Similitude scaled method for three-dimensional train collision

Abstract

Real train impact tests are so expensive that it is usually unrealistic to carry them out, whereas scaled model impact tests can significantly reduce the cost and are easier to conduct. This paper reports a three-dimensional scaled similitude rule for train collision. Based on the consistency of acceleration, the scaling factors of mass, velocity, time, displacement, moment of inertia, angular displacement, angular velocity, and angular acceleration between full scale and scaled models are identified. A three-dimensional simulation model for train-to-train collision is established to analyze the dynamic response between full-scale and scaled models under the condition of eccentric impact. Our results show that through multiplying the corresponding scale factors, dynamic responses of the scaled model are identical to that of the full-scale model. Thus, the three-dimensional similitude rule proposed in this paper is verified numerically and is able to guide scaled model tests in laboratory.

Study on the Frontal Collision Safety of Trains Based on Collision Dynamics

“…A steady-state coefficient is introduced to characterize the features of the steady-state crush stage. With the introduction of the stiffness weakening coefficient and steady-state coefficient, the car-end contact force can be expressed as: (10) where λ is the stiffness weakening coefficient. η is the steady-state coefficient.…”

“…Although collision experiments [4][5][6][7] may have limitations regarding cost effectiveness, repeatability, and operability, they are necessary for verifying structural durability, formulating and establishing collision safety regulations, and optimizing and validating numerical calculation models. In order to balance the advantages and disadvantages of the collision test, scholars have studied the scaled model, and the establishment of a suitable scaled model can well restore the collision responses of the full-size model [8][9][10][11].…”