Success Stories

Railway Condition Monitoring System

Prof. Ho Siu-lau
Prof. Tam Hwa-yaw
Department of Electrical Engineering

Railway Condition Monitoring System is a novel operation system to detect train vibration and train weight by primarily using Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensing network.  Because of the fast response of the optical system, trains can be monitored in real-time during normal service without disruption to its normal operating times.

The hundreds of optical sensors provide feedback on vibration, acceleration and temperature change, helping engineers to monitor the condition of tracks and train carriages as well as structural health of the rail foundation.  A novel method to monitor the life expectancy of traction motors was also developed to extend its life expectancy from 30 to 60 years.