Algorithm to Estimate the Lateral Position of Wheel-Rail Contact and Corresponding Rail Profile Radius

This article develops and validates an algorithm to estimate the lateral position of wheel-rail contact corresponding rail profile radius. The radius are two novel performance measures that enable more refined characterization its influence on wear vehicle dynamics. Leveraging recent advancements in monitoring techniques, contributes maintenance research practice by developing new based solely commonly available data. developed this is automated process estimates along a segment. It uses measured data as input applies rigid theory model between linear wheel profile. calculated using computer programming provides graphical numerical results profile-by-profile basis well summary statistics for each methodology produces expected when subjected validation tests. analyzes rationality algorithmic output against series from selected tangent segments closed-loop captive-fleet North American transit property. does not significantly deviate any results, such, considered validated.