have a, generally, convex shape in both such horizontal direction and in a vertical direction to permit the relative movements required by such male connection member 10.
The end surface portion 19 of such first end portion 12 of the male connection member 10 which is disposed facing the inner surface 16 of such back wall portion 18 of such female connection member 30 will, preferably, exhibit a generally convex shape in each of a vertical direction and a horizontal direction.
Preferably, except for such end surface portion 19, the first end portion 12 of such male connection member 10 will be generally rectangular in shape except for radius portions adjacent the outer edges thereof and a slight arcuate shape of the top and bottom surfaces .
The ball and race assembly 20 carried by the male connection mE~mber 10, according to the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, includes a ball-like member 32 (hereinafter referred to as spherical shaped member 32) and a race member 34.
An aperture 36, having a fourth predetermined configuration, is formed through a predetermined portion of such first end portion 12 of such male connection member 10. This aperture 36 is configured to receive therein both at least a portion of such s~~herical shaped member 32 and at least a portion of the race member 34. According to the presently preferred embodiment of the irwention, such aperture 36 will be generally round and have a predetermined diameter. Nevertheless, it is to be understood that various other shapes can be readily envisioned for such first aperture 36 and that such various other shapes are contemplated to be: within the broad scope of the claims directed to such invention.
Spherical shaped member 32 includes a pair of horizontally disposed shaft members 38 and 42 extending outwardly from respective opposed surfaces thereof. Such shaft members 38 and 42 are engageable in respective first and second opposed openings 44 212543?' a.nd 46, having respective fifth and sixth predetermined configurations, formed in the pair of side wall portions 26 and 28 o~f such female connection member 30. In this embodiment of the invention, such fifth predetermined configuration of the first opening 44 will at least include each of a generally round portion 58 and a generally open bottom portion 62. The specific function of such round portion 58 and the open bottom portion 62 of such first opening 44 will become more clear as the description of the present invention proceeds. It is presently preferred that the sixth predetermined configuration of such opposed second opening 46 will be substantially identical to such fifth predetermined configuration of the first opening 44. However, it is to be understood that the present invention is not to be limited thereto.
A second end portion 48 of such male connection member 10, having a seventh predetermined configuration, is secured to the first end portion 12. Additionally, there is an elongated rod-like member 50 connected to the second end portion 48 of such male connection member 10. In the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, such second end portion 48 and such first end portion 12 ojF the male connection member 10 will be formed as an integral s:Lngle piece casting. It is, also, within the scope of the present invention for such elongated rod-like member 50 to be formed integrally with such first end portion 12 and such second end portion 48 of the male connection member 10.
The final essential element of the male connection means 10, oj: the present invention, is a means, generally designated, 60 engageable with the second end portion 48 of such male connection member 10 and such elongated rod-like member 50 for securing the second end portion 48 of the male connection member 10 to a second end (not shown) of another male connection member (not shown) to form a slackless type drawbar assembly 40.
In assembling such slackless drawbar assembly 40 the female connection member 30 is restrained against any longitudinal movement within the center sill portion 13 in a first direction by rear stop members 52 and in an axially opposed second direction by front draft stop members 54. There is a support plate member 56 provided which is, preferably, removably secured to the center sill p~~rtion 13 beneath the female connection member 30. Such support plate member 56 substantially eliminates any downward vertical movement of such female connection member 30.
At least a predetermined portion of such spherical shaped member 32 is disposed within the aperture 36 formed through such f:~rst end portion 12 of the male connection member 10. In the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, the outer surface oiE the spherical shaped member 32 will be a polished surface.
Si:ill more preferably, the polished outer surface of the spherical shaped member 32 will be a polished chrome plated surface.
At least a portion of shaft member 38 is disposed within the geanerally round portion 58 of such first opening 44 formed through such first side wall portion 26 and at least a portion of the second shaft member 42 of such pair of shaft members 38 and 42 is disposed within the second opening 46 formed through the second side wall portion 28 of such pair of side wall portions 26 and 28.
Each respective one of such pair of shaft members 38 and 42 includes axially opposed and substantially flat surface portions 64 a:nd 66 formed thereon. The function served by the substantially flat surface portions 64 and 66 will become clear as the detailed description of the invention proceeds.
Although the invention is not to be limited thereto, it is presently preferred that both such spherical shaped member 32 and such pair of shaft members 38 and 42 will be formed as an integral s:i.ngle piece component .
The race member 34 has at least a portion thereof disposed w:Lthin and adjacent the perimeter of such aperture 36. Such race meamber 34 is secured to such first end portion 12 of the male connection member 10. According to the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, such race member 34 will be secured to the first end portion 12 of such male connection member 10 in a reamovable manner. However, it is considered to be within the scope of the present invention for such race member 34 to be welded to such first end portion 12 of the male connection member 10.
An inner surface of such race member 34 is disposed around such portion of the spherical shaped member 32 positioned within such aperture 36 formed in such first male connection member 40.
In~, this manner, the spherical shaped member 32 is, preferably, held substantially centered within such aperture 36.
In one alternative form of the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, there will be provided a substantially solid type lubricating liner member 68, such as manufactured by Kahr Bearing C:o. and marketed by them under the tradename "KARLON", disposed between the outer surface of such spherical shaped member 32 and the inner surface of such race member 34.
In order to secure the shaft members 38 and 42 into their respective openings formed in the side wall portions 26 and 28 of the female connection member 30 there is provided a pair of wedge means, generally designated, 70. Such wedge means 70 includes a wedge member 72 having a bolt 74 disposed therethrough in a longitudinal direction and washer means 76. Preferably such washer means 76 will be Bellville type washers.
A first one of such pair of wedge means 70 includes a tapered surface 78 engaged with a flat surface portion 64 of such axially opposed and substantially flat surface portions 64 and 66 formed on t:he pair of shaft members 38 and 42. A substantially flat and vertically disposed surface 80 disposed on the first one of the wedge means 70 is engaged with a mating vertically disposed surface 8;2 of a respective front draft stop member 54. The second one of such first pair of wedge means 70 includes a tapered surface 84 engaged with a second flat surface portion 86 of such axially opposed and substantially flat surface portions 64 and 66 formed on the pair of shaft members 38 and 42. There is a substantially flat acid vertically disposed surface 88 on the second one of the wedge means 70 engaged with a mating vertically disposed surface 90 of a respective front draft stop member 15.
The means 60 which secures the second end portion 48 of such male connection member 10 to the second end portion of another male connection member may be a simple weldment. In this case, the second end portion 48 of such male connection member 10 and the second end portion of such other male connection member will have a predetermined length which will be at least sufficient to provide the spacing required between the adjacently disposed ends of the pair of railway cars connected together by the improved slackless d:rawbar assembly 40 to enable such railway cars to negotiate any carves encountered on a track structure.
In the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, however, such securing means 60 will include a bar or pipe-like member 92 disposed intermediate and secured to the second end portion 48 of the male connection member 10 and to the second end portion of such other male connection member.
When such pipe-like member 92 is utilized for securing such second end portion 48 of the male connection member 10 and such second end portion of the other male connection member together, then such second end 48 of each of such male connection member 10 and the second end of such other male connection member will, preferably, include a male member 50 inserted into respective opposed ends of such pipe-like member 92. On the other hand, when a solid bar-like member is used to secure such second end portion 4E. of the male connection member 10 and the second end of such w 2125437 other male connection member together, then such second end 48 of t;he male connection member 10 and the second end of such second other male connection member will, preferably, include a sleeve-like portion to receive a respective end of the bar-like member therein.
While a number of presently preferred and various alternative embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, with particular reference to the drawing Figures, it should x~e understood by those persons who are skilled in the railway car type coupling art that it is possible for a number of additional modifications and/or other adaptations of such male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly to be made without departing from either the spirit or the scope of the appended claims.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a male connection member which is capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof. Such male connection member is specifically designed for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly. This slackless type drawbar assembly connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway cars. Such male connection member includes a first end portion which exhibits a first predetermined configuration. At least a portion of such first end portion of the male connection member is capable of being movably disposed within a cavity formed in such female connection member. This cavity is defined by an inner surface of a back wall portion, having a second predetermined configuration, and an inner surface of each of a pair of side wall portions, having a third predetermined configuration.
An aperture, having a fourth predetermined configuration, is formed through a predetermined portion of the first end portion of such male connection member. Such aperture is capable of receiving therein bath at least a portion of a spherical shaped member having a :pair of horizontally disposed shaft members extending outwardly from opposed surfaces thereof which are engageable in respective first and second opposed openings, having respective fifth and sixth predetermined configurations, formed in a pair of side wall portions of such female connection member and at least a portion of a race assembly. The male connection member of this invention has a second end portion, having a seventh predetermined configuration, secured to such first end portion. An elongated rod-like member is connected to the second end portion of such male connection member.
Additionally, there is provided a means engageable with such second end portion of the male connection member and such elongated rod-like member for securing such second end of the male connection member to a second end of another male connection member to form a sT.ackless type drawbar assembly.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
It is, therefore, one of the primary objects of the present invention to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use with a sl.ackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway freight cars in which such ball and race assembly can be utilized in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed adjacent at least one end of such slackless drawbar assembly.
Another important object of the present invention is to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a 212543' specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway freight cars which will enable a:n absolute minimum number of components which must move relative t~o each other to be used, especially, when compared to the relatively high number of components that are required to move with respect to each other in the presently known prior art type s:Lackless drawbar assemblies.
Still another significant object of the present invention is to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway freight cars which will, generally, require substantially less repair and/or routine maintenance, particularly, when compared to the repair and/or routine maintenance requirements of presently known prior art type sl.ackless drawbar assemblies.
Yet another important object of the present invention is to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at. one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway freight cars which will exhibit a relatively long operating service life, especially when compared to the normal operating service life exhibited by such presently known prior art type slackless drawbar assemblies.
A further object of the present invention is to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially c~~nfigured female connection member disposed at least at one end o:f a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends o:E a pair of railway freight cars which will be significantly more cost effective for the user.
An additional object of the present invention is to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly ai: a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end oi: a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends oi: a pair of railway freight cars which can be easily retrofitted into existing railway freight cars.
Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at. one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway freight cars which is lighter in weight than previously used conventional type couplers that require t:he use of yokes, draft gear, draft key members and follower m~smbers .
It is a still further object of the present invention to provide a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least ai: one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently d~_sposed ends of a pair of railway freight cars which requires an ak>solute minimum number of frictionally engageable surfaces to be subjected to excessive frictional wear.
An additional object of the present invention is to provide a male connection member capable o:f carrying a ball and race assembly at. a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly that connects together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway freight cars which does not require the use of any specialized tools and/or other equipment to install on a railway freight car.
Although a number of specific objects and advantages of the present invention have been described in some detail above, various additional objects and advantages of such male connection member for use with a slackless type drawbar assembly which incorporates :12 a ball and race assembly at one end thereof will become much more readily apparent to those persons who are skilled in the railway freight car coupling art from the following more detailed description of the invention, particularly, when such detailed description is taken in conjunction with both the attached drawing Figures and with the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a top view, partially in cross section, which illustrates one presently preferred embodiment of a male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connectian member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly constructed according to the present invention;
Figure 2 is a side elevation view, partially in cross section, oj: such male connection member illustrated in Figure 1; and Figure 3 is an end view taken along the lines III-III of Figure 1 which is, also, partially in cross section.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY
PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
.20 Prior to proceeding to the considerably more detailed description of the present invention, it should be noted that, for th.e sake of clarity, identical components, which have identical functions, have been designated with identical reference numerals throughout the several views that have been illustrated in the drawings.
Additionally, it should be noted that, even though the male connection member of the present invention will be described in detail as it would apply to a complete slackless type drawbar assembly having such male connection member disposed at each end thereof, such male connection member can be used effectively in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member equally as well at a single end such slackless drawbar assembly.
This feature is particular desirable because it enables conversion to the improved slackless drawbar assembly in stages when repairs to existing prior art type slackless drawbar assemblies are required.
Reference is now made, more particularly, to the attached drawing Figures 1 through 3. Illustrated therein is a male connection member, generally designated, 10. The male connection member 10 is specifically designed to carry a ball and race assembly, generally designated, 20 at a first end portion 12 thereof. Such male connection member 10 is, also, designed for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member, generally designated, 30 disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, generally designated, 40. This slackless drawbar assembly 40 is designed to connect together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends (not shown) of a pair of railway cars (not shown).
The shape of the first female connection member 30 is designed in such a manner that it will enable the first female connection member 30 to be substantially disposed entirely within and engaged with a first end of a center sill portion 13 secured to a bottom 1. 4 portion ( not shown ) of a car body member ( not shown ) of a first r~~ilway car (not shown).
In the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, the first end portion 12, of such male connection member 10, has a first predetermined configuration. At least a portion of the first end portion 12 of such male connection member 10 must be capable of being movably disposed within a cavity 14 formed in such female connection member 30.
The configuration of cavity 14 formed in the female connection member 30 is defined by an inner surface 16 of a back wall portion lfl, having a second predetermined configuration, and a respective inner surface 22 and 24 of each of a pair of side wall portions 26 ar.~d 28. Inner surfaces 22 and 24 have a third predetermined configuration. The second predetermined configuration of the inner surface 16 of such back wall portion 18 will, preferably, be generally concave in both a vertical direction and a horizontal direction. The third predetermined configuration of such inner surfaces 22 and 24, on the other hand, will normally exhibit a convex shape in at least a horizontal direction. Preferably, such inner surfaces 22 and 24 will have a, generally, convex shape in both such horizontal direction and in a vertical direction to permit the relative movements required by such male connection member 10.
The end surface portion 19 of such first end portion 12 of the male connection member 10 which is disposed facing the inner surface 16 of such back wall portion 18 of such female connection member 30 will, preferably, exhibit a generally convex shape in each of a vertical direction and a horizontal direction.
Preferably, except for such end surface portion 19, the first end portion 12 of such male connection member 10 will be generally rectangular in shape except for radius portions adjacent the outer edges thereof and a slight arcuate shape of the top and bottom surfaces .
The ball and race assembly 20 carried by the male connection mE~mber 10, according to the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, includes a ball-like member 32 (hereinafter referred to as spherical shaped member 32) and a race member 34.
An aperture 36, having a fourth predetermined configuration, is formed through a predetermined portion of such first end portion 12 of such male connection member 10. This aperture 36 is configured to receive therein both at least a portion of such s~~herical shaped member 32 and at least a portion of the race member 34. According to the presently preferred embodiment of the irwention, such aperture 36 will be generally round and have a predetermined diameter. Nevertheless, it is to be understood that various other shapes can be readily envisioned for such first aperture 36 and that such various other shapes are contemplated to be: within the broad scope of the claims directed to such invention.
Spherical shaped member 32 includes a pair of horizontally disposed shaft members 38 and 42 extending outwardly from respective opposed surfaces thereof. Such shaft members 38 and 42 are engageable in respective first and second opposed openings 44 212543?' a.nd 46, having respective fifth and sixth predetermined configurations, formed in the pair of side wall portions 26 and 28 o~f such female connection member 30. In this embodiment of the invention, such fifth predetermined configuration of the first opening 44 will at least include each of a generally round portion 58 and a generally open bottom portion 62. The specific function of such round portion 58 and the open bottom portion 62 of such first opening 44 will become more clear as the description of the present invention proceeds. It is presently preferred that the sixth predetermined configuration of such opposed second opening 46 will be substantially identical to such fifth predetermined configuration of the first opening 44. However, it is to be understood that the present invention is not to be limited thereto.
A second end portion 48 of such male connection member 10, having a seventh predetermined configuration, is secured to the first end portion 12. Additionally, there is an elongated rod-like member 50 connected to the second end portion 48 of such male connection member 10. In the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, such second end portion 48 and such first end portion 12 ojF the male connection member 10 will be formed as an integral s:Lngle piece casting. It is, also, within the scope of the present invention for such elongated rod-like member 50 to be formed integrally with such first end portion 12 and such second end portion 48 of the male connection member 10.
The final essential element of the male connection means 10, oj: the present invention, is a means, generally designated, 60 engageable with the second end portion 48 of such male connection member 10 and such elongated rod-like member 50 for securing the second end portion 48 of the male connection member 10 to a second end (not shown) of another male connection member (not shown) to form a slackless type drawbar assembly 40.
In assembling such slackless drawbar assembly 40 the female connection member 30 is restrained against any longitudinal movement within the center sill portion 13 in a first direction by rear stop members 52 and in an axially opposed second direction by front draft stop members 54. There is a support plate member 56 provided which is, preferably, removably secured to the center sill p~~rtion 13 beneath the female connection member 30. Such support plate member 56 substantially eliminates any downward vertical movement of such female connection member 30.
At least a predetermined portion of such spherical shaped member 32 is disposed within the aperture 36 formed through such f:~rst end portion 12 of the male connection member 10. In the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, the outer surface oiE the spherical shaped member 32 will be a polished surface.
Si:ill more preferably, the polished outer surface of the spherical shaped member 32 will be a polished chrome plated surface.
At least a portion of shaft member 38 is disposed within the geanerally round portion 58 of such first opening 44 formed through such first side wall portion 26 and at least a portion of the second shaft member 42 of such pair of shaft members 38 and 42 is disposed within the second opening 46 formed through the second side wall portion 28 of such pair of side wall portions 26 and 28.
Each respective one of such pair of shaft members 38 and 42 includes axially opposed and substantially flat surface portions 64 a:nd 66 formed thereon. The function served by the substantially flat surface portions 64 and 66 will become clear as the detailed description of the invention proceeds.
Although the invention is not to be limited thereto, it is presently preferred that both such spherical shaped member 32 and such pair of shaft members 38 and 42 will be formed as an integral s:i.ngle piece component .
The race member 34 has at least a portion thereof disposed w:Lthin and adjacent the perimeter of such aperture 36. Such race meamber 34 is secured to such first end portion 12 of the male connection member 10. According to the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, such race member 34 will be secured to the first end portion 12 of such male connection member 10 in a reamovable manner. However, it is considered to be within the scope of the present invention for such race member 34 to be welded to such first end portion 12 of the male connection member 10.
An inner surface of such race member 34 is disposed around such portion of the spherical shaped member 32 positioned within such aperture 36 formed in such first male connection member 40.
In~, this manner, the spherical shaped member 32 is, preferably, held substantially centered within such aperture 36.
In one alternative form of the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, there will be provided a substantially solid type lubricating liner member 68, such as manufactured by Kahr Bearing C:o. and marketed by them under the tradename "KARLON", disposed between the outer surface of such spherical shaped member 32 and the inner surface of such race member 34.
In order to secure the shaft members 38 and 42 into their respective openings formed in the side wall portions 26 and 28 of the female connection member 30 there is provided a pair of wedge means, generally designated, 70. Such wedge means 70 includes a wedge member 72 having a bolt 74 disposed therethrough in a longitudinal direction and washer means 76. Preferably such washer means 76 will be Bellville type washers.
A first one of such pair of wedge means 70 includes a tapered surface 78 engaged with a flat surface portion 64 of such axially opposed and substantially flat surface portions 64 and 66 formed on t:he pair of shaft members 38 and 42. A substantially flat and vertically disposed surface 80 disposed on the first one of the wedge means 70 is engaged with a mating vertically disposed surface 8;2 of a respective front draft stop member 54. The second one of such first pair of wedge means 70 includes a tapered surface 84 engaged with a second flat surface portion 86 of such axially opposed and substantially flat surface portions 64 and 66 formed on the pair of shaft members 38 and 42. There is a substantially flat acid vertically disposed surface 88 on the second one of the wedge means 70 engaged with a mating vertically disposed surface 90 of a respective front draft stop member 15.
The means 60 which secures the second end portion 48 of such male connection member 10 to the second end portion of another male connection member may be a simple weldment. In this case, the second end portion 48 of such male connection member 10 and the second end portion of such other male connection member will have a predetermined length which will be at least sufficient to provide the spacing required between the adjacently disposed ends of the pair of railway cars connected together by the improved slackless d:rawbar assembly 40 to enable such railway cars to negotiate any carves encountered on a track structure.
In the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, however, such securing means 60 will include a bar or pipe-like member 92 disposed intermediate and secured to the second end portion 48 of the male connection member 10 and to the second end portion of such other male connection member.
When such pipe-like member 92 is utilized for securing such second end portion 48 of the male connection member 10 and such second end portion of the other male connection member together, then such second end 48 of each of such male connection member 10 and the second end of such other male connection member will, preferably, include a male member 50 inserted into respective opposed ends of such pipe-like member 92. On the other hand, when a solid bar-like member is used to secure such second end portion 4E. of the male connection member 10 and the second end of such w 2125437 other male connection member together, then such second end 48 of t;he male connection member 10 and the second end of such second other male connection member will, preferably, include a sleeve-like portion to receive a respective end of the bar-like member therein.
While a number of presently preferred and various alternative embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, with particular reference to the drawing Figures, it should x~e understood by those persons who are skilled in the railway car type coupling art that it is possible for a number of additional modifications and/or other adaptations of such male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly to be made without departing from either the spirit or the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (20)
1. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly which is designed to connect together, in a substantially semi-permanent fashion, the adjacently disposed ends of a pair of railway cars, said male connection member comprising:
(a) a first end portion, having a first predetermined configuration, at least a portion of said first end portion of said male connection member capable of being movably disposed within a cavity formed in such female connection member and defined by an inner surface of a back wall portion, having a second predetermined configuration, and an inner surface of each of a pair of side wall portions, having a third predetermined configuration;
(b) an aperture, having a fourth predetermined configuration, formed through a predetermined portion of said first end portion of said male connection member, said aperture capable of receiving therein both at least a portion of a spherical shaped member having a pair of horizontally disposed shaft members extending outwardly from opposed surfaces thereof which are engageable in respective first and second opposed openings, having respective fifth and sixth predetermined configurations, formed in a pair of side wall portions of such female connection member and at least a portion of a race assembly;
(c) a second end portion, having a seventh predetermined configuration, secured to said first end portion;
(d) an elongated rod-like member connected to said second end portion of said male connection member; and (e) a means engageable with said second end portion of said male connection member and said elongated rod-like member for securing said second end of said male connection member to a second end of another male connection member to form a slackless type drawbar assembly.
(a) a first end portion, having a first predetermined configuration, at least a portion of said first end portion of said male connection member capable of being movably disposed within a cavity formed in such female connection member and defined by an inner surface of a back wall portion, having a second predetermined configuration, and an inner surface of each of a pair of side wall portions, having a third predetermined configuration;
(b) an aperture, having a fourth predetermined configuration, formed through a predetermined portion of said first end portion of said male connection member, said aperture capable of receiving therein both at least a portion of a spherical shaped member having a pair of horizontally disposed shaft members extending outwardly from opposed surfaces thereof which are engageable in respective first and second opposed openings, having respective fifth and sixth predetermined configurations, formed in a pair of side wall portions of such female connection member and at least a portion of a race assembly;
(c) a second end portion, having a seventh predetermined configuration, secured to said first end portion;
(d) an elongated rod-like member connected to said second end portion of said male connection member; and (e) a means engageable with said second end portion of said male connection member and said elongated rod-like member for securing said second end of said male connection member to a second end of another male connection member to form a slackless type drawbar assembly.
2. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 1, wherein said first end portion of said male connection member is generally rectangular in shape.
3. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 2, wherein said first end portion of said male connection member further includes radius portions disposed adjacent each outer edge thereof.
4. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 2, wherein said first end portion of said male connection member includes a surface, disposed facing such inner surface of such back wall portion of such female connection member, which is convexly shaped in each of a vertical direction and a horizontal direction.
5. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 1, wherein said fourth predetermined configuration of said aperture is generally round and has a first predetermined diameter.
6. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 1, wherein said means engageable with said second end portion of said male connection member and a second end of such other male connection member for securing said second end of said male connection member to such second end of such other male connection member is a weldment.
7. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 1, wherein said means engageable with said second end portion of said male connection member and a second end of such other male connection member for securing said second end of said male connection member to such second end of such other male connection member includes a pipe-like member disposed intermediate and secured to said second end of said male connection member and such second end of such other female connection member.
8. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 7, wherein at least a portion of said elongated rod-like member is disposed within said pipe-like member.
9. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 7, wherein said elongated rod-like member is welded to such pipe-like member.
10. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 1, wherein said first end portion and said aperture and said second end portion are formed as an integral single piece casting.
11. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 10, wherein said aperture further includes a machined surface.
12. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 10, wherein said integral single piece casting further includes said elongated rod-like member.
13. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 12, wherein said integral single piece casting is a steel casting.
14. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 1, wherein said first end portion of said male connection member is adapted to have such race assembly removably secured thereto.
15. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 14, wherein said aperture further includes a machined surface which is complimentary to an outer surface of such race assembly.
16. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 15, wherein said fourth predetermined configuration of said aperture is generally round and has a predetermined diameter.
17. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 16, wherein said first end portion of said male connection member includes a surface, disposed facing such inner surface of such back wall portion of such female connection member, which is convexly shaped in each of a vertical direction and a horizontal direction.
18. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 17, wherein said means engageable with said second end portion of said male connection member and a second end of such other male connection member for securing said second end of said male connection member to such second end of such other male connection member includes a pipe-like member disposed intermediate and secured to said second end of said male connection member and such second end of such other female connection member.
19. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 18, wherein at least a portion of said elongated rod-like member is disposed within said pipe-like member.
20. A male connection member capable of carrying a ball and race assembly at a first end thereof for use in conjunction with a specially configured female connection member disposed at least at one end of a slackless type drawbar assembly, according to claim 19, wherein said elongated rod-like member is welded to such pipe-like member.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US23826394A | 1994-05-04 | 1994-05-04 | |
| US08/238,263 | 1994-05-04 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2125437A1 CA2125437A1 (en) | 1995-11-05 |
| CA2125437C true CA2125437C (en) | 2001-09-18 |
Family
ID=22897157
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2125437 Expired - Fee Related CA2125437C (en) | 1994-05-04 | 1994-06-08 | Male connector member for a slackless drawbar assembly using a ball and race assembly |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2125437C (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN104828107A (en) * | 2015-05-26 | 2015-08-12 | 大连重矿设备制造有限公司 | Traction device, tractor by using traction device and using method thereof |
-
1994
- 1994-06-08 CA CA 2125437 patent/CA2125437C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN104828107A (en) * | 2015-05-26 | 2015-08-12 | 大连重矿设备制造有限公司 | Traction device, tractor by using traction device and using method thereof |
| CN104828107B (en) * | 2015-05-26 | 2017-08-01 | 大连重矿设备制造有限公司 | Draw-gear, tractor and its application method using the draw-gear |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2125437A1 (en) | 1995-11-05 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |