Dynamic Stability of Articulated and Steered Railway Vehicles Guided by Lateral Displacement Feedback

Abstract

SUMMARYRailway vehicles using conventional forms of wheelset have limited performance in sharp curves, but the application of independently rotating wheels in conjunction with active guidance offers the possibility of much improved curving performance. The range of design options is considered in this paper and analysis of a specific, simple arrangement of bogie vehicle demonstrates that active guidance leads to excellent steering performance together with dynamic stability at high speeds. The mechanisms of the various modes of instability are discussed.