This class includes patents relating to the following means
for the safeguard and control of traffic upon or across railways
(that is, fixed tracks for occupant- controlled vehicles) or which
by structure are especially adapted for such use, viz:
A. Signals, including those used for communication between
occupants of a car or train.
B. Indicators, recorders, telegraphic, telephonic, or other
similar apparatus when especially designed for use in connection
with car or train movements, except manually-set devices, such as
train and engine signs and markers capable of general use.
C. Devices on the roadway, such as signals, switches, circuit
closures, gates, etc., actuated or controlled from or by the moving
vehicles, except circuit-controllers actuated by the vehicle for
the purpose of energizing sectionalized conductors used for supplying
propulsion-current thereto.
D. Automatic train stop and speed control means, the actuation
of which is initiated by agencies not on the train or by wheel derailment
or defects in train structure and mechanism, the automatic stop,
for classification purposes, being considered an equivalent of and
substitute for a railway signal; but train stopping and control mechanism
cooperating with obstacles fixed in position upon the track which
have no moving parts are excluded from this class except when they
cooperate with speed-responsive devices on the train.
E. Safety devices, including derailing switches and blocks,
used for preventing accidents caused by the misplacement of switches,
disregard of signals etc.
F. The structure of signals, switches, frogs, and crossings
and their appurtenances.
G. Mechanism for the manual or other actuation of any of
the devices of the class.
INDEX TO TECHNICAL LITERATURE
In many of the subclasses there have been placed upon the
official search-cards references to such literature as appears to
relate to the subject-matter of such subclass; but no attempt has
been made to make these references complete. It has not been deemed
advisable to print these references in connection with the respective
subclass definitions; but they can be inspected in the Public Search-Room
in connection with the Chief Draftsman"s classified copies
of patents. The list of works indexed is given below.
Literature in Scientific and Technical Information Center
Alternating Current Signaling, 1915, The Union Switch and
Signal Co., Swissvale, Pa. Automatic Block Signal and Signal Circuits,
Scott, New York, 1908. Block and Interlocking Signals, Elliott,
New York,1896. Block System of Signaling on American Railroads,
The, Adams, New York, 1901. First to Fifth Annual Reports Block
Signal and Train Control Board, Interstate Commerce Commission,1909
to 1913. Locking, Laverack, New York, 1907. Mechanical Railway
Signaling, second edition, Wilson, London, about 1909. Notes on Track
Construction and Maintenance, Camp, Chicago, 1903. Perfect Railway
Signaling, Spang, 1902. Power Railway Signaling, Wilson, 1908. Railroad
Signal Dictionary, The, Adams & Hitt, New York, 1908. Railroad Signal
Dictionary, The revised edition, New York, 1911. Railway Appliances,
Barry, New York, 1896. Railway Block Signaling, Pigg, London. Railway
Engineer, The, (about 1909). Railway Signal Association, Digest
of Proceedings, Vol.1, 1895-1905; Vol.2, 1905; Vol.3, 1906; Vol.4,
1907; Vol.5, 1908; Vol.6, 1909. Railway Signal Association, Journal,
1910, Vol.XIII; 1911, Vol.XIV; 1912, Vol.XV; 1913, Vol.XVI; 1914, Vol.XVII;
1915, Vol.XVIII; 1916, Vol.XIX;1917, Vol.XX. Railway Signal Engineering,
L. P. Lewis, London,1912. Railway Signaling, Pittsburgh, 1908. Railway
Signaling in Theory and Practice, Latimer, Chicago, 1909. Railway
Track and Track Work, Tratman, New York, 1908. Safe Railway Working,
Stretton, 1886. Signal Engineer, The, 1908, Vol.1; 1909, Vol.2; 1910,
Vol.3; 1911, Vol.4; 1912, Vol.5, 1913, Vol.6; 1914, Vol.7; 1915,
Vol.8; 1916, Vol.9. Street Railway Road Bed, Pratt and Alden, New
York, 1898.
SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
MEANS PECULIAR TO SPECIAL TYPES OF RAILWAYS
Means peculiar to special types of railway, such as mono-rail,
rack-rail, electric, pneumatic, logging, cash-carrier, elevated,
cable, suspended, etc., and not of general utility or if claimed
in connection with structure of such special types of railway will
be found in the appropriate subclasses of other classes, for which
see References to other Classes, below. But when such means are directed
to the structure or operating mechanism of the switches of this
class (246) subclass 415, they will be found in this class (246)
subclass 419, indented thereunder.
SIGNALS AND INDICATORS IN OTHER CLASSES
For signals used for communication between occupants of a
car or train see References to Other Classes, below.
For manually-set devices, such as train and engine signs,
and markers capable of general use see references to Other Classes,
below.
Where a semaphore is of the well known conventional railway
type, (which is more fully described in the definition of subclass
479 of this class), the patent is classified here, but otherwise
is some subclass of Class 116, Signals and Indicators, or Class
340, Communications: Electrical, unless claimed for railway use,
in which case it is here classified.
SPEED CONTROL IN OTHER CLASSES
For speed control vehicles, when all of the mechanism is upon
the vehicle and there is no cooperation with devices on the track
or roadway, see References to Other Classes, below.
TRAIN STOPPING IN OTHER CLASSES
For train stopping and control mechanism cooperating with
obstacles fixed in position upon the track which have no moving
parts see References to Other Classes, below.
Closures (gates) when performing a stopping rather than a
signalling function will be found elsewhere, except that railway-gates
and mine-doors actuated by the energy of a moving vehicle or electrically
controlled therefrom will be found in subclasses 125 and 292 of this
class (246) and in the various subclasses indented thereunder.
TRACK STRUCTURE
For track structure other than as indicated above, see the Search
Class references below.
Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting, see the obstacle-operated, obstacle-controlled,
and electrically-controlled subclasses of the changeable exhibitors
for station, street and similar annunciators and card, picture and
sign exhibitors not especially adapted for use as cab-signals, when
placed in vehicles and actuated or controlled by obstacles or electrical contacts
upon the track, except when there are claims upon the structure
of the track-obstacle or intermittent electrical contact and no
claims upon the structure of the annunciator or exhibitor in which
case they are placed in this class (246).
Motors: Expansible Chamber Type, appropriate subclasses for speed control vehicles,
when all of the mechanism is upon the vehicle and there is no cooperation
with devices on the track or roadway.
Signals and Indicators,
subclasses 28+ and 200+, for hand actuated train-indicators
or signals and indicators placed on moving trains or cars to indicate
their motion or the speed or direction of their motion or which
perform merely an identifying function, such as train or engine
markers.
Internal-Combustion Engines, appropriate subclasses for speed control vehicles,
when all of the mechanism is upon the vehicle and there is no cooperation
with devices on the track or roadway.
Telegraphy, for telegraph systems, note especially
subclass 43 for space induction systems which are oftentimes
used in train communication; (signals used for communication between occupants
of a car or train).
Motor Vehicles,
subclasses 167+ for a motor vehicle provided with means for controlling
its operation which is responsive to electromagnetic radiation,
magnetic force, or sound waves received from a source, or reflected
from an object or surface, which is located apart from the vehicle;
and subclasses 170+, for a motor vehicle provided with
means which is responsive to the speed of the vehicle for maintaining its
speed at, or preventing it from exceeding, a particular value.
Motor Vehicles,
subclasses 170+ , appropriate subclasses for speed control vehicles,
when all of the mechanism is upon the vehicle and there is no cooperation
with devices on the track or roadway.
Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles, for the transmission of electricity to a moving vehicle, where
no claims are made upon the apparatus actuated by the current or
covering the uses to which the current is applied;
subclasses 16 through 21for circuit controllers actuated by the vehicle
for the purpose of energizing sectionalized conductors used for
supplying propulsion current thereto.
Electricity: Motive Power Systems, for speed control vehicles, when all of the mechanism
is upon the vehicle and there is no cooperation with devices on
the track or roadway.
Wave Transmission Lines and Networks, note particularly
subclasses 24+ for coupling networks which may be used in railway-signaling systems,
and subclasses 1+ for plural-channel systems including
such coupling networks.
Telephonic Communications, for telephone systems, note
subclass 55 for space induction systems; (signals used for
communication between occupants of a car or train) and Class.
Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and
Devices, especially
subclasses 77+ and 86 for one-way electrical audio signal transmission
systems for trains (signals used for communication between occupants
of a car or train).
Electricity: Motor Control Systems,
subclasses 800+ and 825+ for speed control vehicles, when
all of the mechanism is upon the vehicle and there is no cooperation
with devices on the track or roadway.
Material or Article Handling, for train stopping and control mechanism cooperating
with obstacles fixed in position upon the track which have no moving
parts.
Rotary Expansible Chamber Devices, appropriate subclasses for speed control vehicles, when
all of the mechanism is upon the vehicle and there is no cooperation
with devices on the track or roadway.
Data Processing: Vehicles, Navigation, and Relative
Location,
subclasses 1+ for vehicle indication, operation, or guidance
which requires a mathematical calculation. Note, where significant
vehicle structure is recited, classification is in the appropriate
vehicle class.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Systems and devices specially adapted for the control of
train movements by train-orders or by their equivalents
transmitted from a central or directing station.
Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting,
subclasses 541+ for number-display devices and similar
markers displayed on trains to indicate car or train numbers or
give other information useful to the train-dispatcher or
other officials.
Signals and Indicators,
subclass 30 for train-markers referred to above, and
subclass 173 for flags used as train-markers and for supports
for such flags.
Communications: Electrical,
subclasses 12.5 , 12.51, 13.25, and
13.26 for pulse responsive and frequency responsive radio
remote control, respectively.
Illumination,
subclasses 253 and 459+ for signal and indicating lights carried
by engines and cars, and 253, and 478+ for
illuminated train and engine markers.
Telecommunications,
subclasses 500+ for miscellaneous radio systems comprising a plurality
of transmitter and/or receiver means with a central control
station.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Systems and devices in which the train-dispatcher
can set or control the operation of railway-traffic-controlling
devices from a distance.
Communications: Electrical,
subclass 298 for signal box systems having answer back or return
call provision, and subclasses 313+ for miscellaneous
signaling systems having answer back provision.
This subclass is indented under subclass 3. Systems having the signals given upon the engine cab or
car or having mechanism which is actuated to stop the train or to
control its motion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 3. Systems having means so that any one of a plurality of signals
may be independently set or controlled from a distance, the
number of line-wires used being less than the number of
signals controlled.
157, 164, 165, 424, 425, and
426, for selective mechanism and devices and all subclasses
in the titles of which the words "Cab and control" appear, for means
for actuating signals on trains.
Electrical Transmission or Interconnection Systems,
subclasses 112+ for switching arrangements for distribution systems, particularly
subclass 140 in which a remote switch is controlled by the exercise
of control over the power current supplied to the switch.
Communications: Electrical,
subclasses 1.1 through 16.1for selective signaling systems in which signals may
be selectively controlled and subclasses 12.5, 12.51, 13.25, and
13.26 for radio-wave systems for controlling a
device.
Communications: Directive Radio Wave
Systems and Devices (e.g., Radar, Radio
Navigation),
subclasses 73+ for miscellaneous systems for controlling a device
by means of reflected or otherwise returned radio waves (radar).
Telephonic Communications,
subclasses 242+ for automatic telephone systems which usually involve
selecting means; and subclasses 350+ for call
transmitters for telephone systems.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Telegraphic or telephonic systems specially adapted for
communication between trains and the dispatcher or other stations.
This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Systems in which an inductive relation is established between
the train and line, no physical connection being established.
This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Systems in which a current is transmitted to or from the
train by one or more continuous contacts with line conductors other
than the traction rails, which may or may not be sectionalized.
68, 71, 73, and 86, for
system using the traction-rails or the return of the signal-current
to the car, also the foregoing subclasses and in addition
subclasses 65 and 66 for continuous- contact systems.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Systems in which two or more continuous contacts are used.
(1)
Note. See the search note to subclass 10 for continuous-contact
systems and also for systems disclosing the return of the current
through the traction-rail.
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Systems in which each train has its instruments cut constantly
into the line in series with those of other trains or stations.
This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Emergency stations without operators, located along
the permanent way between regular stations, at which trains
may stop or be stopped for communication by telegraph or telephone with
the dispatcher or other trains or stations or from which in an emergency
signals may be controlled.
Electrical Connectors, for an electrical connector, per se, see
especially
subclasses 477+ for an electrical connector of the overhead line
type having a handle, tool or manipulating means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Day or night signals or combinations of same used for the
purpose mentioned and usually adapted to be supported by or attached
to the roof or outer wall of a station or signal cabin and provided
with means for operating them from within the same.
(1)
Note. This subclass also includes devices used at
stations for holding train orders.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Systems in which the physical possession by an officer of
the train of a train staff, ticket, tablet, or
other token is a prerequisite to entrance upon the section or block.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Systems in which a space interval is maintained between
trains on the same track, usually by the subdivision of
the way into definite sections termed "blocks", the
movement of traffic being governed by cab or wayside signals or
devices which control the brakes or motive power, or both.
(1)
Note. Home signals indicate the presence or absence
of trains within the block about to be entered. Distant
signals (usually semaphores having notched blades) indicate
the condition of adjacent or distant blocks other than the block about
to be entered. The combined functions of the home and distant
signals are sometimes performed by a three-position signal, indicating
by its three positions, respectively, the presence
of a train in the block ahead, the second block ahead, or
that both blocks are clear.
for systems closely related in function where the
physical possession by an officer of the train of a staff ticket
or other token is a prerequisite to entrance upon the block.
This subclass is indented under subclass 20. Systems in which the train automatically cooperates with
human agency in the actuation or control of the elements of the
system.
(1)
Note. These systems are sometimes called "controlled
Manual". The electric control by trains of manually-actuated signals
or vice versa is an example of such cooperation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Systems in which means are provided for actuating audible
or visual signals upon the cab or train or for stopping it or controlling
its speed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Systems in which the signal clearing operations require
the cooperation of the operators at each end of the block and also
the absence of trains from the block, which when present, by
electrical means, render it impossible to clear the signals.
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Systems in which the traffic- controlling devices
are actuated and controlled only by electrical means.
(1)
Note. The means employed upon the train for operating
cab signal and train-control mechanism may by of any type--e.g., electrical, fluid-pressure, mechanical, etc.
Railways,
subclass 238 for vehicle propulsion control by block system wherein
a peculiar type of guideway is claimed (e.g., cable, model, overhead, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Systems in which the traffic- control devices are
actuated and controlled by waves of radiant energy as heat, light, etc.
Telecommunications,
subclasses 200.1+ and the classes and subclasses specified in the
Notes thereto for photocell-controlled electric circuits
and photocell apparatus.
This subclass is indented under subclass 29. Systems in which the signals or automatic-stop devices
are actuated or controlled by the methods of so-called "wireless
telegraphy", making use of Hertzian waves.
Communications: Directive Radio Wave
Systems and Devices (e.g., Radar, Radio
Navigation), appropriate subclasses for miscellaneous radio-signaling
and teledynamic systems, particularly
subclasses 61+ for the miscellaneous systems for controlling a
device by means of reflected or otherwise returned radio wave energy; See
the classes under "SEARCH CLASS" in the class
definitions of Class 343 for the other classes which provide for
radiant-energy systems for controlling a device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Systems in which means not on the car or train are provided
whereby under conditions of danger the supply of propulsion current
is cut off or is so reduced that the car is stopped or its speed
controlled..
(1)
Note. The control of the supply of propulsion current
is most cases will be by other cars or trains which constitute a hazard
to the controlled car or train.
and the subclasses specified in the Notes thereto, for
train-control devices located on the train whereby the
motor of an electric car is deprived of propulsion current.
Railways,
subclass 238 for vehicle propulsion control by block system wherein
a peculiar type of guideway is claimed (e.g., cable, model, overhead, etc.).
Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles,
subclasses 16 through 21for conductor-supply systems for railways wherein
the conductor is provided with a plurality of sections, one
or more of the sections being manually de-energized and
the system having means for connecting the de-energized
section to the supply feeder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Systems in which the flow of propulsion current to one car
or train under conditions of danger controls the flow to other cars
or trains.
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Systems in which signals are so arranged as to give danger
or caution indications to trains running in both directions on the
same track.
(1)
Note. The so-called "A. P. B." or
absolute-permissive block systems are here included.
(2)
Note. Only systems controlled by track-circuits
are here included.
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Systems in which an alternating or pulsating current used
for actuating or controlling the traffic controlling devices and
derived from a source not on the train uses both traction rails as
conductors in series for the major portion of the block.
This subclass is indented under subclass 34. Systems in which super-imposed propulsion current, either
direct or alternating, is returned through one of the traction
rails which is not sectionalized.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Systems in which both traction rails are used for the return
of the super-imposed propulsion current, neither
rail being sectionalized.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Systems in which one or both of the traction-rails
are divided into sections by insulated joints, the rails
being made continuous for the return of the super-imposed
direct propulsion-current by inductance-bonds
or similar devices, which by impedance prevent the passage
of the alternating signal-circuit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 34. Systems in which the home indication is actuated or controlled
by the presence or absence of current and the distant indication
by the change of some characteristic of the track-circuit
current.
(1)
Note. As line-wire distant control is dispensed
with, the system is sometimes referred to in the art as "wireless", but should
not be confused with the true or Hertzian-wave "wireless" of
subclass 30.
Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets, and
Electromagnets,
subclasses 230+ for polarized electromagnets and subclasses 266+ for
differential electromagnets.
This subclass is indented under subclass 34. Systems in which one or more line-wires extending
back for at least the entire length of the block are used for controlling
or actuating the distant signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 34. Systems in which the blocks are independent, trains
only controlling the devices at the entrance of the blocks in which
they are running.
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Systems in which a direct, normally closed, continuous
current, either actuating or controlling traffic-controlling
devices and derived from a source not on the train, uses
both traction-rails in series as conductors for the major portion
of the block.
(1)
Note. This type is known to the Railway Signal Association
by the title "D.C. automatic block".
This subclass is indented under subclass 41. Systems in which a direct propulsion-current is returned
by and super-imposed upon one or both of the track-rails
in which the signal controlling current flows.
This subclass is indented under subclass 41. Systems in which the distant signal is controlled by the
change of some characteristic of the track-circuit current.
(1)
Note. As the use of external line-wires
is dispensed with, the system has long been known in the
art as "wireless", although not wireless
in the sense of the teles:graphic art or of subclass 30
of this class.
This subclass is indented under subclass 41. Systems in which one or more line wires extending back the
entire length of the block are used for controlling or actuating
the distant signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Systems in which means are provided for actuating traffic-controlling
devices placed upon the train or car.
and all subclasses noted in the search notes appended
thereto, for details relating to the control of signals placed
upon a moving car or train or to the control of its motion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 47. Systems in which an electric circuit on the train, normally
closed through the track-rails, is broken by the
passage of the train over one or more insulated rail-joints
when a condition of danger exists, the break in the rails
being electrically bridged under conditions of safety.
This subclass is indented under subclass 47. Systems in which an electric current is transmitted from
the track into the cab or a local cab-circuit is closed
by means of so-called "ramp rails" or
intermittent contact plates or rails.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Systems in which the distant signal is actuated or controlled
by changes in the direction of current-flow or in some
other characteristic or the current in a circuit other than the
track-circuit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Systems in which the signal at the entrance to any block
is retained in its danger position until after a train has entered
the next block ahead and has proceeded therein a certain predetermined
distance.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Systems in which two signals, "home" and "distant" so
called, usually having a common support, are placed
at the entrance to each block and respectively indicate the condition
of the block about to be entered and or the next block ahead.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Systems in which a so-called "three-position signal" is
placed at the entrance to each block and indicates by its three
different aspects the occupancy of the first or second blocks ahead or
that both blocks are clear.
This subclass is indented under subclass 41. Systems in which the blocks are independent, trains
only controlling the devices of the blocks in which they are running.
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Systems in which intermittent contacts or so-called "ramp-rails" are
used for establishing electrical connection with the moving train.
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Systems in which an electric circuit upon the train, normally
closed through the track rail or rails, is broken by the
passage of the car over one or move insulated rail-joints, the
break in the rails being electrically closed under conditions of
safety.
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Systems in which a direct continuous current used for actuating
and controlling traffic-controlling devices, normally
open and derived from a source not on the train, uses both
traction-rails in series as conductors in opposite directions
for the major portion of the block.
This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Means are provided for actuating audible or visual signals
upon the cab or train or for stopping it or controlling its speed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Means are provided for the control of distant or three-position
signals or for the control of a single signal from a plurality of
blocks.
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Systems in which means are provided for actuating traffic-control
devices upon the cab or train.
(1)
Note. The use of fluid-pressure means upon
the cab or train for operating or controlling brake and throttle
valves or electrical controllers or for operating brakes and audible
or visual signals is not considered as combined fluid-pressure
and electric in the sense of subclass 93, and therefore
systems using such means have been herein included.
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Systems in which an inductive relation is established between
the train and the line, no physical connection being maintained
between them.
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Systems in which the source of current is a battery or dynamo
placed upon the train.
(1)
Note. Systems in which train-batteries actuate
local train-circuits or supply current used for purposes
other than signal actuation or control are not here included, but
will be found in the appropriate line-battery classes.
Electricity: Single Generator Systems, appropriate subclasses, for miscellaneous single-generator
systems. See
subclass 1 for portably mounted single-generator
systems.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64. Systems in which continuous contacts are maintained by shoes, brushes, and
their equivalents between two or more metallic conductors extending
parallel to the track. The traction-rails may
or may not form part of the circuit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 65. Systems in which the continuous-contact rails, the
traction-rails, or both, are divided
into sections or blocks insulated from each other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64. Systems in which a single continuous contact is maintained
by shoes, brushes, or other equivalents between
the moving vehicle and a metallic conductor extending parallel with
the track.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67. Systems in which the conductor, the traction-rails, or
both, are divided into sections or blocks insulated from
each other.
for two or more independent single-continuous-contact-sectional
systems upon the same train, the same being, in
effect, mere duplications of systems otherwise properly
classifiable in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64. Systems in which the train-current passes out by
or returns through the medium of one or more intermittent contacts
or "ramp-rails", so-called.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Systems in which the traction-rails form part of the
circuit, the current passing through them in both directions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Systems in which the traction-rails form part of the
circuit, the current passing through them in one direction
only.
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Systems in which the current is conducted from the track
through the cab or car by means of a continuous contact maintained
with one or more line conductors, not traction-rails, for
the major portion of the block.
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Systems in which the current is conducted from the track
through the cab or car by means of intermittent contacts, periodically
established, with contact-plates, ramp-rails, or
similar devices other than traction-rails.
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Systems in which an electrical circuit upon the train, normally
closed through the track rail or rails, is broken by the
passage of the car over one or more insulated rail-joints, the
break in the rails being electrically closed under conditions of
safety.
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Systems includes electrically-actuated track-detents
or obstacles mechanically actuate mechanism on moving trains, such
as brake-valves, levers, circuit-closers, etc.
and all subclasses mentioned in the search notes
appended thereto, for track-detents used in various
systems of block, frequently for actuating the cab and
control mechanism.
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Counting and cancelling mechanism, usually of the
step-by-step variety, is provided, whereby
as many trains or car-wheels as enter must leave the block
before the signal can be restored to safety.
This subclass is indented under subclass 78. Subject matter having a single ratchet-wheel which
is actuated by two opposed pawls moving in the same plane and tending
to turn it in opposite directions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Subject matter having two ratchet-wheels which
are placed in parallel on the same arbor or a single wheel having
two sets of teeth in parallel is actuated by opposed pawls to produce
rotation in opposite directions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Subject matter having one or more circuit-controllers
continuously rotated in one direction, which are actuated
either electrically or mechanically, but which do not perform
a counting and canceling function.
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Subject matter in which circuit-controllers are provided
which are mechanically actuated by the moving car.
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Subject matter having traffic-controlling devices
actuated or controlled by circuits closed through intermittent contacts
established between the moving vehicle and stationary conductors.
This subclass is indented under subclass 87. Systems in which the circuit for actuating or controlling
the signals is opened of closed by car-wheels bridging
two short parallel insulated track-sections.
This subclass is indented under subclass 87. Systems in which the circuit for actuating or controlling
the signals is opened or closed by controllers actuated by the energy
of the moving train.
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Systems in which the car-actuated controllers governs
the action of one or more controllers of other circuits, which
perform the function of a relay.
This subclass is indented under subclass 87. Systems in which the circuit is closed by devices carried
by the train, which make electrical connection with short
rails, contact-plates, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Subject matter having electrical and fluid-pressure
means used in combination for the actuation and control of roadway-signals, track-detents, contacts, and
similar devices, irrespective of the means employed upon
the train for actuating the cab and control mechanism.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Subject matter in which means are provided for actuating
signals upon the train or for stopping it or controlling its speed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Subject matter having electrical and mechanical means used
in combination for the actuation and control of roadway-signals, detents, and
other track devices, irrespective of any means employed
upon the train for actuating cab and control mechanism.
The mechanical means may or may not utilize the energy of the moving
vehicle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 96. Subject matter having means provided for actuating audible
or visible signals upon the car or train or for stopping it or controlling
its speed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 96. Subject matter having clockwork or similar trains of gearing
which are made use of and are provided with electrically-actuated
escapement or latch-release devices.
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Subject matter having fluid-pressure means used
for actuating and controlling roadway-signals, detents, and
other track devices, irrespective of the means employed
upon the train for actuating the cab and control mechanism.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter having means provided for actuating audible
or visible signals upon the cab or train or for stopping it or controlling
its speed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Subject matter having roadway-signals, detents, and
other track devices actuated and controlled solely by mechanical
means, usually involving direct contact with the moving
train or some device attached thereto, and irrespective
of the means employed upon the train, if any, for
actuating the cab and control mechanism.
This subclass is indented under subclass 102. Subject matter having means provided for actuating audible
or visible signals upon the cab or train or for stopping it or controlling
its speed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 20. Subject matter having traffic-controlling devices
actuated either by manual power or by manually-controlled
power mechanism.
(1)
Note. So-called "manual-block
systems" are here included.
This subclass is indented under subclass 104. Subject matter having signals either actuated or controlled
by electric means or having electricity used for performing some
function other than transmitting telephonic or code messages to
the signalmen.
for systems which are otherwise manual and which
use electrical means for the purposes of communication between signalmen
in cabins. Also see search notes appended thereto.
This subclass is indented under subclass 105. Subject matter having a signal which cannot be cleared at
one end of the block until it has been electrically unlocked by
the operator at the other end.
(1)
Note. The so-called "manual lock
and block systems" are here included.
Subject matter under subclasss 20 having devices which are
used for permanently recording the movements of trains, signals, or
other movable units or indicating the disregard of signals.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Systems and devices which include means for giving a time
indication concerning trains which have previously passed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Systems and devices in which the retarded flow of gases, liquids, or
finely-divided particles of solids is utilized for giving
the time indication.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Systems and devices in which a visual indicator set by the
last train which passed is suddenly obscured or reset at the expiration
of a predetermined time-limit.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Systems and devices which include any arrangement of train-controlling
means--such as signals, derails, interlocking, automatic stops, etc., --designed
to prevent collisions where two or more lines of railway cross at grade.
This subclass is indented under subclass 111. Subject matter in which the train automatically cooperates
with human agency in the actuation or control of the traffic devices.
This subclass is indented under subclass 111. Subject matter having means actuated or controlled automatically
by the approaching train and without the intervention of human agency.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114. Subject matter having means provided for giving indications
upon the train or for stopping it or controlling its speed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 111. Subject matter having means provided for actuating audible
or visual signals upon the cab or train or for stopping it or controlling
its speed.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. System of train-controlling means designed to prevent
trains and cars from running into an open drawbridge.
Bridges,
subclasses 30 , 41, 46, 55, 57, 59, 61, 63, 65, 67, and
69, for bridges having movable parts such as drawbridges
and having locking devices and 49 and 50+ for gates and
signals operated or controlled by the opening of the bridge.
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Subject matter having means provided for actuating signals
on approaching trains or for stopping them or controlling their
motion.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter having signals, indicators, and
train-controlling devices which are automatically set at "danger" by
the occurrence of any defect in the permanent way, including bridges.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Systems and devices in which the train automatically indicates
its position upon the line as by lights, indicators, moving
diagrams, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 122. Systems in which a permanent record is automatically made
at a distant station of the time at which a train passes a given
point.
This subclass is indented under subclass 122. Systems in which an audible or visual indication is given, usually
in a tower or station, of the approach of a train, and
in some cases also of its number, its intended route, or
other necessary information.
ELECTRIC AUTOMATIC HIGHWAY SIGNALS, MINE DOORS, AND
GATES:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Systems in which highway-crossing signals, gates, and
mine-doors are actuated or controlled from the moving train
or vehicle by electrical means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 128. Subject matter where an open circuit is closed by the car-wheels
bridging two short parallel insulated sections of the traction-rails.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter having means for actuating switches, signals, locks, derails, and
similar independently-movable units of this class in such
manner as to insure predetermined sequences of operation so far
as they may be needed to restrain the movement of all other devices
which, if actuated, would give rise to a condition
of danger.
for switch or signal actuated controllers in which
a plurality of circuits are closed or broken by the movement of the
switch or signal and in which a predetermined sequence of operations
is sometimes provided for.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Subject matter in which a definite route or itinerary is
set up through a system of tracks by a smaller number of actuating
levers or devices than would usually be required.
(1)
Note. The term "program-locking" is sometimes
applied to this system in foreign practice.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Subject matter in which the actuating lever or device is
prevented by electric locks from completing its movement, and
from thereby releasing the other devices which it controls, until
the actuated unit is in full normal or reversed position, whereupon
a return-release-indication current is sent back, unlocking
the actuating-lever and either effecting or permitting
the completion of its movement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 132. Subject matter in which the locking is effected by mechanical
connections between the actuating levers or devices.
(1)
Note. This type of interlocking is known to the
Railway Signal Association by the title "electromechanical
interlocking".
This subclass is indented under subclass 136. Subject matter in which the actuating lever or device is
prevented by electric locks from completing its movement, and
from thereby unlocking the other devices which it controls, until
the actuated unit is in full normal or reverse position, whereupon
a return-release-indication current is sent back, unlocking
the actuating-lever and permitting or effecting the completion
of its movement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 137. Subject matter in which the release-locking is applied
to sliding members which actuate the circuit-closers.
Power Plants,
subclass 399 for a fluid- pressure actuator of general utility
in which unsafeness, unreadiness or disarray prevents a
manual change in the operative state of the system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 140. Subject matter in which the actuating lever or device is
prevented by electric locks from completing its movement and thereby
unlocking the other device which it controls, until the actuated
unit is in full normal or reverse position, whereupon a
return-release-indication current is sent back, unlocking
the actuating-lever and permitting or effecting the completion
of its movement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 139. Subject matter in which the actuating lever or device is
prevented by electric locks from completing its movement, and
from thereby unlocking the other devices which it controls, until
the actuated unit is in full normal or reversed position, whereupon
a return-release indication current is sent back, unlocking
the actuating-lever and permitting or effecting the completion
of its movement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Subject matter in which units are actuated by manual power
transmitted from the signal-cabin by rods or cables.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Subject matter having switch-stands where the signal
and switch do not move simultaneously, but independently, in
a prearranged sequence of operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 144. Subject matter in which the switch stands are provided with
separate levers for the switch and the target or signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 143. Subject matter in which the locking mechanism is effected
by mechanical connections between the operating levers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 147. Subject matter in which the actuation of the quandrant-latch
or its equivalent completely actuates the locking mechanism before
the lever can begin its movement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 148. Subject matter in which a parallel system of tappet-rods, each
directly connected to an operating-lever, cooperates
with tappets in actuating a parallel system of locking-rods
moving at right angles thereto.
This subclass is indented under subclass 147. Subject matter having locking and unlocking mechanism in
which the locking and unlocking is performed by the motion of the
lever itself instead of by the motion of its latch, a system of
parallel tappet-rods cooperating, through tappets, with
a system of parallel locking-rods moving at right angles
thereto.
This subclass is indented under subclass 147. Subject matter having devices by which any attempt to unlock
and shift a switch, signal, or other movable unit
of an interlocking plant is restrained by the contact, with
one or more wheels of a passing car, of a movable bar longer
than the greatest distance between such wheels.
This subclass is indented under subclass 147. Subject matter having devices for compensating for the expansion
and contraction of wires, rods and similar connections
used between signals, switches, etc., and
their operating means.
Machine Element or Mechanism,
subclasses 111+ for details of intermittent-grip devices, and
subclass 501.5 for constant-tension-sustaining devices
for flexible cable operators.
This subclass is indented under subclass 152. Subject matter having compensators in which the slack is
taken up by means of one or more counterweights.
This subclass is indented under subclass 153. Subject matter having counterweight-compensators
in which the actuating-lever is normally detached from
the connecting cable or rod and connected therewith by grip devices
only during the period of actuation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 147. Subject matter having devices used in the mechanical actuation
of switches and signals, whereby the functions of several
connecting-rods are performed by a smaller number of rods.
This subclass is indented under subclass 155. Subject matter having devices for connecting single operating-levers, wheels, etc., with
any one of two or more rods, cables, or operating devices
used for actuating switches, signals, derailing-blocks, and
other movable units of the class.
(1)
Note. Selectors are often used in connection with
so-called "route-indicators."
This subclass is indented under subclass 155. Subject matter having rod-saving devices whereby
the movement of one lever both actuates the switch and also either
locks it, indicates or detects its motion, shifts
a detector or locking bar, or performs both of these additional
functions.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes most of the so-called "detectors" and "point-locks" of
English inter locking practice.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Subject matter having mechanism spatially separated from
but interlocked with the mechanism of the central tower and usually
located near switches and signals, whereby they can be shifted
by others than the tower operator, provided the conditions
are safe for such movement, in which case the full protection
of the entire interlocking system is afforded until the switches
and signals are properly replaced.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes the so-called "Annette"s
key" and similar movable devices and also what is known
as "check-locking", whereby
the levers in two adjacent interlocking plants are so interlocked
temporarily as to permit train movements between them to be made safely
against the current of traffic.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Systems, mostly electric, wherein upon
the approach of a train to the switch or signal the switches, signals, or
other movable elements are automatically locked in position.
(1)
Note. The systems in this subclass are sometimes
referred to in the art under the term "electric detectors".
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Subject matter having mechanism for preventing the reversal
of a switch or signal movement until after the lapse of a definite
interval of time.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Subject matter having devices for indicating the position
or motion of a distant switch, signal, or similar
movable element.
Communications: Electrical,
subclasses 1.1 through 16.1for electric selective-signaling systems
of general application, subclass 298 for signal box-type
signaling systems having answer-back provision, and
subclasses 313 and 314 for answer-back electric signaling
systems.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Blocks or similar movable devices which can be placed upon
or near the track for derailing such trains as disregard a signal.
(1)
Note. Switches used as details in place of derailing-blocks
are classified under the specific type of switch unless accompanied
by operating mechanism especially adapted for actuating them as derails,
in which case they are classified here.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including devices which require the cooperation
of two or more operators or moving elements for effecting a movement,
as in clearing a signal, while any one of them can independently
effect the reverse movement, as setting it to "danger".
Includes "replacers" and "reversers",
so-called, and coupling devices for disconnecting signals, switches,
etc., from their operating means.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter having pilot-cars and compression buffers
in front of a train or car or designed to run ahead or behind the
train and provided with means for operating signals upon the train,
stopping it, controlling its motion, or signaling danger to other
approaching cars or trains.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including systems which permit a conductor,
or other occupant, of a car or train to signal or communicate with
the engineer, or another occupant, along the car or train.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter for the automatic actuation of signals and
changeable exhibitors upon the cab or train or for stopping it or
controlling its speed, usually by cooperation with means not on
the train, but not disclosing a complete block system.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes cooperating devices on both
roadway and train, (the former including the traction-rail itself,
when so used); but where all devices are located on the train this
subclass and the indented subclasses are limited to means for preventing
railway accidents by automatic signals or train control in cases
of derailment, broken parts, improperly-adjusted parts, etc.; ordinary
signaling between train occupants or train control exercised by
train occupants being excluded. Such signaling will be found in
the appropriate subclasses of Class 116, Signals and Indicators,
and in this class (246), subclass 166.1.
(2)
Note. For similar train control or cab- signaling devices
in combination with block-signal systems see "Cab and control" subclasses
under the preceding types of block-signal systems.
(3)
Note. For motor control automatically exercised by the speed
of the vehicle and without cooperating with track devices or axle-driven
mechanism search the specific motor classes--e.g., 91, Motors: Expansible
Chamber Type, 318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems.
and appropriate indented subclasses, for teles:graphic
or telephonic communication between the train and a roadway-office
or other point not on the train.
Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting,
subclasses 370 and 463+ for changeable exhibitors on
the train electrically actuated or controlled by obstacles upon
the track.
Telegraphy, and 379, Telephonic Communications, appropriate
subclasses for electrical means of communication between occupants
of the train or vehicle.
Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and
Devices,
subclasses 82+ for a public-address system for a train, and subclass
86 for other electrical one-way audio signal transmission in a train.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter designed for avoiding accidents by the use
of automatic train-signals or train control when trains part through
the breaking or uncoupling of the couplers.
(1)
Note. Most of the train-signal systems of Class 116, Signals
and Indicators and Class 340, Communications: Electrical, will
incidentally give a signal upon the parting of a train, but even
when a different kind of audible signal is given upon such parting
from the signal given in the ordinary use of Class 116 or Class
340 devices, the systems are placed in those signaling classes and
not here included unless there is some special modification of the
mechanism for actuating this different kind of signal. Also when
a train parts, brakes are usually automatically applied by the discharge
of train-pipe pressure; but unless some special modification of
the system is made, i.e., as when the brakes are applied on the
rear and not on the front portion of the train, the devices are
classified in the appropriate subclasses of Class 188, Brakes, and Class
303, Fluid-Pressure and Analogous Brake Systems, and not here included.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter having means automatically actuated by defects
in or breakage of parts of the rolling-stock or by improper adjustment
of appliances, which are liable to cause disaster, such as broken
wheel-flanges, fallen brake-beams, defects in running-gear and brake
systems, improper coupling of air-brake pipes, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171. Subject matter having a frangible closure for the train-pipe
of an airbrake system, broken upon derailment or other condition
of danger, usually by contact with the roadway, whereby the brakes
are automatically applied.
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Subject matter where the control is effected by the inertia
of the trip, as when the vehicle is severely jolted.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter having a signal, bell or whistle, which is
automatically sounded upon the train as it approaches the high-way-crossing,
station, tunnel, curve, or other place for which a signal should
be given.
This subclass is indented under subclass 174. Subject matter, the signal consists of a succession of long
and short whistle-blasts or their equivalent, resembling a letter
of the Morse telegraphic code.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter having switches provided with means whereby
signals are given upon the approaching train or the train is stopped
or its speed controlled when the switch is in a dangerous position.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter where the actuation of the cab signal or
train-control devices is automatically prevented under prearranged
conditions, for the most part those of safety, having been previously
initiated by automatic means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter having control devices whose actuation is
initiated by an electric circuit on the train normally closed through
the track-rails and which is broken by the passage of the train
over one or more insulated rail-joints placed at the point of initiation
and which are electrically bridged or connected when the cab signal
or train-control mechanism is not to be actuated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter having control devices whose actuation is
initiated by breaking a normally closed circuit placed on the train,
which contains a circuit-controller actuated by contact with track-trips
at the point of initiation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter having control devices whose actuation is
initiated by mechanical means, such as track-trips directly or indirectly
acting upon the cab-signals and train-control devices.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter having speed-control means which is inoperative
below but operative above predetermined speeds when predetermined points
are reached.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Systems in which the engineer or motorman can pass the track
device without receiving the signal or having his train stopped
or its speed reduced, by manually preventing the train mechanism
from cooperating with the track device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter in which a "service-stop" so called,
is made, as distinguished from an emergency-stop, the brakes being
applied gradually and not suddenly.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter having recording devices to be used in connection
with cab signal and train-control mechanism for making a record
in case an employee disregards the signals.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter having means placed upon the train for controlling
the motive power used for propelling the train or vehicle.
Railways,
subclasses 295+ for external control of vehicle-carried propulsion
means wherein a peculiar type of guideway is claimed (e.g., cable, model,
overhead, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter having means provided for actuating the engineer"s
brake-valve instead of a train-pipe valve.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter relating to the structure of the vent-valve
of the air-brake train-pipe when especially adapted to be operated
or controlled by track devices.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter having visual signals provided which are
especially adapted for use in the engine-cab or on the train.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Subject matter having devices placed on the train which
cooperate with track devices in actuating cab signal and train-control
mechanism.
This subclass is indented under subclass 193. Subject matter where the track device acts upon the train
mechanism by electric induction and without physical contact between
them.
This subclass is indented under subclass 193. Subject matter having intermittent contacts or so-called "ramp-rails" used
for conducting electric current from the roadway to the vehicle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 193. Subject matter having circuit-controlling devices upon the
train for opening or closing train-circuits are actuated by track
devices.
Railways,
subclasses 117.1 , and 295+, for circuit controllers on
trains actuated by trips or other devices on or adjacent the track
or guideway when claimed in combination with a peculiar type of
track or guideway (e.g., cable, model, overhead, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Subject matter having the train mechanism actuated from
the roadway by magnetic means and without physical contact between
the train-trip and track-detent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 192. Subject matter having the train mechanism actuated only
when the car or train is moving forward and not when moving backward.
This subclass is indented under subclass 192. Subject matter having frangible devices, usually closures,
for train-pipes which are broken by contact with track-detents and
so either vent the train-pipe of the air-brake system or actuate stop
or signal mechanism, their fracture indicating that a signal has
been disregarded.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Devices placed upon the track and which cooperate with mechanism
upon the train in actuating signals thereupon or stopping it or controlling
its speed.
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