Permanent magnet rail brake for low platform tram systems employs magnet weight to initiate final application of brake pad to rail

摘要

A permanent magnet (9) is located in a housing (3). In the Off position support springs (4) retract the housing against the tram chassis. To apply the brake the magnet is released and falls under its own weight narrowing the gap to the rail (10). The increased magnetic pull overcomes the lift of the support springs until the brake pad (6) is held against the rail. To release the brake hydraulic or pneumatic pistons (11) retract the magnet