Drive-by methodology to identify resonant bridges using track irregularity measured by high-speed trains

Resonance of railway bridges is a matter major concern in high-speed railways because it reduces riding comfort, damages the attached structures, and decreases strength girder bodies. Although this abnormal behavior can be inspected using situ displacement measurements taken from ground, its investigation tedious and, consequently, very expensive. In study, authors developed novel drive-by system for to detect resonant bridges; difference between two track irregularities at same position devices mounted on first last vehicles train was measured. This based idea that response vehicle passing through bridge attributed superposition resonance mechanisms. However, primarily arises since phenomenon not yet sufficiently excited. The Detection Index (RDI), defined as measured by vehicles, used emphasize component excited length propose methodology detecting bridges. Numerical simulations clarify span irregularity have greater effects RDI than either measurement noise or positioning error. Track may cause vary ± 2 mm depending wave irregularity. Consequently, study demonstrates with spans 20 60 m detected proposed RDI. Finally, method applied actual trains operating Japan. More ten bridges, out more 800 were according performed three these demonstrating presence thereby validating method.