John T Sharkey

Title: Innovations by John T Sharkey in Highway-Rail Crossing Safety

Introduction

John T Sharkey is an accomplished inventor based in Elgin, IL (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of safety systems for highway-rail crossings. With a total of 2 patents, his work focuses on enhancing the safety and efficiency of rail grade crossings.

Latest Patents

Sharkey's latest patents include innovative technologies aimed at improving warning systems at highway-rail crossings. One of his notable inventions is an apparatus and methods for providing relatively constant warning time at highway-rail crossings. This system utilizes a communication protocol that predicts the approach of a train and generates signals to ensure timely warnings for vehicles at crossings. The first communication signal is activated upon prediction, while a second signal is generated for slower-moving trains, ensuring that warnings are consistent and reliable. Additionally, he has developed a highway-rail grade crossing controller with an out-of-service mode. This electronic controller activates warning devices when a train is detected and allows maintenance personnel to take circuits out of service through a touch-sensitive display.

Career Highlights

John T Sharkey is currently employed at Safetran Systems Corporation, where he continues to innovate in the field of rail safety. His work has been instrumental in developing systems that enhance the safety of both rail and road users.

Collaborations

Sharkey has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Richard Bamfield and Martin Paget, to further advance safety technologies in the rail industry.

Conclusion

John T Sharkey's contributions to highway-rail crossing safety through his patents and work at Safetran Systems Corporation highlight his commitment to innovation in this critical area. His inventions are paving the way for safer transportation systems.