Modelling Track Flexibility in Turnouts Using MBS Approach

A discretely supported track model was built in multibody dynamic software VI-Rail. The model was first compared against the default continuously supported track model and an in-house built finite element model. A plain line case with a short wavelength irregularity was used and a good agreement between the three models was achieved. A full turnout model including both through and divergent routes was then built. A detailed model of a UK passenger coach was used for the vehicle-track interaction simulations. The main focus of this paper is to compare different approaches to model the track, highlighting the capabilities of the selected methodology and give an insight into the influence of model approaches in the S&C panels.