Caterpillar (CAT) USPTO patentsUtility grant

A system may include a data acquisition hub connected to databases and sensors associated with locomotives, systems, or components of a train and configured to acquire real-time and historical configuration, structural, and operational data in association with inputs derived from real time and historical contextual data relating to a plurality of trains.

A milling machine can include a frame; at least two tracks coupled to the frame for propelling the milling machine; first and second hydraulic cylinders configured to steer each of the at least two tracks, respectively; an adjustable hydraulic tie rod extending between the at least two tracks; first and second steering collars coupled to the each of the tracks to move the tracks, wherein the first hydraulic cylinder is coupled to the first steering collar and the second hydraulic cylinder is coupled to the second steering collar, and wherein the adjustable hydraulic tie rod is coupled to both of the steering collars; one or more sensors to determine the positions of the at least two tracks; and a hydraulic steering control system coupled to the first and second hydraulic cylinders and the adjustable hydraulic tie rod and configured to vary a steering mode of the at least two tracks between a parallel steering mode and an Ackerman steering mode, wherein if one of the one or more sensors fails, the hydraulic steering control system defaults to move the at least two tracks into the Ackerman steering mode.