Tram track stiffness measurement based on the vision method

Abstract

One of the main parameters characterizing properties of railway track is vertical stiffness. Provision of its appropriate value is crucial from the point of view of dynamic interactions occurring in a wheel-rail contact, what in turn translates into vehicle running behaviour and safety, passenger comfort, as well as further degradation of track condition. Track stiffness measurement is a cumbersome process requiring expensive equipment and can be carried out only if the line is closed. The following research is intended to estimate tram track vertical stiffness by means of vision method which can be performed during regular tram operation. Track deflections of tram line in the city of Poznan were carried out using high-speed camera and further used for vertical stiffness estimation.