ABSTRACT
Rail vehicle modelling encompasses a wide range of analysis that can be performed. This includes modelling of the dynamic motion, pneumatic brake system, thermal modelling of the brakes, aerodynamic analysis, fatigue and failure analysis. The rail vehicle is also affected by outside influences such as the track stiffness and the rail profile. It may be necessary to model these additional systems to accurately model the rail vehicle behaviour. Where possible it is better to simplify models to reduce the modelling effort required and the computational requirements. It should be recognised that rail vehicles are used in trains made up of many vehicles, and complex vehicle models may not be feasible when modelling complete trains.
