Patent Publication Number: US-9903074-B2

Title: Railway rail anchoring device

Description:
This application is a national phase application of International Patent Application Serial No. PCT/GB2014/050182 filed Jan. 24, 2014 and entitled “A RAILWAY RAIL ANCHORING DEVICE,” which claims the benefit of the filing date of Great Britain Application Serial No. 1301956.7 filed Feb. 4, 2013 and entitled “A Railway Rail Anchoring Device.” The disclosures of these applications are fully incorporated herein by reference. 
     The present invention relates to a railway rail anchoring device. 
     BACKGROUND 
     In railway track fastening applications, two important parameters associated with a track fastening are its ability to provide vertical adjustment and its vertical stiffness. 
     Vertical adjustment is required to make corrections to rail level, particularly in the case of slab track applications (i.e. those without ballast) where it is not possible to adjust (i.e. “tamp”) the ballast. 
     For such applications which require moderate levels of stiffness, it is typical to provide a fastening system with an adjustable baseplate where the only resilience comes from a rail pad that fits between the rail and the baseplate. The baseplate provides the capability of adjustment, but adds significantly to the cost and weight of the rail fastening system. 
     Accordingly, a rail fastening assembly that can provide moderate stiffness and vertical adjustment without an expensive or heavy baseplate is desirable. 
     The present disclosure seeks to address this issue. 
     STATEMENTS OF INVENTION 
     According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a railway rail anchoring device for fastening a railway rail to an underlying foundation, the anchoring device comprising a protrusion provided on a lower surface of the anchoring device, the anchoring device protrusion being configured to engage with a corresponding recess provided in a receiving portion associated with the underlying foundation, wherein the anchoring device protrusion is further configured such that the engagement of the anchoring device protrusion with the receiving portion recess permits a substantially vertical adjustment of the anchoring device relative to the underlying foundation and that the anchoring device protrusion and recess remain in engagement during such vertical adjustment. 
     The anchoring device may be configured to receive a first fastening means for fastening the anchoring device to the underlying foundation when in an installed configuration. The anchoring device may be further configured to receive a second fastening means, which bears down on the rail when in the installed configuration. The second fastening means may be separate from the first fastening means. 
     Accordingly, the rail may be clamped to the underlying foundation indirectly, e.g. via the first fastening means, anchoring device and second fastening means. 
     Accordingly, the present invention advantageously provides a means for fastening a railway that may have moderate stiffness and the ability to make positional adjustments. 
     The anchoring device protrusion may be configured such that the cooperation of the anchoring device protrusion with the receiving portion recess may limit lateral movement and/or rotation of the anchoring device relative to the underlying foundation. 
     The anchoring device protrusion may be provided on a lower surface of the anchoring device. The anchoring device protrusion may extend from the lower surface, e.g. in a downwards direction when in the installed configuration. 
     The anchoring device protrusion may be provided at a position further away from the railway rail than the first fastening means configured to fasten the anchoring device to the underlying foundation when in an installed configuration. Alternatively, the anchoring device protrusion may be provided at a position closer to the railway rail than the first fastening means configured to fasten the anchoring device to the underlying foundation when in an installed configuration. 
     The anchoring device protrusion may be provided in a region of the anchoring device away from the railway rail when in the installed configuration. Alternatively, the anchoring device protrusion may be provided in a region of the anchoring device adjacent to the railway rail when in the installed configuration. 
     The second fastening means may comprise a rail fastening clip. The anchoring device may be configured to receive the rail fastening clip, which may bear down on the rail when in the installed configuration. In the event that the anchoring device engages a clip, the anchoring device protrusion may be provided on the lower surface of the anchoring device at a point spaced apart from a contact point at which the clip contacts the anchoring device in an installed configuration. The railway rail anchoring device may comprise a railway rail fastening clip anchoring device. 
     The anchoring device may engage directly with the underlying foundation, for example, the anchoring device may be directly fastened to the underlying foundation. The anchoring device may further comprise an opening configured to cooperate with the first fastening means, e.g. a bolt. The first fastening means may be configured to fasten the anchoring device to the underlying foundation. The opening may be provided in a region of the anchoring device adjacent to the rail when in the installed configuration, e.g. so that the opening may be closer to the rail than the protrusion. Alternatively, the opening may be provided in a region of the anchoring device away from the rail when in the installed configuration. 
     The anchoring device protrusion may comprise a first side surface and a second side surface. The first side surface and/or the second side surface may be substantially perpendicular to a lower surface of the anchoring device. The first side surface and/or the second side surface may be angled relative to the lower surface of the anchoring device, e.g. such that the first side surface and/or the second side surface are vertical in the installed configuration. 
     A railway rail fastening assembly may comprise the railway rail anchoring device described above. 
     The railway rail fastening assembly may further comprise the receiving portion associated with the underlying foundation. The receiving portion may comprise the recess. The recess may be provided in the underlying foundation. The receiving portion may be a portion of the underlying foundation. The receiving portion may be separate from the underlying foundation. The receiving portion may be substantially level with the underlying foundation. For example, a top surface of the receiving portion may be substantially level with a top surface of the underlying foundation. 
     The receiving portion recess may comprise a first side surface and a second side surface. The first side surface and/or the second side surface may be substantially perpendicular to a lower surface of the anchoring device and/or the local top surface of the receiving portion when in the installed configuration. The first side surface and/or the second side surface may be angled relative to the lower surface of the anchoring device and/or the local top surface of the receiving portion, e.g. such that the first side surface and/or the second side surface are vertical in the installed configuration. 
     The railway rail fastening assembly may further comprise an intermediate member. The intermediate member may comprise the receiving portion such that the recess is provided in the intermediate member. The intermediate member may be configured for placement between the anchoring device and the underlying foundation. Alternatively, the underlying foundation may comprise the receiving portion with the recess. 
     The intermediate member may advantageously provide a mould surface to form the recess in the underlying foundation. The intermediate member may also advantageously provide a more resilient surface for the anchoring device protrusion to engage with. 
     The intermediate member may comprise a protrusion. The intermediate member protrusion may be configured to engage a further recess provided in the underlying foundation. Alternatively, the intermediate member may not comprise a protrusion and the intermediate member may fit in a further recess provided in the underlying foundation. 
     The recess may be provided on a first surface of the intermediate member. The intermediate member protrusion may be provided on a second surface of the intermediate member. The first surface may oppose the second surface. The recess and intermediate member protrusion may or may not be coincident. A structure forming the intermediate member protrusion may also form the recess. 
     The intermediate member may further comprise one or more fastening means receiving portions. The fastening means receiving portions may be configured to cooperate with the first fastening means. The first fastening means may be configured to fasten the anchoring device to the underlying foundation. The fastening means receiving portions may be integral with or separate from the remainder of the intermediate member. 
     The intermediate member and the underlying foundation may be joined together, e.g. by virtue of casting. The intermediate member may be configured such that it may be cast into the underlying foundation. For example, the intermediate member may comprise formations for interacting with the underlying foundation when cast. 
     The railway rail fastening assembly may further comprise one or more shims. The shims may be configured for placement between the anchoring device and the underlying foundation. The one or more shims may comprise a first side and a second side. The first and/or second sides may be substantially flat. 
     The railway rail fastening assembly may further comprise one or more fastening means, one or more rail clips, a further anchoring device for other side of rail and/or one or more base-plates. 
     According to a second aspect of the present invention there may provided a railway rail fastening assembly, the railway rail fastening assembly comprising: a railway rail anchoring device for fastening a railway rail to an underlying foundation; and an intermediate member, the intermediate member being configured for placement between the anchoring device and the underlying foundation, wherein the anchoring device is configured to receive a first fastening means for fastening the anchoring device to the underlying foundation when in an installed configuration, wherein the anchoring device is further configured to receive a second fastening means, which bears down on the rail when in the installed configuration, the second fastening means being separate from the first fastening means, wherein the anchoring device comprises a protrusion provided on a lower surface of the anchoring device, the anchoring device protrusion being configured to engage with a corresponding recess provided in the intermediate member, wherein the anchoring device protrusion is further configured such that the engagement of the anchoring device protrusion with the intermediate member recess permits a substantially vertical adjustment of the anchoring device relative to the underlying foundation and that the anchoring device protrusion and recess remain in engagement during such adjustment, and wherein the intermediate member is configured such that it may be cast into the underlying foundation. 
     According to a third aspect of the present invention there may provided an intermediate member configured for placement between the above-mentioned anchoring device and the underlying foundation, the intermediate member comprising one or more receiving portions with recesses, wherein the recesses are configured to engage with the anchoring device protrusions so as to permit a substantially vertical adjustment of the anchoring devices relative to the underlying foundation with the anchoring device protrusion and recess remaining in engagement during such adjustment. 
     The intermediate member may comprise two receiving portions each with a recess for engagement with a respective anchoring device. The two receiving portions may be arranged such that anchoring devices may be provided either side of the rail. 
     The intermediate member may further comprise one or more fastening means receiving portions. The fastening means receiving portions may be configured to cooperate with a first fastening means. The first fastening means may be configured to fasten the anchoring device to the underlying foundation. The intermediate member may be configured such that it may be cast into the underlying foundation. 
     According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of forming an underlying foundation, the method comprising: positioning the above-mentioned intermediate member; pouring a mixture, such as concrete or cement, around the intermediate member; and solidifying the mixture so as to form the underlying foundation with the intermediate member fixed to the underlying foundation. The method may comprise: placing the above-mentioned intermediate member in a mould; and forming the underlying foundation in the mould such that the underlying foundation is formed around the intermediate member. 
     The underlying foundation may comprise a sleeper or a slab, e.g. as used in track slab application. The underlying foundation may be formed from concrete, cement or any other mouldable material. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIGS. 1 a  and 1 b    show side and plan views respectively of a railway rail fastening assembly according to an example of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 2 a , 2 b  and 2 c    show a side view, a first perspective view and a second perspective view respectively of a railway rail fastening clip anchoring device according to an example of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 2 d  and 2 e    show perspective views of railway rail fastening clip anchoring devices with differing protrusion heights according to an example of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3 a    shows a side sectional view of an intermediate member and  FIGS. 3 b  and 3 c    show a plan view and a side sectional view respectively of an intermediate member according to an example of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 4 a  and 4 b    show a plan view and a side sectional view of a shim according to an example of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  shows a side view of a railway rail fastening clip anchoring device according to a further example of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 6 a  and 6 b    show sectional side views of railway underlying foundations according to further examples of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 7 a  and 7 b    show schematic side views of alternative adjustment arrangements of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 8  shows a side view of a railway rail anchoring device according to a further example of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1 a  and 1 b    a railway rail fastening assembly  10 , according to an example of the present invention, comprises an anchoring device  12 , e.g. a shoulder, configured to receive a railway rail fastening clip  14 . (The clip  14  has been omitted from  FIG. 1 b   .) The anchoring device  12  is operatively connected to an underlying foundation  18  (Shown in part in  FIGS. 1 a  and 1 b   ), such as a railway sleeper or slab. Respective anchoring devices  12  are provided on either side of a railway rail  16  for retaining clips  14  which bear on a rail foot  17 . The clip  14  secures the railway rail  16  to the underlying foundation by virtue of forces exerted by the clip on the anchoring device  12  and the rail  16 . 
     The clip  14  may be configured such that it can be deflected from a non-operative configuration to at least one operative configuration in which a toe portion  15  of the clip bears on the rail. The clip  14  may be resilient and may be made from a rod of resilient material. The clip  14 , as shown in  FIG. 1 a   , may be of the type that is inserted into engagement with the anchoring device  12  and rail  16  in a substantially lateral direction relative to a longitudinal axis of the rail. 
     The railway rail fastening assembly  10  may further comprise a railway rail pad  20 . The pad  20  may comprise a plate of resilient material for providing cushioning between the rail foot  17  and the underlying foundation  18 . 
     The railway rail fastening assembly  10  may further comprise one or more electrically insulating wear pieces, such as a toe insulator  22  and a side post insulator  24 . The toe insulator  22  may be carried by the toe portion  15  of the clip  14  and may bear against the rail foot  17  in an installed configuration. The toe insulator  22  may electrically insulate the rail from the clip and/or limit wear between the rail and the clip. The side post insulator  24  may be positioned between the anchoring device  12  and the rail foot  17  in an installed configuration and the side post insulator  24  may extend along the width of the anchoring device. The side post insulator  24  may electrically insulate the rail from the anchoring device and/or limit wear between the rail and the anchoring device. 
     With particular reference to  FIG. 1 b   , the railway rail fastening assembly  10  may further comprise one or more fastening means  26 , such as a bolt. The fastening means  26  may be configured to fasten the anchoring device  12  to the underlying foundation  18 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 2 a  to 2 e   , the anchoring device  12  comprises a protrusion  28  provided on a lower surface  30  of the anchoring device, e.g. facing the underlying foundation when in the installed configuration. The anchoring device protrusion  28  is configured to cooperate with a corresponding recess described with reference to  FIG. 3  below. The recess is provided in a receiving portion associated with the underlying foundation. The cooperation of the anchoring device protrusion  28  with the receiving portion recess permits a substantially vertical adjustment of the anchoring device  12  relative to the underlying foundation  18 . 
     It is appreciated that the rail may be angled with respect to the vertical, e.g. due to opposing rails being angled towards one another and/or due to a cant angle. As a result, references to a substantially vertical adjustment of the anchoring device may also comprise a component of lateral adjustment, e.g. the adjustment may be in a direction substantially parallel to a midline of the respective rail. Alternatively, the adjustment may be in a vertical direction whether the rail is angled or not. In any event, references to a vertical adjustment of the anchoring device may simply mean that the anchoring device has been adjusted to a higher or lower position. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 2 b   , the anchoring device further comprises an opening  32  configured to cooperate with the fastening means  26 . The fastening means  26  passes through opening  32  when in the installed configuration. For example, a bolt shaft may pass through the opening  32 . The opening  32  may be sized such that a head of the bolt, or intermediate washer, abuts a top surface  34  of the anchoring device. As mentioned above, the fastening means  26  is configured to fasten the anchoring device  12  to the underlying foundation  18 . 
     As is also depicted in  FIG. 2 , the anchoring device comprises first and second engaging surfaces  35   a ,  35   b  for engaging respective portions of the clip  14 . The first and second engaging surfaces  35   a ,  35   b  are provided on respective first and second side walls  37   a ,  37   b , which extend from the top surface  34  of the anchoring device. The first and second engaging surfaces  35   a ,  35   b  are arranged so as to face the top surface  34 . The first and second side walls  37   a ,  37   b  are provided either side of the opening  32 . 
     The protrusion  28  may be provided in a region of the anchoring device  12  away from the railway rail  16  when in the installed configuration. In particular, the protrusion  28  may be provided at an end of the anchoring device  12  furthest from the railway rail  16 . For example, the protrusion  28  may, at least in part, form a rear face  27  of the anchoring device. By contrast, the opening  32  may be provided in a region of the anchoring device adjacent to the rail  16  when in the installed configuration, e.g. as shown in  FIG. 1 b   . The protrusion  28  may be spaced apart from the opening  32 , e.g. an edge of the opening. 
     The protrusion  28  may be provided on the lower surface  30  of the anchoring device  12  at a point spaced apart from a contact point at which the clip  14  contacts the anchoring device in the installed configuration. With reference to  FIG. 1 a   , the contact point may be a point  14   a  at which the clip  14  may exert a substantially upwards force on the anchoring device, e.g. via the first and second engaging surfaces  35   a ,  35   b , or a point  14   b  at which the clip  14  may exert a substantially downwards force on the anchoring device, e.g. via the top surface  34  of the anchoring device. In particular, the protrusion  28  may be set back (relative to the rail) from the point  14   b  at which the clip  14  may exert a substantially downwards force on the anchoring device. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2 b  and 2 c   , the protrusion  28  may extend across the width, e.g. the entire width, of the anchoring device  12 . The protrusion  28  may be substantially elongate and the protrusion  28  may extend in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rail  16 . The protrusion  28  cross-section (in a horizontal plane when installed) may however be any other shape, such as square, rectangular, or any other shape. The protrusion  28  may be integral with the anchoring device. Apart from the protrusion  28 , the lower surface  30  of the anchoring device  12  may be substantially flat. 
     It will be appreciated that when in the installed configuration the clip  14  may exert a substantially upwards force on the anchoring device, e.g. via the first and second engaging surfaces  35   a ,  35   b . In addition, the clip  14  may exert a substantially downwards force on the anchoring device, e.g. via the top surface  34  of the anchoring device. The fastening means  26  may also exert a substantially downwards force on the anchoring device  12 . As a result of these forces, the anchoring device may be subject to a torque. The arrangement of the protrusion mentioned above, e.g. with the perpendicular side surfaces, may assist in resisting such a torque. Furthermore, the arrangement of the protrusion mentioned above ensures that contact is maintained between the protrusion and the recess when a substantially vertical adjustment is made. 
     Although a particular anchoring device, which cooperates with a corresponding clip, is shown in  FIG. 2 , it is envisaged that the present invention may apply to any other type of anchoring device, clip and/or anchoring devices without clips. 
       FIGS. 3 a , 3 b  and 3 c    show an example of the above-mentioned recess  36 , which is provided in a receiving portion associated with the underlying foundation  18 . As depicted in  FIG. 3 , an intermediate member  38  may comprise the receiving portion with the recess  36 . 
     Alternatively, the recess  36  may be provided in the underlying foundation itself, for example such that the receiving portion is part of the underlying foundation. 
     Accordingly, the railway rail fastening assembly  10  may further comprise an intermediate assembly  40  comprising the intermediate member  38 . The intermediate member  38  comprises the receiving portion such that the recess  36  is provided in the intermediate member. The intermediate member  38  is configured for placement between the anchoring device  12  and the underlying foundation  18 . 
     As depicted, the recess  36  is provided on a first surface  44  of the intermediate member  38 , which is an upper facing surface when in the installed configuration. The first surface  44  of the intermediate member  38  may be substantially level with a top surface of the underlying foundation when in the installed configuration. 
     Referring to both  FIGS. 2 and 3 , further details of the protrusion and corresponding recess will now be described. The protrusion  28  comprises a first side surface  29   a  and a second side surface  29   b . The first side surface  29   a  may face the rail  16  when in the installed configuration. The second side surface  29   b  may face away from the rail when in the installed configuration. The second side surface  29   b  may form, at least in part, the rear face  27  of the anchoring device. The first and/or second side surfaces  29   a ,  29   b  may reside in a plane that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rail  16  when in the installed configuration. The first and second side surfaces  29   a ,  29   b  may be substantially parallel to one another. The first and/or second side surfaces  29   a ,  29   b  may be at least partially substantially flat. The first side surface and/or the second side surface  29   a ,  29   b  may be substantially perpendicular to the lower surface  30  of the anchoring device. Accordingly, one of the first and second side surfaces  29   a ,  29   b  may be perpendicular to the lower surface  30 , whilst the other side surface may not be perpendicular to the lower surface  30 . 
     The receiving portion recess may comprise corresponding first and second side surfaces  37   a ,  37   b . The first and second side surfaces  37   a ,  37   b  may be orientated in the same manner as the first and second side surfaces  29   a ,  29   b  of the protrusion. For example, the first recess side surface  37   a  and/or the second recess side surface  37   b  may be substantially perpendicular to the first surface  44  of the receiving portion and/or a lower surface of the anchoring device when in the installed configuration. The first and second recess side surfaces  37   a ,  37   b  may be substantially parallel to one another. However, one of the first and second recess side surfaces may be perpendicular to the lower surface  30 , whilst the other recess side surface may not be perpendicular to the lower surface  30 . 
     An interaction between respective recess side surfaces  37   a ,  37   b  and protrusion side surfaces  29   a ,  29   b  may restrict lateral movement of the anchoring device. The spacing between the first and second recess side surfaces  37   a ,  37   b  and spacing between the first and second protrusion side surfaces  29   a ,  29   b  may be configured such that there is a tight fit between the protrusion and recess in the lateral direction. However, the spacing between the first and second recess side surfaces may be greater than the spacing between the first and second protrusion side surfaces, e.g. so that there is a loose fit in the lateral direction. 
     The first protrusion side surface  29   a  and anchoring device lower surface  30  may meet at right angles, e.g. so as to define a substantially right-angled corner  30   a . Alternatively, the corner between the first protrusion side surface  29   a  and the anchoring device lower surface  30  may be radiused. Similarly, one or more of the recess side surfaces  37   a ,  37   b  may meet the receiving portion upper surface at a right angle, e.g. so as to define a substantially right-angled corner  44   a . Alternatively or additionally, the corner  44   b  between one or more of the recess side surfaces and the receiving portion upper surface  44  may be radiused. 
     The protrusion  28  may further comprise a first end surface  29   c  and a second end surface  29   d . The first and second end surfaces  29   c ,  29   d  may be provided between the first and second side surfaces  29   a ,  29   b . Accordingly, the receiving portion recess may comprise corresponding first and second end surfaces  37   c ,  37   d . The first and second recess end surfaces  37   c ,  37   d  may be orientated in the same manner as the first and second end surfaces of the protrusion. 
     An interaction between respective recess end surfaces  37   c ,  37   d  and protrusion end surfaces  29   c ,  29   d  may restrict longitudinal movement of the anchoring device, e.g. in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rail. The spacing between the first and second recess end surfaces  37   c ,  37   d  and spacing between the first and second protrusion end surfaces  29   c ,  29   d  may be configured such that there is a tight fit between the protrusion and recess in the longitudinal direction. However, the spacing between the first and second recess end surfaces may be greater than the spacing between the first and second protrusion end surfaces, e.g. so that there is a loose fit in the longitudinal direction. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 3 , the intermediate member  38  may comprise a further protrusion  42 , which is provided on a second surface  46  of the intermediate member. The second surface  46  opposes the first surface  44  and faces the underlying foundation when in the installed configuration. The intermediate member protrusion  42  is configured to engage a further recess  48  provided in the underlying foundation  18 . 
     As depicted, the intermediate member recess  36  and intermediate member protrusion  42  may be coincident such that a structure  50  forming the intermediate member protrusion  42  also forms the intermediate member recess  36 . 
     In an alternative configuration (not shown), the intermediate member may not comprise a protrusion and the entire second surface  46  of the intermediate member may fit in a recess provided in the underlying foundation. For example, the entire second surface  46  of the intermediate member may be substantially flat and the intermediate member may be a plate with recesses formed on a top surface. It will be appreciated that with such an arrangement, the thickness of the intermediate member  38  may be greater then the depth of the recess  36  on the first surface  44  of the intermediate member. 
     Whether an intermediate member is provided or not, the shape and dimensions of the recess  36 ,  48  may correspond to those of the anchoring device protrusion  28  such that the protrusion  28  fits within the recess  36 ,  48 . For example, the recess  36 ,  38  may be substantially elongate and the recess  36 ,  38  may extend in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rail  16 . 
     It will be appreciated that the cooperation of the anchoring device protrusion with the receiving portion recess permits a substantially vertical adjustment of the anchoring device, and thus the rail, relative to the underlying foundation. It will also be appreciated that at least a portion of a lateral load between the anchoring device and the underlying foundation may be transmitted between the protrusion and the receiving portion recess. 
     The depth of the recess  36  may be greater than or equal to the height of the protrusion  28 . The height of the protrusion  28  may be greater than the maximum anticipated vertical adjustment, e.g. so that there is an overlap between the protrusion  28  and the recess  36  when the maximum vertical adjustment has been made. In particular, the height of the protrusion  28  may be selected such that when the maximum vertical adjustment has been made there is an overlap between the protrusion and the recess sufficient to resist any lateral forces between the anchoring device and the underlying foundation. In other words, the height of the protrusion  28  may be greater than or equal to the sum of the maximum anticipated vertical adjustment and the minimum vertical overlap required between the protrusion and the recess. 
     By way of example, the height of the protrusion  28  (e.g. from the lower surface) may be approximately 20 mm. The depth of the recess  36  may also be approximately 20 mm, although it may be greater. The maximum anticipated vertical adjustment may be approximately 10 mm. The minimum vertical overlap between the protrusion and the recess may be approximately 10 mm. The first and second protrusion side surfaces  29   a ,  29   b  may be spaced apart by approximately 10 mm. 
     With particular reference to  FIGS. 2 d  and 2 e   , anchoring devices  12 ,  12 ′ with different protrusion heights may be provided. For example, a further anchoring device  12 ′ may have a protrusion  28 ′ with a height greater than the protrusion  28  of the anchoring device  12 . The anchoring devices  12 ,  12 ′ may otherwise have the same dimensions such that they may be interchangeable. The further anchoring device  12 ′ may be used when a larger vertical adjustment may be required. The height of the protrusion  28 ′ (e.g. from the lower surface) may be approximately 30 mm or may be any other desired value. Further anchoring devices with different protrusion heights may be provided, for example, a range of anchoring devices with varying protrusion heights. 
     The cooperation of the anchoring device protrusion  28  with the receiving portion recess  36 ,  48  may also limit movement of the anchoring device relative to the underlying foundation, e.g. in a horizontal plane. For example, the cooperation of the protrusion  28  with the recess  36  may limit movement of the anchoring device in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rail and/or in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rail. The cooperation of the protrusion  28  with the recess  36  may limit rotation of the anchoring device relative to the underlying foundation  18 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 a   , the intermediate assembly  40  may further comprise one or more fastening means receiving portions  52 . The fastening means receiving portions  52  may cooperate with the fastening means  26  to secure the anchoring device  12  to the underlying foundation  18 . The fastening means receiving portions  52  may be positioned between the fastening means  26  and the underlying foundation  18  when in an installed configuration. The fastening means receiving portions  52  may provide a surface for the fastening means  26  to engage, e.g. for the threads of a bolt to thread into. For example, an inner surface of the fastening means receiving portions  52  may be threaded. 
     The fastening means receiving portions  52  may be substantially tubular, e.g. so as to receive the fastening means  26 , which may be in the form of a bolt. The fastening means receiving portions  52  extend from the second surface  46  of the intermediate member  38  and as such extend into the underlying foundation  18  when in the installed configuration. 
     The intermediate member  38  may comprise one or more openings  54 . Each opening  54  may be associated with a corresponding fastening means receiving portion  52 , such that the fastening means  26  may pass through the opening  54  in the intermediate member  38  and into the fastening means receiving portions  52 . Accordingly, the fastening means receiving portions  52  may be open at an end which engages the intermediate member  38 . By contrast, the opposite end of the fastening means receiving portions  52  may be closed. 
     The fastening means receiving portions  52  may or may not be integral with the intermediate member  38 . In other words, the fastening means receiving portions  52  may be separate components from the intermediate member  38 . The fastening means receiving portions  52  may engage with the respective openings  54  in the intermediate member  38 . For example, the fastening means receiving portions  52  may be secured to the intermediate member  38  by virtue of an interference fit. Accordingly, the fastening means receiving portions  52  may be sized and/or shaped to fit in the intermediate member openings  54 . 
     The fastening means receiving portions  52  may comprise an abutment shoulder  56  disposed about an outer surface of the fastening means receiving portions. The abutment shoulder  56  may comprise an annular ring. The abutment shoulder  56  may abut the second surface  46  of the intermediate member  38 , e.g. to ensure that the fastening means receiving portions  52  do not protrude beyond the first surface  44  of the intermediate member. Accordingly, the abutment shoulder  56  may be set back from an end of the fastening means receiving portions  52 , e.g. by a distance substantially equal to or less than the thickness of the intermediate member  38 . 
     The fastening means receiving portions  52  may further comprise one or more splines (not shown) to resist rotational forces acting on the fastening means receiving portions. The splines may engage the underlying foundation or corresponding splines provided in the openings  54  of the intermediate member  38 . The fastening means receiving portions  52  may further comprise one or more engaging surfaces  56  to engage the underlying foundation  18 . The engaging surfaces  56  may resist movement of the fastening means receiving portions  52  (and hence fastening means  26 ) relative to the underlying foundation, e.g. in a vertical direction when in the installed configuration. 
     The recess  36  and opening  54  of the intermediate member  38  may be spaced apart by a distance corresponding to the spacing between the protrusion  28  and opening  32  of the anchoring device  12 . In other words, when the protrusion  28  of the anchoring device  12  is located in the recess  36 , the openings  32 ,  54  may coincide such that the fastening means  26  may pass through the openings to secure the anchoring device to the underlying foundation  18 . 
     As is apparent from the Figures, the intermediate member  38  may comprise two openings  54  and two recesses  36 , with each opening  54  and recess  36  corresponding to one anchoring device  12 . Similarly, the intermediate member  38  may comprise two fastening means receiving portions  52  and hence two fastening means  26 , e.g. one per each anchoring device. 
     Each intermediate member recess  36  may be provided at opposing ends of the intermediate member and each opening  54  may be set back from the respective ends of the intermediate member. The intermediate member  38  may be symmetrical about an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rail. The intermediate member  38  may also be symmetrical about an axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rail. 
     It will be appreciated that the intermediate member  28  may support two anchoring devices  12 , one at each end of the intermediate member. As depicted in  FIG. 1 a   , the rail is supported between the two anchoring devices  12 . The railway pad  20  may be placed between the intermediate member  38  and the rail foot  17 . 
     The intermediate member  38  and/or fastening means receiving portions  52  may be formed of a plastic, such as a high viscosity nylon or any other suitable plastic. The cost and weight of these components may therefore be kept to a minimum. By contrast, the anchoring device  12  may be made from iron and may be cast iron. 
     The underlying foundation  18  may be formed by positioning the intermediate member  38 ; pouring a mixture around the intermediate member; and solidifying the mixture so as to form the underlying foundation with the intermediate member fixed to the underlying foundation. For example, the underlying foundation  18  may be formed by placing the intermediate assembly  40  in a mould (not shown) and filling the mould with an appropriate substance, such as concrete or cement. The intermediate assembly  40  may be held in place with respect to the mould by virtue of the fastening means receiving portions  52 . For example, bolts may be inserted into the fastening means receiving portions  52  to hold the intermediate assembly in place relative to the mould. In this way, the intermediate assembly may be cast into the underlying foundation, e.g. such that the intermediate assembly and underlying foundation are joined together. The bolts and mould may then be removed and the underlying foundation can be put in place in the required location. 
     Alternatively, the underlying foundation  18  may be formed with a “top down” construction in which the intermediate assembly may be suspended in the required position, e.g. connected to the anchoring device and rail, and a mixture may be poured up underneath it to form the underlying foundation and fix the intermediate member in position. In either case, the intermediate member  38  may advantageously provide a mould surface to form the recess  48  in the underlying foundation. 
     Casting a recess with parallel sidewalls is difficult to reliably achieve. The intermediate member with the recess that may be cast into the underlying foundation advantageously overcomes this issue. The recess may be provided in the intermediate member and the intermediate member does not have to be removed from the underlying foundation. 
     With reference to  FIG. 4 , the railway rail fastening assembly  10  may further comprise one or more shims  58  configured for placement between the anchoring device  12  and the underlying foundation  18  or intermediate member  38 . The shim  58  may extend across both openings  54  of the intermediate member. As such, a pair of anchoring devices  28  either side of the rail may be placed on a single shim  58 . The railway pad  20  may also be placed on the shim  58 . The thickness of the shim  58  and/or number of shims may be varied to adjust the height of the anchoring devices  12  relative to the underlying foundation  18 . 
     The shim  58  may be securely located in the installed configuration thanks to one or more openings  60  in the shim, through which the fastening means  26  may pass. The shim openings  60  may be spaced apart with the same spacing as the openings  54  in the intermediate member  38 . The shim  58  may have substantially the same shape as the intermediate member  38 . The shim  58  may be substantially flat on both sides. 
     The shims may be formed of a plastic, such as a high viscosity nylon or any other suitable plastic. 
     With reference to  FIG. 5 , in a further example of the present invention, the anchoring device protrusion  128  may be provided in a region of the anchoring device  112  adjacent to the railway rail when in an installed configuration. In particular, the protrusion  128  may be provided at an end of the anchoring device  112  closest to the railway rail  16 . Accordingly, the position of the recess in the intermediate member may be adjusted such that each intermediate member opening may be provided at opposing ends of the intermediate member and each recess may be set back from the respective ends of the intermediate member. Otherwise, it will be appreciated that the features described above in respect of the intermediate assembly and anchoring device may apply equally to the intermediate member and anchoring device of this further example of the present invention. 
     Although not depicted, it will be appreciated that in the further example of the present invention, the opening for receiving the fastening means may be provided in a region of the anchoring device  112  away from the rail  16  when in the installed configuration. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 6 a  and 6 b   , further examples of an underlying foundation  118 ,  218  are shown in part. As depicted in  FIG. 6  and mentioned above, the intermediate member  38  may be omitted and the anchoring device protrusion  28 ,  128  may interface directly with a recess  136 ,  236  provided in the underlying foundation. 
     The particular examples shown in  FIG. 6  are suited for the anchoring device  112  shown in  FIG. 5 , for which the protrusion  128  may be provided at an end of the anchoring device  112  closest to the railway rail  16 . However, alternative underlying foundation arrangements are equally contemplated, which would cooperate directly with the anchoring device  12  shown in  FIG. 2 , for which the protrusion  28  may be provided at an end of the anchoring device  12  furthest from the railway rail  16 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 a   , the underlying foundation may comprise a single recess  136 , or as depicted in  FIG. 6 b   , two recesses  236  may be provided in the underlying foundation either side of the rail longitudinal axis. In the case of the single recess  136  shown in  FIG. 6 a   , the railway pad  20  may reside in the recess  136 . This arrangement may accommodate a larger rail pad, for example with a lower stiffness. 
     In either case, fastening means receiving portions  152 ,  252  may be provided to facilitate engagement of the fastening means  26  with the underlying foundation  118 ,  218 . The fastening means receiving portions  152 ,  252  may be cast into the underlying foundations in a manner similar to that described above. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 7 a  and 7 b   , the rail may be angled with respect to the vertical, e.g. due to opposing rails being angled towards one another. As depicted in  FIG. 7 a   , the recess  336  and protrusion  328  may be configured such that the adjustment may be in a direction substantially parallel to a midline  362  of the respective rail. In other words, the first and/or second protrusion side surfaces  329   a ,  329   b  may be parallel to the midline  362  of the rail. Similarly, the corresponding first and/or second recess side surfaces  337   a ,  337   b  may be parallel to the midline  362  of the rail. As a result, adjustment of the anchoring devices  312  may be in a direction  364  parallel to the midline  362  of the rail. 
     However, in an alternative arrangement depicted in  FIG. 7 b   , the recess  436  and protrusion  428  may be configured such that the adjustment may be in a vertical direction despite the rail being angled. With the arrangement shown in  FIG. 7 b   , the first and/or second protrusion side surfaces  429   a ,  429   b  may be vertical. Similarly, the corresponding first and/or second recess side surfaces  437   a ,  437   b  may be vertical. As a result, adjustment of the anchoring device  412  may be in a vertical direction  464 . 
     With the arrangement shown in  FIG. 7 b   , the opening  432  in the anchoring device  412  may be elongate, e.g. extending in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rail. The elongation of the opening  432  may permit lateral movement of the anchoring device  412  relative to the fastening means. 
     The above-mentioned examples comprise an anchoring device which receives a fastening clip, which in turn bears down on the rail. However, as depicted in  FIG. 8 , in an alternative arrangement, the anchoring device  512  may not receive the clip  14 . The anchoring device  512  may instead engage a base-plate  566 , which may in turn receive the clip. The base-plate  566  may comprise one or more surfaces (not shown) which engage the clip. As for the previous examples, the anchoring device  512  comprise a protrusion  528  which engages a corresponding recess  536 . In addition, the anchoring device  512  may comprise a lip  568  for engaging a corresponding portion  570  of the base-plate, the lip being configured to bear down on the base-plate and hold the base-plate in place. A corresponding anchoring device (not shown) may be provided on the other side of the base-plate, such that the base-plate is held down on both sides. The base-plate may be resiliently mounted with a pad  20  underneath.