Rail Track Geometry Correction via Real-Time Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for correcting track geometry after ballast cleaning are inefficient, requiring extensive measurement runs and longer construction sites due to sequential operation of cleaning and tamping machines.
Innovation Solution
A method where a cleaning machine and a tamping machine operate sequentially, with the cleaning machine continuously cleaning ballast and the tamping machine simultaneously correcting track geometry using real-time position data from a measuring trailer and sighting carriage, transmitting actual and correction values to the tamping machine for immediate adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a cleaning machine and tamping machine operate sequentially with extensive measurement runs, then measurement precision is improved, but the overall length of the construction site increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning machine performs preliminary ballast cleaning and position measurement before the tamping machine arrives. The actual position data is measured and recorded during the cleaning process, preparing the foundation for subsequent correction operations without requiring separate measurement runs
Solution Approach 2:
A control system receives actual position data from the cleaning machine's measuring trailer and calculates correction values that are transmitted to the downstream tamping machine. This feedback loop enables the tamping machine to perform precise corrections based on real-time measurement data, eliminating the need for extensive separate measurement runs
2Manufacturing precision
If a cleaning machine and tamping machine operate sequentially with extensive measurement runs, then manufacturing precision of track geometry is improved, but the overall length of the construction site increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the measurement function into the cleaning machine itself, merging two separate operations (measurement and cleaning) into one. The cleaning machine is equipped with a measuring trailer that records actual position data during cleaning, eliminating the need for separate measurement vehicles and reducing the overall construction site length
Solution Approach 2:
A control system acts as an intermediary between the cleaning machine's measurement data and the tamping machine's correction operations. The control system calculates correction values based on actual position data and transmits them to the tamping machine, enabling precise geometry correction without requiring extensive separate measurement runs that would increase construction site length
3Measurement precision
If separate measurement runs are conducted before track correction, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning machine continuously measures and records actual position data during the ballast cleaning process. This continuous measurement approach eliminates the need for separate, discrete measurement runs, maintaining measurement precision while significantly reducing the total time required for both measurement and correction operations
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces the overall length of the construction site by allowing continuous ballast cleaning and track correction, eliminating the need for extensive measurement runs and optimizing the process.
Implementation Method 1
With the aid of a laser transmitter 19 and a laser beam 20, the position of the track 2 in relation to the fixed point 12 can be calculated
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
In order to correct a rail track position during the cleaning of ballast, the cleaned ballast is returned to a rail track (2) and the actual position of the rail track is measured by detecting actual position data. In parallel, fixed point correctional values are acquired by means of a trailing visual inspection car (11). The actual position data and the fixed point correctional values are transmitted to the trailing tamping machine (14) and are used to determine correctional values for a target position of the rail track to be obtained by tamping.