Railway Engineering: Track and Train Interaction
Mar 20, 2025|
This course is part of our railway engineering series which focuses on an integrated perspective to the practical resolution of daily challenges to achieve a more reliable, safe and high-comfort railway network, transporting people and goods in a fast and efficient way.
Design – Operations – Performance
The central element of this course is 'design', while the two other content courses are dedicated to 'operations' and 'performance'. A final fourth course will integrate all three topics.
Fundamental to railway operations is the interaction between track and train to create a smooth journey from A to B. During these six weeks, we will take a closer look at:
1) Elements, properties and types of vehicle and track
2) Contact patch and interface between wheel and rail, pantograph and catenary wire
3) Traction and energy and the challenges of transition zones and civil engineering structures
Dealing with railway issues today
Using practical examples, you will experience and examine the key aspects of railway systems and the complex interfaces and interactions between infrastructure and rolling stock.
After taking this course, you will be able to apply the system knowledge of railway interfaces and interactions that you have acquired to design new solutions to real-life problems or make suitable adjustments when elements of these interfaces change.
Since there can be many appropriate solutions, managerial or executive decisions often involve compromise. During this course, you will learn to use tools to support your decisions and make a strong case for your proposed solutions.
After taking this course you will be able to:
Analyse the interfaces and interaction of track and train and their effects on the railway system, with an understanding that dependencies of the system mean one change will require an understanding of the adjustments required as a consequence.
Identify opportunities to improve the performance and reliability of a railway network, based on your analysis of interfaces and interactions between track, train, traction and civil structures.
Use basic calculations, models and tools to support your proposed solutions.
Engage in technical discussions, even beyond your specific field of expertise, supported by essential knowledge and detailed appreciation of the interfaces involved in moving trains.