Railcar cushion device tester and method

A method of testing railcar cushion devices comprising:

• applying a force to a cushion device;
• monitoring the motion of said cushion device;
• continuously adjusting the magnitude of said force responsive to the motion of said cushion device to attain a predetermined motion profile;
• determining a parameter related to the performance of said cushion device at a plurality of positions along said motion profile;
• and
• comparing said parameter to a standard for cushion devices in good condition at each of said positions.

An apparatus for testing railcar cushion devices, the apparatus comprising:

• a hydraulic ram for applying a force to a cushion device being tested;
• monitoring means for generating a signal related to the motion of said cushion device;
• a motion controller for continuously adjusting the magnitude of said force responsive to said motion related signal to effect a predetermined motion of said cushion device by application of said force;
• measurement means for determining a parameter related to the performance of said cushion device at intervals in said motion;
• and
• comparison means for comparing said parameter to a predetermined standard for cushion devices in good condition to determine whether said parameter is within a tolerance of said standard.