Abstract: Aspects of the invention include a computer-implemented method that includes detecting, by a processor, a performance of a step of an installation protocol for a sensor-based device. The processor performs a negative outcome analysis comprising determining a likelihood that the performance of the step will cause a negative outcome. Based at least in part on a result of the negative outcome analysis, an interruption alarm is issued.

Abstract: A control arrangement for a railroad level crossing is disclosed. The control arrangement comprises monitoring sensors for monitoring the level crossing, the monitoring sensors arranged to detect an obstruction within a restricted area at or near to the level crossing, and a processing unit associated with the monitoring sensors and arranged to generate an alarm warning when an obstruction is detected. The alarm warning is used to adjust a Movement Authority issued to a train approaching the level crossing.

Abstract: An anti-collision system for railcars and locomotives and, more particularly, to a distance ranging and worker coupling protection system utilizes remote-sensing radar techniques for use with a locomotive and railcar. The anti-collision system may include an object detector device attached to a railcar or a locomotive that detects objects in a path of the railcar and the locomotive and a train display device electrically connected to the object detector device. The anti-collision system may also include an emergency action device which enables a crew member to stop the railcar or locomotive without communication to a locomotive operator when a hazard is recognized. The object detector device may include a remote sensor, a radio, and a microprocessor programmed to include data-logging to record and log all data from the anti-collision system.

Abstract: An anti-collision system for railcars and locomotives and, more particularly, to a distance ranging and worker coupling protection system utilizes remote-sensing radar techniques for use with a locomotive and railcar. The anti-collision system may include an object detector device attached to a railcar or a locomotive that detects objects in a path of the railcar and the locomotive and a train display device electrically connected to the object detector device. The anti-collision system may also include an emergency action device which enables a crew member to stop the railcar or locomotive without communication to a locomotive operator when a hazard is recognized. The object detector device may include a remote sensor, a radio, and a microprocessor programmed to include data-logging to record and log all data from the anti-collision system.

Abstract: Occupancy of a railroad track detection zone by one or more trains is determined using sensor devices located at gateways into and out of the track detection zone. Each sensor device has a sensing range that includes a portion of the railroad track in the detection zone and the sensor device generates data used to uniquely identify each train passing through a gateway and thus the sensing range of one or more sensor devices. Data from the detection zone's sensor device array is collected and evaluated to monitor or track the status of any detected trains and the occupancy of the zone. In some embodiments, the sensor devices utilize anisotropic magnetoresistive sensor elements whose analog waveform data is the basis of magnetic flux peak detection and mapping to generate unique train identification signature data that is transmitted to and evaluated by a detection zone processor, which in some cases can control crossing signals and/or other control apparatus related to the railroad track detection zone.

Abstract: There is provided a radar system that includes an emitter system (e.g., an antenna), configured to emit electromagnetic pulses and detect electromagnetic pulses, and a reflection target, placed opposite the emitter system. The emitter system and the reflection target define an area of interest. A controller is configured to identify a reflection from the reflection target and, if the reflection is not identified, to stop sending a radar check signal. The radar system may be part of a warning horn control system, where the radar check signal is used as a control input for activating a warning horn.

Abstract: A method and a device operate a railroad security system having trackside devices for specific functions. In order to reduce the number of cable connections, control of a first trackside device is provided by a data message generated as required by a second trackside device, in particular a signal box, the data message being transmitted wirelessly.

Abstract: In a railroad crossing warning system having an electronic transmitter located on a first side of a road crossing connected across both railway rails, a first electronic receiver on the first side of the road crossing connected across both railway rails, a second electronic receiver on the second side of the road crossing connected across both railway rails, a method for determining direction a vehicle is traveling, the method including monitoring a voltage profile from at least one of the first receiver and the second receiver, as a vehicle moves along the railway rails towards the road crossing, and determining a direction the vehicle is moving based on the voltage profile.

Abstract: A method provides sleep and wake-up modes for railway track circuit units. An intermediate track circuit unit communicates in a first direction to a first unit and in a different second direction to a different second unit. A plurality of wireless messages are employed between a train and a plurality of wayside units operatively associated with some of the track circuit units. Included with the wireless messages are a first identifier of a corresponding one of the track circuit units and a second identifier of a direction of travel of the train. One of the wireless messages is received at one of the wayside units corresponding to the intermediate unit based upon the first identifier. A signal is responsively output based upon the second identifier from the intermediate unit in the first direction to the first unit or in the different second direction to the different second unit.

Abstract: A microwave detection system includes a transmitter configured to transmit a signal along a path to detect an intruder to a monitored zone and a modulating reflector configured to receive the transmitted signal to generate a modulated signal having a characteristic introduced by said modulating reflector, the modulating reflector being configured to transmit the modulated signal. The system also includes a receiver located to receive the modulated signal and an adaptive threshold adjustment unit configured for providing a variable detection threshold responsive to a change in a gain of the system. The system further includes a processor configured for processing the modulated signal provided by the receiver and configured for measuring a characteristic in the processed modulated signal with respect to the variable detection threshold provided by the adaptive threshold adjustment unit.

Abstract: A system and method for a directional audio train signaling system that comprises a receiver for receiving a signal indicating the approach of a train to a point of interest and one or more directional audio transmitter systems for transmitting a warning related to the approach of a train. A plurality of directional audio transmitters may be used, each with a footprint covering a portion of a roadway approaching an intersection. The receiver may be associated with an acknowledgement transmitter such that a train system confirms receipt of the alarm signal at the receiver.

Abstract: A wireless position sensing device is provided for monitoring railyard equipment status. The device comprises a gravity sensing mechanism for sensing an angular displacement with respect to a substantially vertical line, and for generating a displacement signal upon sensing a change in angular displacement exceeding approximately 40 degrees. A processing mechanism, operatively coupled to the gravity sensing mechanism, receives the displacement signal. A radio frequency transmitter, responsive to the processing mechanism, transmits a data signal indicative of the angular displacement. The processing mechanism is programmed to activate the radio frequency transmitter upon receipt of the displacement signal. The gravity sensing mechanism is affixed, attached, or mechanically coupled to railyard equipment comprising at least one of a manually operated rail switch or a safety indicator.

Abstract: A highway/railroad crossing detection and warning system which uses sets of Doppler radar transmitters and receivers to detect the approach of a train coming from either direction toward a highway crossing. The Doppler radar sets are located an extended distance from the crossing with each set detecting movement toward and away from its location. Presence detectors are located at the crossing and sense moving or stationary trains. All detector devices transmit signals to warning equipment to provide aural and visual indications to approaching motorists or work crews.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically detecting the presence of an obstacle located within a surveillance area associated with a railroad grade crossing. The system includes a transmitter transmitting a signal through the surveillance area and a modulating reflector receiving the transmitted signal. The modulating reflector includes a phase modulator receiving the received signal and generating a phase modulated signal having a characteristic. The modulating reflector transmits the phase modulated signal through the surveillance area that is received by a receiver located to receive the phase modulated signal. The system further includes a processor coupled to the transmitter and to the receiver, the processor being configured to process the received phase modulated signal and to initiate an action as a function of the characteristic in the received phase modulated signal.

Abstract: An automated railroad crossing warning system includes a controller for servicing the intersection of a railroad track and a roadway with directional horns oriented in opposite directions to direct horn blasts along the roadway is disclosed. A controller detects the presence of a train approaching the intersection and transmits a signal to the horns to activate the horns. A horn detector transmits a signal to the controller upon activation of the horns at a predetermined decibel level. The controller then activates the light such that the railroad engineer can visually determine that the horns at the intersection are being activated. The controller includes an electronic circuit which causes the horns to produce blasts in a predetermined sequence which matches the conventional signal produced by a train engine upon approaching such a crossing.

Abstract: A system for controlling a train's approach on a right-of-way to a grade crossing such that a uniform warning time is ensured comprising: a communication based train control scheme including a computer situated on the train; means for detecting the presence of the train at a first control point on the right-of-way and for determining the train's speed thereat; means for activating the gate at the grade crossing responsive to the train being at a second control point on the right-of-way wherein the second control point is based on the determined speed such that a uniform warning time is provided.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention is an alarm monitor for a railroad grade crossing, the grade crossing having an island activation relay that is activated in response to an approaching train, the alarm monitor including a micropower impulse radar (MIR) responsive to pedestrians and motor vehicles in a prohibited area of the crossing island during activations of the island activation relay; and a processor configured to generate a warning signal when the MIR detects a pedestrian or a motor vehicle in the prohibited area during an activation of the island activation relay.

Abstract: A warning system provides for notification of the approach of a track guided train to a user work area perimeter. The system includes at least one sensor, preferably a plurality of sensors, for sensing the approach of a train. Data is collected and analyzed, with the analysis including the status of preprogrammed system criteria. Signals are transmitted to a remote receiving member. The remote receiving member can be part of an annunciator. An analysis member receiving and analyzes the signals and determines whether it is necessary to transmit a warning signal. At least one indicator provides a warning notification to a user. The data collection device at least periodically transmits signals to the programmable data analysis member and the analysis member determines the absence or proximity of a train.

Abstract: A railroad safety system for use at an intersection of a roadway and a railroad track, that comprises a sensor for detecting a hazardous situation and a voice alarm for giving a voice command to warm drivers and pedestrians of the hazardous situation.

Abstract: An apparatus that prevents motorists from crossing railroad tracks, when the warning gates are down during approaching of a train consists, of a plurality of tire-piercing cogs which are retracted from the ground when the railroad crossing gate is closed. The cogs are arranged across the entire width of the automobile road in order to prevent a motorist from going around the closed gate through the oncoming traffic lane. The piercing cogs are interlocked with a warning visual and/or sound signal which is activated if the vehicle went onto the railroad tracks and stuck on the rails after smashing the closed road gate arm. The cog drive mechanism is located below the ground level, and when the gate is open for normal traffic through the railroad crossing, the cogs are turned into position in which their back surfaces are arranged in flush with the ground level for smooth passage of the vehicles.

Abstract: A lightweight photovoltaic concentrator is disclosed. The concentrator comprises at least two sections each comprising a cell panel, a radiator panel and a reflector panel. In one embodiment, the concentrator system of the present invention comprises at least two hinged sections each comprising a solar cell panel, a flat radiator panel, and a curved reflective concentrator panel. The solar cell panel comprises at least one photovoltaic cell for generating electrical power in response to radiation. The solar cell panel is aligned with the radiator panel at an angle less than 180 degrees but not less than 90 degrees facing the reflective concentrator panel. In another embodiment, the cell panels on adjoining sections are angled in opposite directions with respect to the radiator panels and wherein the reflective concentrator panels are located on opposite sides of the radiator panels. A heat pipe or loop heat pipe is located in the radiator panel to dissipate heat from the solar cells.

Abstract: A railroad maintenance-of-way personnel warning system and method therefor provides advanced detection and warning of oncoming trains encroaching the construction area. Magnetometer sensors detect an oncoming train whereby a waning signal is transmitted to a receiver unit at the construction zone. Warning alarms including a flashing light and siren horn are thereby activated to indicate the imminent danger such whereupon the construction personnel may take precautionary and evasive action in sufficient time to avoid mishap.

Abstract: A railway gate system comprising a railway station having an elevated platform area for passengers to stand and a recessed area with a track and a train movable therealong. A gate has a continuous upper restraining rail along its length. A plurality of cylindrical posts each have an upper end secured to the lower surface of the rail and a lower end. A horizontal recess and vertical apertures are located in the edge of the platform area adjacent to the track. The recess is adapted to receive the rail when lowered to an inoperative orientation and with the circular apertures adapted to slidably receive the posts. Motion imparting mechanisms include elongated pistons having upper ends secured to the lower surface of the rail, central extents extending through selected spaced circular apertures in the platform and lower ends. Hollow cylinders are located beneath the selected spaced circular apertures having open upper ends to receive the pistons.

Abstract: A system (18 ) for warning workers in the vicinity of a transportation pathway (10 ), such as a railroad track, of the presence of an oncoming vehicle, includes a detector/transmitter assembly (20 ) for detecting the presence of an oncoming vehicle by sensing vibrations generated thereby. Upon detecting an oncoming vehicle, the detector/transmitter assembly broadcasts an RF signal to individual receivers (22 ). Each worker carries a receivers that receive the signal and generate an alert, in the form of a vibration and/or audible tone, to alert the worker of the approaching vehicle.

Abstract: An improved railroad signal system is described in which a train is allowed to approach a block even if a red light is activated for the block. A white numbered light is activated indicating the maximum permissible speed of the train. The system includes a home clearing relay and a station timing relay which are activated by two separate circuits thereby eliminating a wire loop.

Abstract: In a process for the production of carbon fibers from high boiling bituminous substances in which a purified and polymerized concentrated carbon fiber precursor is spun into fibers which are oxidized and then carbonized and optionally graphitized, the improvement comprising adding to the carbon fiber precursor just before spinning 2 to 10% by weight of a solvent in which the precursor is insoluble or only slightly soluble under normal conditions and mixing the resulting mixture under hypercritical conditions for the solvent for at least 10 minutes without gas or solid inclusions formed in the fiber and neoformatgion of solids is prevented.

Abstract: A railroad crossing lights/gate controller for effecting operation of the crossing lights and lowering of the crossing gate during normal train operating conditions and during a gate controller failure mode includes a train sensing input, a gate control circuit, a lights control circuit, a solid state logic and monitor circuit and a fail/safe relay. The train sensing input provides one signal condition when the approach of a train is sensed and another signal condition when no train is sensed. This input is connected to the solid state logic and monitor circuit which is also connected to the gate control circuit and the lights control circuit. The gate control circuit has power applied thereto to maintain the gate in a raised position when the train sensing input indicates a no train condition and the lights control circuit has power supplied thereto to operate the lights in a flashing condition when the train sensing input indicates the approach of a train.

Abstract: A motorized traffic-way controller wherein a retractile tire barrier and opening gate barrier are coordinated to operate in unison by a motor drive that is recycled by closing a mode switch through cam controlled "stop" and "go" switches responsive to the position of the motor drive, the installation being above grade with low profile modules having retractile tooth configurations that projects for tire damage, and with a signal barrier supported by a drive unit at the side of the traffic-way and in the form of an arm that is lifted when the tooth configuration is retracted, the modules and drive unit being adapted to coupled engagement one with the other when assembled.