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:
Jan. 01, 2013
Filed:
Sep. 11, 2009
Allan M. Zarembski, Cherry Hill, NJ (US);
Todd L. Euston, Philadelphia, PA (US);
Joseph W. Palese, Sewell, NJ (US);
Allan M. Zarembski, Cherry Hill, NJ (US);
Todd L. Euston, Philadelphia, PA (US);
Joseph W. Palese, Sewell, NJ (US);
Harsco Corporation, Camp Hill, PA (US);
Abstract
A method of inspecting a turnout of a track includes the steps of: capturing images of the components of the turnout; converting each image into a set of coordinates that traces the transverse cross-section of a rail profile; analyzing the rail profile to determine if the rail profile is a profile of arunning rail portion or a component. Upon determination that the image represents a component, taking measurements of the rail profile and applying virtual gauges to the rail profile to check for potentially dangerous conditions of the component; and generating a summary of each cross-section of the rail profile of the component indicating problem areas. The method is used for identifying certain classes of switch or turnout rail conditions which can lead to derailments, and for enhancing the turnout inspection approach currently used. The use of this method as an integrated part of the rail profile monitoring program will reduce reliance on field measurements and will also allow more frequent, comprehensive, and convenient analysis of turnout condition.