Tri-level railcar

Abstract

A tri-level railcar wherein the B deck is fixed along its entire length, rather than having hinged end sections, so that the B deck contributes to the strength and rigidity of the car. To provide sufficient clearance in the A1 and A5 positions, the B deck is positioned at a higher elevation than in conventional prior art auto rack cars. Clearances above each of the three decks may be approximately equal. High cambered decks are preferably employed at both the B and C level. The overall height of the railcar is preferably about 20′2″. All three decks may be continuously loaded and unloaded without the need to stop loading and unloading to pivot the B deck end sections. The ability of the B deck to function as a structural member of the railcar from end to end may eliminate the need for cross braces, i.e., brace bays, as included in typical prior art tri-level auto racks. The side wall posts may all be of the same or similar cross-section.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A tri-level auto rack railcar comprising first, second, and third decks capable of supporting automotive vehicles during loading, unloading and transport of such vehicles in commercial rail service, wherein the second deck has fixed end sections that extend across the entire width of the deck and contribute strength and rigidity to the railcar structure.  
     
     
         2 . A railcar in accordance with  claim 1  wherein vertical clearances of at least h a , h b , and h c , measured 30″ off center are maintained above the first, second and third decks respectively.  
     
     
         3 . A railcar in accordance with  claim 2  wherein h a , h b , and h c  are each greater than or equal to 63 in.  
     
     
         4 . A railcar in accordance with  claim 3  wherein h a , h b , and h c  are each greater than or equal to 64 in.  
     
     
         5 . A railcar in accordance with  claim 3  wherein h a , h b , and h c  are each greater than or equal to 65 in.  
     
     
         6 . A railcar in accordance with  claim 3  wherein h a , h b , and h c  are each greater than or equal to 65{fraction (5/16)} in.  
     
     
         7 . A railcar in accordance with  claim 3  wherein h a , h b , and h c  are approximately equal, within 1½ in. of a predetermined value.  
     
     
         8 . A railcar in accordance with  claim 3  wherein said second and third decks are high camber decks.  
     
     
         9 . A railcar in accordance with  claim 3  wherein said second and third decks are substantially the same, and are welded in place along their entire lengths.  
     
     
         10 . A railcar in accordance with  claim 3  wherein said second and third decks are substantially the same, and are bolted in place along their entire lengths.