Lightweight coupler
US9038836B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 15, 2012 |
| Grant date | May 26, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 6, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB61G3/04
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The coupler system of a railway car truck is constructed such that basic overall appearance may be maintained, but the actual material of which it is constructed is changed. According to one embodiment, the coupler is constructed from cast austempered ductile iron; whereas cast iron has a density, 0.26 lbs/in^3, which is approximately 8% less than steel, 0.283 lbs/in^3, thereby allowing for a reduction in weight over steel. A suitable austempering process is used to produce the austempered metal coupler and components thereof. A second benefit of embodiments of the present invention provides for a more efficient use of materials, meaning less metal is used to make the same final shape, as a way of reducing the coupler weight. Both factures combined allow for a lighter weight coupler, while utilizing the standard designs. Alternate coupler configurations are disclosed for further reducing coupler weight.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.