This invention relates generally to a device which utilizes a solar powered Internet of Things (IoT) technology to remotely monitor the position of railroad switches and derails and send updates by cellular signal to a database via a cloud platform. This new and novel technology allows for cost effective remote monitoring of railroad switch points and derails in dark territory without the need for wayside power or radio communication equipment. The device is also capable of being integrated with dispatch CAD (computer automated dispatch), wayside signalization, positive train control devices, automatic alert generations, active warning devices, crossing gates, as well as power assisted railroad switches.

This invention relates generally to a device which utilizes a solar powered Internet of Things (IoT) technology to remotely monitor the position of railroad switches and derails and send updates by cellular signal to a database via a cloud platform. This new and novel technology allows for cost effective remote monitoring of railroad switch points and derails in dark territory without the need for wayside power or radio communication equipment. The device is also capable of being integrated with dispatch CAD (computer automated dispatch), wayside signalization, positive train control devices, automatic alert generations, active warning devices, crossing gates, as well as power assisted railroad switches.

A remotely activated rail switch system is disclosed herein that is configured to permit the remote control of a railroad switch. The rail switch system may include at least a connecting clamp configured to removably attach to any standard size rail switch throw arm, a motor, an interconnect member between the connecting clamp and the motor, and a transceiver. In various embodiments, the remotely activated rail switch system may be installed without making any modifications to the existing rail infrastructure. For example, the rail switch system may be installed without any welding, digging, and/or other civil construction. Rather, the remotely activated rail switch system may be installed by simply (or only) clamping a frame or body of remotely activated rail switch system to wooden ties adjacent a rail switch and attaching the connecting clamp of the remotely activated rail switch to the throw handle of the switch.