초록 ▼

Disclosed is a waveguide for conducting radio frequency signals along a railroad line comprising the ballast, ties and rails of the railroad line. If the waveguide is utilized for intra-train communication, the wheels, axles and under-vehicle parts of the vehicles of the train comprise the side and

Disclosed is a waveguide for conducting radio frequency signals along a railroad line comprising the ballast, ties and rails of the railroad line. If the waveguide is utilized for intra-train communication, the wheels, axles and under-vehicle parts of the vehicles of the train comprise the side and upper surfaces of the waveguide. The waveguide may be utilized to: (1) transmit data such as train vehicle journal bearing temperatures, from remote locations to either the caboose or engine of the train; (2) guide radar-type radio frequency pulses ahead of the train; or (3) transmit any other data. In the radar embodiment, reflections received by a receiver on the train represent changes in the characteristic impedance of the waveguide. These reflections may be compared to anticipated reflections in order to detect improper conditions such as broken track or the presence of another train.

대표청구항

In combination: a system for transferring data along a railroad line comprising a waveguide, radio frequency transmitter and radio frequency receiver, said waveguide comprising: at least one rail of said railroad line; and means for supporting said rail.

In combination: a system for transferring data along a railroad line comprising a waveguide, radio frequency transmitter and radio frequency receiver, said waveguide comprising: at least one rail of said railroad line; and means for supporting said rail.