Dynamics Analysis of High-Speed Electric Multiple Unit Considering Flexibility of Wheelset

To investigate the influence of flexibility of wheelset in high-speed rotation on vehicle dynamics performance, the finite element model of wheelset was established and its unconstrained modal analysis was carried out correspondingly to obtain modal information using modal synthesis method. The flexible wheelset-rigid rail contact mechanics model was established according to multi-body system dynamics theory. Based on the flexible wheelset-rigid rail contact mechanics model, the vehicle-track coupled dynamics model containing high-speed rotating flexible wheelsets was established, and research on the influence of structural vibration of flexible wheelset on vehicle dynamics performance was performed when running on tangent and curved tracks. Results show that the structural vibration of high-speed wheelset has an obvious influence on the position of wheel-rail contact point, creepages, and creep forces and derailment coefficient. Thus, the more accurate flexible wheelset-rail coupled model is essential to be employed to research the interaction of wheel and rail, wheel-rail rolling contact fatigue, and wheel-rail noise.