Trimble® TreadView® is an automatic non-contact optical inspection system that images and inspects wheel surface at mainline operational speeds.
Trimble TreadView system employs state of the art digital high-speed imaging and 3D laser scanning technology to automatically inspect the wheel tread, flange, and plate surface areas across the entire circumference of the wheel.
The system utilises image processing algorithms to assess wheel surface conditions from acquired multispectral multi-illumination images. The high-resolution images and high-density 3D data of the wheel surface are used to determine any external surface abnormalities of the wheel tread that can be detected. The TreadView imaging system and processing algorithms are designed to operate in all ambient light and weather conditions.
Processed data and images from the Trimble TreadView system are integrated into the Trimble CMMS™ (Condition Monitoring Management System) software to provide web-based access for data visualisation, alarm management, and data analytics. The system can generate automated alarms identifying wheel surface defect facilitating condition-based maintenance workflows.
TreadView’s rugged design enables operation in harsh rail environments and at mainline operational speeds. It can also operate at very low speeds where traditional impact and force measurement-based systems are unable to operate. The system is designed for continual operation with minimum manual maintenance.
TreadView consists of multiple scanner boxes, installed on custom steel frames that are mounted on foundations on each side of the track. System installation does not require any major track modifications or extended closures.
Trimble TreadView automates wheel surface inspections, reducing out of service time, costs, and manual inspection labour. The system can improve efficiency in maintenance processes through the early detection of defects and data-driven optimisation of wheelset lifecycles.
Inspections and measurements
Trimble TreadView system inspections and measurements include:
- Shelled and spalled tread
- Major scrapes, dents, and gouges
- Broken/missing wheel sections
- Shattered rim
- Broken or damaged flange
- Wheel flats and slid flats
- Wheel OOR (out-of-round)
- Built-up tread
- Tread groove
- Vertical split rim (flange or field side)
- Significant spread rim
- Wheel tread hollow around the wheel
Depending on the rolling stock types and requirements, the system’s inspection and measurement outputs may require optimisation or customisation.
Trimble TreadView system provides detailed imaging of the wheel including images of the tread surface and wheel plate.
System Features include:
- Bi-directional system
- Inspection and measurement at mainline operational speeds
- Speeds of 5mph to 60mph (100km/h)
- Operates in extreme environments
- Operating temperature -40°F to 131°F (–40°C to 55°C)
- Installed off track (concrete or steel base) with no track interference
- Easy maintenance
- Automatic defect reporting