Assessment of the Influence of Tunnel Settlement on Operational Performance of Subway Vehicles

Abstract

In the realm of subway shield tunnel operations, the impact of tunnel settlement on the operational performance of subway vehicles is a crucial concern. This study introduces an advanced analytical model to investigate rail geometric deformations caused by settlement within a vehicle-track-tunnel coupled system. The model integrates the geometric deformations of the track, attributed to settlement, as track irregularities. A novel "cyclic model" algorithm was employed to enhance computational efficiency without compromising on precision, a claim that was rigorously validated. The model's capability extends to analyzing the time-history responses of vehicles traversing settlement-affected areas. The research primarily focuses on how settlement wavelength, amplitude, and vehicle speed influence operational performance. Key findings indicate that an increase in settlement wavelength can improve vehicle performance, whereas a rise in amplitude can degrade it. The study also establishes settlement thresholds, based on vehicle operation comfort and safety. These insights are pivotal for maintaining and enhancing the safety and efficiency of subway systems, providing a valuable framework for urban infrastructure management and long-term maintenance strategies in metropolitan transit systems.