Railway Engineering: Modelling and Mitigation of Vibration Impact
Development of vibration studies to assess the vibration impact of high-speed, conventional or urban railway lines (trams). Simulation of expected vibration levels using the finite element method, and implementation of corrective measures before the infrastructure is built.
TECHNOLOGY DESCRIPTION
Development of models describing the vibrational behaviour of moving systems. The methodology used is based on finite element analysis (FEM) and is validated through experimental measurements. These models can predict the vibration levels generated by future railway lines, making it possible to establish the most suitable routes and design corrective measures at the project stage.
TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS
The models can be highly useful in the development of new railway infrastructure, particularly urban railways (because of their greater potential impact on the population) and high-speed lines.
Current legislation requires impact studies to be carried out before any railway infrastructure is built. However, there are currently no reliable models that can be adapted to specific environments. For all these reasons, the proposed technology has significant potential in this sector.
ADVANTAGES AND INNOVATIVE ASPECTS
The proposed technology makes it possible to adapt and parameterise a vibration model to reflect the actual conditions of a new infrastructure. At present, there are no reliable vibration models that can be adapted quickly. On the one hand, the modelling systems used by other research groups are extremely complex. Although they offer an acceptable level of reliability, their lack of versatility prevents them from being applied or adapted quickly. On the other hand, the market offers vibration simulation systems that are quick and easy to use but produce highly unreliable results and vibration parameters that differ considerably from the actual conditions of the completed infrastructure.
In addition, the proposed technology enables the models to be validated, making it possible to adjust system parameters and improve their performance.
DEVELOPMENT STAGE
Fully operational and validated against experimental results. The mathematical development has already been validated through experimental comparisons in real projects. The technology is ready to be restructured and applied according to each client’s specific requirements regarding route alignment, terrain and rolling stock.
APPLICATION SECTORS
- Construction Companies and Infrastructure Managers (ADIF and regional authorities).
- Civil Engineering Consultancies.
- Local Councils and Urban Planning Authorities.
- Environmental Consultancies.
PRINCIPAL RESEARCHER
Carlos Pérez Vidal – University Institute for Engineering Research (I3E)