Model train engine hoisting mechanism
OwnerDavid Sauerwaldinventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
The hoisting mechanism known as the Engine Jack is an apparatus that may be positioned between the rails of a section of model train track such that it provides support for a model train engine while maintaining electrical contact with the rails. The Engine Jack enables model train engines to operate while standing still, yet providing the illusion that the model train engine is on the track. This allows the model train engine to be either serviced or put on display while the model train engine is running.
Claims12
An apparatus installed between the rails of a model train track to suspend a model train engine over said track and maintain electrical connectivity to enable a model train engine to operate while stationary comprising:
- Two slideably attached support rails with rail contact prongs;
- A slideable cross mount attached to said support rails;
- A cross mount spring pin attached to said support rails;
- Four adjustable engine support jack screws;
- Four engine support screw caps;
- Two wheel contact holders;
- Two wheel contact springs;
- Two wheel contacts;
- Wherein said slideably attached support rails are set in parallel and are adjustably connected by said cross mount that is fastened perpendicularly to said rails;
- And wherein said engine support jack screws are positioned to extend vertically from the upper surface of said support rails;
- And wherein said wheel contact holders extend vertically from one end of said support rails such that said wheel contact springs and said wheel contacts are positioned to extend perpendicularly from said wheel contact holders so as to maintain contact with the wheels of any model train engine placed upon said apparatus;
- The apparatus so configured as to support any model train engine in suspension over said model train track while simultaneously maintaining electrical contact between said model train engine and said model train track.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.