Device for Registering the Occupancy of Tracks in Railway Traffic

A very common method for determining the occupancy of a rail track are the so-called track circuits. This method involves applying a low voltage to a pair of rail tracks which are isolated from the rest of the network and monitoring whether the voltage is short-circuited by the wheels and axles of a passing train. Rust and dirt that may cover the rail surface over time can create significant problems. The present invention consists of a device that allows to break through the insulating surface and thus ensures reliable signalling. This is achieved by creating sparks between the carriage wheels and the rails. Advantages: no modifications required to the track network, can be implemented in cross border traffic, low costs, independent of the electricity network, etc.

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