Dynamics of High-Speed Maglev Trains: Modeling and Simulation with the Multibody Systems Approach

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In the high-speed transportation sector, magnetic levitation (maglev) technology offers significant advantages, particularly through the contactless motion of vehicles, enabling speeds far surpassing traditional wheel-on-rail systems. Additionally, maglev systems are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly compared to air travel. This dissertation examines the mechanical modeling and numerical simulation of high-speed maglev train dynamics, particularly in light of recent developments in China for a 600 km/h maglev train. It contributes to the simulation-based development of future high-speed maglev trains by creating suitable models of the coupled vehicle-guideway system using the elastic multibody systems approach. The research includes simulative investigations that provide insights into various aspects of vehicle-guideway dynamics. A rigid multibody vehicle model is integrated with an elastic guideway through moving forces in a two-dimensional longitudinal-section model, which simplifies complexity and reduces computation times. However, certain scenarios, such as magnet failures or curve navigation, necessitate a three-dimensional model. Consequently, the dissertation culminates in the development of a comprehensive three-dimensional model for a single vehicle section to address these critical issues.