Rail Patents (Class 177/163)
  • Patent number: 11950547
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for weight measurement of grow towers and/or grow lines with grow towers disposed thereon. In various embodiments, compression type, tension type, and/or beam type load cells may be positioned at various locations within the apparatus to facilitate weight measurement. In one embodiment, a hook, which couples a grow tower to a grow line, includes a tension type load cell disposed between two portions of the hook. The load cell measures force applied thereto which can provide or be translated into a weight measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Assignee: MJNN LLC
    Inventors: Damon Smith, Kevin Grauberger, Aunders Hallsten, Gage Coffin
  • Patent number: 11440416
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a control unit for a vehicle is provided. The vehicle may be a maglev vehicle. The control unit is configured to autonomously control positions of landing gear on the vehicle that are extendible and retractable. In some embodiments, the control unit is configured to detect a change in a weight-on-wheels state of the vehicle, and to transition between passively controlling extension or retraction of the landing gear and actively controlling the extension distance of the landing gear in order to maintain a desired distance between the vehicle and a levitation mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignees: SAFRAN LANDING SYSTEMS, SAFRAN LANDING SYSTEMS CANADA INC.
    Inventors: Andrew Michael Ellis, Graeme Peter Arthur Klim, Thibaud Mazoue
  • Patent number: 10508936
    Abstract: For providing a reliable determination of the position of an object (1) regarding a relative movement between the object (1) and a path (2) an apparatus is provided comprising: a detector (3) attached to or integrated in the object (1), at least one marker (4) being located along the path (2), wherein the at least one marker (4) is detected by the detector (3) within its spatial detection range (5) for determining the position of the object (1) relative to the marker (4), characterized by generating means for providing a definable signal or signal sequence or graphic representation (7, 8) or graphic representation sequence, wherein said signal or signal sequence or graphic representation (7, 8) or graphic representation sequence is detected by the detector (3) within its spatial detection range (5), and by evaluating means (6) for verifying a coincidence or relationship of the provided signal or signal sequence or graphic representation (7, 8) or graphic representation sequence with corresponding data detecte
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2019
    Assignee: Pepperl+Fuchs GmbH
    Inventor: Martin Kirsch
  • Patent number: 10380468
    Abstract: A mobile display device that selects a particular field device from a group of field devices and retrieves measurement data therefrom. The field device is selected by evaluating environment data which are captured by the display device without user input simplifying the measurement data display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: VEGA GRIESHABER KG
    Inventors: Jakob Hummel, Marcel Dieterle
  • Patent number: 10244100
    Abstract: The present invention relates to control apparatus. The control apparatus 10 comprises a resiliently deformable body 12 which defines a narrow hole 22 configured to receive lengthwise or widthwise a mobile device 14 and to hold the mobile device snugly when so received. The mobile device 14 comprises a magnetic field sensor 24. The control apparatus further comprises a magnetic field emitting device 20 disposed in or on the resiliently deformable body 12 whereby, in use, the magnetic field emitting device moves relative to the narrow hole 22 and hence the magnetic field sensor 24 of the mobile device upon deformation of the resiliently deformable body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: SKOOGMUSIC LTD
    Inventors: David John Skulina, Benjaman Warren Schögler, Keith Nagle
  • Patent number: 10226054
    Abstract: Provided, is a fully integrated system to monitor and control carcass weight to minimize weight loss in carcasses during the chilling cycle. This will be accomplished by incorporating a load cell and a radio frequency identification device on the trolley operating on the elevated track system extending through the packing plant, including the carcass chilling rooms. This method and apparatus will provide the needed location and weight data to control a water spray system to maintain a constant carcass weight during the entire chilling cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2019
    Inventor: Rodney W. Heston
  • Patent number: 9902410
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a system configured to identify geolocations in a rail network where rail vehicle events are likely to occur. In some implementations, the system may include one or more of a processor, a computing system, electronic storage, external resources, and/or other components. The system may be configured to illustrate the geolocations in the rail network where rail vehicle events are likely to occur on a map of the rail network, predict geolocations in the rail network where rail vehicle events will likely occur, generate coaching information based on the identified geolocations, and/or perform other actions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: SmartDrive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason Palmer, Slaven Sljivar, Mark Freitas, Daniel A. Deninger, Shahriar Ravari
  • Patent number: 9747395
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a simulated loading method and an apparatus for moving load of a wheel axle in rail transportation. Multiple actuators are arranged right above rail sleepers along rail direction. The two continuous rails are connected to the rail sleepers via fastening systems and are cut into discrete independent rail segments right above the rail sleeper. The anti-drop member satisfies the applications of compression and uplift force of the actuator. The input load of each actuator is obtained from the load-time history of a single fastening system under moving load of a wheel axle according to a train-rail-subgrade theory model, and adjacent actuators perform dynamic excitation in turn with a same time interval to achieve simulation of moving load of a wheel axle under different speed. This invention provides a reliable and convenient loading platform for experimental study of the rail transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: ZHEJIANG UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Xuecheng Bian, Hongguang Jiang, Yunmin Chen, Chong Cheng, Jianqun Jiang, Xiang Xu, Renpeng Chen, Wanfeng Jin
  • Patent number: 9347816
    Abstract: A hollow profile sensor for installation in roads or a road surface for the purpose of sensing the weight of vehicles and/or driving dynamics reactions of vehicles or vehicle wheels to the road includes a tube part having a hollow interior profile. A counterpart is connected to the tube part. A measuring arrangement is held in the hollow interior profile between the tube part and the counterpart. A force introduction flange is connected to the tube part in such a manner that force application lines are concentrated on the measuring arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: KISTLER HOLDING AG
    Inventors: David Cornu, Adrian Hofmann
  • Publication number: 20150060153
    Abstract: The invention provides a device for weighing slaughter products. The device comprises conveying means for conveying the slaughter products, the conveying means comprising a frame, two pulley means which are connected to the frame a fixed distance apart, being rotatable about two respective first vertical axes of rotation, an endless flexible conveying element which is passed over the two pulley means, which conveying element extends along a rectilinear weighing path between the two pulley means, a guide extending along a conveying path, hooks for the slaughter products, which hooks are connected to the conveying element at regular intervals and which are each provided with a guide elements for guiding cooperation with the guide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventors: Erik Hendrikus Werner Peters, Tim Sander Rijerse, Gerardus Josef Gertrudis Reintjes
  • Patent number: 8969745
    Abstract: One or more sensors mounted on a railcar sense the effect of weight of the railcar and transmit the data, for example via a communication link, to a user for storage and feedback where needed. In one embodiment the sensors are mounted on one or more rail trucks that carry the car body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Startrak Information Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Timothy P. Slifkin, Herbert Perten
  • Patent number: 8814420
    Abstract: The invention proposes a system for gravimetrically combining individual bulk material components in one or a plurality of transport container(s). The system comprises a plurality of storage containers for storing the bulk material components equipped with one dosing unit each in order to transfer a respective bulk material component into the transport container. Each of the storage containers is associated with a weighing means disposed below each storage container. The transport containers can be moved between the dosing units of the supply containers along a guidance and cooperate with the weighing means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: AZO Holding GmbH
    Inventors: Frank Pahl, Helmut Bauer, Christian Leist
  • Publication number: 20130220710
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a weighing module for measuring wheel contact forces of rail-bound vehicles, comprising a measuring rail and a number of strain gauges, wherein the strain gauges are applied directly on the measuring rail. The measuring rail comprises a load introduction region, made of at least one load introduction part, and at least two deformation bodies, which are connected fixedly in each case to a load output plate and, via a hinge, to the load introduction region. The strain gauges are arranged on the deformation bodies and capture the shear strain acting between the hinges and load output plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: Schenck Process GmbH
    Inventor: Schenck Process GmbH
  • Patent number: 8258414
    Abstract: A railcar has an on-board system for weighing a load of the railcar. A center plate load cell is attached to the bottom of the railcar body and supports the first end of the railcar body on a truck assembly via the center bowl of the truck assembly. A pair of side bearing load cells are mounted to the bottom of the railcar body so as to flank the center plate load cell. A pair of side bearings are positioned on the top surface of the truck assembly bolster in alignment with the pair of side bearing load cells. Circuitry sums signals from the center plate load cell and the pair of side bearing load cells to provide a summed output corresponding to a weight of the railcar load. The summed output is conditioned and transmitted via a satellite and/or cable system to a remote receiving station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Union Tank Car Company
    Inventor: Robert S. Toms
  • Patent number: 8227713
    Abstract: One or more sensors mounted on a railcar sense the effect of weight of the railcar and transmit the data, for example via a communication link, to a user for storage and feedback where needed. In one embodiment the sensors are mounted on one or more rail trucks that carry the car body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: StarTrak Information Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Timothy P. Slifkin, Herbert Perten
  • Publication number: 20120048627
    Abstract: A weighing system for a rotary rail car dumper. The rotary rail car dumper includes a frame assembly that receives a rail car including contents to be weighed. A series of trunnions are positioned to rotatably support the frame assembly and allow the frame assembly to be rotated to dump the contents of the rail car. A weight gauge is positioned on each of the trunnions. The weight gauge generates a signal based upon the force applied to the respective trunnion by the weight of the frame assembly and rail car. In one embodiment, the weight gauges are a series of strain gauges that generate an electrical signal based upon the force applied to the strain gauge. A control unit receives the electrical signals from the strain gauges and determines the weight of the rail car before and after the contents of the rail car have been dumped.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: METSO MINERALS INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Samuel P. Insana, Kent R. Smith, Peter J. Prince-Wright
  • Publication number: 20100200307
    Abstract: A railcar has an on-board system for weighing a load of the railcar. A center plate load cell is attached to the bottom of the railcar body and supports the first end of the railcar body on a truck assembly via the center bowl of the truck assembly. A pair of side bearing load cells are mounted to the bottom of the railcar body so as to flank the center plate load cell. A pair of side bearings are positioned on the top surface of the truck assembly bolster in alignment with the pair of side bearing load cells. Circuitry sums signals from the center plate load cell and the pair of side bearing load cells to provide a summed output corresponding to a weight of the railcar load. The summed output is conditioned and transmitted via a satellite and/or cable system to a remote receiving station.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventor: ROBERT S. TOMS
  • Patent number: 6809271
    Abstract: The apparatus includes two somewhat convex shoes clampable along the adjacent sides of a pair of rails for engagement by the peripheries of wheel flanges so that the wheels are raised just clear of the rails, a load-sensing device at the highest portion of each shoe, and load-indicating means connected to the devices. The apparatus is sectional, the shoes being urged apart into rigidly clamped positions by two struts separable from the shoes to facilitate portability. Two spaced-apart support members are secured to each shoe to embrace its outer and lower faces, each support member being vertically adjustable relative to the shoe to suit different heights of rails. The shoes have replaceable wear-strips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: Weighwell Engineering Limited
    Inventor: Paul Andrew Horsfall
  • Patent number: 6674023
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the weight of each axle of a plurality of rail cars of a railroad train passing over a selected section of a railroad track. The apparatus embodies a measuring device that, when mounted to the selected section of the railroad track, measures strain induced in a portion of the track as the rail car passes over that portion of the track to produce an electrical output which is precisely proportional to the load imposed on the portion of the track as each axle of the rail car passes over the portion of the track. The measuring device of the interfaces with a remotely located data processing subassembly that receives the output from the strain gauges and precisely determines the axle weight therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Alan Paine
  • Patent number: 6653578
    Abstract: Continuous, uninterrupted rails for trains and the like having weight measuring sections. Weighing ties replace normal ties under the rails in the weight measuring sections. The weighing ties are of the same height, width, and external contour as the normal ties. The weighing ties include weighing cells that can be laterally adjusted to accommodate various rail gauges. The weighing ties include a housing made of steel plate with a floor, sides, and a top with an opening therein. The weighing cells protrude through the openings in the housings to support the rails in the weight measuring section. Transverse force sensors are also provided in transverse holes in both ends of the weight measuring sections of the rails to determine the power shunt. The weighing cells and transverse force sensors are prefabricated and calibrated to improve accuracy and durability of the weighing cells and force sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Pfister Waagen Bilanciai GmbH
    Inventors: Helmut Gassmann, Joachim Hose von Wolfframsdorff
  • Publication number: 20030089530
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the weight of each axle of a plurality of rail cars of a railroad train passing over a selected section of a railroad track. The apparatus embodies a measuring device that, when mounted to the selected section of the railroad track, measures strain induced in a portion of the track as the rail car passes over that portion of the track to produce an electrical output which is precisely proportional to the load imposed on the portion of the track as each axle of the rail car passes over the portion of the track. The measuring device of the interfaces with a remotely located data processing subassembly that receives the output from the strain gauges and precisely determines the axle weight therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventor: Alan Paine
  • Patent number: 6155767
    Abstract: A three-batch method for the precision loading of coal into the individual railroad cars of a moving train, and a loadout system implementing the method. For each railcar, three successive batches are made up and discharged from a single weigh bin. The loadout rate of a single-batch system is approached, but at a significantly reduced facility cost. The first batch is large enough to fill the front of the railcar and to establish a "plugged flow condition," allowing the second batch to be made up and discharged while maintaining a constant load profile in the railcar. After the weigh bin is emptied of the second batch, the third batch is made up and discharged. The third batch is made up with greater precision than the first and second batches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventor: Harold A. Walker
  • Patent number: 6075212
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for accurately weighing a rail car coupled to other rail cars without uncoupling the rail car to be weighed includes a hydraulically operated positioning device assembly with opposed pushers that can be elevated to hold the axle of a rail car uptrack of the car to be weighed, a scale mounted downtrack of the rail car positioning device, and a car stop mounted downtrack of the scale that can be elevated to block the wheels of a car downtrack of the car being weighed.The rail car positioning device engages the car uptrack of the car to be weighed, moves the car to be weighed over the scale, and, by reversibly moving the car, centers the car over the scale. The car stop then engages the downtrack car to maintain it and other cars coupled to it downtrack in a fixed position during weighing and filling of the car on the scale. The carriage assembly then releases the car on the scale and moves uptrack where it acquires a hold on the next empty car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: General Chemical Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Alan Lee, Stephen Tremayne Gaddis
  • Patent number: 5909999
    Abstract: A method for maximizing the loading capacity of a wagon or wagon train when loading with pourable material from a silo. The method utilizes a computer which determines the type of wagon to be loaded on the basis of values obtained with sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1999
    Assignee: Luossavaara-Kiirunavaara AB (LKAB)
    Inventor: Hilding Manstrom
  • Patent number: 5883337
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for measuring weight and speed of a moving railcar through dynamic processing of a voltage signal from at least one strain gauge embedded into a rail on the railroad track. The system comprises at least one strain gauge, an amplifier circuit, a converter circuit, and a first processing means. The method performed by the first processing means is a state machine expert system algorithm which dynamically determines the baseline non-stressed voltage level and the peak voltage level upon the strain gauge being stressed by a moving railcar passing over the strain gauge. The method further provides for eliminating the effects of debounce on the weight calculations by continuously monitoring the voltage signal from the strain gauge for a predetermined period of time after an initial peak is detected and updating that value if a greater peak is detected within the predetermined period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Consolidated Rail Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph F. Dolan, Daniel G. Niemiec, Lawrence J. Davis, III
  • Patent number: 5856637
    Abstract: A weighing system for material suspended from a rail or trolley. The system includes a transition track between the regular track and the weighing track to avoid oscillation of pressure on the weighing track which causes difficulty in rapidly arriving at a proper weight. The transition track is biassed away from the weighing track so as not to cause a false weight reading. It also includes a novel trolley moving mechanism for moving the trolley as it passes over the weighing mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Inventor: David M. Vande Berg
  • Patent number: 5582107
    Abstract: A linear motor driven transport system of an improved design is presented. The conventional roller configuration for holding the transport vehicle on the rail track has been replaced with a spring-loaded design so as to maintain the contact between the roller and the rail surface regardless of the curvatures in the routing track. Weighing device of an improved direct-loading design is adopted to improve the ruggedness of the device. Devices for controlling the positioning of the transport vehicle, including the carrier, have been simplified and the number of component pieces reduced to lower the cost of manufacturing the transport system. The container and track configurations have also been modified to enable efficient track set-up and loading/unloading of goods in complex track routing in a limited space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Assignee: Shinko Electric Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Takashi Nozaki
  • Patent number: 5224561
    Abstract: Weighing of railway cars is accomplished by replacing a short section of fixed rail with a weigh-rail, and supporting the weigh-rail as well as sections of the fixed rail near the weigh-rail on an added foundation structure. The weigh-rail has a weigh-rail body for supporting the wheels of the railway car, and two dual shear beam load cells arranged transverse to the weigh-rail body. The weigh-rail is supported on the foundation structure solely by the four ends of the two dual shear beam load cells, and bumpers are arranged adjacent the ends of the load cells for maintaining the weigh-rail body aligned with the fixed rail ends. Bumpers are also arranged to prevent one end of the weigh-rail from flipping upwards when a railway car wheel enters the other end of the weigh-rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1993
    Assignee: Flintab AB
    Inventor: Nils G. Ahl
  • Patent number: 5205368
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring vertical forces exerted to a pair of parallel rails by a rail-supported vehicle uses sleepers for supporting said rails which are provided with recesses located below said rails and having inserted therein a force measuring device. An evaluation device may be arranged remotely from said force measuring device(s) for wireless receiving of measuring signals therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Assignee: Pfister Messtechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Hans W. Hafner
  • Patent number: 5111897
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for calculating the speed and weight of a vehicle as it passes over an existing bridge. The apparatus includes a number of strain gages attachable to existing bridge girders or support members each of which outputs an analog strain signal in response to strain sustained by the bridge when a vehicle passes thereover. An analog front end circuit card amplifies the analog strain signal and converts it into digital format. A pair of axle sensors installed in or on the pavement before the bridge each output an axle sense signal in response to a vehicle axle passing thereover. A central processing unit receives the axle sense signals and the digitally formatted strain signals and performs calculations necessary to determine vehicle speed and weight. A static random access memory card is used to retain the results of these calculations for retrieval at a later time. A power supply provides electrical power to the system components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1992
    Assignee: Bridge Weighing Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard E. Snyder, Fred Moses, Bryan E. Burke, Dean A. Kennedy
  • Patent number: 4958694
    Abstract: Weighing device for articles such as small slaughtered animals which are carried along a transport track and of which this movement is temporarily interrupted during determination of the weight, comprising a moveable member which is loaded by the weight, acts upon a pressure transducer and cooperates with controllable locking means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 25, 1990
    Assignee: Stork PMT B.V.
    Inventors: Adrianus J. van den Nieuwelaar, Petrus C. H. Janssen
  • Patent number: 4904154
    Abstract: A system for loading coal (particles) into railroad cars 16 wherein a control weight of a railroad car 16 loaded with coal (particles) is established and a maximum permissible weight of a railroad car 16 loaded with coal (particles) is known, the control weight being less than the maximum permissible weight, The system utilizes a continuous loading system 12 and a batch loading system 14. Coal (particles) first is loaded into each of the railroad cars 16 utilizing the continuous loading system 12 and the continuous loading system 12 is designed such that the continuous loading system 12 loads an amount of coal (particles) into each of the railroad cars 16 having a weight less than the predetermined control weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1990
    Assignee: Kerr-McGee Coal Corporation
    Inventors: John A. L. Campbell, Robert L. Elder, Tony G. Gardner, Jerry L. Hughes, Kenneth E. Krause, Ronald K. Pepper
  • Patent number: 4834199
    Abstract: A weight sensing apparatus comprising first and second support means, a load carrying member supported on said first and second support means, a sensing portion of the load carrying member which terminates inwardly of at least one end of the load carrying member and being disposed between said support means and therebeing at least one further portion of the load carrying member which extends away from said sensing portion beyond an adjacent one of said first and second support means towards an end of the load carrying member, a load receiving region provided on said sensing portion, at least one strain gauge positioned on the sensing portion to sense the strain in said member to provide a signal indicative of load applied to the load receiving region, said at least one strain gauge being positioned between the support means at a distance from at least one of the first support means, the second support means and the load receiving means, which is not greater than a distance d max., where d max.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1989
    Inventor: George B. Bolland
  • Patent number: 4800972
    Abstract: Various improvements are disclosed for enhancing accuracy in a system for weighing rolling railcars in order to remedy previous factors contributing to weighing inaccuracies. In a system operative by means of a plurality of longitudinally spaced sensors secured to a predetermined length of relatively unsupported track for measuring track stresses imposed by a passing railcar, accuracy of the weighing result is enhanced by several structural improvements. Included among the improvements is a substructure underlying the live rail that eliminates yield at the fulcrum location from the supported to the unsupported rail. Also included are tandem scales operative sequentially in the path of motion for obtaining readings at selectedly different locations about the circumference of the wheel and from which an averaged signal is obtained for determination of car weight. Signal compensation is also provided for both changes in track temperature and drift in instrument calibration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1989
    Assignee: Kilo-Wate, Inc.
    Inventor: Edwin D. Snead
  • Patent number: 4800971
    Abstract: A scale assembly has a platform which is connected with load sensing means which provide an output indicative of the magnitude of a load. The platform has an upper portion which includes a body of concrete and a lower portion formed of metal. The upper and lower portions are interconnected to prevent relative movement therebetween upon the application of a load to the platform. The platform is supported at locations spaced longitudinally thereof. The platform has a neutral plane which is disposed in the lower portion of the platform so that the body of concrete is stressed only in compression and the lower portion of the platform is stressed primarily in tension when the platform receives a load to be weighed between the support locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1989
    Assignee: Masstron Scale, Inc.
    Inventors: Benny N. Dillon, James F. Williams, Leo J. Niese, Amiel R. Helle
  • Patent number: 4770260
    Abstract: A conveyor system comprises a plurality of article carriers 5 interconnected for movement in succession along a predetermined path 1, and weight sensing means 7a, 7b positioned at two or more weighing stations in the path such that each article carrier passes through one weighing station, the weight of the article carrier, together with that of any article carried thereby, being applied to the weight sensing means. The use of two weighing stations, to which articles can be diverted alternatively, means that ample time can be allowed for accurate weighing, even if the speed of the article carriers is greater than that with prior art devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1988
    Assignee: Autosystems Limited
    Inventor: Richard M. Brook
  • Patent number: 4754822
    Abstract: A continuously moving load is conveyed through a plurality of weighing load cell assemblies during a weighing operation to obtain a predetermined number of repetitive weight measurements fed to a data processor for providing an error corrected readout. Individual weight measurements are monitored to identify load cell assemblies from which erroneous readings are derived and to remove such erroneous readings from the data processing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1988
    Assignee: W. F. Altenpohl, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul J. Altenpohl, Paul J. Altenpohl, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4711344
    Abstract: The length of loading platforms in a conveyor weight sorting system are greater than the uniform spacing between successive load carriers suspended by the conveyor to achieve acceptable accuracy for weight limit detection by laterally spacing the loading platforms in parallel spaced relation to the common conveyor path, thereby loading different groups of the load carriers non-consecutively during travel through the weight sorting station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1987
    Inventor: Paul J. Altenpohl
  • Patent number: 4701866
    Abstract: Apparatus for measuring loads transmitted via wheels to a track from vehicles travelling thereon, comprises means responsive to load at a plurality of approximately equally spaced locations on a selected portion of the track at least about equal in length to the circumference of a typical wheel passing thereover, for providing a signal that is a function of the largest load on the track from each wheel, means responsive to the signal for comparing each largest load with at least one selected load level, and means responsive to the load comparing means for identifying each wheel from which any load greater than a selected level was transmitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1987
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Harold D. Harrison, James M. Tuten
  • Patent number: 4667757
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for determining the spacing between axles of a vehicle which may be in motion, on the basis of weight alone. A weighbridge is provided with a first load cell spaced from a second load cell along the length of the weigh bridge by a distance L, with each load cell being responsive to the load on its respective location on the weighbridge. After a first axle is on the weighbridge, the weight on the first load cell and the weight on the second load cell are periodically sampled. The average stored weight M1 of the first axle is determined at the time that a second axle is about to enter the weighbridge. The instantaneous weight W2 on the second load cell is measured at the time that the second axle is about to enter the weighbridge. The distance X.sub.1 between the first axle and the second axle is determined by calculatingW2L/M1Distances between subsequent axles can also be determined in accordance with this invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1987
    Assignee: Mangood Corporation
    Inventor: Bernard A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 4659274
    Abstract: A computer controlled system is provided for regulating the flow of coal into a railway car or the like. The coal flows into the car through a loading chute. When the total weight in the car reaches the desired weight as determined by spaced platform scales, the computer control shuts off the flow by actuating the flow gate. The difference in the weight of the front and rear car trucks is noted and the inclination of the loading chute is regulated up or down by the computer control through operation of a hydraulic cylinder. If the chute is raised, the height of the coal within the car is raised and with all factors the same, the front of the car will be loaded more. As the chute is lowered, the height of the coal that can enter the car will be less and, thus, a shift of the weight to the back of the car can be effected. In accordance with the computer reading for each car, the position of the chute can be regulated for each following car of the same size and height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1987
    Assignee: Accutrol Incorporated
    Inventor: Rodney C. France
  • Patent number: 4657096
    Abstract: A load measurement bar is attached to an isolated section of railroad track rail at two locations along the neutral axis of the rail. The bar assembly contains displacement sensors to measure the bending slope of the rail relative to the bar to provide a signal output directly proportional to load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1987
    Assignee: Kaman Sciences Corporation
    Inventor: John J. Angelbeck
  • Patent number: 4632197
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device for weighing rail guided vehicles. The device has at least one moveable truck support element and in the preferred embodiment has both a stationary platform and a moveable truck support assembly. The vehicle to be weighed may be placed on the device by either pulling or pushing. The vehicle to be weighed may approach the weighing device in either direction. Each end of the vehicle is weighed on separate weighing elements and the weight on each element is summed, preferably electronically to yield the overall vehicle weight. Typically one end of the vehicle is weighed on a stationary platform and one end is weighed on a moveable assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1986
    Inventor: Michael J. Karpa
  • Patent number: 4577708
    Abstract: Apparatus for weighing a succession of articles comprises a plurality of article carriers, for example poultry carcass carrying hooks 19, interconnected, for example by a chain 16, for movement in succession along a path. A weighing device is positioned at a weighing station 22 and means are provided to lower each article carrier at the weighing station to apply load to the weighing device. The article carriers may for example be lowered as a result of being pressed downwardly by means of a dipping portion of rail 26. By lowering each article carrier during weighing, it is possible to weigh the article carried by the carrier without significantly changing the vertical position of the article with respect to adjacent articles, thus reducing the risk that the weight recorded will be inaccurate because of any drag applied by adjacent articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1986
    Assignee: Autosystems Limited
    Inventor: Richard M. Brook
  • Patent number: 4550793
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for checking the weight of a moving article in which the article moves across a weigh platform connected to at least two load cells spaced apart via the direction of travel of the article, the output signals from the load cells being added to gether to provide a measure of the weight of the article when the center of gravity of the article is central of the load cells as indicated by the difference between the output signals being zero.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1982
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1985
    Assignee: Precision Engineering Products Limited (Suffolk)
    Inventor: Alan F. Giles
  • Patent number: 4512430
    Abstract: An electronic coupled-in-motion railroad track scale is disclosed and comprises four track logic switches for detecting forward or backward train axle movement, a programmable digital voltmeter connected to load cells for effecting the weighing of the train cars, and a computer (CPU) for controlling the voltmeter as well as the track logic switches, and for correlating the axle numbers to the weight determined for each particular car. The four track switches are situated such that two switches are located in close proximity on either end of the weighbridge and the train track interface. Together with the logic circuits, the switches indicate when an axle comes on or goes off the weighbridge, and in which direction the axle is moving. In this manner, if reweighing is desired, the train may be backed up or forwarded to the particular car in question without reweighing the entire train.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1983
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1985
    Assignee: AMAX, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce V. Bowersox, Thomas I. Shepherd
  • Patent number: 4465211
    Abstract: A container for material such as fertilizer or seeds which delivers same to an underlying distributing device is mounted on a tractor so that the weight of the container and associated equipment is indicated to the operator of the tractor whereby the amount of material remaining in the container is specifically indicated. The weighing apparatus includes a spring, pointer and scale incorporated in the supporting structure extending from the tractor for the container and associated equipment and the pointer and scale may be interconnected to the spring and mounted on the tractor for the convenience of the operator. In one embodiment the spring is a tension spring at the top of the supporting structure and in another embodiment it is a compression spring near the bottom of the supporting structure. Instead of a spring, the weight may be indicated by hydraulic pressure in a hydraulic system for the supporting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1978
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1984
    Assignee: C. van der Lely N.V.
    Inventors: Ary van der Lely, Cornelis J. G. Rom
  • Patent number: 4445581
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for loading railroad cars coupled in motion. Prior to loading, an "empty" composite weight is obtained of the front and rear trucks of an empty selected railroad car, the rear truck of the adjacent forward railroad car with load and the front truck of the adjacent rearward railroad car. This "empty" composite weight is stored in a memory. The dynamic composite weight during loading is sensed. A desired net weight of the load (to be loaded into the selected railroad car) is selected. A total composite weight that is equal to the "empty" composite weight plus the desired net weight of the load is stored in a memory. The selected railroad car is loaded until the dynamic composite weight appears equal to the total composite weight. The actual net weight of the load is then determined by substracting the empty composite weight from the actual total composite weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1984
    Assignee: Mangood Corporation
    Inventor: Jack R. Caldicott
  • Patent number: 4416342
    Abstract: A weigh section of a railway track consists of two unsupported spans of conventional rail, produced by removing two adjacent supporting ties for example. The span of the unsupported rails is approximately 64 inches, less than the minimum distance between adjacent axles of a railcar. Four strain gauges are mounted on the under surface of the unsupported rail span of each rail, the four gauges consisting of two pairs of outboard and inboard gauges located in respective halves of the unsupported span. The outputs of the four strain gauges for an unsupported span are summed by adding the outputs of the inboard gauges and subtracting the outputs of the outboard gauges. This sum produces a constant value representative of the load supported on the rail as the axle load moves between the two inboard gauges. A limit switch tripped by a wheel of each axle activates a computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1982
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1983
    Inventor: Edwin D. Snead
  • Patent number: RE38233
    Abstract: A weighing system for material suspended from a rail or trolley. The system includes a transition track between the regular track and the weighing track to avoid oscillation of pressure on the weighing track which causes difficulty in rapidly arriving at a proper weight. The transition track is biassed away from the weighing track so as not to cause a false weight reading. It also includes a novel trolley moving mechanism for moving the trolley as it passes over the weighing mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: VBS, Inc.
    Inventor: David M. Vande Berg