Sensing technology for rail transit applications: key to moving towards intelligence and efficiency

A sensor is a detection device that can sense the measured information and convert it into electrical signals or other required forms of information output according to certain rules, in order to meet the requirements of information transmission, processing, storage, display, recording, and control. In rail transit, there are various types of sensors, including speed sensors, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, acceleration sensors, etc., which together form the"nerve endings"of the rail transit system.

The Application of Sensing Technology in Rail Transit
1. Train operation status monitoring
Sensors are used on trains to monitor the real-time running status of the train. For example, speed sensors can accurately measure the speed of a train, ensuring that the train operates within a safe speed range; Temperature sensors are used to monitor the temperature of various components of the train and prevent malfunctions caused by overheating; Pressure sensors are used to detect the pressure status of key components such as the train braking system and tires, ensuring the safety and stability of train operation.
2. Remote monitoring of track status
As the infrastructure for train operation, the status of the track directly affects the safety and comfort of train operation. By installing sensors on the track, key parameters such as geometric dimensions, wear, cracks, etc. of the track can be monitored in real time. These data are transmitted wirelessly to the control center, providing scientific basis for track maintenance, reducing maintenance costs, and improving maintenance efficiency.

3. Comprehensive performance testing of trains
The integrated high-speed comprehensive inspection train uses multiple sensors to perform comprehensive performance testing on the train. These sensors can monitor key indicators such as vibration, noise, and traction performance of trains in real time, providing data support for optimizing train performance. At the same time, through data analysis, potential faults can be detected in a timely manner, improving the reliability and safety of trains.
4. Rail flaw detection
As an important component of train operation, the quality of steel rails directly affects the safety of train operation. The traditional rail inspection method has problems such as low efficiency and poor accuracy. By using advanced sensing technologies such as ultrasonic sensors, precise detection of internal defects in steel rails can be achieved, improving the accuracy and efficiency of rail flaw detection.
5. Comprehensive indoor and outdoor environmental sensing
In the rail transit system, indoor and outdoor environments have a significant impact on train operation and passenger comfort. By installing environmental sensors, real-time monitoring of indoor and outdoor temperature, humidity, air pressure and other parameters can be achieved, providing scientific basis for the adjustment of train air conditioning, ventilation and other systems, and improving passenger comfort. Meanwhile, these sensors can also be used to monitor air quality and prevent the impact of air pollution on passenger health.
6. Application of Fiber Optic Sensing Technology
Fiber optic sensing technology is widely used in the field of rail transit due to its long transmission distance, low attenuation, high sensitivity, and strong anti-interference ability. For example, fiber Bragg grating sensors can be used to monitor key parameters such as track deformation and tunnel structure safety, providing strong support for the safe operation of rail transit systems.

Future prospects of sensing technology
With the continuous development and application of intelligent sensing technology, the rail transit system will become more intelligent and efficient. In the future, sensors will become more compact and integrated, achieving higher accuracy and lower power consumption. At the same time, with the integration and application of technologies such as the Internet of Things, big data, and artificial intelligence, sensors will no longer be isolated data collection devices, but will become an important component of the rail transit system, providing strong support for the intelligent management and decision-making of the system.