An Approach for Real-Time Monitoring of Train Derailments: An Impact-Based Monitoring Method

Abstract

Train derailments are severe incidents in rail transportation, posing significant risks to passenger safety and infrastructure integrity. However, the excessive lateral vibrations of the wheelset, which are a direct cause of derailments, often cannot be effectively monitored and analyzed using traditional methods. Therefore, it is crucial to develop real-time monitoring methods that can detect and prevent derailments, ensuring the safety of railway transportation.To address and prevent train derailments, this paper introduces an impact monitoring method focused on rail fasteners. This technique enables the rapid detection of single-wheel derailments from the track. By analyzing the behavior of rail fasteners under various load conditions, we have identified key parameters that can be utilized to detect potential derailment risks. The method primarily involves monitoring changes in lateral and longitudinal vibrational energy, along with the intervals between impacts on fasteners, and incorporating the vertical displacement of wheels to trigger a derailment alarm.Simulation and experimental results demonstrate that this approach can accurately identify derailment characteristics and issue timely warnings, effectively preventing and mitigating train derailments. This method offers a practical solution for enhancing rail transportation safety and contributes to the advancements in this field.