Determination of optimal layout, number and way of connection of strain gauges on instrumented railway wheelsets

Abstract

The instrumented wheelsets are unavoidable measurement equipment in experimental testing of derailment risk of the railway vehicles in accordance to the international regulations. There is no universal technical solution of instrumented wheelsets. There are a lot of different approaches when it comes to the solution of the problems of the determination of locations for placement of strain gauges, as well as their layout, number and way of connection into Wheatstone bridges. The main aim in solving these problems and the design of instrumented wheelsets is achieving the highest possible sensitivity and measurement accuracy. As a continuation of the previous author's researches, this paper analyses mentioned problems and proposes one methodology for their optimal solution. The content of the paper may be useful for all those who are dealing with the problems of development or usage of instrumented railway wheelsets or similar measurement equipment.