Abstract: An object proximity alert system for an object network includes an object module having a data processing unit; a GPS unit; and a transceiver, the latter both connected to the data processing unit. A first object in the network has the module, such that the data processing unit obtains first object position data from the GPS unit, calculates the speed of the object, and transmits position data using the transceiver to other network objects, the data processing unit calculates the respective positions of the first object with the objects in the network based on the data, and compares the position data against a preset target separation between the first object and the other objects. In the event a separation distance between the first object and another object in the network is less than the target separation, the data processing unit generates an alarm in at least the first object.

Abstract: A toggle slide-plate for use in a spike-pulling machine, where the toggle slide-plate is configured for aiding in supporting the movement of a pair of pivotable arms each having a spike-pulling claw configured for removing a spike from a railroad tie, the pair of pivotable arms being configured for moving in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of a rail and the toggle plate being configured for preventing twisting of the pair of pivotable arms, the toggle slide-plate including: a mid-plate having a first end and a second end, a first endplate connected to the first end, a second endplate connected to the second end, and a wear pad secured to each of the first endplate and the second endplate.

Abstract: A bulk loader conveys articles in bulk and has a hopper configured for receiving the articles, such as railroad articles. A reciprocating member is configured for reciprocating between a retracted position and an extended position in a track associated with the hopper. Articles that are loaded into the hopper fall into the track when the reciprocating member is in the retracted position and are conveyed from the hopper when the reciprocating member actuates to the extended position, resulting in the removed articles being positioned in a convenient location for further handling by an operator.

Abstract: A bulk loader conveys articles in bulk and has a hopper configured for receiving the articles, such as railroad articles. A reciprocating member is configured for reciprocating between a retracted position and an extended position in a track associated with the hopper. Articles that are loaded into the hopper fall into the track when the reciprocating member is in the retracted position and are conveyed from the hopper when the reciprocating member actuates to the extended position, resulting in the removed articles being positioned in a convenient location for further handling by an operator.

Abstract: A dump truck is provided with a dump body having a tailgate. A lever arm having a first end and a second end is pivotably attached to the dump body. The first end is fixedly attached to the tailgate and the second end is attached to a latching device which locks the position of the lever arm. When the dump body is raised, the latching device is deactivated and the position of the lever arm is unlocked. When the dump body is lowered, the latching device is activated and locks the position of the lever arm, thereby locking the position of the tailgate.

Abstract: A transmission includes a range selector valve that eliminates the possibility of unintentional simultaneous multiple gear engagement by a fail safe arrangement of fluid flow paths and valving. A pair of parallel paths connect to clutches that operate a high-low power shift transmission and a multiple speed power shift main transmission. The fluid flow path to the multiple speed power shift main transmission clutches is valved to select either a first or second group of speed/direction settings. Each of these groups then includes at least one valve to select a particular transmission speed or direction setting.

Abstract: A duty cycle data acquisition system for a truck having an elevatable dump body, a hydraulic hoisting mechanism, throttle and transmission controls, and a retarder further including a microprocessor having an analog imput corresponding to ground speed of the truck and which records the amount of time the ground speed remains in any of a plurality of increments corresponding to the speed range of the truck in one of eight histogram output memories selectively determined by the inputs of a plurality of on-off switches corresponding to throttle position, transmission forward or reverse position, retarder position, and a one-shot timer switch activated by a loaded dump body actuating circuit, the latter circuit including a switch sensing body position relative to the frame disposed in series with a pressure switch located in the hoist mechanism, the pressure switch being calibrated to close only when a loaded body is lifted.