ON BOARD DATA PROCESSING FOR TRACK RECORDING VEHICLES

The capability of analysing measured track data automatically, using on-board computer processing equipment, can transform a conventional recording vehicle from a role of simply producing records needing visual interpretation, into a system able to function as the prime source of data for programmes used to plan and control the overall track maintenance activity. The cost savings which may be derived from the--now possible--optimisation of the use of maintenance resources, together with operation at increased efficiency can make the installation of this on-board equipment (assuming the availability of off-line equipment with which it can communicate) highly cost effective. British Rail operates two main recording vehicles; the High Speed Track Recording Coach (HSTRC) is used by the Civil Engineering Department as a source of track data for maintenance purposes, and the Track Recording Multiple Unit (TRMU) is used by the Research & Development Division as a source of track data for experimental purposes and as a development vehicle. Both vehicles employ data processing equipment of the type referred to, utilising inter-data Model 70 mini computers. The work described in this paper results from a study carried out to provide alternatives to these computers, since the model 70 is now obsolescent, with the object of using micro-processors, or more precisely micro-computers, of which a wide range of types is now currently available. The system described however is considered to be generally applicable, and capable of installation, on most recording vehicles able to provide the track data in a suitable analogue or digital form.

• Corporate Authors:

  International Railway Congress Association

  17-21 rue de Louvrain
  1000 Brussels,   Belgium 
• Authors:
  • LEWIS, R B
  • Conway, KDW
• Publication Date: 1984-1

Media Info

• Pagination: p. 33-40
• Serial:
  • RAIL INTERNATIONAL
  • Volume: 15
  • Issue Number: 1

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Data collection; Information processing; Inspection cars; Maintenance management; Maintenance of way; Maintenance practices; Minicomputers; Planning; Railroad tracks; Structural design
• Identifier Terms: British Rail
• Uncontrolled Terms: Track geometry
• Subject Areas: Maintenance and Preservation; Planning and Forecasting; Public Transportation; Railroads;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00386249
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: British Railways
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jul 30 1984 12:00AM