SixD was called in by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) to help maximize passenger capacity by decreasing end-to-end route times.
The Risk of Speed
With increased speed comes an risk of derailment. Results can range from minor inconveniences to the catastrophic. In order to meet increased rider demand, the MBTA sought to lessen the travel time between stations.
This would be accomplished by accelerating train speed by 10 MPH. Before putting the policy in place, however, the MBTA had to be confident that safe operating parameters would be met.
Instrumentation
6D has the technologies and instrumentation to characterize the operating behavior of vehicle suspension systems and the interaction with the track.
The company instrumented the train’s suspension system with linear position sensors and accelerometers. At the same time accelerometers were strategically placed on coach floor above truck centers.
Testing
Data was collected, recorded and stored as the train was put through its normal, daily operation on service routes. In addition to loads and strains, the train’s GPS and speed were also recorded. This would allow engineers to better correlate events to the train’s exact speed and position.
Analysis
Upon completion of the test, the data was downloaded and analyzed. The MBTA put the information to use to meet its new schedules thus increasing ridership.