System dynamics of long and heavy haul train

Abstract

Cycle-variable method was utilized to resolve the freedom problem of long and heavy haul train, the coupling relationship among the longitudinal, lateral and vertical performances of the train was considered, a 3-D coupling dynamics model of the train was set up, and the dynamics performances of the train under traction, braking and idling conditions on straight track, curved track and ramp were simulated. Simulation result shows that under traction condition, the dynamics performances of front and rear vehicles were worse than that of middle vehicles. Under braking condition, the dynamics performances of middle vehicles were worse than that of front and rear vehicles. Under idling condition, the dynamics performances of all vehicles have little difference. On curved track, the influences of three conditions on the dynamics performances are greatest, so, while through straight track, train will be in traction or braking condition. While through curved track, train will be in idling condition.