The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Apr. 13, 2010
Filed:
Aug. 19, 2008
Robert J. Atmur, Whittler, CA (US);
Ronald A. Kubinski, Mission Viejo, CA (US);
Robert J. Atmur, Whittler, CA (US);
Ronald A. Kubinski, Mission Viejo, CA (US);
The Boeing Company, Chicago, IL (US);
Abstract
A method, computer apparatus and computer program product are provided for autonomously transporting an asset along a track to a destination in a manner that is safe, reliable and quick. In regards to the method, instructions are received relating to the shipment of the asset to the destination. Based upon the instructions, a track-based route along which the asset is to be transported to the destination is then automatically determined. In order to automatically determine the track-based route, the integrity of the track and/or the track bed may be determined. When determined necessary in order to transport the asset to the destination, the track may be automatically reconfigured, such as by closing or opening appropriate switches. Further, the movement of the asset may be controlled in an autonomous manner along the track while continuing to monitor at least that portion of the track between the asset and the destination.