USRE21818E - Radio traffic control system - Google Patents

Description

June 3, 1941. w, s. HALSTEAD Re. 21,818

RADIO TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM Original Filed Sept. 29 1935 10 Sheets-Sheet l 1 1 5 1 5 v, 1 (D 5 E 5 6 '15 l i- Z r T,

I 1 z 1 9 1 .7 L F195 l l l 9 I I I l m I /Z /4 l 4/1 fi I l l i 5 E ,Q D GEE/: fj'ga INVENTOR. 1441mm (Sf/92157590 June 1941- w. s. HALSTEAD Re. 21,818

RADIO TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM Original Filed Sept. 28, 1955 10 Sheets-Sheet 2 ,9. 6 INVENTOR. Will/W J. Mans/10 ATTORNEY June 1941- w. s. HALSTEAD Re. 21,818

RADIO TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM Original Filed Sept. 28, 1955 10 Sheets-Sheet 3 IN VEN TOR. M1 1 MM 6. fi/u 5 mm BY 5 6 ATTORNEY June 3, 1941." w s HALSTEAD Re. 21,818

RADIO TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM Original Filed Sept. 28, 1955 10 Sheets-Sheet 4 10 Sheets-Shet 5 6 6 z wm a m N .6 4 E F 5 A M 7x 6 d a 5 9 0 u. MW 9 n 9 A K8 3 w W. S. HALSTEAD RADIO TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM Original Filed Sept. 28, 1955 June 3, 1941.

I NVENTOR MAUI/VJ: ##wmw BY d 6 ATTORNEY lO Sheets-Sheet 6 W. S. HALSTEAD RADIO TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM Original Filed Sept. 28, 19:55

INVENTOR. Mum/v J. fmsrmp (L ATTORNEY June 3, 1941. w. s. HALSTIEAD Re. 21,818

RADIO TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM Original Filed Sept. 28, 1935 10 Sheets-Sheet 7 mmpmsr ems/v5.2

STOP /05 I/VVEIYTOR Mum Jfhzamw ATTORNEY June 3, 1941. w. s. HALSTEAD 21,818.

RADIO TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM Original Filed Sept. 28, 1955 10 Sheets-Sheet B IN V EN TOR. Max/ma? hiwrma ATTORNEY J1me 1941- w. s. HALSTEAD RADIO TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM 10 Sheets-Sheet 9 //V l/E/WUR Mum/1 J. mama Original Filed Sent. 28, 1935 ATTORNEY June 3, 1941. w. s. HALSTEAD RADIO TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM Original Filed Sept. 28, 1935 10 Sheets-Sheet 10 RMIER. IMD Wilm- RDL REM) Reissued June 3, 1941 mmo TRAFFIC conraor. SYSTEM William s. mama, Huntington, N. Y., mam

of one-third to John B. Brady, Washington,

Original No. 2,131,042, dated September 27, 1938,

Serial No. 452,703, September 28, 1935.

Application for reissue August 3, 1940, Serial No. 351,074

20 Claims. (01. 177-337) My invention relates, in general, to trafflc control systems and is more particularly concerned with systems for controlling the movement of vehicular traflic by radio signalling means.

My invention is particularly applicable to traffic control systems in which colored lights or moving semaphore arms serve as signals for controlling the movement of traflic on various parallel.

or intersecting lanes, such as is the case in railroad and automobiletraflic control systems respectively; but it/will be readily understood that this particularization constitutes no limitation on the invention which may also be employed in many applications apart from that outlined.

Heretotore in the majority of trafllc control systems it has been customary to employ colored lights or other visible signalling devices such as moving semaphore arms or discs to indicate to the operator of a moving vehicle that he should continue in his course, change speed, or stop at predetermined points. Since the efllciency of operationof such visual devices is subject to objectionable variations because of poor visibility commonly encountered in snow, rain, dust storms and fog wherein the range of visibility is seriously limited, the degree of control of such signaling devices is uncertain and in many cases entirely inefiective. It is well known that one of the major causes of railroad and highway accidents during storms has been through the lack of reception of a stop signal by the driver because of his restricted range of vision. with present automobile traiflc control systems, especially, many accidents have been caused by inability of the driver to see the control light in timebecause of heavy trafdc' which requires the full attention of the driver, unfamiliaritywith the location of the signals, confusion with other lights, or the blinding eil'ects of sunlight in late afternoon when on a highway leading in the direction of sunset. 7

It is a primary object of the present invention to provide dependable and comparatively simple means by which the illustrative directional quasi-optical characteristics of wave propagation from an ultra-high frequency'radio transmitter cooperatively associated with a traile signal control device are employed to eflectselective operation of 'a predetermined signal connected with an ultra-'highl'requency' radio receiver installed in amoving vehicle towards the radio signal source, i

It is an additional object to my invention to provide means by which predetermined changes in the characteristics of a polarized quasi-optical proceeding radio wave are affected in correlation with predetermined changes in the visual signals of a traillc control device employing colored lights or moving signal indicating media. 7

Another object of my invention is to provide means by which predetermined changes in the modulating characteristics of a polarized ultrahigh frequency radio wave are effected in. correlation with predetermined changes in the character of visual signals of a trafiic control device employing colored lights or other visible signalling media.

It is a further object of my invention toprovide a uni-directional ultra-high frequency radio trafllc control system which will be unaffected by atmospheric conditions and which will cause no interference with communication services such as television and broadcasting on substantially the same or adjacent ultra-high frequency radio channels.

Another object of my invention is to provide a simple construction of directionally selective ultra-high frequency radio receiving apparatus adapted to be mounted on a. movingvehicle for cooperation with directional ultra-high frequency radio transmission apparatus synchronized in operation with a trafliclight or semaphore system for reproducing in the vehicle, visual and audible indications corresponding to the character of the visual signal from the tramc light or semaphore.

A further object of my invention is to provide a construction oi! ultra-high frequency radio transmitting equipment which may be readily mounted on conventional types of tramc control devices without the alteration of such devices, for the purpose of emitting radio control signals to operate signal indicating devices within automobiles, railroad trains, or other moving vehicles.

A still further object of my invention is to provide means whereby telephonic traiilc control messages, police department warnings, highway directions, standard time signals, advertising, or other intelligence may be transmitted to the interlor of a moving vehicle simultaneously with the emission of trafllc signals by an ultra-high frequency radio transmitter.

Other andi'urther objects of my invention reside in the constructional and circuit arrangements for directional ultra-high frequency radio signal emitting devicesaasociated with tramc control devices andultra-high frequency radio signal receiving devices installed on a railroad train, automobile or other vehicle, as set forth fully in the specification hereinafter following,

and by reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a front elevational view of a railroad signal semaphore and light system with support therefor, depicted herewith to illustrate one embodiment of my invention, showing the fsultra-high frequency radi wave generator, and associated dipole antefia unit included in-my inn 'vention mounted on the movable signal semaphore arm to effect angular displacement of the antenna, illustrating the degree of angular rotation effected by the longitudinal axis of the antenna in accordance with similar angular changes in the signalling positions of the semaphore arm, thereby effecting changes in the polarization characteristics of the emitted wave.

Figure 4 is an elementary schematic diagram of one form of polarized microwave radio receiver and associated signal indicating system embodied in my invention for use in cooperation with the polarized microwave transmitter of the preceding figures, and shown herewith to aid in illustrating the principle of operation of the system and devices of my invention.

Figure 5 is a schematic diagram in simple isometric projection; to illustrate the operative coordination between the horizontal position of the dipole antenna when the semaphore arm is in the horizontal stop position, and the horizontal receiving dipole connected with an ultrahigh frequency detector 'and signal indicating device installed in a moving vehicle, to give visual and audible indication therein of the character of the semaphore signal.

Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the vertical receiving dipole with associated detector and signal indicator shown in Figure 4, illustrating the effective reception of a vertically polarized ultra-high frequency signal by the vertical receiving dipole when the transmitting dipole is in an approximately vertical position corresponding to the vertical or "go position of the semaphore arm, as will be explained hereinafter.

Figure "I is a schematic diagram of one ambodlment of an ultra-high frequency radio receiving system, installed in the cab of a locomotive or other moving vehicle, which employs automatic means to change the angular position of the longitudinal axis of the receiving dipole with reopectto the position of the transmitting dipole,

bodied in my invention.'

high frequency oscillator and dipole antenna unit, enclosed in a weatherproof housing, as em- Figure 10 is a front elevational view of the device shown in Figure 9, a vertical cross section being taken along lines AA and B-B as shown,

to illustrate the preferred arrangement of parts within the-protective housing of said oscillator and dipole antenna.

Figure 11 is a circuit diagram of the ultra-high frequency oscillator and dipole antenna embodied in the unit shown in Figures 9 and 10.

Figure 12 is a front elevational view of a modiflcation of the ultra-high frequency radio traffic and simultaneously to select particular segments of a commutator operatively coordinated with particular positions of the receiving dipole, thereby providing selective control of signal lights in the vehicle, or automatic power and brake control if desired, in accordance with the character of the semaphore signal as will be explained hereinafter.

Figure 8 is a circuit diagram of one form of ultra-high frequency detector circuit employed in a receiving system of the type shown in Figure '1.

Figure 9 is a plan view of one form of ultracontrol device previously illustrated, showing the employment of a fixed ultra-high frequency oscillatorunit having a horizontal dipole antenna disposed on a conventional form of automobile traffic control housing in which signal lights are employed to control the movement of traflic at intersecting streets, the ultra-high frequency oscillator and dipole antenna unit in this case being installed on the top of the traflic light housing, with the longitudinal axis of the horizontal dipole extending in a direction at right angles to the direction of traflic controlled by the signal lights so as to effect correlated directional radio signal control of traffic as hereinafter explained. The same figure also illustrates the cooperative combination of a telephone system and a repeating telegraphone or other continuously operating sound-record reproducing means with the ultra-high frequency oscillator and dipole antenna unit to effect, in addition to the transmission of name control signals, the

transmission of police messages and other intelligence to the interior of automobiles or other moving vehicles equipped with the ultra-high frequency receiving apparatus embodied in the invention.

Figure 13 is a plan view of the ultra-high frequency oscillator and dipole antenna unit disposed on the top of the trafflc control device illustrated in Figure 12.

Figure 14 is a front elevational view of the ultra-high frequency oscillator and dipole antenna unit of Figures 12 and 13, showing,'in this case, the demountable attaching means employed in this embodiment of the invention for securing the ultra-high frequency transmitting unit on the top of a conventional traflic light housing.

Figure 15 illustrates, in an elevational view', the interior of an automobile equipped with the directionally selective ultra-high frequency receiver and associated signal indicative devices embodied in'the invention, and shows in particular a preferred location of a horizontal receiving dipole and ultra-high frequency detector on the front of the vehicle.

Figure 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating the directionally selective mode of operation of the ultra-high frequency traflic control system when employed in connection with traflic lights located at a street intersection.

Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of a traflic control signallight circuit and the coordinated ultra-high frequency signal control circuits, il-

. lustrating the use of a plurality of modulating ment of the invention, together with a schematic diagram of the associated ultra-high frequency modulating and coordinated trafllc control circuits. This figure also shows the cooperative combination of a telephonesystem and a repeating telegraphone to effect speech modulation of the emitted ultr a high frequency signal.

Figure 191s a front elevational view of the upper portion of anautomobile to illustrate the preferred disposition of a horizontal receiving ultra-high frequency receiver, amplifier, and associated signal indicating means employed in a vehicle to give audible and visual indication of the character of the traflic control signal ahead of the vehicle. 2

Figure 22 is a schematic diagram of a simplified modification of the ultra-high frequency receiving apparatus illustrated heretofore in which an ultra-high frequency detector unit is employed in connection with a conventional automobile broadcast receiver to give indication of the character of a traffic control signal.

Figure 23 is a front-elevational view of a railroad signal equipped with a modification of the ultra-high frequency signalling system heretofore illustrated, wherein an ultra-high frequency oscillator and horizontal dipole antenna are disposed in a fixed position on the top of the signal support in front of a metallic reflector to effect unidirectional transmission of the ultra-high frequency signal. Figure 23 also shows the cooperative combination of a telephone circuit with the ultra-high frequency oscillator whereby traffic instructions or other intelligence may be transmitted to the interior of a locomotive cab in addition to the transmission of light control signals.

Figure 24 is a side elevation of the ultra-high frequency oscillator, dipole antenna, reflector, and signal light device shown in Figure 23.

Figure 25 is a front elevational view of a railroad signal light equipped with an ultra-high frequency oscillator having a horizontal dipole antenna disposed in front of a reflector to control the response of a horizontally polarized ultration as that of the locomotive controlled by the signal device in Figure .25.

Figure 2'1 is a side elevational view of the railroad signal light and ultra-high frequency signal device illustrated in Figure 26.

Figure 28 is a schematic diagram illustrating the unidirectional operation of the two ultra-high frequency signal devices illustrated in Figures 25 and 26, one of the ultra-high frequency generators being equipped with a horizontal dipole antenna, the other ultra-high frequency generator being equipped with a vertical dipole antenna, thereby effecting selective control of the received signals in the cabs of the two locomotives proceeding on parallel tracks and in the same direction.

Figure 29 is an elevational view of the interior of a locomotive cab equipped with the ultra-high frequency signal receiving devices embodied in the invention, wherein is illustrated the preferred disposition of the ultra-high frequency detector unit and adjustable receiving dipoles at the top of the cab; the ultra-high frequency receiver and loud speaker at a location adjacent to the instrument panel, and an array of signal lights adjacent to the panel, substantially in the line of vision of the operator of the locomotive.

Figure 30 is a schematic'diagram pf the ultrahigh frequency receiving dipolef'detector, amplifier, loud speaker, electric wave filters and the signal lights associated with each of the filters for selectively effecting the operation of a particular signal or signals in the cab of a locomotive, in accordance with the reception of a particular ultra-high frequency s gnal correlated with the different colors of the signal light.

Figure 31 is a circuit diagram of an ultra-high frequency receiver and associated electric wave filters for effecting the selective operation of one or a plurality of signal lights installed in the cab of locomotive in accordance with the particular modulating frequency or frequencies of the received ultra-high frequency signal.

Referring to the drawings iri'detail, wherein like reference characters indicate'corresponding parts throughout the several views, each form of the invention illustrated herewith embodies quasi-optical radio wave generating means such as provided by an ultra-high frequency, radio oscillator, shown at I, Figures 1 and 2, combined with a directional polarized wave radiator, such as a dipole antenna 2' to operate in combination with and in correlation with the traflic control signals of a railroad, automobile or other signal system employing lights of different colors such as provided by lenses 3 and 4, a moving semaphore arm 5, or other signalling media to effect transmission of traffic control signals to the interior of locomotives, automobiles or other moving bodies equipped with microwave signal receiving and indicating means embodied in the system of the invention.

In the particular embodiment of the invention shown in Figure l, the ultra-high frequency oscillator, l, and the dipole radiator, 2, are assembled as a single coaxial unit, the unit being so disposed on the semaphore arm 5, that a common rotational axis, 5, iseffected, as is illustrated in Figures 1 and 2. A metallic shield, x'L-may be employed behind the semaphore and ultra-high frequency oscillator unit'as shown to effectively prevent the transmission of the ultra-high frequency signal in a direction opposite to that of the projected light rays from the traffic signal.

In the particular embodiment illustrated herewith the shield, 1, takes the .form of a sheet metal disc, but it is obvious that other forms and ty es of shields or reflectors may be employed in lieu thereof. In the embodiment of the invention shown herewith ultra-high frequency oscillator unit, I, is secured to the semaphore arm, 5, so that when the arm is in the horizontal position shown in Figure 1 the longitudinal axis of the dipole, 2, also extends in a horizontal direction. It is evident, from the illustration of Figure 1, that when the semaphore arm, 5, moves upward through angle towards a vertical position, the dipole, I, also moves through the same angle, as shown in Figures 1 and 3.

In the particular embodiment of the invention depicted in Figures 1 and 2 the heater and anode power supply for operation of the ultra-high frequency oscillator may be provided by a storage battery and a small battery-driven alternator, illustrated in subsequent figures. Since no modulator oramplifier tubes need be employed in this particular embodiment of the invention wherein the oscillator is self-modulated by the alternator supply, the comparatively minute current drain of an intermittently-operating ultra-high frequency oscillator permits extended operation of the microwave transmitter by a single storage battery.

As is well known in the radio art, an ultrahigh frequency dipole radiator when disposed in a horizontal position as shown in Figure 1, will emit a radiant energy wave having horizontally .polarized characteristics. If a horizontally disposed receiving dipole, shown at 8, Figures 4 and 5, installed on the front of a locomotive, approaches the horizontally disposed and parallel transmitting dipole, 2, Figures 1 and 5, the associated ultra-high frequency detector, 9, will supply a received signal of maximum amplitude to amplifier l2, thereby effecting visual actuation of a stop signal indicator, such as a red neon light, l3, and audible energization of loud speaker I5. Simultaneously, ultra-high frequency detector, ll, Figure 4, connected to a vertically disposed dipole, I0, installed on the front of the same locomotive, will deliver a signal of minimum amplitude to its amplifier, II, and a green signal indicator light, l5, by reason .of insufficient energization, will not be visibly actuated. When, on the other hand, the dipole radiator, 2, as shown in Figure 6 is in a substantially vertical position, corresponding to the vertical "go posi-- tion of the semaphore arm, 5, the emitted ultrahigh frequency will have vertically polarized characteristics and the vertical receiving dipole l0, Figure 6, will deliver maximum wave energy to its associated detector circuit, ll, thereby effecting, as explained heretofore, the visual actuation of green light l5. Simultaneously, as explained heretofore, red light l3 will not be visibly actuated. Novel means are thus provided by which discrimination between two ultra-high frequency traffic control signals is effected by virtue of differences in the plane of polarization of the ultra-high frequency radio wave, each plane of polarization being correlated with a particular signal of the traflic controlling semaphore.

In addition to the selective actuation of visual signals l3 and I5 as described heretofore, loud speaker l5, shown in Figure 4, connected to the amplifiers l2 and I, will emit an audible warning signal in the cab of the locomotive to inform the driver of the proximity of a signal ahead of the train. As long as the locomotive equipped with the ultra-high frequency receiving apparatus embodied in the invention is in front of the semaphore the ultra-high frequency traffic signal will be received in the cab. Once the locomotive has passed the semaphore, however, there will be an abrupt termination of the signal in the cab since the uni-directional quasi-optical wave propagation characteristics of the antenna system limit its field to the area in front of the semaphore. The unique directional characteristics of the ultra-high frequency system therefore preclude the possibility that a train proceeding in an opposite direction, for example, to the south, will receive the ultra-high frequency signal intended for a northbound train. Should the southbound locomotive be in front of the signal set for the northbound train, the shielding effect of the locomotive itself is sufllcient to prevent the reception of the ultra-high frequency signal by the receiver other than that for which the signal was intended, since it is assumed that the receiving dipole in each case will be installed at the front of the cab below the top of or entire front of the locomotive.

It is pointed .out that ordinary short wave radio transmitters and receivers would not efliciently efl'ect the purpose of the present embodiment of the invention since short waves above several meters in wavelength lose many of the quasioptical characteristics possessed by the ultra-high frequency system described herein. Moreover, the size of an efficient antenna required by a transmitter operating on wavelengths above several meters would be sufilciently great to preclude its installation and use as described in connection with the present embodiment of the invention. It will be understood therefore that the illustrative system of my invention is intended for operation with ultra-high frequency waves of approximately 10 cm. to 1 m. in length, which have the quasi-optical characteristics prescribed.

In this connection also it might be noted that limitation of the range of the ultra-high frequency transmitter is effected quite simply, and largely for the reason that the radiation pattern of the particular type of low power transmitter involved has comparatively sharp termination fringes. The limits of the radiation pattern for the transmitter in any location are determined and regulated with a standard receiver adjusted to efiect light control above a certain threshold signal value. Thus, only receivers within a dellm'tely limited area with respect to the transmitter will respond sufficiently to effect the desired control function. In addition, as shown hereinafter, controlled relays responsive only to a single maximum signal and not to other signals of lesser intensity, which might -be received at the same time may be used in the receiver to insure reception of the proper traflic signal.

In a modification of the ultra-high frequency receiving system, heretofore described, the means shown in Figure 7 may be employed to effect selection of red or green signal indicators, I3 and I5, respectively. In this modification a single dipole antenna II, which may be moved back and forth through angle p, is used. A detector l8 and an amplifier, l9, whose output is connected as shown through opposite and coacting commutator segments, 20-2l and 22-23, respectively and movable segment selecting brushes 24 and 25 to red and green lights, l3 and I5, respectively is arranged as shown. An electric motor, 26, may be employed to slowly rotate through angle 5 insulated shaft 21 to which are secured brushes, 24 and 25 and the dipole antenna, l1. When read in connection with the foregoing description of the manner of operation of the system and the illustrations of Figures 5, 6 and 7 in particular, it will be understood that when the receiving dipole, of Figure 7 is in the horizontal position a horizontally [polarized ultra-high frequency signal from a horizontal transmitting dipole will be received with maximum intensity by detector, I6, and associated amplifier, I8, rendered audible by loud speaker, I6 and, by virtue of the disposition of the commutator segment selective brushes 24 and 25 which effect electrical contact between segments 20 and 2|, the signal lamp l3, correlated with segments 20 and 2| will be energized and visually actuated, It is evident from the diagram of Figure 7 that so long as the commutator segment selective brushes 24 and 26 provide contact between coacting segments 20 and 2|, only the red lamp, 13', can be actuated, since no electrical contact is efiected between segment 22, and segment 23, which is connected to the green lamp, l5. When the receiving dipole I1 is rotated through an angle 5 to the vertical position, the received signal from the horizontal.

transmitting dipole, 2, will be of minimum intensity in the detector circuit, and consequently neither signal indicator lamp, l3 nor l5, will be actuated. Inasmuch as the receiving dipole is slowly moved back and forth through angle ,6, the operator of the locomotive will see intermittent flashes of red light 13 in the cab as the locomotive approaches the semaphore set in the horizontal stop position. On the other hand, if the semaphore arm and associated transmitting dipole are set in the vertical or go position, detector l3 will receive the vertically polarized ultra-high frequency signal with maximum intensity when the receiving dipole l-'! is in the vertical position. Electrical contact simultaneously is made between coacting segments 22 and 23, thereby providing energizing voltage for the green indicator light 15. The red light, l3, will not be energized so long as the semaphore arm is in the vertical position, since substantially no effective signal will be received by detector l6 when the receiving dipole I1 is in a horizontal position, thereby precluding the possibility of energizing the red light 13 sufliciently for its visible actuation. It is obvious that many modifications of the principle of operation of the system heretofore described are possible within the scope of the invention. In lieu of the movable dipole receiving antenna as described, fixed dipoles extending at right angles to each other may be employed and signal selection effected by intermittently connecting each of the dipoles to the detector, and simultaneously providing connection with the signal indicating device associated with a particular dipole. It is also obvious that the received signal may be used automatically to actuate the power and brake control system of the train as is schematically illustrated in dotted lines in Figure 7 by the provision of a timing device, 28, connected with a power and brake control relay, 23, both shown connected to the stop circuit of indicator lamp l3. Means are thus provided by which a train may be automatically stopped within a predetermined time after it has passed a stop signal.

It is also understood that many circuit modifications of the ultra-high frequency receiver and transmitter are pomlble within the scope of the invention, and many different types of detecting and oscillating circuits may be employed. One present preferred ultra high frequency detector circuit is shown in Figure 8 in which the two halves of a receiving dipole are connected, as illuntrated, to the anode and grid of an ultrahigh frequency detector tube 30. quency chokes 3| and 32 are employed in series in the anode and grid circuits, respectively. A

Radio freresistor, 33, is connected in series with grid choke, 32, to ground, to which is also connected the cathode and one side of the heater circuit of the tube as shown. A condenser, 34, is shunted between the anode circuit and the cathode as illustrated. The anode circuit of the detector is connected in conventional fashion through the primarywindings of an amplifying transformer, 35, to a source of E. M. F. The secondary of transformer, 35, is connected to amplifier l9, as shown.

The mechanical arrangement of both ultrahigh irequency detector unit and transmitting unit may be identical if desired. One preferred mechanical arrangement of an ultra-high frequency receiving or transmitting unit is shown in Figures 9 and 10 in which a cylindrical weatherproof housing, 36, fabricated of porcelain, glass, Bakelite or other suitable material, is provided to completely enclose ultra-high frequency tube .30 used as a microwave detector in this case, and its associated detector circuit elements such as chokes, 3| and 32, resistor, 33,

and other parts. The dipole antenna, II, also is enclosed in a weatherproof cylindrical housing, 31, fabricated of non-conducting material such as porcelain, glass or other suitable material,

which is secured to the housing, 36, by means of insulating bushings or sleeves 38. A resistor, 33, Figure 10, may be employed if desired to provide suflicient heat to the interior of the dipole and tube housing to prevent formation of excessive accumulations of ice or moisture, the assembled unit being so constructed that warm air from the interior of tube housing, 36, may circulatewithin the dipole housing, 31. In the preferred arrangement illustrated herewith, the tube, 30, is so disposed in the central portion of housing, 36, that the anode and grid leads are substantially in line with the ends of the dipole thereby efiecting a highly desirable symmetrical and compact disposition of all parts carrying ultra high frequency currents. It will be observed from the illustrations that the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical housing, 36, and that of the tube, 30, coincides, and that the longitudinal axis of the dipole antenna intersects that of the tube housing at a. point substantially in line with the base of the ultra-high frequency tube. A mounting flange, 40, provided with holes, 4|, through which screws, 42, may be inserted, provides means by which the receiving unit may be secured to a coacting flange, not illustrated, on motor shaft 21, or means by which a similarly constructed transmitting unit may be secured to semaphore arm, 5. A watertight washer or disc, 43, may be placed between the flange, 40, and the coacting flange to effectively render a completely watertight unit. The leads for the unit may preferably be brought out through an opening at the center of the watertight washer, 43. Since the unit need only be moved through an angle of degrees or less, a flexible cable, 44, may be employed to effect connections between the ultrahigh frequency unit and the associated apparatus. In the transmitting unit provision may be made for mounting an additional ultra-high frequency tube 30a, shown in dotted lines, directly below tube 36 as illustrated in Figure 10. The two tubes may be thus arranged in a symmetrical parallel electrical connection, so that the current flow through the tubes is divided and the operating life thereby prolonged. Further, in the even-t of heater failure of one tube the second tube will ordinarily continue to generate sufllcient radio frequency energy to effect the operative functions of the system. One preferred circuit for the generation and radiation of polarized ultra-high frequency energy is illustrated in Figure 11 in which the two quarter wave sections of a dipole II, are connected to the anode and grid circuits, l and 46, respectively of the oscillator tube, 41. A variable condenser, 48, may be employed between the grid and anode circuits as shown to effect a degree of tuning. Anode and grid choke coils l9 and 50, respectively, are connected in series in the anode and grid leads of the oscillator tube as indicated. A resistor, 5|, is connected in series between the grid choke 50 and ground. 'Ilhe cathode of tube 41 is connected to the grounded center tap of resistor 52, shunted across heater battery 53, or other source of E. M. F. A resistor, 54, and shunting condenser, 55, are connected in series between choke, 49, and an output terminal of alternator, 51, or other suitable source of anode E. M. F. A hy-pass condenser, is connected between the anode side of resistor, 54, and the cathode to complete the circuit. A relay 59 may be placed in series in one lead of battery 53 so as to effect on and off control of the transmitter in accordance with the operation of the railroad semaphore. It is evident that batteries need not be employed to supply the necessary power for the operation of the microwave transmitter since such power may be derived in any well known manner from connections with a lighting main or other power source.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figures 12 to 22, inclusive, in which ultra-high frequency signal control of automobile traffic is effected, a microwave oscillator unit, 60, Figures 12 to 14, inclusive, with associated horizontal dipole radiator, 6 l constructed in a manner similar to that heretofore described, is installed in a fixed position on the top of a conventional automobile traffic light housing, 63, as illustrated. In this position, the transmitting unit is so disposed that the longitudinal axis of the dipole, 5|, is at right angles to the axis of the projected light rays from. the correlated signal lights, 64 and 55. In this preferred embodiment of the invention, a plurality of control signals having different frequencies such as 100 and 500 cycles, for example, are employed to modulate the output of the ultra-high frequency oscillator in accordance with the correlated projection of traflic control lights of different colors as will be explained in more detail hereinafter. In this system, when the red light, 64, is in operation, the ultra-high frequency oscillator, '60, is modulated by a control signal having a frequency Fl, of approximately 500 cycles for example, and when the green light, 65, is in operation, the oscillator is modulated by a control signal having a frequency F2 considerably different in frequency from that of Fl, such as 100 cycles, for example. A motor vehicle, illustrated in Figure 15, equipped with a fixed horizontal dipole, 66, extending in a direction parallel to the axles of the car, and an ultra-high frequency detector 61, disposed as shown at the top of the car, will receive the respective ultra-high frequency traflic control signals from dipole radiator, 6|, when the car is proceeding directly towards the correlated traific lights as will be hereinafter explained.

To further increase the degree of usefulness of the invention, means may be provided by which a traific oilicer may effect transmission of telephonic messages to the interior of a moving vehicle approaching an ultra-high frequency trafiic signal transmitter, thereby providing motorists with traffic directions based for example on radioed instructions received from an aerial observer stationed above the city, and in a position to determine points of maximum traffic congestion, or to supply drivers with police department traflic dispatches, highway directions, time signals, or other intelligence. To effect these additional functions, a hand telephone set, 69, Figure 12, is provided in' the signal control box, III, for use in telephonically modulating the ultra-high frequency oscillator 50, or for use in conjunction with a police telephone communication system with which control box 10 is linked. By a switching arrangement in the control box, the ultra-high frequency oscillator may also be modulated by telephonic mes- ,.sages or signals from a central traffic control station if desired, or by a repeating sound-record reproducing device, such as a telegraphone 'II,

which may be used to provide highway directions and to give regulation traflic warnings such as No turns on red lights or Do not proceed until green light flashes". The repeating telegraphone is particularly adapted to a function of this nature since the repeating mechanism is relatively simple, there is no damaging wear on the record, as would be the case should a phonograph disc or sound film be employed for continuous operation. In addition, the telegraphone possesses advantages over other devices in that the magnetically recorded intelligence on the wire or tape may be changed at will without the necessity of replacing the record. The cover, 12, of the signal control box, It, bears control lever 13, as is common practice, so that the traflic lights may be controlled from the outside of the control box.

By reference to a preceding part of the specification relating to the varying response characteristics of an ultra-high frequency receiving dipole when disposed in different angular positions with respect to the transmitting dipole, and by particular reference to the diagram of Figure 16, it will be understood that a north or sound bound vehicle, equipped with a fixed horizontal dipole, 66, extending in a direction parallel to that of its transverse axis, and ultra-high frequency detector 51 with associated signal indicating devices such as neon light, 14, and loud speaker, 68, will receive an ultra-high frequency signal of maximum intensity from transmitting dipole, 5|, installed on a traffic light, 63, disposed so as to control north-south traffic. If the traffic light is red, as indicated, a correlated modulating stop signal having a frequency Fl will be heard from loud speaker, 68, connected to an amplifier, 15, whose input is connected to the output circuit of detector, 61. The distinct and predetermined tone characteristic of the ultra-high frequency stop signal, accordingly, audibly informs the driver of the character of the trafiic signal, even though the traflic light cannot be seen at the moment. A neon lamp 14, connected to the output of amplifier I5 will likewise be actuated and will give visual indication of the proximity of an ultra-high frequency traflic control signal device. Correspondingly, if the trafllc light were green, the received ultra-high frequency go" signal, having a predetermined and characteristic frequency F2, would be heard in a north or south bound car, and, by virtue of the distinctive tone of the go signal, the driver would be informed of the character of the traflic signal ahead of the car. An east or west bound car also equipped with a similar fixed horizontal receiving dipole, l6 and detector, 11, will, by virtue of the perpendicular relationship between the receiving dipole, l6, and the transmitting dipole, 6 I, simultaneously receive the ultra-high frequency signal from dipole, 6|, with minimum signal intensity. Accordingly, a loud speaker 80, connected to the output of an amplifier, 19, whose input circuit is connected to detector, 11, will receive insuflicient energy to permit its audible operation with the result that the particular ultra-high frequency traffic control signal correlated with the northsouth trailic control device will not effectively be heard in the east bound or west bound vehicle whereas at the same moment it is clearly heard 7 "within anorthbound or southbound vehicle at a point equidistant from the traffic control device. 'The ultra-high frequency signal will be received with increasing intensity in a north or south bound car until the trafiic light, 63, is reached, after which the signal will diminish quickly because of the shielding effect of the car body.

To control trafiic in the east-west lane, an additional traffic control light, 8|, shown in dotted lines in Figure 16, may be installed at an adjacent corner, and a microwave oscillator, 82, with associated horizontal dipole radiator, 83, mounted thereon. It will be understood from the foregoing description and from the diagram that when trafilc light 63 is projecting a red signal and a correlated ultra-high frequency modulating signal of frequency Fl to the south and north for reception by north bound and south bound vehicles respectively, traffic light, BI, is projecting a green light and a correlated ultra-high frequency signal of frequency F2 to the west and the east for reception by east and west bound vehicles respectively.

Since no mutual interference is caused by differently polarized waves from two ultra-high frequency transmitters of the type herein described and since the substantially aperiodic character of the detector input circuit does. not require manual tuning in order to efliciently receive signals from horizontally polarized ultra-high frequency transmitters tuned toyarious wavelengths within a few centimeters of each other the system of applicant may comprise a multiplicity of ultra-high frequency transmitters in the same city operating on an assorted number of wavelengths in the vicinity of 50 centimeters without danger of mutual interference.

effective reception of any of these transmitters as long as the receiving dipole is substantially parallel to a given transmitting dipole. Moreover, because of the directional and selectively polarized characteristics of the radiated ultra-high frequency signals, the possibility of interference with other communication services such as television or broadcasting will be minimized. In additiori, it is pointed out that an ultra-high frequency trafllc control sys'tem of the type described herein is comparatively free from disturbances caused by static, electrical storms and other sources of electrical interference and is unaflected by weather conditions.

In the present preferred embodiment of the invention as outlined in the foregoing description, electrical coordination and cooperation between the operation of a given signal light and the emission of a horizontally polarized ultrahigh frequencysignal modulated by a particular The aperiodic characteristics of the ultra-high frequency receivers will permit the frequency is effected in a comparatively simple manner as is illustrated in schematic form in Figure 17, in which ultra-high frequency oscillator, 60, provided with a horizontal dipole radiator, Bl, constructed in a manner similar to that shown in Figures 9 and 10, and mounted on the top of the traflic light housing, is supplied with modulating electrical waves of frequency Fl or F2 or with speech-modulated waves from the output circuit of amplifier 84, whose input is connected to an oscillator 85, such as a vacuum tube or other suitable audio frequency oscillator, whose frequency of oscillation may be changed from one frequency, Fl, to another frequency, F2, as may readily be accomplished in a well known manner in an oscillatory circuit by changing the value of condensers C1 or C2, or inductance, not shown, in

the oscillating circuit. Changes in the value of' "such condensers or inductance of the oscillator are effected in the system of the invention as illustrated in Figure 17 by means of a single pole double throw switch 86 which, when on contact point 81 throws condenser C2 into the oscillating circuit of oscillator 85, and when on contact point 88 throws condenser C1 into the oscillating circuit, thereby changing the period of oscillation of oscillator 85 from one frequency F2 to a second frequency Fl respectively in accordance with the respective changes in the positions of the switch .arm. Mechanical coupling between the frequency or tone control switch 86 and the traffic control light switch 89 may be provided by means such as shaft 90 as shown so that movement of the traflic control light switch arm 89 from contact point 9|, which controls the lighting circuit of green signal lamp 82, to contact point 93. which controls red signal lamp 94, automatically effects the cooperative and correlated movement of switch arm 86 from contact point 81 to contact point II, respectively, thereby effecting emission of an ultra-high frequency signal modulated by frequency F2 or Fl respectively in correlation to, and in cooperation with the projection of the green or red light respectively.

A present preferred ultra-high frequency transmitting circuit employed in experimental tests of the ultra-high frequency traflic control system is illustrated in Figure 18 in which the ultra-high frequency circuit arrangement and functioning of the dipole radiator l'l, oscillator tube 41 and other associated parts of the oscillating circuit are identical to those shown in Figure 11. Modulation of the ultra-high frequency transmitter in this particular embodiment of the invention may be effected by. any wellknown speech modulating circuit such as the Heising circuit illustrated herewith in which the anode lead of the modulator tube is connected in conventional manner to one end of constant current choke coil 96, disposed in series in the positive lead from a source of anode E. M. F. 91, and to the anode circuit of oscillator tube 41. Modulating signal voltage is supplied to the input circuit of the modulator tube through transfonner 98 whose secondary leads are connected to the control grid and cathode leads of the modulator tube as shown. The primary winding of transformer 98 is connected to the output circuit of amplifier 84 whose input circuit is connected to the output circuit of control signal oscillator 85. The input of amplifier 84 is also connected by means of switching unit 99 to the output circuit of microphone I00 of hand telephone set 69 or to the output circuit of a repeating telegraphonc ll,

or to a telephone line II as desired. The control arm I3 of trafiic signal control box 10, as described heretofore, effects control of operation of red and green signal lights 04 and 92, respectively, and simultaneously effects coordinated and correlated modulation of ultra-high frequency oscillator tube 41 by control signals of frequencies Fl and F2 respectively, thereby causing selective modulation of the emitted horizontally polarized ultra-high frequency radiant energy with correlated and cooperative projection of the signal lights.

A preferred embodiment of a simple form of ultra-high frequency receiving apparatus installed on a moving vehicle, such as an automobile particularly, and illustrated in Figures 19 to 21 inclusive employs an insulated horizontal receiving dipole 66 secured on the outside of thevehicle at a point just above the windshield I02 which location has a distinct advantage in that the receiving dipole is substantially in line of sight relation to the transmitting dipole regardless of the presence of other cars having steel bodies of moderate height in front of the receiving dipole. As pointed out heretofore, metallic structures reflect ultra-high frequency radiant energy and act as a shield through which ultrahigh frequency energy do not readily penetate. It is desirable therefore to mount the receiving dipole at such a height that the presence of the steel body of a preceding automobile will not prevent the reception of the ultra-high frequency traffic control signal. Moreover, the location as depicted has an additional advantage in that the shielding effect of the body proper, on the front of which the dipole is installed, reduces signal pick-up from an ultra-high frequency transmitter which has been passed. The detector unit 61, shown in the illustration of Figure 19 with its cover removed, may be installed on the interior of the car at a point substantially adjacent to the mid point of the receiving dipole as indicated so that short leads between the dipole and the input circuit of the ultra-high frequency detector tube 30, are effected. The high frequency choke coils, 3| and 32, associated with the anode and grid leads, respectively of the detector circuit are also included in the housing of detector unit 61 as shown. The output circuit of detector tube 30' and power supply leads are placed in a shielded cable I03, indicated by dotted lines, which is connected to the proper input and power supply terminals of an amplifier unit I5. Visual signal indicating devices, such as a red neon lamp I04 and a green neon lamp I05, connected to suitable frequency selective devices, such as filters, not shown in Figure 19, operated by amplifier 15, are located in proximity to the instrument board of the vehicle and in the drivers line of vision as shown. A loud speaker 68 is disposed within the car at a point behind the instrument panel as shown or at any effective location, to give audible indication of the character of the traffic signal as heretofore described.

A circuit diagram of such an ultra-high frequency receiver with visual and audible signal indicating system is shown in Figure 21 wherein the ultra-high frequency detector circuit associated with tube 30 is identical to that shown in Figure 8. The secondary winding of amplifying transformer 35 is connected in well known manner to the input circuit of an amplifier tube I00,

. tainment from broadcasting stations.

volume control being effected by a variable resistor I01 placed across the secondary windings of transformer 35 as shown. The output circuit of tube I06 is connected to an output transformer I00 in conventional manner and the secondary windings thereof employed to supply signal voltage. to frequency selective devices I09 and III), such as electrical wave filters tuned to respond selectively to received signals of frequency FI or F2 respectively. The output circuits of .fllters I00 and I I0 are connected to neon lamps I04 and I05, respectively, or to other suitable visual indicating devices. The output of transformer I00 is also connected to a loud speaker, 00, as shown, to give audible indication of the character of the trafiic light towards which the car is approaching.

A simple modification of the ultra-high frequency receiving and signal indicating system is shown in the schematic diagram of Figure 22 in which the output of the ultra-high frequency detector unit 61 is supplied to a suitable input circuit, such as that of the first stage audio amplitier, of a conventional automobile broadcast receiver I I I. Means are thereby provided by which the broadcast receiver may be easily adapted to receive horizontally polarized ultra high frequency traffic control signals emitted by the horizontal transmitting dipole of the radio traflic control device as well as customary enter- Since the ultra-high frequency traffic control signal delivered to the audio frequency amplifier of thr broadcast receiver will be heard from loud speaker. 68 regardless of the broadcasting wave length to which the radio frequency and detector circuits of the broadcast receiver may be tuned, such a receiver, when approaching an ultra-high frequency traific control transmitter, will, without tuning adjustments on the part of the driver, provide audible indication of the character of the traii'ic signal superimposed on the received broadcast program signal and when the trafiic control light has been passed the signal from the broadcasting station alone will be received in a normal manner. By connecting the input circuits of suitable frequency selective devices, such as sharply tuned electrical wave filters I09 and H0 of proper design, shown in dotted lines, to the output of the broadcast receiver as indicated in Figure 22, selectively operated visual signal indicators, such as neon lamps I04 and I05, may be visibly actuated by the output voltage of filters I00 and H0, respectively, to give visual indication of the exact character of the traffic lights ahead of the car.

In a modification of the present preferred embodiment of the invention, illustrated in Figures 23 and 24, particularly adapted to a railroad signal light system, the microwave oscillator 60 and associated horizontal dipole antenna 6| arranged in a protective housing similar to that shown in preceding figures, are disposed on legs II2 secured to the top of the supporting member H3 of the signal device wherein are embodied a plurality of signal lights, such as red light H4 and green light HE. A curved metallic reflector H6 is installed at the rear of oscillator unit 60 to act as a means for directing and concentrating the emitted wave energy from dipole 6| in the direction of projection of lights H4 and H5. The reflector also serves as a shield to prevent the projection of ultra-high frequency energy in a direction opposite to that of the projected light rays from the correlated signal lights. A weatherproof transmitter housing, III, fabricated from glass, porcelain, Bakelite or other suitable material supported by braces I I0 is disposed around oscillator unit 60 and its associated dipole radiator Iil as shown to completely shield the oscillator and antenna from damaging effects of severe storms and to prevent accumulations of ice and excessive moisture from forming on dipole radiator GI, An electrical heating coil II9 may be disposed as shown within housing I H to serve as a means for holding the temperature within the housing at a point high enough to prevent the formation of ice on the outside surface of the housing and also as a means to prevent the accumulation of moisture on the transmitting unit. In order to permit transmission of telephonic messages to the interior of a locomotive equipped with ultra-high frequency receiving apparatus of the type previously described, a hand telephone set I53, similar to that of Figure 12, is provided within control box 10 which also embodies ultrahigh frequency signal control oscillator 85, ampli fier 84, and switching means 99, arranged in electrical circuits identical to those of Figure 18. Connections with a railroad telegraph or telephone system are also provided within housing 10 to provide a means of communication between a central traific station and the interior of the cab of the locomotive in a manner similar to that described heretofore in that part of the specification pertaining to the illustrations of Figures 12 and I8. A storage battery, not illustrated, installed in a weatherproof housing I20 may be provided as an emergency source of power supply to insure the actuation of the ultra-high frequency signal system independent of the power supply means employed to operate lights H4 and US. A small battery-driven motor generator unit, not illustrated, or other suitable source of anode potential may be installed in housing I2I, adjacent to battery housing I20.

The operation of the ultra-high frequency signalling system of Figures 23 and 24 is identical to that of the ultra-high frequency system illustrated in Figure 18. When signal light III is in operation, an ultra-high frequency signal modulated by a control signal having a frequency Fl is emitted by dipole radiator GI and when light H is in operation, the ultra-high frequency signal is modulated by a control signal of frequency F2, FI and F2 corresponding to the red and green signal lights, respectively. The ultra-high frequency signals are received and visual and audible indication of the character of the railroad signals are provided in the cab of a locomotive equipped with a horizontal receiving dipole and ultra-high frequency detector with associated signal indicating equipment similar to that described heretofore in that part of the specifications related to the diagram of Figure 21.

A modification of the ultra-high frequency railroad signal transmitting system shown in Figures 23 and 24 is illustrated in Figures 25 to 28 inclusive, wherein one set of railroad signals I22 and I23, Figure 25, disposed so as to effect control of northbound traflic on track A, Figure 28, employs an ultra-high frequency oscillator 60 with horizontal dipole radiator 6| disposed in front of a curved reflector I24. A second set of railroad signals, I25 and I26, Figures 26 and 27, disposed so as to effect control of northbound traffic on parallel track B, Figure 28, employs an ultra-high frequency oscillator I21 with vertical dipole radiator I28 disposed in front of curved reflector I29 as shown. In this embodiment of the invention, a modulating signal oscillator similar to that of 85, Figure 18, for generating signalling frequencies FI and F2, and

amplifyingand modulating means similar to those shown in Figure 18, may be installed in a housing such as that shown at I30, Figure 27, secured to the bottom of the signal light housing. Adequate support for and spacing between the ultra-high frequency oscillator such as I21 and reflector I25, is effected by [means of an extension arm such as I3I, clearly shown in' Figure 27, secured to housing I30. :Arm I3I, preferably in the form of a pipe also encloses power supply and signal cables connecting the oscilator unit I21 with its modulator in housing I30.

The operation of the devices shown in Figures 25 to 27 inclusive is similar to that of the devices shown in preceding figures with the exception that dipole radiator Iil emits a horizontal polarized wave modulated by the signal frequency correlated with lights I22 and I23, and dipole radiator I23 emits a; vertically polarized wave modulated by signalling frequencies associated with lights I25 and I26, thereby projecting two ultra-high frequency signals having different polarization characteristics along parallel tracks A and B, A northbound locomotive C, Figure 28, equipped with an adjustable receiving dipole I33 disposed in an operative horizontal direction and provided with an ultra-high frequency detector, I36, and associated traflic signal receiving apparatus embodied in the invention as illustrated in the preceding figures, will receive with maximum intensity only the ultra-high frequency signals from horizontal dipole radiator 6| by virtue of the parallel relationship between the transmitting and receiving dipole as previously explained. In like manner another northbound locomotive, D, Figure 28, proceeding in a parallel track 18, equipped with an adjustable receiving dipole I34 disposed in a vertical direction and provided with a detector, I36a, and associated signal indicating apparatus will receive with maximum intensity only the ultra-high frequency signals from vertical dipole radiator I28. Comparatively simple means are thereby provided with which selective ultra-high frequency transmission, on a common wavelength if desired, may be effected between railroad signal devices controlling traflic on adjacent and parallel tracks and moving vehicles proceeding thereon.

One preferred arrangement of ultra-high frequency receiving apparatus suitable for use in connection with the system of Figures 25 to 28 inclusive, is shown in Figures 29 to 31 inclusive. The adjustable receiving dipole, shown-in horizontal position at I35, Figure 29, is connected to an ultra-high frequency detector unit, I36, both units I35 and I35 being installed near the top and at the front of the cab of a locomotive as indicated. The demodulated output of detector unit I36 is supplied, as schematically shown in Figure 30, to the input circuit of an amplifier I31. The output of amplifier I3! is connected to a loud speaker, I33, as shown, and to the input circuits of electrical wave filters, I39, I40 and III, preferably of the tuned reed type, each tuned to a predetermined signal control frequency as Fl, F2 and F3, respectively. The output circuits of the filters, I38, I40 and HI, are connected to signal lights I42, I43 and I44, respectively, installed in proximity to the instrument board of the locomotive. Means are thus provided by which a plurality of control signals each having a different predetermined frequency value, such as FI, F2, F3, as well as telephonic signals emitted by an ultra-high frequency transmitter of a type such as that shown in Figure as well asaudible reception of the trafiic control and speech signals.

A circuit diagram for such an ultra-high frequency receiving and signal indicating system is shown in Figure 31 in which the output circuit,

of ultra-high frequency detector unit I38, similar to that of Figure 21, is connected to the pri- 1 mary windings of amplifying transformer 35 disposed in series in the positive plate battery lead. The secondary windings of transformer 35 are connected in well known manner to the input circuit of amplifier I31 whose output is connected to loud speaker I38 and the exciting coils of tuned reed filters I", I- and ill. The output coils of filters in, land HI are connected to the input circuits of amplifiers I", l4] and ill, respectively, whose respective output circuits are connected to the windings of relays "8,1" and lil respectively as shown. The armature contacts of relays I", II. and lil are connected in series with electric lampslfl, I" and I respectively, and a source of electric potential such as a storage battery, II), as shown. It is obvious that a time delay relay, 28, and a power and brake control relay, 29, may be added if, desired to the circuit of red lamp I so as to bring the'train to a stop should the brake not be applied within a predetermined time after the stop signal has been energized.

' The operation of the circuit shown in Figure 31 is such that when an incoming modulating signal, having a control frequency Fl, for example, is supplied to amplifier I", the amplified signal is delivered to' the exciting coils of tuned reed filters I38, I and Ill. The tuned metallic of filter I which is tuned to respond to predetermined signalling frequency Fl, is forced into sustained vibration by the signal voltage in the exciting coils having frequency Fl and a small voltage is thereby induced in the output coils of the filter unit in well known manner; The filtered output voltage is then supplied to the input circuit of amplifier I 48 whose output voltage causes the actuation of relay Ill and the subsequent closing of the lighting circuit of red lamp III as may be understood readily from the circuit diagram. Since the tuned reeds of filters of I and Ill are not forced into vibration by the applied signal voltage of frequency Fl no voltage is induced in the output coils of these filters, and

consequently no actuating current is supplied to 'relays "ll-and III controlling the operation of lamps I and I respectively. It is further pointed out that a sustained electrical wave of given frequency such as Fl is necessary to efi'ect sufilcient vibration of the reeds of the filter units to induce an operative voltage in the output coils of thefilters. Thus reception of speech modulated signals of constantly varying frequency and amplitude does not interfere with the operation of the visual signal indicating means. Moreover,

as tuned reed filters of the type described are extremely selective with regard to frequency response characteristics they thereby effect the re- "derstanding of my invention as applied to the receiving apparatus employed by vehicles and embodying my invention, reference is made to my copending application Serial .No. 228,052 filed September 1, 1938, entitled Ultra-high frequency receiving system, as a. continuation-in-part of the instant application. While ultra-high frequenciesare specifically mentioned herein, it is to be understood that lower frequency carriers may be used to obtain the desired resul It will 'be recognized that the illustrative sys tems described herein are capable of considerable modification and rearrangement without; departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and it is therefore to be understood that the following claims embrace all such modifications and equivalent arrangements as may fairly be construed to fall within the scope of the invention.

What I claim as new and desire to secure by Letters Patent of the United States is as follows:

1. In a system-for controlling the movement of vehicular traflic, a trafiic control device having a plurality of distinctively colored trafiic signal lights disposed so as to effect control of tramc in a particular lane, aradio transmitter for effecting spacial transmission of an emitted radio wave 'along'said lane, a control signal generator for modulating said radio wave by a signal having a frequency Fl when one of said distinctively colored traffic signal lights of said traffic control device .is in operation and by a signal having a frequency F2 when another of said distinctively colored traffic signal lights of said traific control device is in operation, a switch to select for actuation one or the other of said trafilc signal lights and simultaneously to select the frequency of said control signal associated with said trafllc signal light, and a radio receiver disposed on a vehicle proceeding in said lane, said receiver having attached thereto correspondingly colored signal lights controlled by frequency discriminating devices connected so as to effect actuation of either of said lights dependent on the particular frequency of the signal modulating said radio wave.

2. In a traific control system in combination with sets of trafiic signal lights for projecting light rays of distinguishing color characteristics, circuit means for .selectively energizing said traffic signal lights to effect projection of light rays having a desired color characteristic, a radio transmitter for radiating radio energy waves in space in the direction of projection of said light rays, a control signal generator for modulating said radio transmitter with a plurality of control signals; means for changing the frequency of said signal generator to efiect a particular modulation of said transmitter with a control signal simultaneously with projection of light rays having a particular color characteristic, radio receiving apparatus mounted on a vehicle and responsive to jection of all but the proper control signals in the output circuits of the filter units.

For a better and further understanding of the nature of my invention utilizing the polarized characteristic of ultra-high frequency energy in said radio energy waves, and visual signal indicators corresponding in color with the colors of said trafllc signallights controlled by said receiving apparatus and operative simultaneously and in correlation with the operation of said trafiic signal lights.

3. In a trafiic control system, sets of trafilc

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