Patents Examined by Robert A. Siconolr
  • Patent number: 6964457
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for controlling braking on a train having ECP railcars using a conventional automatic brake valve. The locomotive and railcars are connected to brake pipe and a wireline, or use RF communications. A brake handle or other brake control valve interface is operated to cause a pressure change in an equalizing reservoir. The relay valve is isolated from the pressure change and connected to a reference pressure whereby brake pipe pressure is maintained. The pressure change is sensed and a signal generated representative thereof which is used to determine the level of braking commanded on the railcars. The apparatus includes an interface unit interposed between pertinent ports connecting the automatic brake valve, equalizing reservoir and brake pipe, and an equalizing reservoir pressure sensor to provide an output signal to an ECP controller for controlling braking on the railcars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Paul J. Kettle, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6886817
    Abstract: A damping device for movable furniture parts, such as doors or drawers, includes a cylinder filled with a free-flowing medium which is compressed by a piston which has a spring applied to it in its extended position. In order to provide a damping device of this type of smaller length, the cylinder includes a telescopic cylinder having at least two stages. A pressure spring is clamped between the bottom of the outer cylinder of the last stage and the piston of the first stage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Arutro Salice S.p.A.
    Inventor: Luciano Salice