Active Primary Spring for the Next Generation Train

Abstract:
In this paper the design of an active primary spring for a single-wheel single running-gear railroad carriage is discussed. The setup is based on a leaf-spring design, which is implemented as fibre-composite part, combined with piezo-ceramic stack-actuators, enabling to dynamically influence the contact between wheel and rail. The motivation of the design as active component is discussed and the process of dimensioning of the leaf-spring is introduced. Final dimensions and active properties of the primary springs are given and discussed. An approach to a control scheme for first tests is presented as well as results from first dynamic tests with a downscaled prototype. The paper closes with the outlook on tests and simulations which elucidate the integration into the concept of the mechatronic running gear.