Parameter study and multi-objective optimization for crashworthiness of a B-type metro train

Abstract

A train’s crashworthiness responses are directly affected by the vehicle weight M, train collision speed V, and empty stroke D. This study investigated the influences of M, V, and D on train crashworthiness. A one-dimensional multi-body dynamics model for a B-type metro train was created and verified. Approximate models were established for the total compression displacement (TS) and overall average collision deceleration (TMA) based on M, V, and D, and a novel method was proposed for quickly predicting the output response of a train’s crashworthiness. The effects of the various parameters on TS and TMA were investigated, and a multi-objective optimization for minimizing TS and TMA was conducted. The results indicated that V has the greatest influence on TS and TMA, followed by M, and then D; M has a positive effect on TS and negative effect on TMA, whereas D has a negative effect on both TS and TMA; V has a positive effect on TS, but for TMA, the effect changes from positive to negative when V increases to 23 km/h. The optimized metro train has higher integrity in the passenger living space and a lower train collision average deceleration, and the crashworthiness is significantly improved.