Research areas
The IRR carries out world leading research in the areas of:
- Vehicle and track dynamics
- Traction, braking and energy systems
- Pantographs and overhead systems
- Advanced safety management systems
- Condition monitoring and analytics
- Technology development and innovation
Below are some examples of capabilities and key project in each area:
Vehicle and track dynamics
- Vehicle & Track Dynamics
- Wheel-Rail Interaction
- Train-structure interaction in transition zones
and in switches & crossings - Track component design and failure mode analysis
- Noise and vibration
- Bridges and tunnels analysis
Key projects:
- Crossrail intelligent maintenance tool
- HS2 track system & WRI performance
- Tram-train wheel profile development
- NR60 crossing redesign
- LU track system modelling, keys and screws
Traction, braking and energy systems
- Traction and braking system research
- Wheel-rail adhesion research
- Hybrid drivetrain and alternative energy evaluation
- Energy recovery system development
- Decarbonisation strategy development
Key projects:
- LABRADOR: low adhesion train braking model development (RSSB)
- LILAC: investigation of the effect of wheel-rail
- third-body layers on adhesion (RSSB)
- Decarbonisation options for rail (RSSB)
- Digital displacement pumps for high efficiency drives (RSSB)
Pantographs and overhead systems
- Contact quality assessment & improvement
- Virtual homologation of pantograph-OLE systems
- Multiple pantographs in straight & curved tracks
- Design of rigid & flexible OLE systems
- Dynamic gauging & clearances
- Modelling of catenary singularities
- Pantograph design & performance
Key projects:
- EU: S2R-PantOCL (2018-2019)
- TOPCAT (2017-2018)
- KLK / SNCF Rigid Catenary (2018)
- World Benchmarks (2014-2015)
- EU: PantoTRAIN (2009-2012)
- EU: EUROPAC (2005-2007)
Advanced safety management systems
- Active bow-ties for safety system modelling
- Enterprise architecture to support safety decision making
Key projects:
- Close calls – analysis for railway free text records
- Train driver competence performance indicators
- TaVizOn
Condition monitoring and analytics
- Big Data Risk Analysis (BDRA)
- Big Data Operational Analysis (BDOA)
- Big Data Engineering Analysis (BDEA)
Key projects:
- Red Aspect Approach to Signals (RAATS)
- Diesel Engine Efficiency (Data analytics)
- RAMP track geometry prediction tool
Technology development and innovation
- Design Support and R&D
- Route to Market
- Funding Advice
- SME Collaboration
- Simulation, Analysis and Advanced Testing
- Innovation and Business Case Support
Key projects:
- Intelligent gauge corner lubrication detection
- Train-based void detection
- Trespass matting product development