Abstract: The article presents the results of an analysis of the dynamic response of a multibody rail vehicle model. A five-section tram model was used to analyze natural vibration modes and the impact of track irregularities on vibration accelerations at selected points of the structure. The obtained results allowed for the formulation of conclusions regarding potential sources of vehicle vibration in the context of assumed kinematic excitations.1. INTRODUCTION
The process of designing rail vehicles involves a series of analyses of static and dynamic properties [2,3]. A wide range of conducted research concerns both safety considerations, in particular those related to the fatigue strength of individual vehicle components and the stability of the wheel-rail system, as well as travel comfort, which is increased by reducing vibration accelerations and noise levels [4,6]. Among all rail vehicles, trams deserve special attention, as due to the specifics of their operation, they cannot be treated as railway vehicles characterized by smaller dimensions [1]. Tram design criteria take into account lower operating speeds, usually below 80 km/h. Assumed axle loads usually do not exceed 10t.
Modern tram designs increasingly incorporate low-floor structural solutions and independent wheels with a small turning radius, enabling turns with a radius of 15m [7]. However, problems arise that do not occur in the case of railway vehicles. Very small turning radii, even at low speeds, can lead to plastic deformation of both the wheel and the rail [1]. The resulting damage constitutes a source of track irregularity, which in turn manifests itself in the wheel-rail interaction in the form of additional kinematic excitations.
Additional sources of vibration worsen travel conditions. Furthermore, the dynamic response of the vehicle, defined in the form of wheel reaction forces on the tracks, causes further degradation of the track.
The article presents the results of an analysis of the dynamic response of a five-section tram in the context of kinematic excitations introduced by track irregularity. (…)
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Source: Logistyka Magazine