Title: An improved modelling and optimisation of rail vehicle design based on safety criterion

Authors: Nejlaoui Mohamed; Houidi Ajmi; Affi Zouhaier; Romdhane Lotfi

Addresses: Laboratory of Mechanical Engineering, National Engineering School of Monastir, University of Monastir, Avenue IBN El Jazzar, Monastir 5000, Tunisia ' Laboratory of Mechanical Engineering, National Engineering School of Monastir, University of Monastir, Avenue IBN El Jazzar, Monastir 5000, Tunisia ' Laboratory of Mechanical Engineering, National Engineering School of Monastir, University of Monastir, Avenue IBN El Jazzar, Monastir 5000, Tunisia ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, American University of Sharjah, University City PO Box 26666, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Abstract: This paper deals with the modelling and the optimisation of a rail vehicle system moving in curved tracks running at high speeds. Based on the structural characteristics of the rail vehicle and its curved motion, we present an improved analytical quasi-static model. This model has the advantage of considering the roll motion. The improved model is validated through simulations, using the software ADAMS. The obtained model is used for the optimisation of the rail vehicle design. The safety criterion is evaluated using the derailment angle. A critical speed optimisation as a function of the radius of curvature and the rail vehicle design parameters is performed using genetic algorithm. The outcome of this work could help the designer in the choice of the adequate design parameters yielding the best compromise between the critical speed and the radius of curvature.

Keywords: modelling; optimisation; rail vehicle; curved tracks; safety.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVS.2017.085203

International Journal of Vehicle Safety, 2017 Vol.9 No.3, pp.209 - 227

Received: 16 May 2016
Accepted: 19 Apr 2017
Published online: 16 Jul 2017 *

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