Description:
Invention Summary
Device, method or vehicle that uses acoustic detection techniques which operate on the principal of acoustic emission (AE). Two sensors generate an acoustic signal representing contact between a train and a rail and generate an output as well. A processor compares the outputs received from both sensors and a location sensor generates location data to configure where the defect is located.
Market Opportunity
According to IBISWorld: As consumer spending increases, demand for and consumption of manufactured goods is expected to increase. In addition, the total value of imports into the United States is forecast to grow an annualized 3.3% over the five years to 2024. A notable portion of both domestically manufactured goods and imports are transported via freight trains. Therefore, demand for rail transportation is expected to increase significantly over the next five years. As the usage of existing track systems expands, the need for repairs and maintenance-related construction will increase, benefiting industry operators.
Features and Benefits
• AE received energy instead of providing energy when detecting defects
• AE can trace continuous changes in the materials or structure being examined
• AE sensor is able to detect defects at speeds of 220 mi/hr (350 km/hr) or higher
• AE can distinguish between defect signals and regular noise
• Outputs received from the first and second sensors are compared to reference signals to ensure effectiveness
• Data received can be stored in the memory of the device
Intellectual Property
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/613,877