A new parameter identification methodology for the bogie rotational resistance test of a rail vehicle

Abstract

A more widespread use of the dynamic simulation of rail vehicles would become possible if the validation of the model was secured and the model parameters were known to be accurate. This paper proposes an analytical methodology for the objective identification of parameter values used in modelling rail vehicles, using the results of a bogie rotational resistance test defined in the acceptance process of railway vehicles (EN 14363). This methodology also takes into account the variability of the measuring process by providing a probabilistic estimation of the identified parameters. The methodology is experimentally validated using test results obtained for an Intercity vehicle. Seven model parameters can be accurately estimated: longitudinal and lateral stiffness of the air-spring secondary suspension, damping and force–speed characteristics of the anti-yaw dampers, longitudinal and lateral stiffness of the emergency spring, and lateral/longitudinal friction coefficient of the emergency spring; they all show excellent correlation with the component tests.