Abstract: A logistics system and method are mounted on a vehicle and utilize vehicle position control for logistics operations, such as loading and unloading material to and from the vehicle. The position control can be GPS-based and/or based on linear movement of the vehicle, such as movement of a railcar along a rail track. A computer-based position control subsystem mounted on the vehicle is connected to and operates vehicle-mounted components for performing the logistics functions.

Abstract: A logistics system and method are mounted on a vehicle and utilize vehicle position control for logistics operations, such as loading and unloading material to and from the vehicle. The position control can be GPS-based and/or based on linear movement of the vehicle, such as movement of a railcar along a rail track. A computer-based position control subsystem mounted on the vehicle is connected to and operates vehicle-mounted components for performing the logistics functions.

Abstract: A GPS controlled multiple source material application or ballast spreading system includes tracking the position of a plurality of ballast hopper cars using GPS derived coordinates and controlling the opening of multiple ballast doors to spread ballast on desired sections of track for railroad maintenance. The process involves tracking the current hopper loads, the opened or closed state of the ballast doors, and the concurrent amount of ballast which has been spread on the desired track sections.

Abstract: An improved railroad car loader/unloader apparatus includes a backhoe-type machine adapted to operate atop an open top railroad car. The apparatus includes front and rear support feet and a center support beam to which are pivotally attached a pair of center support feet, one to either end of the center support beam with each of the feet contacting an upper surface of the sidewalls of the railroad car. Each center support foot is pivotable through a horizontal plane between extended support position and a retracted, stored position. In one alternative version, double action hydraulic piston and cylinder units are provided to selectively extend and retract the center support feet.

Abstract: An improved railroad car loader/unloader apparatus includes a backhoe-type machine adapted to operate atop an open top railroad car. The apparatus includes front and rear support feet and a removable center support beam to which are pivotally attached a pair of center support feet, one to either end of the center support beam with each of the feet contacting an upper surface of the sidewalls of the railroad car. Each center support foot is pivotable through a horizontal plane between extended support position and a retracted, stored position. Alternative versions of the center and front support feet include support rollers for enhanced movement. A movable front bucket support stop block enhances the conversion of the apparatus between railroad car loading/unloading operations and other uses.

Abstract: A method of loading and unloading an open top or gondola railroad car utilizes a mobile, wheeled apparatus having power actuated front and rear boom structures. A front supportive foot engageable with the upper surfaces of the railroad car sidewalls is connected to free ends of the front boom structure and similarly engageable rear supportive feet are connected to the ends of outrigger arms movable outwardly from the sides of the rear end of the mobile apparatus. The rear boom structure includes an articulated material engaging grapple for loading and unloading operations. During operation, the operator positions the mobile apparatus adjacent an end of the railroad car with the front boom raised and the front supportive foot engaged with the top surfaces of the car sidewalls.

Abstract: A mobile, wheeled apparatus is employed for loading and unloading an open top or gondola railroad car and has power actuated front and rear boom structures. A front supportive foot engageable with the upper surfaces of the railroad car sidewalls is connected to free ends of the front boom structure and similarly engageable rear supportive feet are connected to the ends of outrigger arms movable outwardly from the sides of the rear end of the mobile apparatus. The rear boom structure includes an articulated material engaging grapple for loading and unloading operations. During operation, the operator positions the mobile apparatus adjacent an end of the railroad car with the front boom raised and the front supportive foot engaged with the top surfaces of the car sidewalls.