System and method for identifying point detection calibration prior to point detector lock-out and switch machine failure
A detection and indication system for use in a railway switch machine which utilizes one or more roller members which physically interact with a point detector bar coupled to one or more switch points to provide an indication of a point failure upon movement of the point detector bar a predetermined distance from an initial position. The system includes a mounting structure structured to be coupled to a housing of the switch machine and a first sensing device coupled to the mounting structure. The first sensing device is positioned and structured to detect movement of the point detector bar a second predetermined distance from the initial position, wherein the second predetermined distance is less than the first predetermined distance.
1. A method of providing early detection of point failure in a railway switch machine which utilizes one or more primary roller members which physically interact with a point detector bar coupled to one or more switch points to provide an indication of a point failure upon movement of the point detector bar a first predetermined distance from an initial position, the method comprising:
positioning a first sensing device adjacent the point detector bar such that the first sensing device, independent of movement of the one or more primary roller members, produces a signal upon movement of the point detector bar a second predetermined distance from the initial position, wherein the second predetermined distance is less than the first predetermined distance.
2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising detecting that the point detector bar has moved at least the second predetermined distance via the first sensing device and responsive to said detecting, transmitting a signal from the switch machine.
3. The method of claim 2 , wherein transmitting a signal from the switch machine comprises wirelessly transmitting the signal.
4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the signal is transmitted via a cellular transmission.
5. A method of providing early detection of point failure in a railway switch machine which utilizes one or more primary roller members which physically interact with a point detector bar coupled to one or more switch points to provide an indication of a point failure upon movement of the point detector bar a first predetermined distance from an initial position, the method comprising:
positioning a first sensing device adjacent the point detector bar such that the first sensing device produces a signal upon movement of the point detector bar a second predetermined distance from the initial position, wherein the second predetermined distance is less than the first predetermined distance, and wherein the first sensing device comprises a secondary roller member and wherein positioning the first sensing device comprises engaging the secondary roller member with the point detector bar.
6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the first sensing device further comprises a micro-switch which physically engages the secondary roller member.
7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the micro-switch is adjustably coupled to the mounting structure.
8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the micro-switch is adjustably coupled to the mounting structure via a slot.
9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the mounting structure comprises indicia provided thereon for assisting in locating the secondary roller member with regard to the roller member of the switch machine.