Proposta de projecto de uma agulha automática para a mudança de via dos comboios na estação central dos Caminhos de Ferro de Moçambique (CFM-Sul)

Abstract

Switching tracks is one of the most important operations of a railway, as trains constantly need to change their initial trajectory to reach the desired destination. Currently, the CFM uses manually controlled switch machines; this system is essentially made up of: (needles, anti-needle, switching apparatus, connecting tracks, heart, leash, connecting bar, and counter rails). This control is simply one of the most commonly used by railways throughout the national territory, as it is quite simple both in its sizing and in its actual operation. In this type of device, the switch of the tracks occurs through a lever that operates the blades that move the tracks; this action is performed manually by operators responsible for the task. Although it is the simplest device, requiring physical (human) effort for its operation and not requiring many technical calculations for its design, the manually controlled AMV can deliver practical results regarding the operation of the blades that move the tracks. This work aims to present a project of an Automated Motion Vehicle (AMV) with an electrical circuit controller, that is, automatic. In this case, there is an automation of the track movement process, controlled by an electric circuit through a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). The project will also foresee manual operation in case the automatic system is unavailable. This AMV consists of commands and electronic devices that control the movement of the tracks. The electric motor is the most essential element in this process, as this device will be responsible for supplying mechanical energy to the system, allowing through electrical commands for the alteration or diversion of the tracks. The main elements that constitute the automatic AMV are: Electric motor; Gearbox; Needle; Counter-rails; Heart or alligator; Position sensor, PLCs, contactors, and the control and signaling system. The implementation of this project will ensure that there is a change of track for trains without any physical intervention from the operator, which will significantly reduce the physical effort of the operator and the risks of accidents involved in the manual operations of AMVs.