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    <copyright>Copyright © 2026. National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.</copyright>
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    <managingEditor>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</managingEditor>
    <webMaster>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</webMaster>
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      <title>Detecting and Mitigating Low-Level DC Fault Currents in Transit Systems (Phase II TCRP Project D-17)



</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1747284</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Low-level electrical fault currents are a phenomenon found in DC traction systems used in public transit systems worldwide. These low-level currents are typically caused by small and sporadic failures of insulation within the electrification system, which make them difficult to locate, measure, and control. The effects of these faults go unnoticed for long periods of time because of their slow and progressive nature; however, evidence shows that if these faults go undetected, they can cause extensive damage to infrastructure of transit systems and that of adjacent private/public utilities. The main concern of private/public utilities is the significant corrosion of subsurface utilities caused by the compounding effects of low-level faults. They may also create a safety hazard to transit patrons and the general public as contact with any metallic structures, such as fences, is potentially lethal because they become energized to dangerous voltages. Furthermore, smoke generated by burning cable insulation in tunnels and confined areas creates safety hazards for transit patrons.
 
Under TCRP Project D-17, a lab breadboard model was developed and testing was conducted at the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA). This research showed positive results in detecting low-level faults in DC transit systems.
Moreover, work is needed to detect low-level fault conditions. To detect these conditions, it will be necessary to conduct extensive testing.
The objective of this research is to develop a prototype system that can detect low-level faults in electrified transit systems powered by third rails.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 26 Oct 2020 19:36:52 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1747284</guid>
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      <title>Evaluation of Work Zone Safety Messages</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1229519</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This project will evaluate the effectiveness of the public information outreach campaigns related to work zone safety that are advertised on billboards throughout the Cleveland region during the construction season.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 13:43:25 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1229519</guid>
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      <title>Mechanical Precision Docking System: Improving Safety &amp; Access for All</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1227492</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority will investigate the development of existing European mechanical precision bus docking systems to expand their application to the United States and to provide transit agencies with a simple, low cost method of obtaining the benefits of precision docking. Precision docking refers to a variety of systems designed to enable a vehicle to align itself in exactly the same position at a station every time. Guidance enables the vehicle to follow a precisely defined path, as with light rail and streetcars. This precision can be used to achieve level, gap-free access by bringing the bus close alongside platforms. The investigators will work with two existing European transit systems using mechanical precision docking technology, and with local manufacturers to develop a prototype system that can be used in the United States, and to establish a field demonstration of the technology as part of Cleveland's Euclid Corridor Transportation project, a Bus Rapid Transit project. Precision docking has the potential to improve transit service by increasing efficiency, safety, and passenger access. A revised proposal was submitted that addressed panel comments. A complete contract package for this project and a request to prepare a contract was sent to the NAS Office of Contracts.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 13:00:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1227492</guid>
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