Operator warning system and method for improving locomotive operator vigilance
First Claim
1. An operator warning system for use in connection with a locomotive having a horn system with a horn activation actuator and a horn device configured to produce a noise, the operator warning system comprising:
- an onboard computer system including a database including grade crossing data and locomotive data, the onboard computer system in communication with the horn system; and
a warning device configured to provide at least one of an audio, visual and tactile indicator to an operator of the locomotive based upon at least one of grade crossing data, locomotive data and actuation condition of the horn activation actuator.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Disclosed is an operator warning system for use in connection with a locomotive having a horn system with a horn activation actuator and a horn device for producing a noise. The operator warning system includes an onboard computer system with a database having grade crossing data and locomotive data thereon. The onboard computer system is in communication with the horn system. The operator warning system also includes a warning device for providing an audio, visual and/or tactile indicator to an operator of the locomotive based upon the grade crossing data, locomotive data and/or actuation condition of the horn activation actuator. A method for improving locomotive operator vigilance is also disclosed.
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Citations
37 Claims
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1. An operator warning system for use in connection with a locomotive having a horn system with a horn activation actuator and a horn device configured to produce a noise, the operator warning system comprising:
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an onboard computer system including a database including grade crossing data and locomotive data, the onboard computer system in communication with the horn system; and
a warning device configured to provide at least one of an audio, visual and tactile indicator to an operator of the locomotive based upon at least one of grade crossing data, locomotive data and actuation condition of the horn activation actuator. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22)
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23. A method of improving locomotive operator vigilance for use in connection with a locomotive having a horn system with a horn activation actuator and a horn device configured to produce a noise, the method comprising the steps of:
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determining grade crossing data including at least one of grade crossing location, grade crossing identity, grade crossing regulation and grade crossing condition;
determining horn activation requirement data for the grade crossing;
determining locomotive data including at least one of locomotive position on a track, locomotive position within a consist, locomotive speed, locomotive direction of travel and locomotive operation parameter; and
providing at least one of an audio, visual and tactile indicator to an operator of the locomotive based upon at least one of grade crossing data, locomotive data, horn activation requirement data and actuation condition of the horn activation actuator. - View Dependent Claims (24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37)
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Specification