A RecurDyn Based Dynamic Simulation Method for Coupler

Abstract

The coupler is used to connect the vehicles, and to transfer and ease longitudinal force and impact force generated by the train running or shunting operation; hence it plays a vital role on vehicle-running safety. The parts of coupler are shaped by casting forming, with some forming error. The process of unlock, full open and lock, (three postures operation) are realized through the motion collision of these components. The forming error will influence the accuracy of coupler motion. However, there is no established theory or techniques to support the research towards the reliability of the motion. By making use of RecurDyn, simulation software for the 13 type coupler, authors carried out multi-body kinematics and dynamics modeling and simulation analysis, and predicted the up-lifter rod max not extract angle when the coupler is unlock with forming error. Meanwhile, authors established a basis process which contains construction and analysis of contact impact mechanism model, simulation geometry modeling, multi-body kinematics dynamics model and simulation analysis. All the efforts lead to one conclusion: the max up-lifter rod not extract angle is 25.5°,when the coupler is unlock. The outcome provides a simulation analysis method for predicting the motion veracity of railway freight car coupler with the features of space mechanism.