Reliable wheel detection for wayside train monitoring systems

Wheel Sensor RSR310

The Wheel Sensor RSR310 is designed for non-vital train detection applications across all rail segments. Combined with the Wheel Sensor Signal Converter WSC, it forms a reliable wheel detection system for switch protection and for triggering automated equipment such as hot box detectors, AEI readers, and vision monitoring systems. The RSR310 offers flexible integration and enhanced operational efficiency while maintaining high availability, even in harsh environments.

Benefits at a glance

Flexible Mounting Position

High compatibility with maintenance vehicles

Improved signal-to-noise ratio

Maximum mechanical robustness

Simplification of maintenance

Highly flexible system integration options

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How it Works

Inductive Wheel Detection

The RSR310 uses enhanced inductive technology to detect train wheels. When a wheel passes through the vicinity of the sensor, its ferromagnetic material causes a measurable change in inductance, triggering reliable detection of speed up to 280 mph (450 km/h) in all weather conditions, or in the presence of wheel surface contamination.

Signal Processing

The RSR310 provides and processes an enhanced analog signal that allows for a bi-directional communication between the wheel sensor and the Wheel Sensor Signal Converter WSC to exchange diagnostic data, receive configuration parameters, etc. The converter processes this signal and generates digital outputs via optocoupler interface:

  • Status of sensor systems

  • Wheel position

  • Travel direction

  • Center pulse

  • Gate pulse

  • Error output

These outputs integrate seamlessly with higher-ranking wayside train monitoring systems.

Applications

The RSR310 - Wheel Sensor Signal Converter WSC combination serves as a reliable triggering solution for various wayside train monitoring applications across all rail segments:

  • Hot box detection systems

  • Flat wheel detection systems

  • AEI readers

  • Lubrication systems

  • Vision monitoring systems

  • Warning systems

Technical Design

RSR310 Wheel Sensor

The compact wheel sensor mounts directly on the rail using a convenient rail claw system—no drilling required. Its robust construction withstands extreme temperatures from -40 °F to +185 °F (-40 °C to +85 °C), and meets IP68 protection standards. UV-resistant materials and humidity tolerance up to 100% ensure long-term reliability in harsh outdoor environments.

Electromagnetic compatibility per EN 50121-4 and AREMA 11.5.2 guarantees reliable operation in electrically noisy railway environments. The sensor supports cable runs up to 4 miles (6.4 km) at 1.4 mm², with maximum loop resistance ≤150 Ω, reducing infrastructure requirements for distributed installations.

Wheel Sensor Signal Converter WSC

The compact converter mounts on DIN rail in standard wayside cabinets. It operates on +10 V DC to +36 V DC power supply with 2000 V insulation voltage. Simple DIP-switch configuration and built-in calibration buttons enable quick commissioning without specialized tools.

Optocoupler outputs provide 3000 V galvanic isolation for reliable signal transmission to higher-ranking systems. RS232 and ASD interfaces support local and remote diagnostics. Via ASD it is possible to upload configuration data to the wheel sensor and receive diagnostic data through the enhanced analog interface.

The converter operates in the same temperature range as the sensor (-40 °F to +185 °F; -40 °C to +85 °C, tested to -67 °F; -55 °C), ensuring consistent system performance.

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Standards Compliance

The RSR310 - Wheel Sensor Signal Converter WSC system is suitable for non-vital triggering of wayside monitoring or switch equipment. Both components meet international railway standards:

  • Electromagnetic compatibility: EN 50121-4, AREMA 11.5.2

  • Mechanical stress: EN 50125-3, AREMA 11.5.1

  • Wheel detection: ERA/ERTMS/033281 and more

Frauscher Track Vacancy System FTVS

The Frauscher Track Vacancy System FTVS is an axle counting system that is suitable for a variety of operational support applications and can be seamlessly integrated into existing systems. As part of FTVS, the Wheel Sensor RSR310 is used on the track for the purposes of wheel detection.

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