System and method for identifying point detection calibration prior to point detector lock-out and switch machine failure

A railway switch machine comprising:

• a housing;
• a point detector bar slidably coupled to the housing, the point detector bar structured to be coupled to at least one moveable switch point of a railway system, the point detector bar including a recess portion formed therein, the recess portion defined at least in-part by a sloped portion disposed at one end;
• a roller member disposed adjacent to the point detector bar and positioned to physically engage the sloped portion of the recess portion upon movement of the point detector bar a predetermined distance from an initial position, the roller member being coupled to a switching mechanism structured to provide an indication of a point failure upon movement of the point detector bar the predetermined distance from the initial position;
• and
• a detection and indication system comprising:
• a mounting structure coupled to the housing;
• and
• a first sensing device coupled to the mounting structure, the first sensing device including a secondary roller member disposed adjacent the point detector bar and positioned to physically engage the sloped portion of the recess portion upon movement of the point detector bar a predetermined second distance from the initial position, the secondary roller member being coupled to the first sensing device in a manner such that a signal is produced by the first sensing device upon movement of the point detector bar the second predetermined distance from the initial position,
• wherein the second predetermined distance is less than the first predetermined distance.