Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the real time location of wheeled cars linked together in a train traveling on a fixed track. The method creates a wheel count and a location point for the train by counting the number of wheels on the train in a sequential order as the train passes a first wheel counting station, wherein the wheel counting station is stationary at a fixed location. The wheel count and location point for the train is then recorded in a computer. As the train passes subsequent wheel counting stations positioned along the track, the train is identified by recounting the wheels on the train and matching the number of recounted train wheels to the wheel count. The location point of the train is updated in the computer to correspond to the location of the last wheel counting station and to count the number of wheels on the train. Subsequently, a rail car location in the computer is created, wherein the rail car location corresponds to the last updated location point for the train.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the real time location of wheeled cars linked together in a train traveling on a fixed track. The method creates a wheel count and a location point for the train by counting the number of wheels on the train in a sequential order as the train passes a first wheel counting station, wherein the wheel counting station is stationary at a fixed location. The wheel count and location point for the train is then recorded in a computer. As the train passes subsequent wheel counting stations positioned along the track, the train is identified by recounting the wheels on the train and matching the number of recounted train wheels to the wheel count. The location point of the train is updated in the computer to correspond to the location of the last wheel counting station and to count the number of wheels on the train. Subsequently, a rail car location in the computer is created, wherein the rail car location corresponds to the last updated location point for the train.