Abstract: An instrumented wheelset system and method for providing an accurate and integrated instrumented wheelset on a train or other vehicle is provided. A subject wheelset is profiled and subjected to finite element analysis. Simulated loading of the wheelset is used to help determine suitable target locations on the wheelset surface for placement of strain sensors. Simulated output of the strain sensors so positioned is recorded to develop wheel sensitivities, without inaccuracies due to strain sensor output ripple and crosstalk. The strain sensors are installed based on the modelled characteristics, and subjected to methodical calibration on a calibration fixture. After any adjustments, the wheelset may be installed on a vehicle including a computer and intelligent data acquisition units for gathering wheelplate data on a live-rolling, realtime basis.

Abstract: The disclosure concerns an electromagnetic exciter for striking the wheels of moving railroad cars undergoing acoustic signature inspection. The apparatus comprises a pivotally mounted impact member which is accelerated by a solenoid through only a portion of its impact stroke and then moves onward to impact solely as a result of the kinetic energy imparted to it during the initial acceleration period. The solenoid is controlled by an electronic drive circuit which responds to an input signal from a wheel presence detector and delivers to the solenoid coil a burst of energy whose size and duration may be adjusted to yield the greatest sound pressure level while allowing the field of the coil to relax quickly enough to reset the apparatus for the next car wheel.