Apparatus for Covering a Connection Between Railcars

An apparatus comprising:

• means for covering a portion of a side of a gangway between at least a first railcar and a second railcar;
• means for curling portions of sides of said covering means to accommodate a change in distance between the railcars;
• means for urging said reel mechanisms to curl sides of said covering means;
• means, in engagement with said curling means, for supporting a middle portion of said covering means;
• and
• means for joining said curling means to the railcars.

An apparatus comprising:

• an interior panel being configured to at least cover a portion of a side of a gangway between at least a first railcar and a second railcar;
• two reel mechanisms, each joined to a side of said interior panel, said reel mechanisms being operable to curl portions of sides of said interior panel to accommodate a change in distance between the railcars;
• at least four curling devices in engagement with said reel mechanisms and being configured to urge said reel mechanisms to curl sides of said interior panel;
• at least two connection rod mechanism in engagement with said reel mechanisms and being configured to be operable to support a middle portion of said interior panel;
• and
• top and bottom connection fixing devices being configured to join said reel mechanisms to the railcars.