Finite Element Modelling and Simulation of Train Car Body Structure Using LS-Dyna®

Abstract

This article emphasizes on finite element modeling and simulation of train car body structure in order to ensure a crashworthy structure. Crashworthiness is a principal parameter to be considered to be taken into account in case of design of train car body structure. The present paper deals with the development of virtual prototype with energy absorption capabilities. The train car body structure with trapezoidal core has been modeled using SOLIDWORKS® software. The entire crash simulation in the present study was done by using LS-Dyna® Explicit finite element software. The crash analysis of train car body over a rigid concrete wall was numerically simulated at three different speeds viz. 60 km/hr, 90 km/hr, 120 km/hr. In every crash analysis, the stress plot and history of deformation from the developed virtual prototype. The simulation of the rail vehicle collision presented in this article is based upon the standard specified in crashworthy section of Technical Standards of interoperability. The dynamic numerical simulation of two train car bodies with equal velocities has also performed using LS-Dyna®.