Dutch trains get lasers to zap track debris

engadget.com ^ | Devember 9 2014 | Jon Fingas

[MeshugeMikey]

You might not see leaves as hazards, but train operators would beg to differ -- foliage on the tracks not only makes it harder for trains to stop, but also messes with anti-collision signals. The greenery might not be much of a danger for much longer, however. Dutch Railways is testing a laser system that zaps leaves (and other organic material) before it reaches the wheels, keeping the tracks clean.

[BipolarBob]

We need these at our Southern border. . . . for clean-ups too.

[Dagnabitt]

They need some inside the trains to zap all the Moroccan pickpockets and purse-snatchers.

The train between Schiphol and Amsterdam is a rolling crime scene.

[Blue Jays]

An alternate inexpensive plan could include a spinning steel brush attached to trains to clean tracks during autumn months. I will bet that is cheaper than a laser-guide leaf zapper.

I have been on trains stuck on a gentle 2% grade due to wet leaves. One would think this problem would have been solved as we've had trains for nearly two centuries!

[KarlInOhio]

Why merely catch cows when you can slice and barbeque them with a laser.

[Hammerhead]

They should just use angry sea bass instead of frickin lasers strapped to their trains.

[moviefan8]

I wanna see sharks with lasers.

[Jack Hydrazine]

Paging Dr. Evil!

[vladimir998]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bh7bYNAHXxw

[Rodamala]

Tent caterpillars are an issue in the spring as well. The real issue is filling the sand tanks and testing the sanders as a part of a daily locomotive inspection.

[Paul R.]

Hmmmm... That spinning steel brush could be very effective on protesters who lay down in front of trains. Just ease up to the obstruction(s) slowly...

[MeshugeMikey]

indeed....and I hear there were some occupy types laying on the train tracks...in Berserkely...trying to stop a train the other day

this would work wonderfully in such situations

[wally_bert]

Maybe Henry Rearden could figure out a surface treatment for his next rail pour. Dagny would work out the replacement schedule.

[Blue Jays]

Ayn Rand was a fantastic author! Loved all her books.

[Moltke]

Hank.

[Smokin' Joe]

That spinning steel brush could be very effective on protesters who lay down in front of trains. Just ease up to the obstruction(s) slowly...

Just the wickers coming off (flying needles of doom!).

I'd dangnear pay to see that.

[MrB]

So, they’re attaching Dr Evil’s sharks to the side of the thing or what?