Vibroacoustic tests
We develop dedicated methods and tools for detecting emergency conditions, finding malfunctions, classifying the technical condition, and predicting future states using vibroacoustic signals. Our area of competence includes systemic evaluation of how the vehicle works with the track, as well as identification of the causes of excessive wear or non-standard damage of vehicle or infrastructure components. We also evaluate the vibroacoustic environment indicators of a vehicle, taking into account both the passenger’s and the vehicle operator’s exposure to vibrations and noise.
On-line diagnostics of rolling stock and infrastructure
The vehicle and track technical condition monitoring system developed by our specialists from the Institute of Transport is based on a network of dispersed sensors installed in a vehicle, with data from the sensors sent to a server. For a vehicle, the new system enables, among other things, wear evaluation of the running gear components, detection of emergency conditions, dynamic adaptation of the scope of day-to-day maintenance, comprehensive rolling stock management, travel safety and comfort monitoring, as well as structural loads of the vehicle. With reference to track infrastructure, the primary task of the system is the supervision of the key sections and immediate detection of damage and failures: corrugation, cracks, scouring, etc. The main advantage of the system is its simplicity and low installation costs. It can be used with all types of trams operated by public transport companies across Poland. In the future, it should become part of the standard equipment of each new tram.
Rail vehicle dynamics tests
The knowledge and vast research experience of the employees of the Institute of Transport make it possible to perform tests in accordance with the PN-EN 14363 standard or other guidelines for assessing the safety of travel and running smoothness of a railway vehicle. Dynamics measurements also enable the evaluation of the comfort of travel, the operation of the running gear components in real-world conditions or qualitative infrastructure evaluation. The tests can include both urban rail vehicles and railway vehicles.
Rail vehicle design
We offer design services for both complete rail vehicles (railway and urban) and their components. We specialise in particular in vehicle running gear calculations, including brake systems, suspension, and power transmission.
Hazard risk management in transport
Our team participates in the development of the scientific foundations for hazard risk management and has a variety of teaching materials available. With training and individual consultations, we assist in the creation of systems adapted to company characteristics. We can also provide support in the preparation of a risk management report in accordance with regulation no. 402/2013 (CSM RA).
Evaluation of permanent way infrastructure
We carry out tests to evaluate the technical condition of rail infrastructure based on a visual inspection, measurements of the geometric position of the track, and measurements of the profiles of key components of rail infrastructure. For a comprehensive evaluation of the technical condition, we use measurements and the dynamic response of rail vehicles in real-world conditions.
Brake tests in rail vehicles
We perform friction material tests in laboratory conditions and in operation. At the same time, we carry out vibroacoustic, thermovision, and strain gauge tests. The final stage of the work is the verification and validation of our models in real-world conditions.