ABSTRACT
This paper describes the development of a linear theoretical model of a tilting vehicle to study the interaction between the tilt system and the passive ride of the vehicle on straight track. Predictions made with the model show transmission of significant roll activity through the tilt system at the suspension frequencies for certain combinations of speed and conicity.
The predictions are compared with results from a series of tests on a tilting vehicle. The principal interactions between tilt and ride demonstrated by the model compare qualitatively with the test results. Quantitatively, there is scope for improvement because deficiencies in linear modelling which exist for all vehicles are compounded by the complexity of the mechanical design of a tilting train.
The method can be extended to predict system response at curve entry and has considerable potential as a tool for the designer of tilting trains.
