Abstract: A train collision system helps reduce the severity of impact between a train and a land vehicle or pedestrian. The system uses a flatbed rail car that is coupled to the front of a train. Several deformable barrels, each at least partially filled with an inert material, are attached to the top surface of the rail car, the barrels each decelerating an object that strikes them. A pair of diagonally downwardly disposed arms extend out from the front of the rail car and are used to either deflect the object out of the trains path or to scoop the object onto the rail car wherein the object is decelerated by the barrels. A net member subsystem captures relatively small objects and nets them before the object strikes the barrels.

Abstract: A method of humidifying a panel of cellulosic material, at least one side of which has a surface through which the panel can absorb water. A liquid humidifying agent is applied to the panel surface which wets the surface of the panel, which is soluble in water, and which reduces the surface tension of the water. Water is also applied to the panel to cause the water to follow the humidifying agent into the panel to increase its moisture content to a desired value.