Passenger vehicle suspension parameters influence on vehicle – track model solutions

The simulation tests results of the rail vehicle – track system model are presented in this article. The purpose of the research was to determine the influence of chosen vehicle suspension element parameters on stability and safety of motion. Simulation model of 4-axle passengers coach was created with use the VI-Rail software. Damping component of the second stage elastic-damping element in the longitudinal direction was selected. For two values of the damping parameter applied, such a few system parameters were determined: critical velocity, values of solutions in a wide velocity range, lateral wheelset-track forces and values of safety factor against derailment. The vehicle motion was simulated along a straight track and curved track with a radius of R = 3000, 4000 and 6000 m. Comparison of vehicle model features for particular damping component values were done. The results are presented in the form of diagrams illustrating changes in the tested system parameters as a function of vehicle velocity.