Investigation of the effects of railway track quality on passenger comfort using onboard inertial systems

Peinado Gonzalo, Alfredo (2024). Investigation of the effects of railway track quality on passenger comfort using onboard inertial systems. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Condition monitoring activities in railways are crucial for detecting track and vehicle faults early and minimising their disruptive effects. Nowadays, in-service vehicles are increasingly used due to their availability and low disruption. Installing sensors either on the axlebox, bogie or cab of these vehicles provides information that can be used for a wide range of applications.
This thesis describes the use of a set of inertial sensors installed onboard passenger vehicles for track quality and ride quality monitoring. A novel method for speed estimation is presented and complemented with a method to estimate distance using track geometry.
This work investigates the use of passenger comfort as an indicator of track quality, using current standards, and comparing the comfort results to track quality and driver reports.
Finally, the relevance of the location of sensors in the vehicle is discussed. Two case studies are presented to illustrate the impact of the orientation of the vehicle and direction of travel on the signal received.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):