Cowcatcher

A cowcatcher, also known as a pilot, is the device mounted at the front of a locomotive to deflect obstacles on the track that might otherwise damage or derail it or the train.

Objects lying on the tram track come in contact with a sensor bracket, which triggers the lowering of a basket-shaped device to the ground, preventing the overrunning of the obstacles and dragging them along the road surface in front of the wheels.

The first practical cowcatcher is widely credited to Isaac Dripps, who fitted one to the John Bull (locomotive) in 1833 [2] shortly after steam haulage commenced on the Camden and Amboy Railroad.

Modern locomotives often have front and rear platforms with safety rails, or deeply recessed steps, where workers can ride.

To protect the crew and passengers, most modern locomotives have a horizontally grooved steel beam known as an anti-climber fitted across the front, above the coupler.