Identification Methods for Modal Parameters of Track Structures and their Application Status and Prospects

Rail transit’s wheel–rail system periodically encounters defects such as wheel polygons, rail corrugation, and rail fastener failure, which are intricately linked to the modal parameters of track structures. Identifying these modal parameters is essential for refining wheel–rail dynamics models, understanding track defect mechanisms, and defect detection. This study reviews the current methodologies for identifying track structure modal parameters, emphasizing their significance in track engineering. It categorizes various identification techniques, examines their development, and highlights their application in updating track dynamics theoretical models. The relationship between track modal parameters and wheel–rail defects is discussed, alongside a summary of modal parameter-based defect remediation strategies globally. The paper also evaluates the current state of defect identification research utilizing track modal parameters. In the “prospects” section, three forward-looking research avenues are proposed. These approaches are poised to streamline and improve the efficiency of modal parameter extraction, marking potential breakthroughs in the field.