Unusual crossing arm rest

[storminorman]

I thought I posted this the other night but no luck finding it today. At a local crossing one arm pole has an unusual device at the very top. At about 20" tall it has four oblong holes at the very top. What is it...does anyone know? I can post a pic IF I can figure out how to do that here.

 

[storminorman]

Hoping to post a pic of this crossing arm in question.

 

[kenw]

you got it. that's the 'bell' that sounds at the raising and lowering. It is an electronic bell, in the tube and the 4 holes let the sound out.

 

[bcp]

All the "electronic bells" I've heard sound pretty realistic.

Are they recorded or synthesized?

Bruce

 

[Rader Sidetrack]

All the "electronic bells" I've heard sound pretty realistic.
Are they recorded or synthesized?

This one claims to be recorded:
http://www.generalsignals.com/electronic_crossing_bell.htm

The sound of a mechanical bell has been permanently recorded on a micro-chip and is then played back through an outdoor speaker utilizing 16-bit sound technology. The sound of the electronic bell cannot be distinguished from that of an actual mechanical bell.

However, I seriously doubt that "the sound of the electronic bell cannot be distinguished from that of an actual mechanical bell."

 

[storminorman]

Pretty amazing...next time I wait at that crossing, (which is often) I will make a point to get out and stand next to the pole and listen. Thanks everyone for the info here.

 

[NM_RailNut]

This one claims to be recorded:
http://www.generalsignals.com/electronic_crossing_bell.htm


However, I seriously doubt that "the sound of the electronic bell cannot be distinguished from that of an actual mechanical bell."

I've always been able to tell the difference, as the electronic bells seem to have an odd, "tinny" pitch to them. Then again, most folks wouldn't even notice; only someone who's a railroader or railfan would really notice the difference.

 

[Robert Gift]

Makesense!
Place the "bell" closer to pedestrians' ears.

They should make the-bell openings so thathey can AIM the sound straight down the street and noto the sides when not needed in those directions.
In China, they usefficient exponential-horn speakers to aim the sound right where needed and less goes where not wanted.

The artificial bell sounds may be composed of tones and harmonics to be.tter heard by those with impaired hearing.