Abstract: A variable placement lamp system for use with a supporting member is disclosed which includes a plurality of lamp housings (40) each including a channel for receiving an upper edge of a supporting member. Screw (50) on both sides of the housing (40) are turned until the housing is secured to the support member in a friction fit. Extensible cables (70) with 3-pronged connections connect the lamp circuitry to electrical circuitry to operate the lamps (38) in a predetermined pattern.

Abstract: A railroad crossing gate (20) is disclosed having a novel crossing arm (24) which includes a first longitudinal arm (26) member with a telescopically inserted second longitudinal arm member (28). The second arm member (28) is slideable to any one of a plurality of extendable positions and a fastener plate (100) disposed between the first and second members (26, 28) is provided for urging the second member (28) against the first member (26) in friction locking engagement. A plurality of gate lamps (38) are provided having a housing (40) which includes a channel for receiving an upper edge of the crossing arm (24). Screws (50) on both sides of the housing (40) are turned until the housing (40) is secured to the crossing arm (24) in a friction fit. Extensible cables (70) with three-pronged connections connect the gate lamps (38) to circuitry to operate the gate lamps (38) in a predetermined pattern.

Abstract: The operating mechanism of a railroad crossing gate employs a variable mechanical advantage connection to transmit force from the drive motor to the gate member to raise and lower the same. The main shaft of the mechanism serves as a mount for the gate member and its counterweights, and an operating arm is fixed to the shaft and extends radially therefrom. A crank is driven by reduction gearing and is connected to the arm by a sliding coupling which reciprocates on the arm longitudinally thereof as the crank rotates. The axis of rotation of the crank is located such that the mechanical advantage is high when the gate member is in either its raised or its lowered position, decreasing to a ratio approaching unity at the midpoint of travel in either direction. Accordingly, the starting load is minimized, the gate member is accelerated once it is in motion, and its speed is then reduced as it nears the end of its travel.