Railway vehicle detection systems are anticipated to face overwhelming EMI problems in the nearest future. Modern propulsion and braking systems are being introduced but can not be fully utilised due to insufficiencies of the existing railway track equipment in general. Even some devices far less sensible than sensors are said to be literally disassembled by the strong magnetic fields of eddy-current brakes used with the new German ICE-3 train. And future engines are going to disturb the frequency range now used for detection purposes, too.
Fiber optic railway sensors developed by SENSOR LINE are designed to be installed between the rail and the sleeper substituting the elastomer pad which is used for many types of track work at that place. Installation only requires loosening of some bolt nuts and lifting the rail a little – just as replacing a rail pad.
Installed in this unique way the sensor causes minimal interference to all kinds of track maintenance and is furthermore protected against most environmental influences including game bite, sabotage and theft. It responds very fast directly to the rail load. Thus it is not only suitable for vehicle detetction but also for purposes which involve analysis of vibrations and shocks.
Operational Benefits
Well-protected placement
No obstacles or protruding parts
No de-installation for track maintenance activities (tamping, grinding, etc)
Allows for location of additional components (electronics) remote from the track
