Academic literature on the topic 'Platform wagon'

The paper reports the improvement in the bearing structure of a platform wagon that transports military equipment and is involved in artillery fire. A special feature of the platform wagon is the presence of rotary sectors made from a composite material with viscous or elastic-viscous links, which makes it possible to absorb the kinetic energy that is transmitted to the frame when firing from the wagon, as well as enables the loading/unloading of military equipment from its side. We have investigated the dynamic loading of the bearing structure of a platform wagon for military equipment transportation and combat operations. A mathematical model has been constructed, which takes into consideration the movement of the bearing structure of a platform wagon when firing from it. It has been considered that the platform wagon is loaded with two anti-aircraft guns. The mathematical model was solved in the Mathcad programming environment. The study was conducted in a flat coordinate system. We have determined the accelerations that act on the bearing structure of a platform wagon. The maximum acceleration rate, in this case, is about 3.6 m/s² at bouncing oscillations and 4.0 m/s² at galloping oscillations. In other words, considering the proposed technical solutions, the dynamic loading of the bearing structure of a platform wagon in the vertical plane at firing decreases by almost 30 %. The magnitude of the acceleration is almost independent of the firing angle in this case. The derived acceleration values have been taken into consideration in determining the strength indicators for the bearing structure of a platform wagon. Calculation was carried out by the method of finite elements in the CosmosWorks programming environment. The maximum equivalent stresses in the bearing structure of a platform wagon amounted to about 285 MPa; they are concentrated in the region where the bearing structure rests on the trolley. Consequently, the durability of the bearing structure of a platform wagon is ensured. Modal analysis of the bearing structure of a platform wagon has been conducted. The values of the natural oscillation frequencies are within allowable limits. Our research would contribute to designing innovative structures for platform wagons

The aim of the article is to present the structural design of freight railway wagon with variable use of loading space with regard to the safe operation and assessment of the properties by the calculation methods of simulation analysis. Virtual model of wagon was created in a computer program PTC/Creo. After creating the construction, the calculation model of the wagon frame was subjected to the static and dynamic analysis in programs ANSYS and ADAMS/Rail. On the basis of computer aided simulation analysis was optimized the chassis frame of the wagon. This wagon will be able to offer even more capacity and utilize less resources and energy than current wagons for intermodal transport.

Objective. To increase the quality of work of tensometric systems, using data obtained from the strain gauge system in the form of maps of the passage of moving objects, it is necessary to conduct research on the data of the strain gauge system and develop a set of algorithms, thanks to which it is possible to obtain the characteristics of railway cars in rolling stock and carry out identification of railway objects objects with a minimum error for further use of the obtained results in the construction of a system of identification and weighing of moving objects through tensometric systems. Research methods. To build a system for identifying different types of moving objects through single-platform railway scales in motion, it is proposed to use machine learning methods, namely neural networks and clustering algorithms. The software implemented as part of scientific research is written in the Python programming language using numPy, sklearn, statistics, and other libraries. Findings. Using such methods of machine learning as convolutional neural networks, clustering, perceptron and relying on the reference data of railway objects that can be used on the territory of Ukraine, a number of algorithmic solutions were obtained and implemented in the form of software, which identify the type of car by such characteristics such as the axle of the cart, the axle of the wagon, the ratio of the base of the wagon to the length of the wagon between the couplings, the weight of the axles. Using the weight coefitient for a specific tensometric system, during the calibration of the scales, the dependence of the weight of the car on its type and the mass of each of the axles was obtained. The originality. After conducting a study of the data on the passage of railway carriages and auto couplings through single-platform scales, it was established that the types of wagons can be categorized by such characteristics as the ratio of the base of the wagon to the length of the wagon between the auto couplings, the axle, weight. To obtain the ratio of the wagon base to the length of the wagon between autocouplings, it is necessary to perform data segmentation and clustering as follows - the wagon base is found as the distance between the middle of two bogies, and the length of the wagon between autocouplings as the middle of the distance between the bogies to the middle of the autocoupling. Practical implications. Using such methods of machine learning as convolutional neural networks, clustering, perceptron and others, an algorithmic solution for data processing of strain gauge systems was obtained, which allows to increase the accuracy of the identification of wagons, while reducing the dependence of the results on the speed of the wagons, which allows to increase the capacity of weighing systems of enterprises

Purpose. To substantiate the improvement of the load-bearing element of the wagon-platform for the possibility of transporting bulk cargoes. Methodology. In order to be able to transport bulk cargo on the wagon-platform, it is proposed to install a composite boiler module on it. In order to determine the dynamic load of the improved load-bearing structure of the wagon-platform, mathematical modeling was performed. The mathematical model formed by professor Bohomaz H.I. was used. However, within the framework of the research this model was refined to determine the load of the wagon-platform of the proposed design. The solution of the system of differential equations is carried out in the MathCad software package. To do this, the mathematical model was reduced to the normal Cauchy form, and then integrated by the Runge-Kutta method. The obtained acceleration is taken into account when calculating the strength of the advanced load-bearing structure of the wagon-platform. The calculation is performed in the SolidWorks Simulation software package, which implements the finite element method. Also, within the research the modal analysis of a load-bearing structure of the wagon-platform is carried out. Findings. Based on the calculations, it is established that the acceleration acting on the load-bearing structure of the wagon-platform car is 0.38 g, i.e. it is within acceptable limits. The results of the calculation of the strength of the improved design of the wagon-platform showed that the maximum equivalent stresses occur in the area of interaction of the spine beam frame with the pivot and is about 340 MPa, the maximum displacement made 8.6 mm. That is, the obtained stresses do not exceed the yield strength of the structural material. The results of the modal analysis showed that the values of the natural frequencies of oscillations are within acceptable limits, because the first natural frequency has a value greater than 8 Hz. Originality. The scientific substantiation of improvement of a load-bearing structure of a universal wagon-platform to transportations of bulk cargoes is carried out. Practical value. The conducted research will promote increase in efficiency of operation of railway transport and creation of developments concerning planning of innovative designs of a rolling stock.

In order to reduce the dynamic load of the platform wagon, it is proposed to use an intermediate adapter between the frame and the load. The reduction of dynamic loads is carried out due to the dissipative forces that arise in the adapter when the wagon bounces. The results of mathematical modeling of the vertical loading of the platform wagon are given, taking into account the proposed solution. It was established that the accelerations acting on the supporting structure of the platform wagon are reduced by 8.5 % compared to the typical one. The acceleration acting on the load placed on the frame of the platform wagon is 11.8 % lower than that acting on it, taking into account the typical load perception scheme. The peculiarities of determining the strength of the adapter under its vertical load are highlighted. The conducted research will contribute to the creation of developments in the design of modern structures of railway vehicles.

Abstract A special wagon, presented in the paper, can be used for intermodal transport of various types of vehicles. It enables transport of vehicles of 36 tons mass and height of 4m on the GB1 clearance height. An innovative wagon is equipped with a frame-support with marginal parts mounted on standard biaxial bogies and the central part lowered with a rotatable loading platform. The rotating part of wagon acts as a kind of platform, allowing truck to move through it during load/unload. During railway operation, this rotating platform is to become an integrated part of the wagon; the tailboards of the rotating part will be connected to the over-bogie part with the special locks. A unique concept of the wagon structure forced a design approach which was rather unusual for the rail industry. Since the design team aimed at very challenging demands of GB1 envelope and usage of standard bogies, the layout of the wagon had to be thoroughly examined in terms of its overall stiffness. Every major design change had to be simulated in order to accurately predict its influence on the whole wagon structure. FE analysis was used for numerical tests of such a wagon structure in different configurations. The calculations were carried out on the basis of PN-EN standards. Selected results of numerical tests of the prototype version of a such wagon for intermodal transports were presented in the paper.

The paper presents a pilot analysis of the dynamics of a railway wagon designed for transporting road semi-trailer trucks. Attention was given to the innovative solution of the wagon construction, having a movable platform enabling transportation of road vehicles as a part of intermodal transport. The technical description presented in the article takes into account the provisions of Patent No. 214797, for the invention under the name "Railway transport wagon, railway transport unit and railway transport system containing such wagon". The work presents the concept of technical characteristics of the wagon construction solution and a simulation model was built using in-house software. The technical parameters were analyzed, followed by pilot simulation tests. This paper presents the results of research on the dynamics of the platform wagon, loaded with a typical road semi-trailer truck. The system's eigenvalues were analyzed, allowing for the initial assessment of dynamic phenomena occurring in the conditions of exploitation of the loaded wagon. The tests are of pilot nature and constitute a prelude to carry out complex simulation analyzes including tests of dynamics while running on transition curves, arcs, and wear of the rolling surfaces of wheels and rails at different traffic speeds.

Within the framework of the Digital Railway Terminal Concept, it is expected to create robotic complexes that provide automatic train break-up and wagon uncoupling at a sorting hump. This article deals with the issue of selecting technical and operational characteristics and algorithm for a mobile platform moving part of such a robotic complex. The article describes the developed mathematical model that takes into account various options of the mobile platform movements. Using the developed model, various designs of the robotic complex mobile platform have been compared including those by a number of consecutively formed wagon cuts. The simulation has shown that a greater number of consecutively formed wagon cuts can be achieved by increasing the speed and acceleration of the mobile platform carriage, as well as by using a more complex algorithm for the mobile platform carriage. This requires the use of an additional fixed track sensor designed for measuring the distance between the current carriage ordinates and automated couplers to be uncoupled.

In the article the results of studies of loading of the bearing structure of a wagon-platform of an articulated type, created on the basis of the existing construction, during transportation on the railway ferry by sea are given. In order to ensure the reliability of the fixing of the bearing structure of the wagon-platform of the articulated type relative to the deck of the railway ferry, it is proposed to equip it with knots for fixing the chain ties. To study the dynamic loading of a wagon-platform of an articulated type during transportation on a railway ferry by sea, constructed a mathematical model of oscillations with angular displacements relative to the longitudinal axis of the vessel (loll/heel). The maximal values of accelerations, as components of dynamic load, acting on the bearing structure of a wagon-platform are determined. The obtained acceleration values are taken into account when calculating the strength of the bearing structure using the finite element method implemented in the CosmosWorks software environment. It is established that the maximum equivalent tension do not exceed permissible values. The carried out researches will promote increase of efficiency of combined transportations in the direction of the international transport corridors.

The research is aimed at identifying patterns in the formation of tariffs, forecasting wagon rental rates and other indicators of the use of rolling stock using the neural network method. The process of tariff formation in the transport services market is investigated using the neural network method on the 1C platform. Various indicators of wagon use that affect the wagon rental rate are presented. They consider various approaches to tariff setting and propose principles for an optimal approach to setting tariffs in modern conditions. The results of the research can be applied in the further development of methods for forecasting and setting tariffs in railway transport. Keywords. railway tariff, wagon, rolling stock indicators, mathematical analysis, neural network method, forecasting.

Дисертація на здобуття наукового ступеня кандидата технічних наук (доктора філософії) за спеціальністю 05.02.09 "Динаміка та міцність машин" (13 – Механічна інженерія). – Національний технічний університет «Харківський політехнічний інститут», Харків, 2019. Потреби сучасної промисловості, транспорту і сфери послуг у інноваційних виробах із підвищеними техніко-економічними характеристиками останнім часом різко зростають. При цьому велику частку серед такої продукції займають тонкостінні машинобудівні конструкції, у яких раціонально поєднуються масові і характеристики міцності. У той же час на багато виробів (літаки, судна, рухомий склад залізниць, крани, перевантажувачі, ємності високого тиску, апарати хімічної промисловості, устаткування агропромислового комплексу) поширюються суворі офіційні правила і норми, спрямовані, у першу чергу, на забезпечення безпеки експлуатації. Відповідно, при проектних дослідженнях використовуються усталені методики розрахунку, а також традиційні технічні рішення. Незважаючи на тиск сталої практики, що схиляється до створення виробів у вигляді «клонів» давно створених аналогів, діє також протилежна тенденція. Вона породжується загальним прагненням до прогресу, навіть у консервативних областях діяльності, а також економічними міркуваннями. Більш того, багато споживачів інноваційних виробів установлюють свої додаткові вимоги до продукції, що спрямовані на продовження терміну служби конструкцій, підвищення їхньої продуктивності, інтенсивності експлуатаційних режимів або навантажувальної здатності. У цих обставинах, окрім нормативних обмежень, з’являються додаткові, що ускладнює виконання вимог до проектованих конструкцій. Таким чином, виникла і посилюється у своїй актуальності та важливості науково-практична задача розробки методів забезпечення міцності інноваційних тонкостінних машинобудівних конструкцій при дії комплексу експлуатаційних навантажень. Її постановка, розв’язання та впровадження у практику проектних досліджень склала мету, зміст і напрями дисертаційних досліджень. У дисертаційній роботі розв’язана науково-технічна задача, яка полягає в удосконалення методів і моделей для проектного забезпечення міцності тонкостінних машинобудівних конструкцій при дії комплексу експлуатаційних навантажень. У роботі для аналізу напружено-деформованого стану тонкостінних машинобудівних конструкцій застосовуються співвідношення теорії пружності і методу скінченних елементів. Формування геометричної форми досліджуваних конструкцій здійснювалося методами твердотільного і поверхневого моделювання. Для варіативної зміни структури і розмірів досліджуваних об’єктів адаптовано і розвинено метод узагальненого параметричного моделювання стосовно інноваційних тонкостінних машинобудівних конструкцій. Експериментальні дослідження здійснювалися методами тензометрії та акселерометрії. У ході виконання дисертаційного дослідження отримано наступні наукові результати: 1) проведено аналіз умов експлуатації, нормативних вимог, а також методів розрахунку тонкостінних машинобудівних конструкцій з урахуванням обмежень на міцність, і на цій основі визначені напрями дисертаційних досліджень; 2) удосконалено методи і моделі для обґрунтування проектних параметрів інноваційних тонкостінних машинобудівних конструкцій за критеріями міцності при дії комплексу експлуатаційних навантажень із урахуванням нормативних обмежень; 3) здійснено розв’язання низки прикладних задач проектного обґрунтування технічних рішень для тонкостінних машинобудівних конструкцій за критеріями міцності та довговічності; 4) здійснено розрахунково-експериментальні дослідження напружено- деформованого стану інноваційних тонкостінних машинобудівних конструкцій, які спроектовано на основі рекомендацій із застосуванням результатів дисертаційних досліджень; 5) впроваджено результати досліджень у виробництво.<br>Тhesis for candidate of technical science degree (Philosophy Doctor) in speciality 05.02.09 – Dynamics and Strength of Machines (13 – mechanical engineering). – National Тechnical University «Kharkov Polytechnic Institute», Kharkiv, 2019. The needs of modern industry, transport and services in innovative products with increased technical and economic characteristics have recently been increasing dramatically. Large proportion of such products are thin-walled engineering structures, which rationally combine mass and strength characteristics. At the same time, strict rules and regulations are applied to many products (aircraft, ships, rolling stock, cranes, reloaders, high-pressure vessels, chemical industry equipment, agricultural equipment) for ensure the operation safety. Accordingly, design studies use established computational methods, as well as traditional technical solutions. In spite of pressure of established practice, which tends to create products as "clones" of long-created analogues, opposite trend also applies. It is generated by general aspiration for progress, even in conservative areas of activity, as well as economic considerations. Moreover, many consumers of innovative products set their additional requirements for products aimed at extending service life of structures, increasing their productivity, intensity of operating modes or load capacity. In these circumstances, in addition to regulatory restrictions, there are additional ones, which complicates the requirements fulfillment for projected designs. Thus, the scientific and practical task of developing methods for strength ensuring of innovative thin-walled engineering structures under action of operating loads complex has appeared and is intensified in its urgency and importance. Its formulation, solution and implementation to design studies practice is goal, content and directions of dissertation research. In the dissertation work the scientific and technical problem is solved, which consists in methods and models improvement for strength ensurance of thin-walled engineering structures under action of operational loads complex. In the work for stress-strain state analysis of thin-walled engineering structures the theory of elasticity ratios and the finite element method are used. Geometric shape formation of investigated structures was carried out by methods of solid state and surface modeling. For structure and size variation of studied objects, the method of generalized parametric modeling for innovative thin-walled engineering structures is adapted and developed. Experimental studies were carried out using strain gauge and accelerometer methods. In course of dissertation research the following scientific results were obtained: 1) an analysis of operating conditions, regulatory requirements, as well as analysis methods of thin-walled engineering structures taking into account the constrains on durability, and on this basis, the dissertation research directions were determined; 2) methods and models for design parameters justification of innovative thin-walled engineering structures according to strength criteria under action of operational loads complex, taking into account regulatory constraints are improved; 3) solution of a number of applied tasks of technical solutions substantiation for the thin-walled engineering structures according to strength and durability criteria; 4) computational and experimental studies of stress-strain state of innovative thin-walled engineering structures that are designed on the basis of recommendations with application of dissertation research results; 5) research results are introduced into production.

Дисертація на здобуття наукового ступеня кандидата технічних наук за спеціальністю 05.02.09 – динаміка таміцність машин. Національний технічний університет «Харківський політехнічний інститут», Міністерство освіти і науки України, Харків, 2019. Дисертація присвячена удосконаленню методів і моделей для проектного забезпечення міцності тонкостінних машинобудівних конструкцій при дії комплексу експлуатаційних навантажень. Обґрунтування раціональних параметрів і конструктивних рішень ТСМБК здійснюється за критеріями мінімізації маси, зниження напружень, підвищення терміну експлуатації. Ураховуються апроксимації залежностей критеріальних величин, що поступово локалізуються, від варійованих параметрів. Узагальненими параметрами виступають структура, проектно-технологічні рішення ТСМБК, конструктивні параметри і експлуатаційні режими. При цьому забезпечується розв’язання задач одиничного аналізу, багатоваріантних досліджень, а також обґрунтування раціональних проектно-технологічних рішень. На розвиток відомих підходів розглянуті наступні узагальнення: уніфікація, доцільність, ефективності, ідентифікація навантажень, верифікація, прогнозування, відлаштування. Здійснена також алгоритмізація запропонованих методів розрахунку НДС тонкостінних машинобудівних конструкцій на основі поєднання переваг універсальних і спеціальних систем. Проведено розв’язання низки прикладних задач. Обґрунтовано раціональні проектні параметри інноваційних ТСМБК. Представлено результати експериментальних досліджень інноваційних вагону-цистерни, вагону-платформи і крана-перевантажувача, які спроектовано і виготовлено на основі впровадження рекомендацій за підсумками дисертаційних досліджень.<br>Thesis for the degree of Candidate of Technical Sciences in specialty 05.02.09 – Dynamics and strength of machines. National Technical University «Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute», Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, Kharkiv, 2019. The thesis is devoted to the improvement of methods and models for the design ensuring of the strength of thin-walled engineering structures under the action of operational loadings complex. The justification for rational parameters and design solutions for thin-walled engineering structures is carried out according to the criteria of mass minimizing, stresses reducing, and service life increasing. Various additional criteria such as cost, manufacturability, economy, energy efficiency, can be taken into account in the formation of the quality function. The dependences approximations of criterion values, which are gradually localized, from variable parameters are taken into account. The structure, design and technological solutions of thin-walled engineering structures, structural parameters and operating modes are the generalized parameters. This provides a solution to the problems of a single analysis, multivariate studies, as well as the justification for rational design and technological solutions. The following generalizations are considered: unification, expediency, efficiency, loading identification, verification, forecasting, tune-up in development of known approach. The algorithmization of proposed methods for calculating of the stress strain state of thin-walled engineering structures has also been carried out based on a combination of the advantages of universal and special systems. A number of applied problems are solved. Parametric finite element models of researched objects have been developed based on a set of studies of the stress-strain state of the power elements. The rational design parameters of innovative thin-walled engineering structures are determined. The results of experimental studies of innovative tank cars, platform cars and loading cranes, which are designed and manufactured based on the implementation of recommendations from dissertation research, are presented. Comparative experimental and computational studies of the structures stress-strain state were carried out. They are combined with certification tests, during which the stresses in the power elements were recorded. The operational loadings are determined which are acting on thin-walled structures. During the tests, regularities were established that determine the dependence of the loadings components on the structure from various factors. Verification of the numerical models parameters of thin-walled engineering constructions elements was carried out. Designed on the basis of researches innovative structures have improved technical and economic characteristics compared with similar ones.

Emerging wireless sensor networking (WSN) and modern machine learning techniques have encouraged interest in the development of vehicle health monitoring (VHM) systems that ensure secure and reliable operation of the rail vehicle. The performance of rail vehicles running on railway tracks is governed by the dynamic behaviours of railway bogies especially in the cases of lateral instability and track irregularities. In order to ensure safety and reliability of railway in this chapter, a forecasting model has been developed to investigate vertical acceleration behaviour of railway wagons attached to a moving locomotive using modern machine learning techniques. Initially, an energy-efficient data acquisition model has been proposed for WSN applications using popular learning algorithms. Later, a prediction model has been developed to investigate both front and rear body vertical acceleration behaviour. Different types of models can be built using a uniform platform to evaluate their performances and estimate different attributes’ correlation coefficient (CC), root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), root relative squared error (RRSE), relative absolute error (RAE) and computation complexity for each of the algorithm. Finally, spectral analysis of front and rear body vertical condition is produced from the predicted data using Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) and used to generate precautionary signals and system status which can be used by the locomotive driver for deciding upon necessary actions.

Emerging wireless sensor networking (WSN) and modern machine learning techniques have encouraged interest in the development of vehicle health monitoring (VHM) systems that ensure secure and reliable operation of the rail vehicle. The performance of rail vehicles running on railway tracks is governed by the dynamic behaviours of railway bogies especially in the cases of lateral instability and track irregularities. In order to ensure safety and reliability of railway in this chapter, a forecasting model has been developed to investigate vertical acceleration behaviour of railway wagons attached to a moving locomotive using modern machine learning techniques. Initially, an energy-efficient data acquisition model has been proposed for WSN applications using popular learning algorithms. Later, a prediction model has been developed to investigate both front and rear body vertical acceleration behaviour. Different types of models can be built using a uniform platform to evaluate their performances and estimate different attributes’ correlation coefficient (CC), root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), root relative squared error (RRSE), relative absolute error (RAE) and computation complexity for each of the algorithm. Finally, spectral analysis of front and rear body vertical condition is produced from the predicted data using Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) and used to generate precautionary signals and system status which can be used by the locomotive driver for deciding upon necessary actions.

Abstract As part of Milwaukee School of Engineering’s (MSOE) 2019 Senior Design program, a design team has worked with Old World Wisconsin (OWW) — a museum in Waukesha County — to incorporate STEM education into their historical platform. This involved introducing methods to teach STEM concepts to visitors, most of which are school children in the K-12 system. Background research on current Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) methods for K-12 audiences show that there is an overall lack of STEM introduction for students in the United States, and as such, students in the U.S. fail to meet averages for international testing standards for STEM concepts. Research shows that young students require hands on programs in which they can form hypotheses, test hypotheses, and question how these concepts can be applied to real life scenarios. The physical designs in this project consist of stations which relate to OWW’s current exhibits, and introduce statics and dynamics concepts, such as the concepts of mechanical advantage. These concepts are introduced through physical mechanisms that visitors to OWW can interact with in a safe manner, without the need of close supervision. With the guidance of facilitators, school children on field trips will learn mechanics concepts in a tactile and visual manner while being taught key points by the facilitator. The physical designs in this project exist in OWW’s Bicycle Shop, Peterson Wagon Shop, and Loomer Barn. The bicycle shop station consists of a sprocket and chain setup in which visitors can drive a sprocket using a handle, to discover how gear ratios can affect output speeds and torque for a given input speed and torque. The station in the wagon shop has a table with multiple tracks on which a scale wheel can be rolled, to show the relationships between translational and rotational dynamics. In the Loomer Barn, there is a lever station which shows the concepts of moments and moment arms, as well as mechanical advantage, which visitors can solve problems with to understand the relationship between moment arms, and the applied forces required to balance a lever. Also in the barn, a pulley station explores the use of multiple pulleys to make lifting require less force, while increasing the required pulling distances. Each station is accompanied by worksheets that can be distributed to teachers and other visitors via e-mail, which will serve as further supplementary learning tools to enhance visitors’ understanding of the subject material. Design specifications are defined for the size, weight, and types of components to be allowed in the wagon and sprocket modules. These design specifications are met by the finalized designs. The separate stations have undergone some revision over time through different design prototype phases. In the prototype phases, 3D printing was the main means of design, but since these devices are meant to be large and sturdy to offer permanent visual cues to young students, these prototypes were not only temporary solutions, but impossible to 3D print or manufacture within a reasonable cost and time frame. Because of this, the use of externally sourced parts from McMaster-Carr and Menards was decided upon to fulfill the goals of this project. This project was feasible in that it was accomplished by meeting standards related to the background research on STEM education, as well as falling within the realm of historical relevance to OWW’s exhibits. The project was assembled and distributed to OWW within the desired time-frame of both MSOE, and OWW.

The set of two interconnected base modules 10' (length of up to 3m) of the platform is the equivalent of a 20' container with a length of up to 6m. Such a set consists of: two frames connected with mandrel joints, two rotating transverse walls placed vertically at both ends of the frame set and two sets of stanchions with load straps. The multiplatform set with the log load can be reloaded many times. Four different types of loading and unloading techniques most often used in the transport of logs can be used for this purpose, They concern reloading from trucks, road tractors to various types of railway wagons and vice versa without the need to empty the set of platforms. It is possible to transfer the platform, e.g. with a load of logs, using various means of handling, various types of loading and unloading techniques, from delivery vehicles to various types of railway wagons and vice versa without the need to empty the set from the load. For this purpose, the following solution can be used: typical rope slings and lifting with a self-propelled or stationary crane, overhead crane, etc., trolleys and forklifts of various classes, as well as standard lifting / hook loading by pulling on the vehicle. Empty sets can be delivered to the loading site in an appropriate number in a folded state, i.e. the basic modules, after folding the transverse wall, disassembling the stanchions, can be arranged horizontally in stacks - 'one on top of another'. Platform sets configured this way require less space for transport and storage. Then, after appropriate reconfiguration, depending on the intended use, the platforms filled with logs and other assortment of transported goods can wait for loading and delivery by rail, road or other transport.

В середине и второй половине III тыс. до н.э. в центральной части Южного Кавказа, на территории Восточной Грузии появляются богатые захоронения вождей в больших курганах, в том числе, и на повозках. Выделяется две культурные группы, Марткопская и Беденская. На определенном этапе фиксируется сосуществование куро-аракских, марткопских и беденских материалов. Это свидетельствует о значительных инновационных процессах, происходивших на Южном Кавказе в этот период. Раскопки экспедиции Центра археологии Национального музея Грузии, под руководством автора, большого кургана Ананаури 3, в 2012 г. в Лагодехском районе, на левом берегу реки Алазани, значительно обогатили наши знания о памятниках этого типа. Курган диаметром 100 м, высотой 12 м. Под насыпью, в центре, выявлена площадка из двойного слоя дубовых бревен 25 15 м, служившая перекрытием погребальной камеры. Сама камера представляла собой деревянный сруб, впущенный в яму глубиной 2,75 м, внутренний размер камеры 9 6,5 м, с тремя опорными столбами и деревянным полом. Несмотря на то, что погребение было ограблено в древности, сохранилось много уникальных артефактов: две четырехколесные повозки деревянное кресло орнаментированная керамика и деревянные сосуды обсидиановые наконечники стрел украшения из золота и полудрагоценных камней ожерелье из янтаря и т.д. Благодаря особому микроклимату, в погребении прекрасно сохранились органические материалы: изделия из кожи и текстиля плетеные корзины орехи, каштаны и даже лесные ягоды. Курган Ананаури 3, который датируется первой половиной XXIV в. до н.э., является одним из эталонных памятников данной эпохи. In the middle and second half of III mill. BC rich graves of chieftains, including graves with chieftains lying on wagons, appeared in large kurgans of the central part of the South Caucasus in Eastern Georgia. Two cultural groups, i.e. Martkopi and Bedeni, were singled out. In a certain period the Kura-Araxes, Martkopi and Bedeni materials coexisted. It is an evidence of important innovation processes unfolding in the South Caucasus at that time. Excavations of the large Ananauri 3 kurgan located on the left bank of the Alazani River in the Lagodekhi District, which were carried out by the Center of Archaeology of the Georgian National Museum in 2012 and led by the author, greatly added to our understanding of this type of sites. The kurgan has a diameter of 100 m and is 12 m high. A 25 15 m platform made from a double layer of oak logs was uncovered beneath the mound in the center of the kurgan. It served as a roofing of the burial chamber. The grave itself was a timber-made chamber sunk into a pit which was 2,75 m deep the internal size of the pit is 9 6,5 m it had three posts and wooden floor. Despite the fact that the grave was looted in the antiquity, many unique artifacts survived such as two four-wheeled wagons, a wooden armchair, ornamented ceramics and wooden vessels, obsidian arrowheads, jewelry made from gold and semiprecious stones, an amber necklace, etc. Because of specific microclimate, organic materials such as items made from leather and textile, baskets, nuts, chestnuts and even forest berries were very well preserved. Ananauri 3 dated to the first half of 2400 BC is one of benchmark sites of this period.