Model-based design using the example of the modernized SU-45 locomotive

Abstract: The paper is devoted to the presentation of the stages of work carried out during the design of a completely new control station and driver’s cab for the SU-45 locomotive. The paper presents the method of conducting this work using 3D geometric models. A new approach to design is presented, and the possibilities of computer-aided engineering, which are constantly evolving and growing as the computing power of computers increases, are indicated.1. INTRODUCTION
Current changes in the railway sector require the modernization of existing rolling stock as well as the introduction of new ones. These changes require the development of new rail vehicle designs and the modernization of existing ones.
A characteristic feature of rail vehicles is their complexity and the large number of devices and various electrical, control, and pneumatic systems installed in them.
All of this is built into a specific, limited spatial structure (body, cab). This causes the design documentation for rail vehicles, created for rolling stock manufacturers, to be quite complex and extensive, consisting of many drawings. Therefore, computer-aided design (CAD) is used for design work.
The capabilities of computer-aided engineering (CAD) are constantly evolving and growing as the computing power of computers increases. This allows for reaping the benefits of the increased efficiency offered by these packages.
They enable engineers to develop geometric models describing the structure and installation of equipment. These models encompass many fields of engineering, including (but not limited to) mechanical structures, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical systems.
Therefore, this type of design is rapidly gaining interest from rolling stock manufacturers struggling with the complex problems of rail vehicle development. The benefits boil down to the documented fact that model-based design shortens the time and reduces the costs associated with the traditional approach, which usually involves designing a prototype. Using model-based design allows for bypassing the prototype construction stage, detecting errors and collisions in the initial phase of the project, rather than in the vehicle construction phase. (…)

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