Re: Google science fair finalist- foul-proof switch
Author: TT
Date: 07-13-2011 - 12:25
The apparent source of the problem is this:
I began as an assistant conductor and have recently been trained as a junior fireman on the steam locomotive. On the weekends I can see how physics, math, mechanics, and electronics are applied in the safe operation of the train and also how problems can arise. I became more familiar with switches after we experienced a few derailments. These events got me wondering, “what if there was a way to stop trains from derailing on incorrectly-set switches?”
That's a narrow gauge operation with small cars. Apparently they're light enough to derail at a switch that's not correctly aligned. Based on that first hand experience, he drew some conclusions that weren't entirely correct: i.e. That a full size train will "always" derail at an improperly lined "fixed switch" and that a spring switch will still cause derailments. (Only true in toy trains)
So, he's done some research, has some experience in the subject, but managed to come to an incorrect conclusion. Hardly the first scientist to ever do that.
All this indicates is the need for further research and/or testing. If this was a real experiment, that would be the next step.