Fibre optic track vibration monitoring system

Abstract

Track monitoring systems are a fundamental part of railroad safety. With the electrification and development of train traction control electronics, levels of electromagnetic interference (EMI) close to railroad monitoring systems are reaching critical levels. Unreliable track safety and fault monitoring systems could affect the efficient and safe functioning of railroads and therefore strict demands must be placed on track monitoring systems to ensure electromagnetic compatibility. The Prague subway system is not an exception. An alternative track vibration monitoring system has been proposed, demonstrated and tested along a single railway track in the Prague subway system. Two passive detection systems placed 50 m and 1.3 km away from the control room were used to measure tunnel vibrations triggered by passing trains free from the effect of any unrelated EMI existing in the subway tunnel. Fibre optic based systems immune to EMI can offer an efficient solution to both track and train monitoring.