Method for obtaining the modal properties of articulated trains equipped with independently rotating wheels

Abstract

Independently rotating wheels in railway vehicles could represent an alternative to standard technology as a solution to dynamic problems such as hunting instability or steering forces in curves. Among the proposed design solutions, the train with independently rotating wheels and with the most practical applications is that developed by Talgo. The Talgo technology is based on the use of a passive steering technique of the wheelset through a mechanism. The absence of automatic control systems means that a careful selection of the mechanical parameters of the vehicle is required to improve its dynamic characteristics. Aspects such as dynamic stability or the effect of vibration on passenger comfort could be analysed by extracting the modal properties of the train from mathematical models. In this article, a methodology for determining the low-frequency modal properties of articulated trains equipped with independently rotating wheels and passive steering system (Talgo-type) is proposed. The singularity of this application based on the use of non-conventional wheelsets necessarily involves the development of a specific methodology.

^†This article includes a word (Talgo) that is or is asserted to be a proprietary term or trade mark. Its inclusion does not imply it has acquired for legal purposes a non-proprietary or general significance, nor is any other judgement implied concerning its legal status.

Keywords:

• Independently rotating wheels
• Steering mechanism
• Low-frequency modes

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Dr Emilio García for many helpful ideas and discussions. They owe much gratitude to ACLE at the UPV for their help in revising this article. This project has been financed through the TALGO–MEC–FEDER plan TRA2004-01828/TREN.

Notes

^†This article includes a word (Talgo) that is or is asserted to be a proprietary term or trade mark. Its inclusion does not imply it has acquired for legal purposes a non-proprietary or general significance, nor is any other judgement implied concerning its legal status.