Track Geometry Correction Using Constraint Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing track geometry correction methods, such as the compensation procedure, lead to deviations from the original design geometry over time, especially at fixed points like bridges and tunnels, where there is no scope for relocation, resulting in inaccuracies and the need to set shift values to zero, which compromises the quality of the target track profile.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that record actual position points along a track section using a position detection system, specifying at least one point as a forced point, and perform a compensation calculation to adjust the target geometry through constraint points, using actual geometry data and filtering routing elements to determine accurate lifting and guide values, without relying on external reference points or design geometry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the compensation method is used to correct track geometry without external reference points, then the cost is reduced and the method can be implemented on lines with lower requirements, but the track geometry drifts away from the original design geometry over time, especially at fixed points like bridges and tunnels
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs a preliminary measurement run to record the actual track geometry before maintenance. This preliminary data is stored and used as a reference basis for the compensation calculation, allowing the target geometry to be calculated without external reference points while maintaining accuracy by comparing against the pre-recorded actual geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the preliminary measurement data to continuously adjust and optimize the target geometry calculation. By comparing the measured actual geometry with the calculated target geometry and incorporating feedback from constraint points, the system maintains accuracy over multiple correction cycles without drifting from the original design geometry
2Stability of the object's composition
If shift values are set to zero at fixed points like bridges and tunnels to maintain position, then the track position is preserved at these locations, but the overall quality of the target track profile is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different treatment to different locations along the track. At fixed points like bridges and tunnels, the actual measured positions are used as constraint points that must be satisfied. Between these fixed points, the system optimizes the track geometry using compensation calculations. This local differentiation allows maintaining stability at fixed points while achieving high overall profile quality
Solution Approach 2:
The track is segmented into sections defined by constraint points at fixed locations. Each segment is independently optimized using the compensation calculation method, with the boundary conditions set by the constraint points. This segmentation allows the system to preserve exact positions at fixed points while optimizing the geometry in the intermediate sections, maintaining both stability and overall quality
3Measurement precision
If external reference points are used to define absolute track geometry, then the track position can be precisely defined relative to fixed structures, but the system complexity increases and requires regular remeasurement of geothetic reference points
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the track itself and its actual measured geometry as the reference, rather than requiring external reference points attached to fixed structures. The preliminary measurement run captures the actual track position, and this self-referenced data is used for all subsequent compensation calculations, eliminating the need for external reference infrastructure and reducing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using physical external reference points, the system creates a digital copy or model of the actual track geometry from the preliminary measurement. This digital representation serves as the reference for all calculations, eliminating the need for physical reference structures while maintaining the precision benefits of having a defined reference geometry
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 significantly enhances the quality of the target track profile by adapting the entire calculated target geometry to predetermined constraint points, ensuring precise corrections and maintaining the track's original design geometry, even at fixed locations, with improved accuracy and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
Based on this measurement, a compensation calculation is performed, in which a previously unknown target geometry is calculated based on the actual geometry. A similar method is described in document EP 3 358 079 A1.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for determining a target geometry (S) of a track (5) for correcting the position of the track (5), in which method an actual geometry (I) of the track (5) is first detected along a track section (26) by means of a measuring system (8), and the target geometry (S) is subsequently calculated on the basis of the actual geometry (I) by means of a computing unit (36). In the process, actual position points (15) of the track (5) are detected along the track section (26) by means of a position detection system (13), at least one actual position point (15) being specified to the computing unit (36) as a pass-through point (24) and the target geometry (S) being calculated by means of the computing unit (36) in such a way that the target geometry (S) is aligned with the actual geometry (I) as a sequence of geometric line routing elements (31, 32, 33) and is laid through the specified pass-through point (24). A significant improvement in quality in comparison with known compensation methods including pre-measurement is obtained as a result.