Abstract: An apparatus for performing a function on a model train car on a track includes an electrically operated mechanism mounted on the car for performing a function on the car. A reed switch is operatively connected to the mechanism for activating the mechanism. The reed switch has contacts movable from a first position, in which the contacts are out of contact with one another, to a second position, in which the contacts are in contact with one another. A magnet associated with the track moves the contacts of the reed switch from the first position to the second position to activate the mechanism.

Abstract: A system to allow track-guided vehicles to avoid collisions with one another in straight track and curved track situations utilizing vehicle mounted devices and without the need for additional active traffic control devices. The system includes track-guided vehicles equipped with a plurality of selective sensors on the front and identifying reflective elements on the rear. Reflective strips mounted on the inner face of curved track allow the selective sensors to detect targets around curves. Retroreflective sensors coupled with corner cube reflective material are a preferred set of sensor and target implementations. The placement of the sensors and reflective elements is specified such that a calibrated system limits the range of the system and is easily maintained.

Abstract: A failed bearing indicator for detecting and indicating an overheated axle journal in a railcar axle bearing. In a preferred embodiment the failed bearing indicator is characterized by an elongated connector chain terminated on each end by a T-shaped connector bracket. Each of the connector brackets is typically bolted to a common pedestal adaptor which is mounted on each corresponding axle bearing of the railcar, and one of the fastening bolts is constructed of a heat-resistant material and the other fastening bolt is constructed of a heat-sensitive material. In the event that the axle bearing overheats during travel of the railcar on the railroad, the heat-sensitive bolt melts and releases the corresponding connector bracket from the pedestal adaptor, while the other connector bracket, secured by the heat-resistant bolt, remains attached to the pedestal adaptor.

Abstract: A toy train system has movable and removable trigger devices to be located by a user wherever selected on the toy train track. The train locomotive includes the ability to activate a sound and a light signal which can correspond to the sound. The train locomotive is capable of manipulating and changing the speed of the train over the track. The track can have an ascending and descending tracks and curves, and the tracks have ridges for engaging the locomotive, and can be set up by a user as required.

Abstract: A device for the precise determination of the position of a moving railroad vehicle on a track in a transloader measurement stretch has a multiplicity of switch elements arrayed along one of the rails and actuators positioned to be engaged either by the felly portion of the wheel or the flange portion of the wheel regardless of where the wheel and the track are and in all positions of the wheel on the rail in its sinusoidal movement back and forth as the wheel travels along the rail.

Abstract: A measuring stretch along a railway track of a transloading system has an array of switches with respective sensors positioned for engagement by a wheel of a railway carriage. The lateral displacement of the railway carriage wheel is prevented by a guide disposed along the rail at the level of the head at a distance of 30 to 50 mm from the head of the rail. The row of switches can be provided on the opposite side of this rail. The switches synchronize a transloader with the rail vehicle via a computer to which the switches are operatively connected.

Abstract: An amusement ride down a ramp containing two air suspension flumes and a return conveyor belt system. The ramp is in a climate controlled transparent housing. There is ducting in the ramp for air conditioning, compressed air, and other possible fluid needs along the ramp and at its top portion. The upper half of the housing may be transparent. The cars have a transparent canopy and enclose room enough for three passengers. The ramp has modular sections supported by stanchions the height of which are hydraulically adjustable by automatic sensing devices; possibly using laser light or other types of electrical sensing apparatuses.