Modelling of an accurate positioning system using RFID technology for enhanced railway track maintenance

This paper focuses on modelling a new positioning system that aims to locate the Track Recording Vehicle (TRV), in reference to the locations of the switch and crossing (S&C) using RFID technology. The paper details the models of the three subsystems that constitute the whole proposed positioning system, developed using the Systems Modelling Language (SysML™), and their internal and external interactions as part of the railway network. The idea is to install two RFID tags for each switching and crossing node, one on the switch-toe sleeper and the second will be on the crossing-nose sleeper. Whereas the RFID reader is expected to be mounted underneath the TRV vehicle. Thus, the key features of the S&C, the switch toe and crossing nose, will be considered as a definitive reference point for the inspection vehicle’s position. When the TRV passes over an S&C, the positioning system will provide information about the S&C’s ID, which is stored inside the RFID tags and will indicate the S&C’s GPS coordinates. The new methodology is expected to be adopted by a digital asset management system that locates faulty infrastructure, especially the S&C units, more accurately which allows for enhanced maintenance practice.