Came across a new filing at the US Patent Office.This “critter” is made from spare locomotive parts.
http://www.google.com/patents?id=CdjrAQAAEBAJ&printsec=abstract&zoom=4#v=onepage&q&f=false
Looks like it might be a fun scratchbuild project.
Joe
What am I missing?
I read all of the text and looked at all of the pictures. I did not see anything that looked different then what has already been built over the last 60 years.
I also did not read any thing that claimed any thing new in construction or parts that are available.[:^)]
Looks like it was inspired by a kitbashing project.
I was under the impression that, in order to be eligible for a patent, the item had to incorporate new or original thinking. There have been six-wheel `critters’ before, and all this is is a rehash of prior art.
Of course, anyone can APPLY for a patent on anything, even wooden clothespins…
Chuck (Modeling Central Japan in September, 1964)
Good to know that I am not the only one scratching my head in bewilderment. I am saner then I thought after reading the patent information.
I think the original concept with this patent is the reuse of a ‘standard’ 6-wheel locomotive truck, by replacing the old bolster with a new type to provide a fixed attachment point to the new locomotive body (so the truck no longer swivels), but the new critter gets the benifit of the truck’s current suspension. In addition, they have also come with a concept for bolster attachment that retains a limited ability of the truck to swivel, which may be rather interesting.
the “claims” start on the bottom of the 23rd page. All the preceding text is to teach you what you need to know to interpret the claims. The “claims” usually start out as broad as possible, and become more narrow.
claim 1 specifies a single truck with at least 3 driven wheels, a prime mover and a body.
I like it!
However, this has to be a Classic!!!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Clinton_DH1.jpeg
I put it in this way so you can read about it too.
Greg, thank you for the clarification. I guess I should remove, Patent Attorney, from my list of jobs I want.[*-)]
Hmm. If he gets the patent, he may be able to sue any shop that makes small locomotives. I think the idea of using a salvage truck as the basis for the locomotive is sort of unique, but the rest of the patent may be applicable to other designs, even current ones. I don’t think he has enough prior art to ensure that his application is unique. Also, is a three axle car shunter the best choice? The things are light enough already without spreading that limited weight over six wheels instead of four. Can a three axle truck negotiate the tight curves of some areas? Also, can you build a six wheel locomotive and not break the 44 ton rule? I’m certainly no patent lawyer and no mechanical engineer, so I’m just asking. The night at the Holiday Inn Express didn’t do me any good!