ABSTRACT
This study investigates the interaction between train-track and layered soil under train loading, addressing key challenges in rail design and maintenance. Previous studies often relied on numerical or experimental methods, which were computationally intensive and time-consuming. Existing simplified models assumed homogeneity and elastic isotropy, overlooking critical features such as soil stratification, anisotropy, rail-tie and substructure interactions. The proposed semi-analytical method combines the finite element method for the upper rail-track, the cylindrical system of vector functions and dual-variable and position methods for the substructure soil, providing a computationally efficient and unconditionally stable solution. By incorporating multilayered, anisotropic substructures, this new method can help more accurately predict the stress and deformation distributions, and the load transfer among different elements. This approach represents a significant advancement, offering a robust and scalable solution for designing resilient and sustainable railway infrastructure while setting a foundation for further developments to address real world address real-world complexities.
