U.S. patent application number 09/827600 was filed with the patent office on 2001-08-23 for gate assembly for a railroad hopper car.
This patent application is currently assigned to Miner Enterprises, Inc.. Invention is credited to Dohr, Jeremy J., Senn, Brian A..
Application Number | 20010015151 09/827600 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22559546 |
Filed Date | 2001-08-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010015151 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dohr, Jeremy J. ; et
al. |
August 23, 2001 |
Gate assembly for a railroad hopper car
Abstract
A gate assembly for a railroad hopper car is disclosed. The gate
assembly includes a frame defining a discharge opening, a slidable
door mounted on the frame for movement between a closed position,
wherein the door closes the discharge opening, and an open
position, wherein the door is positioned to allow commodity to pass
through the discharge opening. Either of two modular components can
be arranged in combination with the door on the gate assembly to
allow the gate assembly to be conditioned for either pneumatic
and/or gravitational discharge or gravitational discharge only of
commodity from the gate assembly. A drive mechanism including an
apparatus for selectively engaging either the door or either of the
modular elements arranged in association with the door is mounted
on the frame of the gate assembly, with the apparatus of the drive
mechanism preferably being lost motion connected to the door. Seal
structure is provided in combination with the frame, door and a
modular element for inhibiting debris from contaminating the door
and a discharge plenum defined by the frame of the gate
assembly.
Inventors: |
Dohr, Jeremy J.; (Kenosha,
WI) ; Senn, Brian A.; (South Milwaukee, WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
John W. Harbst
1180 Litchfield Lane
Bartlett
IL
60103
US
|
Assignee: |
Miner Enterprises, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
22559546 |
Appl. No.: |
09/827600 |
Filed: |
April 6, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
09827600 |
Apr 6, 2001 |
|
|
|
09156430 |
Sep 18, 1998 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
105/282.3 ;
105/247 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B61D 7/20 20130101; B61D
7/26 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
105/282.3 ;
105/247 |
International
Class: |
B61D 007/14 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. In a closure assembly for a discharge outlet defined by a frame,
a door mounted for sliding movement on said frame for closing said
opening, and a drive mechanism for selectively interconnecting said
door to a shaft mounted on said frame for rotation about a fixed
axis, said drive mechanism including a rack and pinion assembly and
a lost motion connection for permitting a rack of said rack and
pinion assembly to linearly move in response to rotation of said
shaft without corresponding movement of said door thereby allowing
for a predetermined rotation of said shaft in a direction to open
the door during collapse of the lost motion connection upon which a
relatively high impactual opening force is applied to said door to
enhance opening of the door while thereafter effecting simultaneous
rotation of the shaft and linear movement of the door.
2. The closure assembly according to claim 1 wherein said drive
mechanism further includes an apparatus for interconnecting said
rack to said door following collapse of said lost motion.
3. The closure assembly according to claim 1 wherein said rack
comprises a pair of generally parallel tracks carried on said frame
along opposed sides of said door and which are maintained in
intermeshing engagement with pinions mounted on and for rotation
with said shaft whereby rotation of said shaft moves said tracks
relative to said frame.
4. The closure assembly according to claim 3 wherein said tracks
are mounted to said frame such that an extremely low coefficient of
friction exists between said tracks and said frame thereby
promoting linear movement of said tracks upon rotation of said
shaft.
5. The closure assembly according to claim 1 wherein said door is
in the form of a flat plate which is slidably movable across said
opening and relative to said frame.
6. The closure assembly according to claim 5 wherein said drive
mechanism further includes a manually operated apparatus for
selectively interconnecting said drive mechanism to said flat
plate.
7. The closure assembly according to claim 6 wherein said apparatus
comprises a selector carried by and movable with said rack of said
rack and pinion assembly, said selector being arranged to operate
in combination with a latch carried on said door.
8. The closure assembly according to claim 7 wherein a
predetermined spacing is provided between the selector of said
manually operated apparatus and said latch on said door when said
door is in a closed position such that said shaft is permitted a
predetermined angle of rotation prior to movement of said door
toward an open position thereby applying said relatively high
impactual opening force to said door after said shaft moves said
selector and said latch into operative combination relative to each
other.
9. The closure assembly according to claim 1 further including an
indicator operably interposed between said shaft and said drive
mechanism for providing an indication whether said drive mechanism
has been operated to move said door.
10. In a closure assembly for a discharge outlet defined by a
generally rectangularly shaped frame having a pair of generally
parallel side walls rigidly joined to each other by a pair of end
walls, a door slidably mounted on said frame for movement along a
predetermined path of travel and for closing said outlet, rack
structure slidably mounted on said frame, a shaft rotatably mounted
on said frame, pinion structure mounted on said shaft and engaging
said rack structure such that said rack structure is positively
moved upon rotation of and in a direction dependent upon the
direction of rotation of said shaft, and wherein said rack
structure is lost motion connected to said door for enabling
rotation of said shaft and thereby sliding movement of said rack
structure in a gate moving direction during collapse of the lost
motion to apply a relatively high impactual force to initiate
movement of said door.
11. The closure assembly according to claim 10 wherein said rack
structure comprises a pair of elongated racks extending generally
parallel with opposed sides of said door.
12. The closure assembly according to claim 11 wherein each rack of
said rack structure is vertically spaced from said frame such that
a low coefficient of friction is provided therebetween when said
racks are positively displaced relative to said frame.
13. The closure assembly according to claim 11 wherein the racks of
said rack structure are disposed outwardly from and generally
parallel to opposed sides of said door.
14. The closure assembly according to claim 13 further including
seal structure extending across and generally parallel to both ends
walls of said frame, said seal structure having a length generally
equal to a distance separating opposed sides of said door.
15. The closure assembly according to claim 10 wherein said door
comprises a generally flat plate with a latch extending therefrom
and movable therewith.
16. The closure assembly according to claim 15 wherein an apparatus
is provided between and connects said shaft and said door, said
apparatus being responsive to rotation of said shaft.
17. The closure assembly according to claim 16 wherein said
apparatus comprises a manually positionable selector movable
between a first operative position, wherein said selector is in the
path of movement of said door and engages said latch, and a second
position.
18. The closure assembly according to claim 17 wherein a
predetermined spacing is provided between said selector and said
latch when said door is in a closed position relative to said frame
such that said shaft is permitted a predetermined range of rotation
prior to imparting an opening movement to said door.
19. The closure assembly according to claim 17 wherein said
apparatus is biased to urge said selector toward said second
position.
20. The closure assembly according to claim 10 further including an
indicator operatively disposed in combination with said shaft for
providing a visual indication of whether said shaft has been
rotated to move said door toward an open position.
21. A discharge gate assembly for a railroad hopper car, said gate
assembly comprising: a rigid frame defining a generally centralized
opening; a first element carried by said frame and extending across
said opening; a second element carried by said frame and extending
across said opening, said first and second elements being arranged
in vertically spaced relation relative to each other; and a drive
mechanism carried on said frame and selectively engagable with and
capable of moving either said first or second elements relative to
said frame and toward an open position.
22. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 20 wherein said
drive mechanism comprises an operating shaft assembly supported on
said frame for rotation about a fixed axis.
23. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 22 wherein a
lost motion mechanism is provided between said operating shaft
assembly and each of said first and second elements for permitting
rotation of said operating shaft assembly through a predetermined
range of rotation prior to imparting movement to said first element
relative to said frame.
24. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 22 wherein said
drive mechanism further includes a rack and pinion assembly
arranged in combination with said operating shaft assembly, with
said rack and pinion assembly including a pair of pinions mounted
on said operating shaft assembly in laterally spaced relation
relative to each other and a pair of laterally spaced racks in
intermeshing relation with said pinions, with said racks being
slidably mounted on said frame for reciprocal movement relative to
said first and second elements.
25. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 24 wherein said
racks are vertically spaced from said frame to lower the
coefficient of friction between said racks and said frame.
26. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 25 wherein
ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene is provided between said
racks and said frame to effect the vertical spacing
therebetween.
27. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 24 wherein said
drive mechanism further includes a manually operable apparatus
arranged in operative combination with said rack and pinion
assembly for selectively coupling either said first element or said
second element to said operating shaft assembly.
28. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 27 wherein said
apparatus comprises a control rod mounted for endwise movement and
including an actuator for operably engaging said first element or
said second element depending upon the endwise disposition of said
control rod relative to said frame.
29. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 28 wherein said
apparatus further includes a detent mechanism for releasably
holding said control rod in a selected endwise position relative to
said frame.
30. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 28 further
including a spring for resiliently urging said control rod in a
predetermined direction relative to said frame.
31. The gate assembly according to claim 21 wherein a seal is
provided in combination with said operating shaft for visually
indicating whether said operating shaft assembly has been rotated
to move either said first element or said second element toward an
open position.
32. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 21 wherein said
first element is a door slidably mounted on said frame and said
second element is a pan assembly mounted on said frame for sliding
movement beneath said door.
33. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 32 further
including seal structure arranged in combination with said door and
said pan assembly for inhibiting debris from moving therepast
toward the centralized opening in said frame.
34. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 21 wherein said
first element is a door slidably mounted on said frame and said
second element is a plate mounted on said frame for sliding
movement beneath said door.
35. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 34 further
including seal structure arranged in combination with said door and
said plate for inhibiting contamination of an underside of said
door.
36. A discharge gate assembly for a railroad hopper car, said gate
assembly comprising: a rigid frame defining a generally centralized
opening; a first element carried by said frame and extending across
said opening; a second element carried by said frame and extending
across said opening, said first and second elements being arranged
in vertically spaced relation relative to each other; and an
apparatus for selectively connecting either said first element or
said second element to an actuating mechanism such that said first
element or said second element is moved toward an open position and
relative to said frame in response to operation of said actuating
mechanism.
37. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 36 wherein said
actuating mechanism comprises an operating shaft assembly rotatable
relative to said frame about a fixed axis.
38. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 37 wherein said
actuating mechanism includes a lost motion mechanism allowing for
rotation of said operating shaft assembly through a predetermined
range of rotation prior to said first element being moved toward
said open position.
39. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 36 wherein said
actuating mechanism includes rack and pinion assembly operated
through rotation of an operating shaft assembly carried on said
frame for rotation about a fixed axis.
40. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 39 wherein said
rack and pinion assembly includes a pair of pinions mounted in
laterally spaced relation on said operating shaft assembly and a
pair of laterally spaced racks in intermeshing engagement with said
pinions.
41. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 40 wherein said
racks are disposed in spaced and slidable relation relative to said
first element and said second element.
42. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 41 wherein said
racks are mounted in spaced relation relative to said frame to
reduce the coefficient of friction therebetween.
43. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 39 wherein said
apparatus is arranged in operative combination with said rack and
pinion assembly for selectively coupling said first element or said
second element to said actuating mechanism.
44. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 37 wherein said
apparatus is arranged in operative combination with and is
responsive to rotation of said operating shaft assembly.
45. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 44 wherein said
apparatus comprises a control rod mounted for endwise movement and
including an actuator for operably engaging either said first
element or said second element depending upon the endwise
disposition of said control rod relative to said frame.
46. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 45 wherein said
apparatus further includes a detent mechanism for releasably
holding said control rod in a selected endwise position relative to
said frame.
47. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 45 wherein said
apparatus further includes a spring for biasing said control rod in
a predetermined direction relative to said frame.
48. The gate assembly according to claim 36 wherein a seal is
provided in combination with said actuating mechanism for visually
indicating whether said actuating mechanism has been operated to
move either said first element or said second element toward an
open position.
49. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 36 wherein said
first element is a door slidably mounted on said frame and said
second element is a pan assembly mounted on said frame for sliding
movement beneath said door.
50. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 49 further
including seal structure arranged in combination with said door and
said pan assembly.
51. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 36 wherein said
first element is a door slidably mounted on said frame and said
second element is a plate mounted on said frame for sliding
movement beneath said door.
52. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 51 further
including seal structure arranged in combination with said door and
said plate for inhibiting contamination of an underside of said
door.
53. A gate assembly for a railroad hopper car, comprising: a rigid
frame defining a discharge opening; a first element carried on said
frame for generally linear sliding movement along a predetermined
path of travel and in opposed directions extending across said
opening and between open and closed positions; a second element
carried on said frame in vertically spaced relation relative to
said first element, said second element being slidably movable
along a generally linear predetermined path of travel and in
opposed directions extending across said opening and between open
and closed positions; and a manually conditioned apparatus
engagable with said first and second elements and operable to
selectively move said first or second element from its closed
position to its open position or releasably lock said first and
second elements relative to said frame depending upon the condition
of said apparatus; and a single operating shaft carried on said
frame for rotation about a fixed axis and arranged in operable
combination with said apparatus for imparting sliding movements in
opposed directions to said first and second elements.
54. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 53 wherein said
frame has a generally rectangular configuration including a pair of
generally parallel laterally spaced side walls rigidly joined to a
pair of generally parallel end walls, said frame further defining a
plenum chamber arranged in depending and surrounding relation
relative to said discharge opening.
55. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 53 wherein said
operating shaft is lost motion connected to said apparatus thereby
allowing a predetermined range of free rotation of said operating
shaft prior to said first element being moved toward an open
position and relative to said frame.
56. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 53 wherein said
second element moves a further linear distance between its open and
closed positions than does said first element.
57. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 54 further
including a rack and pinion assembly arranged in operative
combination with said operating shaft for moving said first element
or said second element relative to said frame.
58. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 57 wherein said
rack and pinion assembly comprises a pair of laterally spaced
pinions arranged on said operating shaft and in intermeshing
relation relative to a pair of laterally spaced racks, said racks
being mounted on said frame in generally parallel relation relative
to said side walls.
59. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 58 wherein said
racks are slidably mounted on said frame in linearly movable
relation relative to said first and second elements.
60. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 59 wherein said
racks are spaced from said frame to lower the coefficient of
friction established therebetween when said racks are slidably
moved relative to said frame.
61. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 59 wherein said
apparatus is arranged in operative combination with said rack and
pinion assembly and when said apparatus is in a first condition and
said racks are slidably moved said apparatus moves therewith toward
and away from an end wall of said frame depending upon the
direction of rotation of said operating shaft.
62. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 61 wherein said
apparatus includes a manually movable rod mounted for generally
linear movement along a path extending generally parallel with an
end wall of said frame, said rod having mounted thereon an actuator
extending into the predetermined path of travel and capable of
engaging either said first element or said second element as a
function of the linear disposition of said rod.
63. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 62 wherein said
apparatus further comprises a detent mechanism for releasably
holding said rod in a selected position relative to said frame.
64. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 62 wherein said
apparatus further includes a spring for resiliently biasing said
rod and said actuator toward a predetermined linear position.
65. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 64 wherein said
spring automatically returns said apparatus to a second condition
whereby locking said apparatus and thereby said rack and pinion
assembly relative to said frame so as to require operator
intervention to effect movement of said first or second
elements.
66. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 65 wherein said
apparatus further includes cam structure for automatically placing
said apparatus in said second condition when said operating shaft
is operated to position said apparatus adjacent an end wall of said
frame.
67. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 53 wherein said
first element is a door slidably mounted on said frame and said
second element is a pan assembly mounted on said frame for sliding
movement beneath said door.
68. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 67 further
including seal structure arranged in combination with said door and
said pan assembly.
69. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 53 wherein said
first element is a door slidably mounted on said frame and said
second element is a plate mounted on said frame for sliding
movement beneath said door.
70. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 69 further
including seal structure arranged in combination with said door and
said plate for inhibiting contamination of an underside of said
door.
71. A discharge gate assembly for a railroad hopper car,
comprising: a rigid frame defining an opening; a vacuum pan
assembly carried for sliding linear movement on said frame along a
predetermined path of travel between a first position, wherein said
vacuum pan assembly underlies the opening defined by said frame,
and a second position, wherein the pan assembly is slidably removed
from beneath the opening defined by said frame, said vacuum pan
assembly having a pneumatic discharge conduit extending outwardly
therefrom in a direction extending transverse to the direction of
movement of the pan assembly; a door operably interposed between
the opening in said frame and said vacuum pan assembly, said door
being slidably mounted on said frame for linear movement along a
predetermined path of travel between open and closed positions; a
mechanism for selectively engaging and moving either said door
alone or said vacuum pan assembly from beneath the opening in said
frame so as to selectively adapt the gate assembly for either
gravity discharge or pneumatic discharge of material
therethrough.
72. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 71 wherein said
mechanism includes an operating shaft supported on the frame for
rotation about a fixed axis.
73. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 72 wherein a
lost motion drive is provided between said operating shaft and said
door such that said pan assembly moves a greater distance between
said open and closed positions than does said door when said door
moves between open and closed positions.
74. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 72 wherein said
mechanism further includes a rack and pinion assembly arranged in
combination with said operating shaft assembly.
75. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 74 wherein said
rack and pinion assembly includes a pair of pinions mounted on said
operating shaft assembly in laterally spaced relation relative to
each other and a pair of laterally spaced racks in intermeshing
relation with said pinions, said racks being slidably mounted on
said frame for reciprocal movement relative to said door and pan
assembly.
76. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 75 wherein said
mechanism further includes a manually operated apparatus arranged
in combination with said rack and pinion assembly for selectively
coupling either said pan assembly or said door to said operating
shaft assembly.
77. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 76 wherein said
apparatus comprises a control rod mounted for endwise movement and
including an actuator for operably engaging said pan assembly or
said door depending upon the endwise disposition of said control
rod relative to said frame.
78. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 77 wherein said
apparatus further includes a detent mechanism for releasably
holding said control rod in a selected endwise position relative to
said frame.
79. The gate assembly according to claim 77 wherein said apparatus
further includes a spring for resiliently urging said control rod
in a predetermined direction relative to said frame.
80. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 71 further
including a seal arranged in combination with the operating shaft
of said mechanism said for providing a visual indication whether
said mechanism has been operated to move said pan assembly or said
door toward an open position.
81. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 71 further
including seal structure disposed between said frame, pan assembly
and said door for inhibiting debris from passing therebetween.
82. A railroad hopper car having an enclosure for holding and
transporting materials and a discharge opening through which the
material in said enclosure is discharged from said hopper car, and
a gate assembly for controlling the discharge of material from said
hopper car, said gate assembly comprising: a rigid frame disposed
about said discharge opening; an open top pan assembly having a
pneumatic outlet port, said pan assembly being slidably mounted on
said frame for movement between a first discharge position beneath
said discharge opening and a second position removed from said
discharge opening; a door operably mounted on said frame between
said discharge opening and said pan assembly for sliding movement
between a closed position beneath said discharge opening and an
open position away from said discharge opening; and an apparatus
for moving either said pan assembly from said first discharge
position to said second open position or said door from said closed
position to said open position such that said gate assembly can be
selectively conditioned for either gravitational or pneumatic
discharge of materials; and a single operating shaft carried on
said frame for rotation about a fixed axis and arranged in operable
combination with said apparatus for imparting independent sliding
movements in opposed directions to said pan assembly and said
door.
83. The railroad hopper car according to claim 82 wherein said
frame has a generally rectangular configuration including a pair of
generally parallel laterally spaced side walls rigidly joined to a
pair of generally parallel end walls, said frame further defining a
plenum chamber arranged in depending and surrounding relation
relative to said discharge opening.
84. The hopper car according to claim 82 wherein said apparatus is
lost motion connected to said door thereby allowing a predetermined
range of free rotation of said operating shaft prior to said door
being moved toward an open position.
85. The hopper car according to claim 84 wherein the lost motion
connection allows said pan assembly to move a greater distance
between said first and second positions than does said door between
said open and closed positions.
86. The hopper car according to claim 82 further including a rack
and pinion assembly arranged in operative combination with said
operating shaft for moving said pan assembly or said door relative
to said frame.
87. The hopper car according to claim 86 wherein said rack and
pinion assembly comprises a pair of laterally spaced pinions
arranged on said operating shaft and in intermeshing relation
relative to a pair of laterally spaced racks, said racks being
mounted on said frame in generally parallel relation relative to
said side walls.
88. The hopper car according to claim 86 wherein said racks are
slidably mounted on said frame in linearly movable relation
relative to said pan assembly and said door.
89. The hopper car according to claim 88 wherein said racks are
spaced from said frame to lower the coefficient of friction
established therebetween when said racks are slidably moved
relative to said frame.
90. The hopper car according to claim 86 wherein said apparatus is
arranged in operative combination with said rack and pinion
assembly such that when said apparatus is in a first condition and
said racks are slidably moved said apparatus moves therewith toward
and away from an end wall of said frame depending upon the
direction of rotation of said operating shaft.
91. The hopper car according to claim 90 wherein said apparatus
includes a manually movable rod mounted for generally linear
movement along a path extending generally parallel with an end wall
of said frame, said rod having mounted thereon an actuator
extending into the predetermined path of travel and capable of
engaging either said pan assembly or said door as a function of the
linear disposition of said rod.
92. The hopper car according to claim 91 wherein said apparatus
further comprises a detent mechanism for releasably holding said
rod in a selected position relative to said frame.
93. The hopper car according to claim 91 wherein said apparatus
further includes a spring for resiliently biasing said rod and said
actuator toward a predetermined linear position.
94. The hopper car according to claim 93 wherein said spring
automatically returns said apparatus to a second condition whereby
locking said apparatus and thereby said rack and pinion assembly
relative to said frame so as to require operator intervention to
effect movement of said pan assembly or said door relative to said
frame.
95. The hopper car according to claim 94 wherein said apparatus
further includes cam structure for automatically placing said
apparatus in a locked condition thereby requiring operator
intervention when said operating shaft is operated to position said
apparatus adjacent an end wall of said frame.
96. The hopper car according to claim 82 further including seal
structure arranged in combination with said door and said pan
assembly.
97. The hopper car according to claim 82 further including a seal
arranged in combination with said operating shaft for visually
indicating whether the operating shaft has been operated to move
either said door toward an open position or said pan assembly
toward said second position.
98. A discharge gate assembly for a railroad hopper car, said gate
assembly comprising: a generally rectangularly shaped frame
defining an opening, said frame including a pair of generally
parallel side walls and a pair of generally parallel end walls; a
first element carried by said frame for reciprocal movement along a
generally horizontal path of travel between a closed position,
whereat said first element extend across and closes said opening,
and a second open position; a second element carried by said frame
for reciprocal movement along a generally horizontal path of travel
between a closed position, whereat said second element extends
across and closes said opening, and a second open position, said
first and second elements being arranged in vertically spaced
relation relative to each other; a drive mechanism capable of
moving said first and second elements relative to said frame; and
seal structure arranged in combination with said first and second
elements and extending generally parallel to said end walls of said
frame to effectively seal the frame along with said first and
second elements relative to each other, said seal structure
comprising an elongated and hollow elastomeric member configured
for energization regardless of the direction of movement of said
first and second elements.
99. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 98 wherein said
drive mechanism includes an operating shaft assembly rotatably
mounted on said frame for rotation about a fixed axis and a rack
and pinion assembly arranged in operable combination with said
operating shaft assembly, said rack and pinion assembly including a
pair of laterally spaced racks arranged in generally parallel
relation relative to the side walls of said frame.
100. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 99 wherein a
lengthwise portion of said seal structure is carried by said frame
between said first and second elements and between said laterally
spaced racks.
101. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 98 wherein said
elastomeric member has a first radial surface arranged in
tangential engaging relation relative to a flat surface on said
first or second element thereby allowing said first or second
element to move in either linear direction while maintaining a
sealing relationship therewith.
102. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 101 wherein
said radial surface has an elongated rib projecting therefrom and
extending therealong to enhance the sealing ability of the seal
structure relative to said first or second elements.
103. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 101 wherein
said elongated member has a mounting portion defining an axis
extending generally parallel to the path of travel of said
door.
104. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 103 further
including a second radial surface disposed in opposed relation from
said first radial surface and in tangential relation relative to a
flat surface on said first or second element.
105. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 104 wherein
said second radial surface has an elongated rib projecting
therefrom and extending therealong to enhance the sealing ability
of the seal structure relative to said first or second
elements.
106. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 98 wherein said
first element is a door and said second element is a pan assembly
disposed in vertically spaced relation beneath said door.
107. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 98 wherein said
first element is a door and said second element is plate disposed
in vertically spaced relation beneath said door for inhibiting
contamination of an underside of said door.
108. A railroad hopper car having an enclosure for holding and
transporting materials and a discharge opening through which the
material in said enclosure is discharged from said hopper car, and
a gate assembly for controlling the discharge of material from said
hopper car, said gate assembly comprising: a rigid generally
rectangularly shaped frame disposed about said discharge opening,
said frame including a pair of depending and generally parallel
side walls and a pair of depending and generally parallel end
walls; an open top pan assembly having a pneumatic outlet port,
said pan assembly being slidably mounted on said frame for
reciprocal movement along a generally horizontal path of travel
between a first discharge position beneath said discharge opening
and a second position removed from said discharge opening; a door
operably mounted on said frame between said discharge opening and
said pan assembly for sliding reciprocal movement along a generally
horizontal path of travel between a closed position beneath said
discharge opening and an open position away from said discharge
opening; a drive mechanism mounted on said frame for moving said
pan assembly from said first discharge position to said second open
position or said door from said closed position to said open
position such that said gate assembly can be selectively
conditioned for either gravitational or pneumatic discharge of
materials; and seal structure extending generally parallel to said
end walls of said frame to effectively seal the vertical space
between said pan assembly and said door, said seal structure
comprising an elongated and hollow elastomeric member configured
for energization regardless of the direction of movement of said
pan assembly and when compressed between said pan assembly and said
door.
109. The railroad hopper car according to claim 108 wherein said
drive mechanism includes an operating shaft assembly rotatably
mounted on said frame for rotation about a fixed axis and a rack
and pinion assembly arranged in operable combination with said
operating shaft assembly, said rack and pinion assembly including a
pair of laterally spaced racks arranged in generally parallel
relation relative to the side walls of said frame.
110. The hopper car according to claim 109 wherein a lengthwise
portion of said seal structure is carried by said frame between
said door and said pan assembly and between said laterally spaced
racks.
111. The hopper car according to claim 108 wherein said elongated
member has a generally centralized mounting portion with an
aperture defining an axis extending generally parallel to the path
of movement of said door, said elongated member further defining a
first radial surface disposed to one side of said mounting portion
and extending generally tangential to the path of movement of said
door and a second radial surface disposed to an opposite side of
said mounting portion and extending generally tangential to the
path of movement of said pan assembly.
112. The hopper car according to claim 111 wherein each radial
surface on said elongated member includes a projecting rib
extending longitudinally along said radial surface.
113. A discharge gate assembly for a railroad hopper car, said gate
assembly comprising: a generally rectangularly shaped rigid frame
defining an opening, said frame being configured to mount a door
for sliding reciprocal movement along a generally horizontal path
of travel between open and closed positions, and wherein said frame
defines a series of walls depending below the path of travel of
said door to define an open bottom chamber with flanges extending
about a bottom thereof to permit a discharge boot to be fitted
thereagainst, said frame being further configured to slidably mount
for movement along a generally horizontal path of travel disposed
beneath the path of travel of said door either of two modular
components thereon, said modular components comprising an open top
pan assembly including an outlet port or a cover plate for
inhibiting contamination of an undersurface of said door and said
chamber whereby allowing said gate assembly to effect either
pneumatic discharge of material or gravitational discharge of
material as a function of which modular component is fitted to the
frame; and a manually operated drive carried on said frame for
slidably moving said door and either of said modular components
relative to said frame.
114. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 113 wherein
said frame includes rails outwardly projecting to opposite sides of
said frame, and wherein each modular component includes hook-like
configurations extending along opposite sides thereof and into
cooperative relationship relative to said rails whereby allowing
said modular components to slide along a predetermined path of
travel defined by said rails.
115. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 114 further
including seal structure extending generally normal to and between
said rails for sealing said frame, door and the modular component
relative to each other.
116. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 114 wherein,
after said modular element is mounted on said frame, each hook-like
configuration on said modular component is vertically spaced from a
respective rail on said frame so as to reduce the coefficient of
friction therebetween when said modular component is slidably moved
relative to said frame.
117. A railroad hopper car having an enclosure for holding and
transporting granular food material and a discharge opening through
which said food materials are discharged from said enclosure, and a
gate assembly for controlling the discharge of material from said
enclosure, said gate assembly comprising: a generally rectangularly
shaped rigid frame defining an opening arranged in registry with
the discharge opening on said hopper car, said frame being
configured to mount a door for sliding reciprocal movement along a
generally horizontal path of travel between open and closed
positions, and wherein said frame defines a series of walls
depending below the path of travel of said door to define an open
bottom chamber with flanges extending about a bottom thereof to
permit a discharge boot to be fitted thereagainst, said frame being
further configured to slidably mount for movement along a generally
horizontal path of travel disposed beneath the path of travel of
said door either of two modular components thereon, said modular
components comprising an open top pan assembly including an outlet
port or a cover plate for inhibiting contamination of an
undersurface of said door whereby allowing either pneumatic
discharge of material or gravitational discharge of material from
said enclosure on said hopper car as a function of which modular
component is fitted to the frame; and a manually operated drive
carried on said frame for slidably moving said door and either of
said modular components relative to said frame.
118. The hopper car according to claim 117 wherein said frame
includes rails outwardly projecting to opposite sides of said
frame, and wherein each modular component includes hook-like
configurations extending along opposite sides thereof and into
cooperative relationship relative to said rails whereby allowing
said modular components to slide along a predetermined path of
travel defined by said rails.
119. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 118 further
including seal structure extending generally normal to and between
said rails for sealing said frame, door and the modular component
relative to each other.
120. The discharge gate assembly according to claim 114 wherein,
after said modular element is mounted on said frame, each hook-like
configuration of said modular component is vertically spaced from a
respective rail on said frame so as to reduce the coefficient of
friction therebetween when said modular component is slidably moved
relative to said frame.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention generally relates to gate assemblies
which are adapted for use in combination with railroad hopper cars
and through which lading, such as finely comminuted or granulated
food grade commodities are discharged and, more specifically, to a
gate assembly having interchangeable modular components allowing
the gate assembly to be easily and readily conditioned for either
pneumatic discharge or sanitized gravitational discharge of lading
from the hopper car and through the gate assembly.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Railroad hopper cars typically include an underframe for
supporting a walled enclosure in which lading is held and
transported. As is conventional, the underframe of the car is
supported toward opposite ends by well known wheeled trucks which
ride on tracks or rails. The bottom of the walled enclosure is
usually provided with two or more individual discharge openings for
allowing the lading to be discharged from the walled enclosure. The
walled enclosure furthermore typically includes sloped or slanted
walls or sheets extending upwardly from a periphery of each opening
to promote gravitational movement of the lading toward the
opening.
[0003] Various methods and devices are known in the art for
individually closing the discharge openings in the walled
enclosure. Basically, such closure devices or gate assemblies are
divisible into two categories. Some hopper cars utilize a sliding
door or valve type system for selectively opening and closing the
openings at the bottom of the walled enclosure. Alternatively, some
hopper cars are provided with pneumatically enabled discharge
systems which rely on a pressure differential system for exhausting
particulate matter or lading from the enclosure of the hopper
car.
[0004] A conventional slide gate system includes a frame which is
bolted or otherwise secured to the hopper car. The frame likewise
defines a discharge opening arranged in registry with the opening
at the bottom of the slanting walls on the hopper car. A gate or
door is arranged on the frame for sliding movement along a
generally horizontal path of travel between open and closed
positions relative to the discharge opening on the frame of the
gate assembly. A door operating mechanism including one or more
racks, typically secured or attached to the door, and rotatably
driven pinions is typically used to slide the door between open and
closed positions. In an open position, the door of the gate
assembly permits the contents of the hopper car enclosure to pass
gravitationally from the walled enclosure and through the discharge
opening defined by the gate assembly. In a closed position, the
door extends across the discharge opening on the frame to shut off
the material or matter flow through the gate assembly.
[0005] A conventional pneumatic discharge system for hopper cars
involves connecting a discharge assembly including a pan-like
housing beneath each opening in the bottom of the hopper car. A
pneumatic discharge conduit extends from at least one of the sides
the pan-like housing in a direction generally normal to a
longitudinal axis of the car. One end of the pneumatic conduit
opens to the interior of the pan-like housing while an opposite end
is adapted for connection to a suction hose or the like for
conducting the lading held and stored within the walled enclosure
to any suitable discharge station.
[0006] The transportation and unloading of finely divided
materials, and particularly food stuffs, such as sugar, flour and
the like within and from the walled enclosure of the hopper car
exacerbates the problems involved with the design and engineering
of a railroad hopper car discharge gate assembly. When the lading
to be transported involves food stuffs, the FDA has promulgated
certain rules and regulations which must be met in order for the
hopper car to qualify for transporting food stuffs. Of course, one
of the paramount concerns involves designing the hopper car
discharge gate assembly such that no foreign matter, accumulation
of moisture, or insect infiltration is permitted to contact and
possibly contaminate the food stuffs even while they are being
discharged or unloaded from the railway hopper car.
[0007] Sliding gate closure systems have proven adequate over the
years. There are, however, problems inherent with these designs. It
is common practice to load a hopper car through roof hatches. The
lading, when initially introduced into the walled enclosure, is
mixed with air and is very fluid. After standing and as the car
travels, however, the lading loses the air film from the finely
divided particles and the lading settles and becomes very
compact.
[0008] As mentioned, the discharge gate assembly is mounted at the
bottom of the walled enclosure and, in sliding gate systems, the
door must be slidably moved against the friction imposed thereon by
the load. Known slide gate systems for hopper cars have relatively
large doors to effect discharge of the lading in a timely and
efficient manner. Once the door has begun movement, it can be moved
through its path of travel with a reasonable amount of torque or
input to the door operating mechanism. At the onset of door travel
toward an open position, however, such sliding gate systems require
a relatively high initial opening force to be imparted to the
door.
[0009] In those hopper cars which transport food stuffs and utilize
a sliding gate for controlling the discharge of lading from the
walled enclosure of the hopper car, the frame of the gate assembly
is usually equipped with a flanged skirt depending from and
arranged in surrounding relation relative to the discharge opening
defined by the frame of the gate assembly. The flanged skirt
defines a discharge plenum. Typically, an air sled or other form of
unloading apparatus is clamped to the flanges on the skirt during a
discharge operation thereby permitting the food stuffs in the
enclosure of the hopper car to be discharged directly and
protectively into the sled and, thus, conveyed away from the hopper
car. To inhibit debris, insects, moisture, clay and other forms of
debris from contaminating the underside of the door and interior of
the discharge plenum during transport of the hopper car, such
sliding gate systems typically include a sanitary plate or cover
plate which slides between open and closed positions in a
horizontal plane generally parallel to the door to close the
discharge plenum and protect the underside of the door during
transport of the hopper car. Of course, known sanitary plates or
cover plates are neither designed nor configured to withstand the
load which can be placed thereon by the commodity in the enclosure
of the hopper car.
[0010] Another problem has been identified with sliding gate
systems when the lading in the walled enclosure involves fine
granular food stuffs. As will be appreciated, to enable the sliding
door to operate between positions, an operating gap or opening must
be provided between the frame of the gate assembly and the door.
Such gap or opening is typically provided between the skirt on the
frame and the door. It is through this opening that contaminants,
moisture, and related debris can enter the discharge plenum, thus,
contaminating the food stuffs upon discharge of the lading from the
hopper car and through the discharge plenum.
[0011] Arranging seals or gaskets about the discharge opening of
the gate assembly frame in an attempt to close or seal such
openings has often resulted in the seal or gasket being pulled from
the gate assembly. The racks on the door coupled with the sliding
movement of the door between open and closed positions further
complicate the ability to seal the door against contaminants
passing into the discharge plenum or opening on the frame of the
gate assembly. Moreover, the required need to seal an element of
the gate assembly movable in opposite linear directions furthermore
complicates the sealing ability of the gate assembly.
[0012] It is known in the art to mount a pan-like structure or
housing including the pneumatic discharge conduit to the frame of
the gate assembly beneath the sliding door. The pan-like structure
or housing is typically fastened to the walled enclosure of the
hopper car beneath the sliding door with a plurality of fasteners.
As such, the hopper car can function in either a gravitational
discharge mode or a pneumatic discharge mode. Of course, valuable
time is consumed and lost by affixing and removing the pan-like
housing from the hopper car depending upon which type of discharge
operation is required or desired. Mounting and arranging the
pan-like structure or element above the sliding door of the gate
assembly has been found to obstruct the flow of material from the
walled enclosure in a gravitational mode of material discharge.
Moreover, it is desirable to provide only a single drive mechanism
for operating the components of the gate assembly thereby
simplifying its operation.
[0013] Thus, there remains a need and a desire for a gate assembly
for a railroad hopper car which can be conditioned for either
pneumatic or gravitational discharge of lading from the walled
enclosure of the hopper car and which utilizes but a single
operating mechanism for operating the components of the gate
assembly in timed relation relative to each other. Moreover, it is
desirable to provide a gate assembly for a railroad car having a
sliding door and wherein the operating mechanism imparts a high
impactual opening force against the door during initial stages of
its movement toward an open position. Additionally, there is a need
and desire for a gate assembly for a railroad hopper car including
modular components permitting the gate assembly to be easily and
readily conditioned for pneumatic and/or gravitational discharge or
gravitational discharge only simply by interchanging the components
thereof.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] In view of the above, one of the salient features of the
present invention involves the provision of a railroad car
discharge gate assembly which can be easily and readily conditioned
for either pneumatic and/or gravitational discharge or
gravitational discharge only of materials therethrough. As is
conventional, the gate assembly of the present invention includes a
rigid frame preferably having a rectangular configuration and
defining a generally centralized discharge opening. Moreover, the
gate assembly of the present invention is provided with a door or
first element slidable on the frame along a predetermined path of
travel extending across the discharge opening. Unlike other known
railroad car discharge gates, however, the present invention allows
for either of two interchangeable modular components or elements to
be easily and readily mounted on the frame for sliding movement
along a predetermined path of travel beneath the door and across
the discharge opening. One modular element is configured as an open
top pan assembly including a pneumatic port allowing for pneumatic
discharge of materials. The other modular component of the present
invention is preferably configured as a flat plate for inhibiting
debris from contaminating an underside of the gate and unloading
attachment areas. Accordingly, a primary object of this invention
is to provide a gate assembly specifically designed to allow for
either pneumatic and/or gravitational discharge or gravitational
discharge only of materials therethrough.
[0015] A unique drive mechanism forms part of the gate assembly of
the present invention. According to the present invention, the
drive mechanism is selectively engagable with and capable of
selectively moving either the door or the modular element arranged
on the gate assembly in combination with the door toward an open
position and relative to the frame of the gate assembly. As is
conventional, the drive mechanism includes an operating shaft
assembly supported on the frame for rotation about a fixed
axis.
[0016] The drive mechanism of the present invention further
includes a rack and pinion assembly arranged in combination with
the operating shaft assembly. The rack and pinion assembly includes
a pair of laterally spaced pinions arranged on and rotatable with
the operating shaft assembly. The rack and pinion assembly further
includes a pair of laterally spaced racks or toothed tracks
arranged in intermeshing relation relative to the pinions. Each of
the racks are carried on the frame of the gate assembly preferably
on opposed sides of the door and in slidable relation relative to
the door and either of the interchangeable modular components. In a
preferred form of the invention, the racks are spaced from the
frame so as to reduce the coefficient of friction therebetween. In
a most preferred form of the invention, ultra-high molecular weight
polyethylene is disposed between the frame of the gate assembly and
each of the racks to promote sliding movements of the racks
relative to the frame of the gate assembly.
[0017] In a preferred form of the invention, the drive mechanism
further includes an apparatus arranged in operative combination
with the rack and pinion assembly for selectively coupling either
the door or the modular component or both to the drive mechanism.
The apparatus includes a control rod preferably mounted for endwise
movement and having an actuator arranged thereon for operably
engaging either the door or the modular component arranged on the
gate assembly. In a preferred form of the invention, the actuator
is positioned in the path of movement of either the door or the
modular component arranged in combination with the door such that
when the drive mechanism is operated, either the door or modular
component will be moved toward an open position in response to
rotation of the operating shaft. Alternatively, in a most preferred
form of the invention, the rack and pinion assembly is locked
thereby inhibiting rotation of the operating shaft assembly, thus,
preventing movement of either the door or the modular element
arranged in combination with the door on the gate assembly.
[0018] Moreover, the apparatus of the drive mechanism is preferably
provided with a detent mechanism for releasably holding the
actuator in a selected position to operably engage either the door
or the modular component arranged in combination on the gate
assembly. The apparatus of the drive mechanism furthermore
preferably includes a spring for resiliently urging the control rod
and the actuator carried thereby toward a predetermined position.
In a preferred form of the invention, cam structure is arranged in
combination with the apparatus for automatically positioning the
control rod and thereby the actuator relative to the frame of the
gate assembly when the apparatus is positioned adjacent an end wall
of the frame of the gate assembly.
[0019] Another salient feature of the present invention involves
providing a lost motion connection between the drive mechanism and
the door of the gate assembly. With the present invention, rotation
of the operating shaft assembly initially results in sliding
movement of only the racks without corresponding linear movement of
the door. As will be appreciated from an understanding of the
present invention, only the racks slidably move relative to the
frame and the door during the collapse of the lost motion
connection. Because only the racks move, the operating shaft
assembly will have a predetermined range of free rotation. Upon
collapse of the lost motion connection, a relatively high impactual
opening force will be applied to the door thereby enhancing opening
of the door. As will be appreciated from an understanding of the
present invention, upon collapse of the lost motion continued
rotation of the operating shaft assembly will effect substantially
simultaneous linear movement of the rack and door relative to the
frame. Moreover, and besides offering a relatively high impactual
opening force to the door, the lost motion connection between the
door and the operating shaft maintains the door and the other
modular element arranged in combination with the door in timed
relation relative to each other.
[0020] In a preferred form of the invention, a tamper seal can be
provided in combination with the operating shaft assembly. The
purpose of the tamper seal is to provide a visual indication of
whether the operating shaft assembly has been operated to move
either the door or that modular component arranged on the gate
assembly in combination with the door toward an open position.
[0021] Another salient feature of the present invention relates to
the provision of seal structure for inhibiting debris from
interfering with discharge of material and lading through the
discharge opening of the gate assembly. The seal structure of the
present invention is arranged in combination with the door and the
other modular component of the gate assembly arranged in
combination with the door. The configuration of the rack and pinion
assembly slidably mounted on the frame advantageously allows the
seal structure to extend generally parallel with the end walls of
the frame between the racks to effectively seal the frame, door and
modular component relative to each other.
[0022] The seal structure is preferably comprised of an elongated
and hollow elastomeric member configured for energization
regardless of the direction of movement of either the door or the
modular component associated with the door. In a preferred from of
the invention, the elastomeric member of the seal structure has a
first radial surface arranged in tangential engaging relation
relative to a flat surface on the door or the modular component
associated with the door thereby allowing the door or the modular
component to move in either linear direction while maintaining a
sealing engagement therewith. The radial surface preferably has an
elongated rib projecting therefrom and extending therealong to
enhance the sealing ability of the seal structure relative to
either the door or the modular component associated with the
door.
[0023] In a most preferred form, the elastomeric member of the seal
structure has a centralized mounting portion with an aperture or
opening defining an axis extending generally parallel to the path
of travel of the door. The first radial surface on the elastomeric
member is disposed to one side of the axis. In an alternative form
of the invention, the elastomeric member has a second radial
surface disposed on an opposite side of the seal structure. The
second radial surface is disposed generally tangential to a flat
surface on the door or the modular component associated with the
door thereby allowing the door or the modular component to move in
either linear direction while maintaining a sealing engagement
therewith. As will be appreciated, two sealing surfaces allows the
seal to be compressed between the door and the modular component
thereby acting as a compression/wiper seal or allowing for reversal
of the seal structure thereby prolonging the useful life
thereof.
[0024] In a preferred form of the invention, the frame of the gate
assembly furthermore includes wall structure or skirt arranged in
surrounding relation relative to and depending from the discharge
opening of the frame to define a discharge plenum through which
material passes. To facilitate connection of a discharge apparatus
thereto, the lower end of the depending walled structure or skirt
is configured with flanges which operate in a conventional manner
with an inlet to the unloading apparatus thereby enhancing
transference of particulate materials through the gate assembly and
into the discharge apparatus. As will be appreciated, when the
modular component arranged in combination with the door on the gate
assembly is configured as a flat or sanitary plate, such plate
inhibits debris from contaminating the underside of the door and
the plenum chamber.
[0025] When the gate assembly of the present invention is mounted
to a hopper car, it allows the gate assembly to be readily and
easily conditioned for either gravitational or pneumatic discharge
of food grade materials from an enclosure on the car wherein the
food grade materials are held and transported. Either of two
modular components are fitted to the gate assembly and move along
rails projecting outwardly from the frame. During operation, the
apparatus of the drive mechanism is suitably conditioned to
properly position the actuator of the apparatus in the path of
travel of movable elements on the gate assembly thereby effecting
their movement when the operating shaft assembly is rotated. The
lost motion connection of the drive mechanism allows a relatively
high impactual force to be imparted to the door during the initial
opening thereof. Moreover, the seal structure preferably forming a
part of the present invention inhibits debris from passing between
the elements and the frame thereby protecting the food grade
commodity from contamination.
[0026] These and other objects, aims and advantages of the present
invention will be readily and quickly appreciated from the
following detailed description, appended claims, and drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a railroad hopper car
equipped with a gate assembly embodying principals of the present
invention;
[0028] FIG. 1A is an enlarged side elevational view of a gate
assembly according to the present invention;
[0029] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a gate assembly according to
the present invention, with parts broken away to illustrate
particular features of the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 3 is an end elevational view of the gate assembly
illustrated in FIG. 2;
[0031] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a door element used in
combination with the gate assembly of the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an open top pan modular
element usable in combination with the gate assembly of the present
invention;
[0033] FIG. 6 is a partial perspective view of a modular plate
element usable in combination with the gate assembly of the present
invention;
[0034] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the gate assembly of the
present invention illustrating the door in a closed position and
the modular pan element arranged in association with the gate
assembly;
[0035] FIG. 8 is an enlarged fragmentary side elevational view of
the gate assembly;
[0036] FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG.
8;
[0037] FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken along line 10-10 of FIG.
2;
[0038] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an apparatus forming part
of a drive mechanism of the gate assembly of the present invention
in a first condition;
[0039] FIG. 11A is a perspective view similar to FIG. 11 but
illustrating the apparatus of the drive mechanism in a second
condition;
[0040] FIG. 11B is a perspective view similar to FIG. 11 but
illustrating the apparatus of the drive mechanism in a third
condition;
[0041] FIG. 12 is a fragmentary and enlarged top plan view of the
apparatus of the drive mechanism illustrated in the first
condition;
[0042] FIG. 13 is an enlarged end view of a fragmentary portion of
the apparatus of the drive mechanism illustrated in FIG. 12;
[0043] FIG. 14 is a schematic representation of the relative
position of various components of the apparatus of the drive
mechanism and door when the apparatus is arranged in different
conditions;
[0044] FIG. 15 is a schematic representation of the relative
position of various components of the apparatus of the drive
mechanism and pan element when the apparatus is arranged in
different conditions;
[0045] FIG. 16 is a schematic end elevational view of the various
components illustrated in FIG. 15;
[0046] FIG. 17 is a schematic representation of the relative
position of various components of the apparatus of the drive
mechanism, door and sanitary plate when the apparatus is arranged
in different conditions, with the door being schematically
illustrated in phantom lines;
[0047] FIG. 18 is an enlarged side elevational view of a tamper
seal arranged in operative combination with a portion of the drive
mechanism;
[0048] FIG. 19 is a sectional view taken along line 19-19 of FIG.
2;
[0049] FIG. 20 is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view of a seal
used in combination with the present invention; and
[0050] FIG. 21 is a sectional view taken along line 21-21 of FIG.
3.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0051] While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in
various forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter
be described in detail a preferred embodiment of the invention with
the understanding the present disclosure is to be considered as
setting forth an exemplification of the invention which is not
intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiment
illustrated.
[0052] Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference
numerals indicate like parts throughout the several views, a
railroad hopper car, equipped with a gate assembly according to the
present invention, is illustrated in FIG. 1. The railroad hopper
car, generally designated by reference numeral 10, includes a
multiwalled enclosure 12 for storing and transporting commodity
therewithin. As is known in the art, the multiwalled enclosure 12
is supported on an underframe 14. The underframe 14 extends
generally the length of the car 10. As is typical, the underframe
14 is supported toward opposite ends thereof by conventional
wheeled trucks, generally designated by reference numeral 18.
[0053] As illustrated, a bottom 20 of the enclosure 12 is provided
with a plurality of openings 22 for allowing the commodity to be
discharged from the enclosure 12. As will be appreciated, more or
fewer openings than that shown can be readily provided without
detracting or departing from the true spirit and scope of the
present invention. As shown, the enclosure 12 of hopper car 10
includes a plurality of slope sheets 24 funneling downwardly toward
each opening 22 in the bottom 20 of the hopper car 10 to promote
the discharge of commodity therefrom.
[0054] A gate assembly, generally designated by reference numeral
30, is shown arranged in combination with each opening 22 along the
bottom 20 of the hopper car 10. Since the gate assemblies 30
arranged along the bottom 20 of the car 10 are substantially
identical relative to each other, only one gate assembly will be
described in detail. As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, each gate
assembly 30 includes a rigid frame 32 defining a discharge opening
34. The frame 32 of gate assembly 30 is preferably fabricated from
FDA approved materials in all commodity contact areas to allow the
hopper car 10 to hold and transport food grade materials and
eliminate lining requirements. Notably, when the gate assembly 30
is attached or otherwise connected to the walled enclosure 12, the
discharge opening 34 defined by the frame 32 is arranged in
registry with a respective opening 22 (FIG. 1) in the walled
enclosure 12 of the hopper car 10.
[0055] As shown, frame 32 includes opposed and generally parallel
side walls 36, 38 extending lengthwise of the hopper car and
opposed end walls 40 and 42 extending transversely across the
hopper car. In the illustrated form of the invention, the
disposition of the side walls 36, 38 and end walls 40, 42 is such
that a trapezoidal or rectangular shape is provided for the
discharge opening 34.
[0056] As shown in FIGS. 1A, 2, 3 and 8, each side wall 36, 38 and
end wall 40, 42 has a mounting flange 44 formed toward an upper end
thereof. In a manner well known in the art, the flanges 44, toward
the upper end of the walls 36 through 42, are configured to mate
with respective portions of the hopper car to facilitate attachment
of the gate assembly 30 to the hopper car. In one form, the flanges
44 define spaced holes 46 (FIGS. 2 and 8) allowing for passage of
suitable fasteners, such as threaded bolts, therethrough.
[0057] The gate assembly 30 of the present invention is furthermore
provided with a door or first element 50 mounted on the frame 32
for selectively closing the discharge opening 34 defined by frame
32. The door 50 is mounted for sliding movement along a
predetermined path of travel. In the illustrated form of the
invention, and in a closed position (shown in solid lines in FIG.
2), the door 50 extends across the discharge opening 34 defined by
the frame 32. As will be appreciated, however, door 50 is movable
to an open position (shown in phantom lines in FIG. 1A) to allow
commodity to pass from the gate assembly 30 through the discharge
opening 34. Frame 32 is preferably provided with parallel frame
extensions or supports 52 and 53 (FIG. 2) extending lengthwise of
the hopper car and away from the end wall 42 of frame 32. The frame
extensions or supports 52, 53 support peripheral and opposed sides
of the door 50 when the door 50 is moved to and open position
relative to the frame 32.
[0058] As shown in FIG. 4, the door 50 is preferably configured as
a rigid flat plate 54 including upper and lower surfaces 55 and 56,
respectively. In the illustrated form of the invention, door 50 has
a generally rectangular configuration. To permit the gate assembly
30 to be used in combination with a food grade commodity, the door
50 is preferably fabricated from an FDA approved material such as
stainless steel.
[0059] The side walls 36, 38 and end walls 40, 42 of the gate
assembly 32 are each provided with a ledge 47 which underlies and
supports the door 50. In a most preferred from of the invention,
and as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, and to prevent galling of stainless
steel in contact with stainless steel, an upper door contacting
surface on each ledge 47 is covered with ultra-high molecular
weight polyethylene 48 material. The provision of the material 48
between the ledge 47 and the undersurface 56 of the door 50 acts as
a shield between the lower or underside 56 of the door 50 and the
frame 32 of the gate assembly 30 while also serving to reduce the
coefficient of friction therebetween when the door 50 is slidably
moved relative to the frame 32.
[0060] The side walls 36, 38 and end walls 40, 42 of the frame 32
of gate assembly 30 depend from the discharge opening 34 to define
a plenum chamber 57 (FIGS. 9 and 10). As is conventional, the lower
ends of walls 36 through 42 of gate assembly 30 have a flange-like
configuration 58 to permit a conventional discharge apparatus 59
(schematically illustrated in phantom lines in FIG. 9) to be
coupled or otherwise secured thereto. Suffice it to say, the
discharge apparatus 59 (also commonly referred to as an air sled)
maybe of the type disclosed in one or more of the following U.S.
patents: U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,376,814; 2,517,837; 2,527,455, 2,527,466;
2,589,968; 2,657,100; 2,675,274; 2,681,748, 2,789,739.
Alternatively, the discharge apparatus 59 may be a simple
compression boot or chamber that draws particulate matter or
commodity toward to a storage reservoir.
[0061] Gate assembly 30 furthermore includes either of two modular
elements 60, 80 to be arranged in operable association with the
door 50. Either element 60, 80 is configured to be interchangeably
and slidably arranged on the frame 32 of gate assembly 30 in
vertically spaced relation relative to door 50. In the illustrated
embodiment of the invention, modular element 60 is configured as an
open top pan assembly and element 80 is preferably configured as a
sanitary plate or cover. Both interchangeable elements 60 and 80
are preferably fabricated from FDA approved materials such as
stainless steel or the like whereby permitting the gate assembly 30
to be used in conjunction with food grade commodities.
[0062] The open top pan assembly 60 is used in combination with the
gate assembly 30 for pneumatically discharging lading from the
enclosure 12 (FIG. 1) of the hopper car 10. As shown in FIG. 5, the
open top pan assembly 60 preferably comprises two generally
vertical and laterally spaced side walls 62, two slanting end walls
64 rigidly joined to the side walls 62, and a generally flat bottom
66. As shown in FIG. 9, the upper edges of the side walls 62 are
bent outwardly to form flanges 68 which terminate in open sided
channels 70. The open sided channels 70 are arranged in combination
with rails 71 projecting outwardly from and extending parallel to
the side walls 36, 38 of the frame 32 of the gate assembly 30 for
allowing fore-and-aft sliding movement of element 60 along a
predetermined path of travel relative to frame 32 between open and
closed positions beneath the door 50.
[0063] To enhance sliding movement of the pan assembly 60 relative
to the frame 32 of the gate assembly 30, and to effectively seal
the sides of the pan assembly 60 to the frame 32 thereby inhibiting
passage of debris therepast, ultra-high molecular weight
polyethylene material 73 is preferably disposed between the rails
71 and the open sided channels 70 on the pan assembly 60. In the
illustrated embodiment of the invention, and as shown in FIG. 5,
the upper edges of the end walls 64 are likewise bent to project in
a fore-and-aft direction to form flanges 72. In a preferred form of
the invention, the flanges 72 projecting fore-and-aft from the end
walls 64 of the pan assembly 60 are generally coplanar with the
flanges 68 and extend generally parallel to and in vertically
spaced relationship with the flanged configuration 56 at the bottom
of the walls 36 through 42 on the frame 32 of the gate assembly 30
(FIGS. 19 and 21).
[0064] Returning to FIG. 5, a conduit system, within the open top
pan assembly 60, is provided for the pneumatic discharge of
commodity from the enclosure 12. As shown, the conduit system is in
the form of a centrally disposed inverted and generally V-shape
hood 74 which, in a preferred form of the invention, is hingedly
connected to the flat bottom 66 of the pan assembly 60 between the
side walls 62 and above the flat bottom 66 so as to define, with
the bottom 66, a conduit extending transversely across the pan
assembly 60 between the side walls 62. An elongated opening or
passage 76 is provided between a lower edge of the hood 74 and the
bottom 66 of the pan assembly 60 to provide for passage of the
commodity from the pan assembly 60 into the conduit whereafter low
pressure air will draw or carry the commodity in a conventional
manner for discharge of same from the pan assembly 60. As will be
appreciated by those skilled in the art, each side wall 62 of the
pan assembly defines an opening 77 which cooperates with the
conduit for allowing passage of commodity from the pan assembly 60.
A conventional external conduit 78 is exteriorly connected to each
side wall 62 of the pan assembly in surrounding relation relative
to the opening or passage 77. An outer end of the external conduit
78 is adapted to be connected to a conventional pneumatic system in
a conventional way. Alternatively, the free end of the external
conduit 78 is provided with a conventional cap 79 (FIG. 7)
releasably secured thereon in a well known manner to seal the open
top pan assembly 60 when the hopper car 10 (FIG. 1) is in
transport.
[0065] The second interchangeable or modular element 80 has a
generally flat planar configuration between opposed side edges
thereof. Like modular element 60, and as illustrated in FIG. 6, the
flat sanitary plate 80 is provided with two open sided channels 84
which operate in combination with the rails 71 on the frame 32 of
the gate assembly for allowing the modular element 80 to slidably
move in a fore-and-aft direction along a predetermined path of
travel relative to the frame 32 between open and closed positions
beneath the door 50. As will be described in further detail below,
the purpose of the modular element 80 is to inhibit debris and the
like from contaminating the underside 56 of the door 50 and the
plenum chamber 57 during transport of the hopper car 10. Notably,
the ultra-high molecular weight material 73 is likewise used
between the rails 71 and the channels 84 on the second element or
plate 80 to seal the sides of the plate 80 and frame 32 against
debris moving therebetween.
[0066] Turning now to FIG. 7, gate assembly 30 further includes an
actuating or drive mechanism 88 carried on the frame 32. One of the
many salient features of the present invention relates to the
ability of the drive mechanism 88 to be selectively engaged with
and capable of moving either the door 50 or either of the two
modular elements 60, 80 arranged in association with the door 50
relative to the frame 32 and toward an open position. In the
illustrated embodiment of the invention, the drive mechanism 88 is
designed to linearly displace the door 50 and the second modular
element 60, 80 arranged on the gate assembly 30 in association with
the door 50 different linear distances. In the illustrated
embodiment, drive mechanism 88 is designed to linearly displace the
second modular element 60, 80 arranged on the gate assembly 32 in
combination with the door 50 a greater linear distance than the
door 50 linearly moves. As illustrated in FIG. 2, drive mechanism
88 preferably includes an operating shaft assembly 90 carried on
the frame 32 for rotation about a fixed axis 92. The operating
shaft assembly 90 includes an elongated operating shaft 94
rotatably mounted for fixed rotation about axis 92 and having
capstans or operating handles 96 affixed to opposite ends
thereof.
[0067] Drive mechanism 88 further includes a rack and pinion
assembly 100 arranged in operative combination with the operating
shaft assembly 90. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the rack and pinion
assembly 100 preferably includes a pair of laterally spaced pinions
102 and 104 mounted on and for rotation with the operating shaft 94
of the operating shaft assembly 90. The pinions 102 and 104 are
arranged in intermeshing relation with a pair of elongated racks or
toothed tracks 106 and 108.
[0068] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the toothed tracks 106, 108 are
carried on the frame 32 of the gate assembly 30 and extend
generally parallel to opposed sides of the door 50. Notably, the
elongated racks 106, 108 are mounted on the frame 32 in laterally
outward spaced relation from opposed side edges of the door 50 for
endwise sliding movement relative to the frame 32, the door 50, and
either of the two modular elements 60, 80 mounted on the frame 32
in operative association with the door 50. Lateral or sideways
movement of the racks 106, 108 is limited by guides 110 (FIGS. 8, 9
and 10) affixed to the frame 32 on opposite lateral sides of each
rack 106, 108.
[0069] In the illustrated form of the invention, and as illustrated
in FIGS. 8, 9 and 10, each rack 106, 108 of the rack and pinion
assembly 100 is vertically spaced from the frame 32 of the gate
assembly 30 on which it is mounted and relative to which it
slidably moves. Because the racks 106, 108 are separated from the
frame 32, the coefficient of friction between the racks 106, 108
and frame 32 is substantially reduced. Several alternative devices
could be used to separate the racks 106, 108 from the frame 32 of
the gate assembly 30. In the illustrated embodiment of the
invention, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene material 112 is
entrapped between the racks 106, 108 and the frame 32 of the gate
assembly 30 thereby reducing the coefficient of friction
therebetween, thus, enhancing sliding movement of the racks 106,
108 relative to the frame 32.
[0070] The drive mechanism 88 of the gate assembly 30 further
includes an apparatus 116 for selectively interconnecting the
operating shaft assembly 90 to either the door 50 or the modular
component 60, 80 arranged in combination on the gate assembly 30.
Turning to FIG. 11, apparatus 116 is arranged in combination and
moves with the racks 106, 108 of the rack and pinions assembly 100.
As illustrated, apparatus 116 includes a laterally extending base
118 which spans the distance between and is rigidly joined to the
free ends of the racks 106, 108 of the rack and pinion assembly
100. In the illustrated form of the invention, the apparatus 116 is
manually operated. It is well within the spirit and scope of the
present invention, however, and with slight redesign efforts, the
indexing system or apparatus 116 can include a driver for replacing
the manual efforts now contemplated for use in conjunction
therewith.
[0071] As shown in FIG. 11, apparatus 116 includes a control rod
120 mounted on the base 118 preferably by a pair of laterally
spaced supports 121 and 123 for generally linear displacement along
an axis 122 extending generally parallel with the end wall 42 of
the frame 32 (FIG. 7). As shown, the control rod 120 is preferably
provided with handles 124 and 126 arranged toward opposite ends
thereof for easy grasp by an operator and which readily allow the
control rod 120 to be linearly positioned relative to the frame 32
and rotated about axis 122. In the illustrated form of the
invention, the control rod 122 has a pair of laterally spaced
actuators 128 and 130 arranged for conjoint linear displacement
with but which are inhibited from rotating with the control rod
122. In the illustrated form of the invention, the actuators 128
and 130 move endwise within laterally elongated slots 132 and 134
defined by the base 118 of apparatus 116. For reasons discussed in
detail hereinafter, the control rod 120 of apparatus 116 is
resiliently biased relative to the frame 32 of the gate assembly
30. In the illustrated form of the invention, a spring 136
resiliently biases the control rod 120 and the actuators 128 and
130 carried thereon to the right, as seen in FIG. 11, and to a
predetermined position or condition.
[0072] In a preferred form of the invention, apparatus 116 can be
selectively conditioned in any of three positions or conditions.
First, the apparatus 116 can be conditioned in a position (FIG.
11B) whereby actuation of the drive mechanism 90 will result in
displacement of the door 50. Second, the apparatus 116 can be
conditioned in a position (FIG. 11A) whereby actuation of the drive
mechanism 90 will result in displacement of the second or modular
element 60, 80 arranged on the gate assembly 30. Alternatively, the
apparatus 116 can be conditioned in a position (FIG. 11) whereby
the drive mechanism 90 is inhibited from imparting movement to and
thereby locking both the door 50 and the second element 60, 80
against displacement relative to the frame 32 of the gate assembly
30.
[0073] Preferably, apparatus 116 further includes a detent
mechanism 140 for releasably holding the apparatus 116 in a
selected condition. More specifically, the detent mechanism 140
serves to releasably hold the control rod 120 and, thus, the
actuators 128 and 130 in a selected condition or position relative
to the frame 32 of the gate assembly 30. As will be appreciated by
those skilled in the art, the detent mechanism 140 can take a
myriad of different forms from that shown without detracting or
departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention. In the
form illustrated in FIG. 11, the detent mechanism 140 preferably
includes a pair of laterally spaced holders 142, 144.
[0074] In the illustrated embodiment, the holders 142 and 144 are
substantially similar. Accordingly, only holder 142 will be
described in detail. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, each holder of
the detent mechanism 140 includes an upstanding member 146 carried
on the base 118 of the apparatus 116 and a detent 148 carried on
and movable with the shaft or control rod 120. Member 146 of each
holder 140 has two laterally spaced notches or reliefs 150 and 152
formed thereon which are representative of two different conditions
or positions of the apparatus 116. In the particular embodiment of
the invention illustrated, each upstruck member 146 of detent
mechanism 140 is configured to limit rotational movement of the
respective detent 148 and thereby the control rod 120 about axis
122. Each notch or relief 150, 152 is configured to releasably
accommodate a portion of the detent 148 carried in the control rod
120 therewithin. As will, be appreciated by those skilled in the
art, the resilient action of the spring 136 urges the detents 148
in a sideways or lateral direction furthermore facilitating
operation of the detent mechanism 140 by holding the detent 148
within the selected relief or recess 150, 152 of the detent
mechanism 140 and thereby maintaining the actuators 128, 130 of the
apparatus 116 in a selected position relative to the frame 32 of
the gate assembly 30.
[0075] The drive mechanism 88 for the gate assembly 30 is lost
motion connected to the door 50 through the apparatus 116. The lost
motion connection can take many different forms. Suffice it to say,
the lost motion connection allows the operating shaft assembly 90
of gate assembly 30 a predetermined amount or degree of free
initial rotation before the door 50 begins to move toward an open
position and relative to frame 32.
[0076] As shown in FIG. 4, the door 50 is provided with a pair of
laterally spaced latches 160 and 162. As will be appreciated from
an understanding of the present invention, the number of latches on
the door 50 will correspond to the number of actuators provided in
combination with the apparatus 116 of drive mechanism 88. As shown,
the latches 160, 162 project in a fore-and-aft direction from and
beyond a laterally extending edge of the door 50. Since the latches
160, 162 are substantially similar to each other only latch 160
will be described in detail.
[0077] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 14, each latch 160, 162 is formed
from a rigid material such as steel or the like and has sufficient
strength such that when a pulling or pushing force is applied
thereto, the latch 160, 162 will be able to withstand such forces
applied thereto without any detrimental change to the configuration
of the latch 160, 162. Toward the terminal end thereof, each latch
160, 162 is provided with a hook-like configuration 164 defining an
actuator engaging surface 166. Each latch 160, 162 is furthermore
provided with another actuator engaging surface 168 disposed in
spaced fore-and-aft direction and closer to the edge of the door 50
than is surface 166.
[0078] When the door 50 is in a closed position relative to the
discharge opening 34, and apparatus 116 of drive mechanism 88 is
conditioned in a locked condition or position, the actuators 128,
130 of the apparatus 116 are in a position as schematically
illustrated in solid lines in FIG. 14. If the operator desires to
move the door 50 toward an open position relative to the frame 32
of the gate assembly 30, the operator would initially position the
apparatus 116 in a condition to open the door 50.
[0079] With the present invention, conditioning the apparatus 116
to open the door 50 is easily and readily effected by the operator
positioning the control rod 120 and, thus, the actuators 128, 130
carried by the control rod 120 in the predetermined path of
movement of the door 50. With the present invention, placing the
actuators 128, 130 in the path of travel of the door 50 involves
positioning the actuators 128, 130 relative to the latches 160, 162
on the door 50. Linear displacement of the control rod 120 to open
the door 50 results in the actuators 128, 130 being linearly
displaced to the position schematically illustrated in phantom
lines in FIG. 14. Once the operator linearly positions the control
rod 120 and actuators 128, 130 of the apparatus 116 to open the
door 50, the control rod 120 is preferably rotated about axis 122
to a position illustrated in FIG. 11B such that the detent
mechanism 140 thereafter releasably holds the apparatus 116 in the
position or condition selected by the operator.
[0080] Once the apparatus 116 has been conditioned to move the door
50 toward an open position, the operator can thereafter impart
rotational movements to the operating shaft assembly 90. As will be
appreciated from an understanding of the present invention,
rotational movements imparted to the operating shaft assembly 90
cause linear displacement of the rack and pinion assembly 100. More
specifically, rotation of the operating shaft assembly 90 causes
the racks 106, 108 to linearly move or slide relative to the frame
32 and relative to door 50. Of course, the direction of linear
displacement of the racks 106, 108 is determined by the rotational
direction of the operating shaft assembly 90. During initial
rotation of the operating shaft assembly 90 in a direction to open
the door 50, the racks 106, 108 slidably move in a direction
whereby the racks progressively move in a linear fore-and-aft
direction away from the end wall 42 of frame 32.
[0081] As the racks 106, 108 of the rack and pinion assembly 100
are driven away from the frame 32, the apparatus 116 of the drive
mechanism 90 moves conjointly therewith. Accordingly, the control
rod 120 and actuators 128, 130 carried thereby move with the
apparatus 116 and the racks 106, 108 in response to rotation of the
operator shaft assembly 92. Notably, linear movement of the racks
106, 108 of the drive mechanism 88 results in displacement of the
actuators 128, 130 from the phantom line position to the dashed
line position illustrated in FIG. 14 whereat the actuators 128, 130
are positioned to engage the actuator engaging surface 166 on each
latch 160, 162 of the door 50. It is important to note, however, as
the actuators 128, 130 move from the phantom line position to the
dashed line position in response to initial rotation of the
operating shaft assembly 90 no linear movement of the door 50 is
effected. No linear movement of the door 50 is effected until the
actuators 128, 130 are in engagement with the actuator engaging
surface 166 on a latch 160, 162 associated with the door 50. Once
the actuators 128, 130 engage the actuator engaging surface 166 on
the latch 160, 162 further linear movement of the actuators 128,
130 caused by rotation of the operating shaft assembly 90 will
cause linear displacement of the door 50 toward an open position.
Thus, the drive mechanism 88 of the present invention
advantageously provides lost motion in connection with rotation of
the operating shaft assembly 90 and movement of the door 50 toward
an open position.
[0082] To move the door 50 toward a closed position, the apparatus
116 is conditioned to position the actuators 128, 130 in the path
of travel of the door 50. In the illustrated embodiment,
positioning the actuators 128, 130 for engagement with the actuator
engaging surface 168 on either latch 160, 162 will suffice for
effecting movement of the door 50 toward a closed position.
Thereafter, the operating shaft assembly 90 is rotated in a
direction opposite from the opening direction. As such, the
rotation of the operating shaft assembly 90 will effect linear
retraction of the racks 106, 108, thus, causing movement of the
apparatus 116 toward the end wall 42 of the frame 32 of gate
assembly 30. Movement of the apparatus 116 toward the end wall 42
of the frame 32 of gate assembly will cause the actuators 128, 130
of apparatus 116 to abut and engage the actuator engaging surface
168 defined by each latch 160, 162. As will be appreciated, further
rotation of the operating shaft assembly 90 will cause further
displacement of apparatus 116 and the actuators 128, 130 toward the
end wall 42 of the frame 32 of gate assembly 30, thus, ultimately
closing the door 50 relative to the discharge opening 34 and the
frame 32 of the gate assembly 30.
[0083] Alternatively, the apparatus 116 of the drive mechanism 88
can be selectively conditioned to operably engage and position only
the open top pan assembly or second modular element 60 relative to
the frame 32 of the gate assembly 30. Movement of only the top pan
assembly or second modular element 60 toward an open position is
likewise effected by positioning the actuators 128, 130 of the
apparatus 116 into the path of travel of the top pan assembly 60
and thereafter rotating the operating shaft assembly 90 to enable
the apparatus 116 and, thus, move the pan assembly 60.
[0084] Returning to FIGS. 3 and 5, in the illustrated form of the
invention, the open top pan assembly or modular element 60, is
provided with a pair of laterally spaced fore-and-aft extending
arms 170, 172 projecting from that end of the pan assembly 60
adjacent the end wall 42 of frame 32 when the pan assembly 60 is in
a closed position relative to the discharge opening 34. The arms
170, 172 extending from the pan assembly 60 are substantially
identical and, therefore, only arm 170 will be described in
detail.
[0085] As schematically represented in FIGS. 15 and 16, each arm
170, 172 of pan assembly 60 is preferably formed as a rigid
material tube having sufficient strength such that when a pulling
or pushing force is applied thereto the tube 170, 172 will
withstand such forces applied thereto without any detrimental
change to the configuration of the tube. Preferably, the tubes have
hollow cross-sectional configurations to reduce the overall weight
of the gate assembly 30. Toward a free end thereof, each arm 170,
172 is provided with laterally spaced actuator engaging surfaces
176 and 178 preferably disposed to opposite sides of the
longitudinal axis of each arm 170, 172. Moreover, and as
illustrated in FIG. 15, the actuator engaging surfaces 176, 178 on
each arm 170, 172 are also spaced apart in a fore-and-aft direction
by a distance generally equal to or slightly greater than the
thickness of the actuators 128, 130 of apparatus 116.
[0086] Notably, the actuator engaging surfaces 176, 178 on the arms
170, 172 of pan assembly 60 are laterally spaced from the actuator
engaging surfaces 166, 168 on the latches 160, 162 of door 50.
Accordingly, linear positioning of the control rod 120 of apparatus
116 will effect opening movement of only the door 50 or the pan
assembly 60 but not both depending on the disposition or
conditioning of the apparatus 116.
[0087] When the pan assembly 60 is in a closed position relative to
the discharge opening 34 on the frame 32 of the gate assembly 30,
and apparatus 116 of drive mechanism 90 is conditioned in a locked
condition or position, the actuators 128, 130 of apparatus 116 are
in a position as schematically represented in solid lines in FIGS.
15 and 16. If the operator desires to move the pan assembly 60
toward an open position relative to the frame 32 of the gate
assembly 30, the operator would position the apparatus 116 in a
condition (FIG. 11A) to open the pan assembly 60.
[0088] With the present invention, conditioning the apparatus 116
to open the pan assembly 60 is easily and readily effected by the
operator positioning the control rod 120 and, thus, the actuators
128, 130 carried by the control rod 120 in the predetermined path
of travel of the pan assembly 60. With the present invention,
placing the actuators 128, 130 of the apparatus 116 in the path of
travel of the pan assembly 60 involves positioning the actuators
128, 130 relative to the actuator engaging surface 178 of each arm
170, 172 on the pan assembly 60. As will be appreciated from an
understanding of the present invention, linear displacement of the
control rod 120 of apparatus 116 to the position illustrated in
FIG. 11A results in the actuators 128, 130 of apparatus 116 being
linearly displaced to the position schematically represented in
phantom lines in FIG. 15. Once the operator positions the control
rod 120 and actuators 128, 130 of the apparatus 116 to open the pan
assembly 60, the control rod 120 is preferably rotated about the
axis 122 of rod 120 such that the detent mechanism 140 thereafter
releasably holds the apparatus 116 in the position or condition
selected by the operator.
[0089] Once the apparatus 116 has been conditioned to move the pan
assembly 60 toward an open position and relative to the frame 32 of
the gate assembly 30, the operator can thereafter impart rotational
movement to the operating shaft assembly 90 in a direction to open
the pan assembly 60. As will be appreciated from an understanding
of the present invention, rotational movements imparted to the
operating shaft assembly 90 cause fore-and-aft linear displacement
of the racks 106, 108 of the rack and pinion assembly 100. More
specifically, rotation of the operating shaft assembly 90 causes
the racks 106, 108 to linearly move or slide relative to the frame
32. Of course, the direction of linear movement of the racks 106,
108 is determined by the rotational direction of the operating
shaft assembly 90. During initial rotation of the operating shaft
assembly 90 in a direction to open the pan assembly, the racks 106,
108 slidably move in a direction whereby the racks 106, 108
progressively move in a linear fore-and-aft direction away from the
end wall 42 of frame 32.
[0090] As the racks 106, 108 of the rack and pinion assembly 100
are driven away from the frame 32, the apparatus 116 of the drive
mechanism 88 moves conjointly therewith. Accordingly, the control
rod 120 and the actuators 128, 130 carried thereby move with the
apparatus 116 and the racks 106, 108 in response to rotation of the
operating shaft assembly 90. Notably, linear movement of the racks
106, 108 of the drive mechanism 88 results in displacement of the
actuators 128, 130 away from the end wall 42 of the frame 32 of
gate assembly 30 and into engagement with the actuator engaging
surface 178 of each arm 170, 172. Once the actuators 128, 130 are
engaged with the surface 178 on the arms 170, 172 further linear
movement of the actuators 128, 130 away from the end wall 42 of the
gate assembly 30 caused by rotation of the operator shaft assembly
90 will cause linear movement of the pan assembly 60 toward an open
position relative to the frame 32 of the gate assembly 30.
[0091] With this form of the invention, and as mentioned above, the
fore-and-aft spacing between actuator engaging surfaces 176, 178 on
the arms 170, 172 of the pan assembly 60 is equal to the width of
the actuators 128, 130 of the apparatus 116 of drive mechanism 88.
Accordingly, the actuators 128, 130 are free to pass between the
actuator engaging surfaces 176, 178 without requiring or effecting
linear displacement of the pan assembly 60. Because the distance
between the actuator engaging surfaces 176, 178 of each arm 170,
172 is generally equal to or slightly greater than the width of
each actuator 128, 130 of apparatus 116, movement of the pan
assembly 60 will be effected upon rotation of the operating shaft
assembly 90. As such, the pan assembly 60 will travel a greater
linear distance between open and closed positions than does the
door 50 between open and closed positions.
[0092] To move the pan assembly 60 toward a closed position, the
apparatus 116 is conditioned to position the actuators 128, 130 in
the path of travel of the pan assembly 60. In the illustrated
embodiment, positioning the actuators 128, 130 for engagement with
the actuator engaging surface 176 on the arms 170, 172 of the pan
assembly 60 requires release of the apparatus 116 from its
engagement with the holder 140 thereby allowing the spring 136 to
return the actuators 128, 130 to the solid line position
illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16. Thereafter, the operating shaft
assembly 90 is rotated in a direction opposite from the opening
direction. As such, the rotation of the operating shaft assembly 90
will effect linear retraction of the racks 106, 108 and, thus,
causing movement of the apparatus 116 toward the end wall 42 of the
frame 32 of gate assembly 30. The movement of the apparatus 116
toward the end wall 42 of the frame 32 of gate assembly will cause
the actuators 128, 130 of apparatus 116 to abut and engage the
actuator engaging surface 176 defined on each arm 170, 172. As will
be appreciated, further rotation of the operating shaft assembly 92
will cause further displacement of apparatus 116 and the actuators
128, 130 toward the end wall 42 of the frame 32 of gate assembly
30, thus, ultimately closing the pan assembly 60 relative to the
discharge opening 34 and the frame 32 of the gate assembly 30.
[0093] Special concerns are presented when the gate assembly 30 is
conditioned for use with the other modular element or flat plate
80. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the flat
sanitary plate 80 is specifically designed to inhibit debris from
contaminating the underside 56 of the door 50 and the plenum
chamber 57. The sanitary plate 80, however, is neither configured
nor designed to withstand the full weight of the commodity within
the enclosure 12 thereon. Accordingly, an important design concern
with the present invention involves movement of the sanitary plate
80 in timed relation relative to movement of the door 50 relative
to the frame 32 of the gate assembly 30. Movement of the sanitary
plate 80 in timed relation relative to movement of the door 50
toward an open position is again effected by conditioning the
apparatus 116 of the drive mechanism 90 to accomplish the desired
result.
[0094] Returning to FIG. 6, in the illustrated form of the
invention, the modular element or sanitary plate 80 is provided
with a pair of laterally spaced fore-and-aft extending arms 180,
182 projecting away from that end of plate 80 adjacent the end wall
42 of frame 32 when the second modular element 80 is in a closed
position relative to the discharge opening 34. The arms 180, 182
extending from the plate 80 are substantially identical relative to
each other and, therefore, only arm 180 will be described in
detail.
[0095] As schematically represented in FIG. 17, each arm 180, 182
is preferably formed as a rigid material tube having sufficient
strength such that when a pulling or pushing force is applied
thereto the tube 180, 182 will withstand such forces applied
thereto without any detrimental change to the configuration of the
tube. Preferably, the tubes 180, 182 each have hollow
cross-sectional configurations to reduce the overall weight of the
gate assembly 30. Toward a free end thereof, each arm 180, 182 is
provided with a laterally elongated actuator engaging surface 186.
Moreover, and as illustrated in FIG. 17, each arm 180, 182 of the
second modular element 60 includes an actuator engaging surface 188
spaced apart in a fore-and-aft direction from actuator engaging
surface 186.
[0096] With this form of the invention, the fore-and-aft spacing
between the actuator engaging surfaces 186, 188 on each arm 180,
182 of the plate or second modular element 60 is equal to the width
of the actuators 128, 130 of the apparatus 116 of drive mechanism
88. Accordingly, the actuators 128, 130 of apparatus 116 are free
to pass between the actuator engaging surfaces 186, 188 without
requiring or effecting linear displacement of the plate 80. Because
the distance between the actuator engaging surfaces 186, 188 on
each arm 180, 182 is generally equal to or slightly greater than
the width of each actuator 128, 130 of apparatus 116, movement of
the plate 80 will be effected upon rotation of the operating shaft
assembly 90. As such, the plate or second modular element 80 will
travel a greater linear distance between open and closed positions
than does the door 50 between open and closed positions upon
actuation of the operating shaft assembly 90. Moreover, this design
permits substantially immediate movements of the lower element 60,
80 to overcome the associated static friction forces applied
thereto.
[0097] When the plate or second modular element 80 is in a closed
position relative to the discharge opening 34 on the frame 32 of
the gate assembly 30, and apparatus 116 of drive mechanism 88 is
conditioned in a locked condition or position, the actuators 128,
130 of apparatus 116 are in a position as schematically represented
in solid lines in FIG. 17. The lateral elongation of the actuator
engaging surface 178 assures the sanitary plate or second modular
element 80 will conjointly open along with and in advance of
opening of the door 50. As such, concerns about the commodity in
the enclosure 12 of the hopper car 10 placing a substantial load on
the sanitary plate 80 are eliminated.
[0098] With the present invention, conditioning the apparatus 116
to open the plate 80 is easily and readily effected by the operator
positioning the control rod 120 and, thus, the actuators 128, 130
carried by the control rod 120 in the predetermined path of travel
of the plate 80. With the present invention, placing the actuators
128, 130 of the apparatus 116 in the path of travel of the plate 80
involves positioning the actuators 128, 130 relative to the
actuator engaging surfaces 186, 188 on the pan assembly 60. As will
be appreciated from an understanding of the present invention,
linear displacement of the control rod 120 of apparatus results in
the actuators 128, 130 being linearly displaced to the position
schematically represented in phantom lines in FIG. 17. Once the
operator positions the control rod 120 and actuators 128, 130 of
the apparatus 116 to open the plate 80, the control rod 120 is
preferably rotated about the axis 122 of rod 120 such that the
detent mechanism 140 thereafter releasably holds the apparatus 116
in the position or condition selected by the operator.
[0099] Once the apparatus 116 has been conditioned to move the
plate 80 toward an open position and relative to the frame 32 of
the gate assembly 30, the operator can thereafter impart rotational
movement to the operating shaft assembly 90 in a direction to open
the plate 80. As will be appreciated from an understanding of the
present invention, rotational movements imparted to the operating
shaft assembly 90 cause linear displacement of the rack and pinion
assembly 100. More specifically, rotation of the operating shaft
assembly 90 causes the racks 106, 108 to linearly move or slide
relative to the frame 32. Of course, the direction of linear
movement of the racks 106, 108 is determined by the rotational
direction of the operating shaft assembly 90. During initial
rotation of the operating shaft assembly 90 in a direction to open
the plate 80, the racks 106, 108 of rack and pinion assembly 100
are slidably displaced relative to the door 50 and the frame 32 of
the gate assembly 30.
[0100] As the racks 106, 108 of the rack and pinion assembly 100
are driven away from the frame 32, the apparatus 116 of the drive
mechanism 88 moves conjointly therewith. Accordingly, the control
rod 120 and the actuators 128, 130 carried thereby move with the
apparatus 116 and the racks 106, 108 in response to rotation of the
operating shaft assembly 90. Notably, linear movement of the racks
106, 108 of the drive mechanism 88 results in displacement of the
actuators 128, 130 away from the end wall 42 of the frame 32 of
gate assembly 30 and into pressing or intimate engagement with the
actuator engaging surface 186 associated with the plate 80. Once
the actuators 128, 130 are engaged with the surface 186 on the arms
180, 182 further movement of the actuators 128, 130 away from the
end wall 42 of the gate assembly 30 caused by rotation of the
operator shaft assembly 90 will cause linear movement of the plate
80 toward an open position relative to the frame 32 of the gate
assembly 30.
[0101] To move the plate 80 toward a closed position, the apparatus
116 is conditioned to position the actuators 128, 130 in the path
of travel of the plate 80. In the illustrated embodiment,
positioning the actuators 128, 130 of the apparatus 116 for
engagement with the actuator engaging surface 188 on the arms 180,
182 of the plate 80 will suffice for effecting movement of the
plate 80 toward a closed position. Thereafter, the operating shaft
assembly 90 is rotated in a direction opposite from the opening
direction. As such, the rotation of the operating shaft assembly 90
will effect linear retraction of the racks 106, 108 and, thus,
causing movement of the apparatus 116 toward the end wall 42 of the
frame 32 of gate assembly 30. The movement of the apparatus 116
toward the end wall 42 of the frame 32 of gate assembly 30 will
cause the actuators 128, 130 of apparatus 116 to abut and engage
the actuator engaging surface 188 defined on each arm 180, 182. As
will be appreciated, further rotation of the operating shaft
assembly 90 will cause further displacement of apparatus 116 and
the actuators 128, 130 toward the end wall 42 of the frame 32 of
gate assembly 30, thus, ultimately closing the plate 80 relative to
the discharge opening 34 and the frame 32 of the gate assembly
30.
[0102] Turning to FIG. 18, when the apparatus 116 is returned to a
position adjacent the end wall 42 of the gate assembly 30, the
apparatus 116 is automatically returned to a locked condition. In
the illustrated form of the invention, cam structure 190 is
provided for positively locking the apparatus 116 relative to the
frame 32 of the gate assembly 30 when the apparatus 116 is returned
to a position adjacent the end wall 42 of the frame 32. In the
illustrated form of the invention, the cam structure 190 includes
an actuating member or cam 192 arranged on each capstan 96 of the
operating shaft assembly 90 and a cam follower 194 radially
projecting outwardly from control rod 120 and into the path of
movement of a respective cam 192 when the apparatus 116 is returned
to a position adjacent the end wall 42 of the frame 32. When the
operating shaft assembly 90 is rotated to return the apparatus 116
adjacent the end wall of the frame 32, the rotating cam 192
positively engages the cam follower 194 thereby displacing the
members 148 of the detent mechanism 140 and, thus, rotating the
control rod 120 about axis 122 so as to permit the spring 136 (FIG.
11) to resiliently bias the detents 148 into a locked position
relative to the frame 32 of the gate assembly 30.
[0103] The apparatus 116 furthermore serves to inhibit inadvertent
displacement of the door 50 or the modular element 60, 80. As
illustrated in FIG. 12, when the apparatus 116 is in locked
condition, each detent 148 of the detent mechanism 140 is removably
constrained within an upstruck channel 200 provided on the frame 32
of the gate assembly 30. Accordingly, if rotational movement is
imparted to the operating shaft assembly 90, the inability of the
detents 148 of apparatus 116 to be removed from the channel 200
inhibits linear displacement of the racks 106, 108 of the rack and
pinion assembly 100 thus locking the door 50 and the second modular
element 60, 80 arranged on the gate assembly 30 against linear
displacement relative to the frame 32 of the gate assembly 30.
Other alternative locking arrangements for inhibiting linear
displacement of the door 50, element 60, 80, and apparatus 116
would equally suffice without detracting or departing from the
spirit and cope of the present invention.
[0104] In a preferred form of the invention, a front end portion of
the upstruck channel 200 is defined by cam structure 202 preferably
projecting away from and angularly disposed relative to the end
wall 42 of the frame 32. The cam structure 202 preferably comprises
a pair of preferably identical laterally spaced cams 204 and 206
(FIG. 2) disposed for engagement by the free ends of the detents
148 of the detent mechanism 140 when the apparatus 116 is returned
to a position adjacent the end wall 42 of the frame 32.
[0105] To return the door 50 and element 60, 80 to a closed
position relative to the discharge opening 34 of the frame 32, the
apparatus 116 is conditioned to the position illustrated in FIG.
11. In this position, the detents 148 of the detent mechanism 140
are disengaged from their respective holders 146 and spring 136
urges the detents 148 to the position illustrated in FIG. 11. As
the apparatus 116 is returned to a closed or locked condition, the
purpose of the cams 204, 206 is to engage the free ends of the
detents 148 of the detent mechanism 140 and thereby urge the
control rod 120 in a linear direction against the action of spring
136. Notably, each cam 204, 206 terminates at and opens to the
upright channel 200. As such, and after the detents 148 of the
detent mechanism 140 pass over the cams 204, 206 they are
automatically urged into a locked condition relative to the frame
32 by the spring 136, thus, placing the apparatus 116 in a locked
condition.
[0106] In a most preferred form of the invention, and as shown in
FIG. 18, a railcar seal 210 can be arranged in combination with the
apparatus 116 for visually indicating whether the drive mechanism
88 has been operated to move either the door 50 or the modular
element 60, 80 arranged on the gate assembly 30 toward an open
position. In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, and as
illustrated in FIG. 18, each cam 192 of cam structure 190 is
provided with a through slot or opening 212 having a closed margin.
Moreover, each cam follower 194 on the cam structure 190 defines an
aperture or opening 214 having a closed margin. The railcar seal
210 preferably comprises a ribbon-like band 216 which passes
through the opening 212 on the cam 192 and the aperture or opening
214 on the cam follower 194, with opposite ends of the band 216
being secured to each other to provide a visual indication of
railcar tampering. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the
art, the band 216 is fabricated from a material which can withstand
normal forces applied thereto but which will fail when a rotational
force is imparted to the drive mechanism 88 to open the door 50 or
the modular element 60, 80 mounted on the gate assembly 30.
[0107] Another salient feature or aspect of the present invention
relates to seal structure 220 for inhibiting debris and insect
infiltration between the frame 32, door 50 and the second modular
element 60, 80 arranged on the gate assembly 30 of the present
invention. As shown in FIG. 19, a portion of the seal structure 220
involves providing a seal 222 transversely across a lateral edge or
portion of the second modular component 60, 80 between the tracks
106, 108 of the rack and pinion assembly 100 (FIG. 2) in sealing
engagement with the flange-like configuration 58 at the lower end
of the end wall 40 of frame 32 of gate assembly 30 thereby sealing
the gate assembly 30 across that end thereof. In the illustrated
form of the invention, seal 222 is supported by a depending flange
223 provided on the second modular element 60, 80. A suitable
fastener 225, such as a threaded bolt and nut, can be used to
releasably fasten the seal 222 to the flange 223.
[0108] Seal 222 is preferably formed as an elongated and hollow
elastomeric member 224 configured for energization regardless of
the direction of movement of the gate assembly component with which
the seal 222 is arranged in operable combination. Moreover, seal 22
allows horizontal discontinuities of either the door 50 or the
modular element 60, 80 such that the seal 22 will automatically
re-energize through either open or close direction manipulation of
the components horizontal discontinuity removal. As illustrated in
FIG. 20, seal 222 includes an elongated and preferably extruded
member 224 preferably including a mounting portion 226 defining an
axis 228 extending generally parallel to the predetermined path of
travel of the door 50. Because the commodity transported and held
within the enclosure 12 of hopper car 10 can constitute food grade
material, member 224 used to fabricate the seal 222 is of the type
approved by the FDA and conforms to the FDA Food Contact
Requirements. In a most preferred form, member 224 is formed from a
clean grade santoprene of proper hardness. Preferably, member 224
has a hardness ranging between about 70 and about 76 Shore A
hardness.
[0109] In the illustrated embodiment, a first radial surface 230 is
disposed to one side of the mounting portion 226 of member 224 for
allowing relative movement of the surface arranged in sealing
relationship therewith in either linear direction relative thereto.
As shown, the first radial surface 230 of seal 222 is preferably
arranged in tangential engaging relation relative to the flat
surface or flange-like configuration 58 on the frame 32 of the gate
assembly 30. The first radial surface 230 of member 224 is
preferably provided with at least one elongated rib 232 projecting
away from the radial surface 230 for enhancing the sealing ability
of the sealing surface 230. In a most preferred form of the
invention, the first radial surface 230 of member 224 defines a
second elongated rib 234 extending generally parallel to the first
rib 232 and projecting away from the radial surface 230 to
complement and further enhance the sealing ability of the radial
surface 230.
[0110] In the illustrated embodiment, a second radial surface 240
is disposed to an opposite side of the mounting portion 226 of
member 224 in diametrically opposed relation to the first radial
surface 230. In this illustrated embodiment of member 224, the
mounting portion 226 is centrally disposed between the first and
second radial surfaces 230 and 240, respectively. As such, member
224 is reversible about the axis 226 thereby prolonging the useful
life of the seal 222. The second radial surface 240 of member 224
is preferably provided with at least one elongated rib 242
projecting away from the radial surface 240 for enhancing the
sealing ability of the sealing surface 240. In a most preferred
form of the invention, the second radial surface 240 of member 224
defines a second elongated rib 244 extending generally parallel to
the first rib 242 and projecting away from the radial surface 240
to complement and further enhance the sealing ability of the radial
surface 240.
[0111] In a preferred form of the invention, and as illustrated in
FIG. 21, another portion of seal structure 220 involves providing a
seal 252 transversely across the upper surface 55 of and toward an
end of the door opposite from seal portion 222. Suffice it to say,
seal 252 is substantially identical to seal 222 discussed above.
The seal 252 is preferably mounted to an exterior of and extends
generally parallel to end wall 42 of frame 32. Moreover, seal 252
extends across the upper surface 55 of door 50 and between the
tracks 106, 108 of the rack and pinion assembly 100. The primary
purpose of seal 252 is to inhibit contamination and insect
infiltration between frame 32 of gate assembly 30 and the upper
surface 55 of door 50 during transport and storage of the hopper
car 10.
[0112] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, and as
illustrated in FIG. 21, the end wall 42 of frame 32 is required to
have an opening or elongated slot 260 allowing for horizontal
movement of the door 50 and the second modular element 60, 80
arranged in association with the door 50 on the gate assembly 30
between open and closed positions. Of course, such an opening 260
likewise provides a conduit or passage extending across the entire
bottom or lower surface 56 of door 50. Opening 260 would normally
permit dirt, dust, smoke, water and related debris to enter and,
thus, contaminate the discharge plenum 57 and the lower surface 56
of the door 50. Still another aspect of the present invention
relates to providing a portion of seal structure 220 such as seal
262 transversely across the opening 260 between the lower surface
56 of the door 50 and the second modular element 60, 80 arranged in
association with the door 50 in a manner sealing the opening 260 to
prevent contamination of the lower surface 56 of the door 50 and
the discharge plenum 57.
[0113] Suffice it to say, seal 262 is substantially identical to
seal 222 discussed above. The seal 262 is preferably mounted to an
exterior of and extends generally parallel to end wall 42 of frame
32. Moreover, seal 262 extends across the lower surface 56 of door
50 and between the tracks 106, 108 of the rack and pinion assembly
100. Furthermore, the seal 262 extends across the second modular
element 60, 80 arranged in operable association with the door 50 on
the gate assembly 30. As such, the seal 262 functions as a
compression/wiper seal. Notably, the dual radial surfaces on seal
262 advantageously extend in tangential relationship with the door
50 and the second modular element 60, 80 arranged in association
with the door 50 such that the single seal 262 serves a dual
purpose while permitting horizontal movement of the elements 50,
and 60, 80 in either linear direction without detracting or
departing from its effectiveness as a seal. Furthermore, and as
will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, seal 262 is
configured to permit its energization in either linear direction of
movement or travel of the elements 50, 60, 80 with which it is in
sealing contact.
[0114] In the event it is desired to discharge commodity from the
enclosure 12 of the hopper car 10 by means of pneumatics, the gate
assembly 30 of the present invention is configured or conditioned
with a door 50 and the open top pan assembly 60 as the modular
element arranged in combination with the door 50. Advantageously,
the drive mechanism 88 of the gate assembly 30 allows for a
predetermined range of free rotation of the operating shaft
assembly 90 before the lost motion connection between the drive
mechanism 88 and the door 50 collapses. In a preferred form of the
invention, the range of free rotation of the operating shaft
assembly 90 ranges between about 90.degree. and about 360.degree..
In a most preferred from of the invention, the range of free
rotation of the operating shaft assembly 90 is about
125.degree..
[0115] As will be appreciated, after the lost motion connection
between the drive mechanism 88 and the door 50 collapses, the
operating shaft assembly 90 will have had a range of free rotation
thus allowing a relatively high impactual force or load to be
imparted to the door 50. The relatively high impactual force on the
door 50 assists in moving the door 50 toward an open position. Once
the door 50 is moved to an open position, the commodity in the
enclosure 12 of car 10 freely passes into the open top pan assembly
60 for subsequent pneumatic discharge.
[0116] In the event that it is desired to discharge the commodity
from the enclosure 12 of the car 10 by means of gravity only, the
gate assembly 30 of the present invention would be conditioned such
that door 50 is mounted on the frame 32 in combination with the
sanitary plate 80 as the modular element. Advantageously, pan
assembly 60 is secured to the frame 32 in the same manner to allow
for its linear movement relative to the frame 32 thus yielding a
unique modular design which readily lends itself to use of either
component or element 60, 80 in combination with the gate assembly
30. Notably, and as will be appreciated from an understanding of
the present invention, both modular elements 60, 80 act as a
sanitary shield for the customer attachment flange 58, the plenum
chamber 57, as well as the underside 56 of the door 50.
[0117] When the sanitary plate 80 is arranged in combination with
the gate assembly 30 as the other modular element, the drive
mechanism 88 assures the plate 80 is removed from the beneath the
door 50 before the door 50 is moved to an open position thereby
eliminating the risk of placing substantial weight on a modular
component not designed to support such weight. Additionally, moving
the lower modular element 60, 80 facilitates attachment of the
customer unloading apparatus to the gate assembly 30. That is,
regardless of the setting or conditioning of the apparatus 116, the
sanitary plate 80 will be moved in timed relation relative to the
door 50 and in such a manner thereby avoiding weighty placement of
any commodity thereon. Alternatively, the sanitary plate 80 is
configured to inhibit debris such as dirt, water, smoke and related
matter from contaminating the discharge plenum 57 or the underside
56 of the door 50.
[0118] The seal structure 220 of the present invention furthermore
facilitates sealing of the frame 32, door 50, and the modular
element 60, 80 arranged on the frame 32 relative to each other
thereby inhibiting contaminants from moving therepast. The radial
surfaces 230, 240 on the seal structure 220 are preferably arranged
in tangential relationship relative to the surfaces they are to
seal thereby promoting linear movement of the elements 50, 60, 80
in either direction without detracting or departing from the
ability of the seal structure 220 to maintain a sealing
relationship therewith. The dual radial surface design furthermore
promotes reversal of the seal structure 220 or use of the seal as a
compression/wiper seal having energization abilities in either
linear direction of movement of the elements with which it
maintains a sealing relationship. Moreover, the seal structure 220
yields a continuous sealing function regardless of the linear
position of the doorm50 thus promoting the ability to throttle the
flow rate of the commodity through the gate assembly.
[0119] From the foregoing, it will be observed that numerous
modifications and variations can be effected without departing from
the true spirit and novel scope of the present invention. Moreover,
it will be appreciated that the present disclosure is intended as
an exemplification of the invention, and is not intended to limit
the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated. Rather, the
disclosure is intended to cover by the appended claims all such
modifications and variations as fall within the scope of the
claims.
* * * * *