Railway switches and signals – Miscellaneous – Signals and indicators
Reexamination Certificate
2005-02-01
2005-02-01
Le, Mark T. (Department: 3617)
Railway switches and signals
Miscellaneous
Signals and indicators
C246S12200A, C701S035000, C340S995170
Reexamination Certificate
active
06848657
ABSTRACT:
A method and apparatus for determining a model vehicle layout by moving a vehicle around the track and noting when the vehicle passes track position detection elements. The vehicle can either detect the position detection elements, or the position detection elements can be sensors which detect the vehicle. By noting the order of the position detection elements as detected, and the direction of the vehicle, the layout of the track can be determined. In one embodiment, the position detection elements are sensors along the track which detect an emitted ID from the vehicle, and also detect the speed and direction of the vehicle. This information is then relayed to a control system. In another embodiment, the vehicle detects the position detection element, and relays this information, along with the train ID, speed and direction, to the control system. In another aspect of the invention, a particular type of vehicle at a particular location can be identified, and can be used to selectively operate accessories adjacent that portion of the track. The invention also can provide automated route generation, the route between A and B meeting input route parameters (e.g., backing into destination) can be automatically determined. Also, default accessory and switch selection can be automatically provided to a hand-held controller based on what the vehicle is approaching.
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Kovach, II Louis G.
Young Neil
Le Mark T.
The Creative Train Company, LLC
Townsend and Townsend / and Crew LLP
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