Bruce A Walter

Title: Innovations by Bruce A Walter in Railway Car Underbody Structures

Introduction

Bruce A Walter is an accomplished inventor based in Madison, IL (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of railway car design, particularly with his innovative underbody support structure. His work focuses on enhancing the structural integrity and performance of railway cars, which is crucial for the safety and efficiency of rail transport.

Latest Patents

Walter holds a patent for a "Railway car underbody structure and method." This invention presents an improved railway car underbody support structure that is economically constructed. The design features a center sill assembly with vertically disposed side plates that are strategically spaced from the longitudinal center line of the car body. This assembly extends from a coupler longitudinally inboard to a wheeled truck assembly. The truck assembly is equipped with two laterally spaced side bearing members that support the load of the car body during lateral tilting.

One of the key improvements in Walter's design is the use of a unitary metal member cut from an economically patterned metal plate. These unitary members are free of weld lines that could crack under extreme loads, enhancing the durability of the structure. They serve multiple functions, including acting as a bottom side flange to stiffen the side plates, a bottom cover plate to integrate the sill, and a bottom bolster support extending over the side bearing member. Additionally, the invention includes a mini-bolster to distribute the car body load, a unique side plate upper edge configuration, and reinforcing bars to improve structural integrity.

Career Highlights

Walter is associated with ACF Industries, Incorporated, where he has applied his expertise in railway car design. His innovative approach has led to advancements in the manufacturing and performance of railway cars, making them safer and more efficient.

Collaborations

Walter has collaborated with notable coworkers, including John A Krug and William L Willis. Their combined efforts have contributed to the development of innovative solutions in railway car technology.

Conclusion

Bruce A Walter's contributions to railway car underbody structures exemplify the importance of innovation in transportation engineering. His patented designs not only enhance the structural integrity of railway cars but also improve their overall performance and safety.