Takefumi Miyamoto

Inspection system for railway facilities using a continuously scanned image

A continuously scanned image (CSI) gives convenient image data for inspection of elongated facilities in railways, such as tracks, rolling stocks, and so on. We have developed a system named ConSIS to take the CSI at a high data rate of 40 M pixel/s. The system comprises a line-sensor camera and a data-recorder. As the result of field tests taking the CSI of tracks, rolling stock, and tunnel walls, the feasibility of an inspection system using the CSI was confirmed. Additionally, we have developed a prototype image database system to examine effective use of the CSI, in which useful functions, such as normalizing a scale of the CSI, scrolling a continuous image, and zooming a fine image for observation, are implemented. Further, we have developed a method to extract cracks on a concrete surface for automatic inspection using the CSI and a computer.

Evaluation of rotational resistance of bogies

To prevent derailment such as flange-climbing derailment, precise understanding of the vehicle dynamics is important. In this study, the authors have developed a bogie rotational resistance test machine which has many innovative functions to understand the characteristics of railway bogies. The test machine can measure the rotational resistance of a bogie connected to a carbody. By using this machine, some distinctive characteristics of the rotational resistance have been clarified. As a result, a modified simulation model was constructed based on the test result, and it enabled a more accurate analysis of vehicle dynamics during the curve passage.