The University of Huddersfield’s Institute of Railway Research (IRR) in the UK is working with Siemens to develop a new sensor able to turn every rail vehicle into a track monitor to inspect the condition of rails and track beds.

The easily fitted sensor will also be capable of detecting and transmitting key information about the condition of rails throughout the network.

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Siemens developed the track monitoring system ‘Tracksure’ in partnership with IRR, as part of the remote condition monitoring competition supported by the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) and Network Rail.

The Tracksure sensor card will be fitted to the Siemens cab radios, picking up vibrations and transmitting information to a control centre and able to detect under-track voids.

"A highly efficient algorithm can quickly detect the location and severity of potential track voids."

Tracksure will provide early warning of problems, especially at switches and crossings, as well as at the transition to other assets such as bridges.

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University of Huddersfield IRR researcher Dr Farouk Balouchi said: “Initially we used simulation to identify what type of sensors and what accuracy and sensitivity would be needed for the Tracksure prototype. 

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“This led on to us developing a highly efficient algorithm, which can process large quantities of acceleration data in a short space of time to detect the location and severity of potential track voids.”

Tracksure has a non-intrusive monitoring system and allows the network operator to reduce maintenance and delay costs, line closures, journey re-planning and speed restrictions.

The IRR will further collaborate with Siemens to develop a concept that can provide a boost to rail safety and cost-efficiency.

Image: Tracksure will provide early warning of problems, especially at switches and crossings. Photo: courtesy of University of Huddersfield.