An approach for the estimation of lateral track irregularity using axle-box acceleration

PurposeThis article aims to predict the rapid track geometry change in the short term with a higher detection frequency, and realize the monitoring and maintenance of the railway state.Design/methodology/approachFirstly, the ABA data needs to be filtered to remove the DC component to reduce the drift due to integration. Secondly, the quadratic integration in frequency domain for concern components of the vertical and lateral ABA needs to be done. Thirdly, the displacement in lateral of the wheelset to rail needs to be calculated. Then the track alignment irregularity needs to be calculated by the integration of lateral ABA and the lateral displacement of the wheelset to rail.FindingsBy comparing with a commercial track geometry measurement system, the high-speed railway application results in different conditions, after removal of the influence of LDWR, identified that the proposed method can produce a satisfactory result.Originality/valueThis article helps realize detection of track irregularity on operating vehicle, reduce equipment production, installation and maintenance costs and improve detection density.