Trackside monitoring and maintenance

We conduct research in trackside monitoring and maintenance with the goal of improving infrastructure reliability, extending asset life, and supporting data-informed maintenance planning.

Core areas of focus include track health management, predictive maintenance, and integrated monitoring systems. In monitoring, our research explores the use of distributed quantum sensors and machine learning techniques for continuous monitoring of track and surrounding premises, enabling high-sensitivity detection of ground vibrations and structural anomalies.

Our track health research includes development of prognostics health management frameworks for rail infrastructure, combining real-time monitoring data with predictive analytics to optimise inspection cycles and support early intervention strategies.

These developments are supported by next-generation 5G/6G communication technologies, enabling reliable, high-speed transmission of track monitoring data.

Meet the team

Professor David Grace - Professor (Research), Head of Communication Technologies Research Group, Co-Director of York - Zhejiang Lab for Cognitive Radio and Green Communications, Guest Professor Zhejiang University
Dr Rupesh Kumar - Lecturer, School of Physics, Engineering and Technology
Marco Lucamarini - Professor, Chair of Experimental Quantum Communications, School of Physics, Engineering and Technology
Suresh Perinpanayagam - Professor of Engineering, School of Physics, Engineering and Technology
Dr Jiannan Yang - Lecturer in Digital Engineering for Future Technologies, School of Physics, Engineering and Technology
Dr Xing Zhao - Lecturer in Electrical Engineering, School of Physics, Engineering and Technology

Work with us

Partnering with York

Rail expertise

What we're here for

Facilities at York

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