Suspended Monorail Research Articles

Dynamic features and wind-resistant strategy of suspended monorail vehicle-track beam systems subjected to turbulent wind

Suspended monorail vehicles (SMV), hung beneath box beams with open bottoms, exhibit significant transverse wobble when exposed to turbulent winds, markedly impacting passenger comfort. This study presents an effective methodology for comprehensively evaluating the dynamical behavior of suspended monorail vehicle-track beam systems (SMVTBS) under wind action. First, based on the multi-rigid body dynamics theory and finite element method, an integrated vehicle-track beam interaction model is established. Then, by applying the auto-regressive (AR) linear filtering method, a turbulent wind velocity field with inherent correlations is adequately simulated through a stochastic process, which is later converted into wind force acting on both the track beam and vehicles. On this basis, the vibration responses of the SMVTBS with and without wind actions are compared, and the effects of the wind load on the vehicle-track beam dynamical behavior are revealed. Furthermore, to improve the wind-resistant performance of the SMV, several crucial design parameters are reasonably selected and effective wind-resistant strategies are proposed. Finally, the dynamic performance of the SMV is evaluated under wind action, and suitable train running speeds were recommended at different wind velocities to guarantee vehicle riding comfort. The research results can provide useful guidance for the design and operation of SMVTBS against crosswinds.

Experimental investigation of dynamic features and propagation law of ground vibrations induced by a suspended monorail train

This study focuses on experimental investigation of the dynamic features and propagation law of ground vibrations induced by suspended monorail transportation (SMT), which is rarely reported. First, a comprehensive field measurement of suspended monorail train-induced ground vibrations is performed and the acceleration responses at different measurement positions are obtained. Then, the vertical and lateral vibrational responses are elaborately analysed in the time and frequency domains. The dynamic features and transmission laws of the ground vibrations are revealed, and some interesting phenomena are discovered. Finally, an effective signal post-processing method is adopted to furthest reduce signal truncation errors. The 1/3 octave analysis method is adopted for elaborately evaluating both the ground vibration levels with time and frequency division under different train operating conditions. The research results can provide useful guidance for route selection of SMT and numerical model validation.

An effective secondary suspension system for isolating the high-frequency vibrations of suspended monorail vehicle running on a flexible track beam

ABSTRACT Secondary suspension system is a core component of a suspended monorail vehicle (SMV), which plays a vital role in suppressing the car-body vibrations. This article aims to investigate the vibration isolation performance of an external secondary system (ESSS) for the SMV. Firstly, the structural features and mechanical mechanism of the ESSS are elaborated, which are compared with those of an existing internal secondary suspension system (ISSS) in the SMV. Then, an effective analysis method for the vehicle-track beam interaction of the suspended monorail system (SMS) is established based on the rigid-flexible coupling dynamics theory, in which the main modal information of the track beam is considered. Furtherly, applying the established analysis method, the vehicle-track beam vibrational responses between the ISSS and ESSS are compared under the local irregularity of beam-end junction and random track irregularity, and the superiorities of adopting the ESSS are revealed. Finally, by comprehensively considering the vehicle-track beam vibrational responses, several crucial parameters of the ESSS are selected appropriately. Results show that the ESSS has a significant advantage in isolating the high-frequency vibrations of the SMV compared with the existing used ISSS; simultaneously, it could also effectively decrease the track beam vibration. To guarantee good vehicle riding comfort, the vertical stiffness and damping with the ESSS are recommended to be 0.05∼0.2 MN/m and 10∼30 kN·s/m, respectively. Highlights ➢ Structural features and mechanical mechanisms of an effective ESSS for the SMV are introduced. ➢ A high-efficiency analysis method for vehicle-track beam interaction of the SMS is established. ➢ By a comparison with the commonly used IEEE, the advantages and significance of the ESSS are revealed ➢ Several crucial design parameters of the SMV with ESSS are selected appropriately.

A novel 3D train–bridge interaction model for monorail system considering nonlinear wheel-track slipping behavior

Variable speed operation of the train cause easily the wheel-track slipping phenomenon, inducing strong nonlinear dynamic behavior of the suspended monorail train and bridge system (SMTBS), especially under an insufficient wheel-track friction coefficient. To investigate the coupled vibration features of the SMTBS under variable speed conditions, a novel 3D train–bridge interaction model for the monorail system considering nonlinear wheel-track slipping behavior is developed. Firstly, based on the D’Alembert principle, the vibration equations of the vehicle subsystem are derived by adequately considering the nonlinear interactive behavior among the vehicle components. Then, a high-efficiency modeling method for the large-scale bridge subsystem is proposed based on the component mode synthesis (CMS) method. The vehicle and bridge subsystems are coupled with a spatial wheel-track interaction model considering the nonlinear wheel-track sliding behavior. Furtherly, by a comprehensive comparison with the field test data, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified, as well as the reasonable modal truncation frequencies of the bridge subsystem are determined. On this basis, the dynamics performances of the SMTBS are evaluated under different initial braking speeds and wheel-track interfacial adhesion conditions; besides, the nonlinear wheel-track slipping characteristics and their influences on the vehicle–bridge interaction are also revealed. The analysis results indicate that the proposed model is reliable for investigating the time-varying dynamic features of SMTBS under variable train speeds. Both the axle load transfer phenomenon and longitudinal slip of the driving tire would be easy to appear under the braking condition, which would significantly increase the longitudinal vehicle–bridge dynamic responses. To ensure a good vehicle–bridge dynamics performance, it is suggested that the wheel-track interfacial friction coefficient is larger than 0.35.

Multi-objective optimization of the dynamic performance of a suspended monorail vehicle based on an effective surrogate model

This work presents the multi-objective optimization (MOO) of the dynamic performance of a suspended monorail vehicle (SMV) moving on a curved bridge, based on an effective surrogate model. First, the vehicle-bridge dynamic interaction features are analysed through a dynamic model. Then, an MOO method is developed based on an effective surrogate model. In this method, the accuracy and stability of the radial basis function are enhanced by proposing an innovative improvement strategy and adopting the particle swarm optimization algorithm. The proposed method is validated by a few numerical tests. Based on this verification, the MOO model between key parameters and several optimization objectives is formulated, and the optimization solution set of the vehicle key parameters is obtained using the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II. Finally, the optimization effects are revealed by comparing the dynamic performance of the vehicle obtained from the original values and the optimal solution set.

An Overview of Possibilities of Increasing the Permissible Speed of Underground Suspended Monorails for Transporting People in the Conditions of Polish Underground Mining

The permissible speed of suspended monorails in underground mines is determined by the internal regulations of each country and depends on the type of transportation. In the case of passenger transportation, the maximal driving speed in Polish underground mining regulations is 2 ms−1. Regarding the higher permitted driving speed in other countries, it is reasonable to consider changes to these regulations that would raise the permitted speed limit. Increasing the permissible travel speed would improve the efficiency of mining operations because of the significant reduction in the inefficient working time of miners traveling on the monorail from the shaft to their place of work. However, at the same time, an increase in the permissible speed of travel results in higher values of forces and accelerations affecting both the crew riding the train and the underground working infrastructure (the suspended route, slings, and arches yielding support). The results of the series of works carried out at the KOMAG Institute of Mining Technology to assess the impact of increasing the speed on the safety of both the crew and the mine infrastructure are presented in this article. For this purpose, several numerical simulations were conducted, considering the emergency braking of the suspended monorail during which the overloads are the greatest. The result of the simulations was the analysis of the effects of driving and emergency braking of the suspended monorail with increased travel speed on the following: the overloads acting on the crew being transported and the forces acting on the suspended monorail route, including the forces in each sling. Next, a potential solution for improving safety was developed. The development of the algorithm for an innovative method of sequential emergency braking of the monorail in the case of passenger transportation was one of the important solutions.

Reducing Oscillations in Suspension of Mine Monorail Track

Purpose: The goal of this work is to reduce the effect of dynamic loads on the mine timbering through the use of the elastic devices contained in the monorail suspension and to justify their parameters. Methods and materials: The article considers the developed mathematical model of vertical oscillations of the monorail track, which allows setting the interconnection between the rolling stock parameters and dynamic loads in the suspension. At vertical oscillations of the monorail and under the effect of harmonic disturbing force caused by the movement of the suspension, the system of the monorail suspension can be represented in the form of a dual-mass system. Results: As a result, the equations for oscillation amplitudes of the monorail elements were obtained and damping coefficient of suspension was defined. The obtained results suggest setting reasonable parameters of the monorail fastening, which offers the possibility to decrease dynamic loads occurring during the operation of the mine suspended monorail tracks. The proposed monorail suspension makes it possible to reduce the dynamic loads formed during the movement of the rolling stock by 30–40% and can be used to modernize existing mine suspended monorails. Discussion: Analysis of the obtained results shows that in order to reduce the vibration amplitudes of a suspended monorail mine, it is appropriate to use suspension systems for rolling stock and a monorail track, consisting of elastic elements. The parameters required for this can be determined using the proposed method, and required rigidity of the monorail track is provided by embedding elastic supports into its suspension system. Conclusions: The obtained results allow setting reasonable parameters of the monorail fastening of the mine suspended monorail tracks. The proposed monorail suspension makes it possible to minimize the dynamic loads formed during the movement of rolling stock and can be used to modernize existing mine suspension monorails.

Technology of combined fixing of preparatory products for efficient use of suspended monorail roads

Purpose. Justification of the parameters and design of the system of combined fastening of the monorail pond of the suspended monorail roads in formation underground workings to reduce dynamic loads on the elements of the arch fastening and the mining massif during the delivery of large-tonnage loads and equipment to preparatory pits and assembly chambers. The methods. The recommended method of substantiating the technological schemes of auxiliary transport, focused on the use of multifunctional mining equipment of the new generation, adapted to the modern conditions of performing assembly and dismantling works and preparing new mining pillars for cleaning extraction, which is based on the modeling of the parameters of the interaction of the rolling stock of suspended monorail roads with arch fastening elements and side rocks during transportation of large-tonnage cargoes. Findings. According to the results of research into the operational parameters of suspended monorail roads as part of a highly adaptive transport and technological system for the delivery of large-tonnage cargo, it was established that to reduce dynamic loads on the elements of the arch fastening and the mining massif in the specific conditions of the mines of Western Donbass, the most promising option is the two-level anchor fastening of the monorail stand and preparatory product. The originality. Innovative technical solutions to increase the operational reliability of the arch attachment during the transportation of large-tonnage loads and reduce dynamic loads on the mining massif by redistributing them to adjacent links of the monorail pond and modernizing the transport and technological system are substantiated. Practical implementation. It has been proven that during the intensification of cleaning and preparatory work, reasonable technical and technological solutions meet the requirements for the timely preparation of new mining pillars and are considered as a promising direction for improving the current schemes of auxiliary transport for the mines of the region and ensuring the operational parameters of mining transport equipment of a high technical level in the specific conditions of the mines of the Western Donbass.

Calculation and testing approaches of the kinematic envelope for suspended monorail vehicles

The line-side clearance gauge has a significant influence on the economy and operational safety of suspended monorail transit systems, for which there are currently no relevant specific standards or specifications. The important basis for determining the line-side clearance gauge is the kinematic envelope of the vehicle, while few studies have been conducted on its calculation or testing approaches currently. In this paper, the kinematic envelope calculation formulas are derived for a typical suspended monorail vehicle based on geometry and force analyses, then according to the proposed formulas, the special motion posture of suspended monorail vehicle is revealed and its occurring mechanism is analyzed in detail. Furthermore, a full-scale field test is conducted to verify the derived formulas, which shows the tested motion posture is in good agreement with that analyzed by the formulas. Finally, the effect of key parameters on the kinematic envelope is studied based on the formulas, indicating that appropriately reducing the rotation angle of the bolster can effectively decrease the kinematic envelope without sacrificing ride comfort. These results can be directly used to determine the kinematic envelope, or even as a reference for establishing standards for the line-side clearance gauge of suspended monorail in the future.

Experimental study on the influence of rolling angle on aerodynamic characteristics of suspended monorail trains

Compared with railway trains, crosswinds have a greater effect on the rolling angle behavior of suspended monorail trains (SMTs), which will inevitably change the aerodynamic configuration of the train-bridge system. This paper focuses on investigating the influence of rolling angle on aerodynamic characteristics of the SMT via pressure measurements in a wind tunnel. The surface pressure distribution, aerodynamic coefficient and admittance of the SMT model were analyzed over a wide range of rolling angle. The results indicate that the rolling angle has a certain influence on the surface pressure distribution of SMT, especially in the area near the corner of the windward surface. As the rolling angle increases, the absolute aerodynamic coefficients of lift force and moment will be reduced by 66% and 45%, while increasing percentage of side force coefficient is only 4.9%. Furthermore, a series of fitting formulas are proposed to estimate the aerodynamic coefficients of the train under different rolling angles based on the experimental data. The aerodynamic admittance functions of SMT show a peak value at a specific reduced frequency near 0.05, and the lift aerodynamic admittance is found to be sensitive to the rolling angle behavior of SMT in the reduced low-frequency range.

Theoretical estimate of the operating effectiveness of the battery-powered suspended monorail mining locomotives

Research objective is to develop a mathematical model for a theoretical estimate of the operating effectiveness of the battery-powered suspended monorail mining locomotives. Research relevance. Comparison of the functional capabilities of cargo and personnel mine carriers shows that only suspended monorail tracks can provide cost-effective transportation along alternating curved track profiles of mine workings with inclination angles up to 30º. Battery-powered suspended monorail locomotives are currently more common. Theoretical estimate of battery-powered monorail locomotives operating effectiveness is therefore of great relevance. Methods of research. The technical details of suspended monorail mining locomotives were analyzed when solving the assigned problem. The paper uses the methods of mathematical analysis based on differential calculus to construct a universal equation for determining the operational efficiency of battery-powered suspended monorail mining locomotives. Results. In order to theoretically evaluate the operating effectiveness of battery-powered monorail locomotives, a mathematical model has been developed that makes it possible to determine a comprehensive indicator for estimating the battery traction effectiveness and the operational efficiency. It has been established that the operational efficiency of a battery-powered locomotive is generally determined both by economic features of all links of its traction electric circuit and their operation modes. It has to be considered that the operating modes of traction devices and accessories are entirely determined by the traction mode of the battery-powered locomotive entirely and partly determined by the electrochemical characteristics of the battery. After finding the operating efficiency, it is possible to provide recommendations for battery-powered suspended locomotives operating effectiveness improvement. Scope of the results. The obtained results are recommended to be used when estimating the operating effectiveness of battery-operated suspended monorail locomotives, as well as when comparing the effectiveness of various types of traction of support service mining vehicles.

Using Battery-Powered Suspended Monorails in Underground Hard Coal Mines to Improve Working Conditions in the Roadway

Transporting materials and mine staff is a vital link necessary to the production process in underground mines. Deteriorating climatic conditions, mainly due to the increasingly deep mining and the usage of machines, force us to look for solutions to improve the underground mine environmental situation. Another essential factor responsible for deteriorating working conditions is harmful substances and exhaust fumes emitted from diesel engines. Supplying the workplaces with air quantity exceeding requirements such as the minimum velocity of air movement or gas and climatic conditions will allow for maintaining the gas concentration at the appropriate level. One possible way to solve the problems mentioned above is to replace suspended monorails powered by internal combustion engines with new solutions of electrically battery-powered monorails. Electric monorails are not yet widely used in mines; nevertheless, they have many advantages. This article analyzes the exhaust gas parameters from monorail locomotives operating in a hard coal mine and determines the required airflow to maintain permissible concentrations of harmful gases. It also focuses on a comparative analysis of climatic conditions in the development heading, considering the roadway’s functioning with and without using diesel or electric monorail. The study consists of the methodology for predicting climate conditions. Based on the performed analysis, it was shown that using electric monorails could significantly improve working conditions.

Analysis of effects of aerodynamic interference on dynamic response of suspended monorail wind–vehicle–bridge system using joint simulation approach

A dynamic simulation model of a suspended monorail vehicle–bridge system was developed using a joint simulation approach based on ANSYS and SIMPACK. Moreover, the aerodynamic coefficients of the vehicle–bridge system were measured through a wind-tunnel test, in which a wind load was applied as an external excitation. The variation law of the dynamic response of a double-line suspended monorail vehicle–bridge system with respect to the line spacing under aerodynamic interference was systematically studied, and the following results were obtained. (1) The effect of the vehicle–bridge combination on the aerodynamic coefficient was significant. In the case of one vehicle, the vehicle on the downstream line was slightly less affected by the crosswind than that on the upstream line. For these two vehicles, the three-component force coefficient of the downstream vehicle was far smaller than that of the upstream vehicle. (2) In the case of two vehicles, an increase in the spacing ratio reduced the drag of the vehicles. When the spacing ratio exceeded 4.5, the change in the three-component force of the upstream vehicle was no longer obvious, but the drag value for the downstream vehicle changed from negative to positive. (3) With an increase in the spacing ratio, the vehicle acceleration generally increased, but the changes in the acceleration and displacement of the bridge were insignificant. (4) During the meeting of two vehicles, the vehicle running on the upstream side is easy to be affected by winds than on the downstream side, which leads to the result that the dynamic response of the upstream vehicle and bridge are larger than that of the downstream side.

Impact of suspension and route stabilization on dynamic parameters of self-driven mine suspended monorails

Impact of the method of suspension and route stabilization of suspended monorail on forces loading the roadway roof support system is presented. This is important in the context of possible increasing the speed of monorails during personnel movement. Nature of load and displacement of the route, as well as deceleration of the transport set, with a dynamic excitation - an emergency braking of the transport set, are presented. The results are presented for seven configurations of slings and lashings stabilizing the route. The Head Injury Criterion (HIC), recorded using the Articulated Total Body (HYBRID III) model, during the impact of operator's cabin against an obstacle, is presented in the further part of the article. Analyzes are aimed at developing the guidelines to ensure safety of mining personnel (without exceeding the accepted overloads) and mining infrastructure (without exceeding the maximum accepted load of the roadway support) during operation of the suspended monorail at higher speed. Analyzes are the result of the authors numerical simulations.

Effect of the combined centre of gravity height on the ride comfort of suspended monorail train under crosswinds

The combined centre of gravity (CCOG) height of a suspended monorail train may have a certain influence on the centrifugal forces acting on the train under crosswinds, and changes in centrifugal forces will further affect the dynamic interactions among the crosswind, the vehicle and the bridge subsystem. To investigate the effect of CCOG height on the dynamic behaviour of the train, this paper proposes an improved wind-vehicle-bridge coupling dynamics model considering the CCOG height for the suspended monorail system, in which the uneven passenger weight distribution is simulated with various vehicle parameters, and the aerodynamic wind forces acting on the running vehicles and bridge are simulated considering the effect of resultant wind yaw angle. The influences of passenger number, wind velocity, and vehicle speed on the dynamic behaviours of suspended monorail trains are also explored. The results indicate that the suspended monorail train has a certain self-balancing ability due to its unique structure type, which causes the lateral responses of the car body to attenuate with the increasing car weight. In addition, it is conservative to not consider the effect of CCOG height in the lateral ride comfort evaluation of the suspended monorail train subject to crosswinds.

Experimental Study of the Aerodynamic Characteristics of a Suspended Monorail Vehicle-Bridge System Under Crosswinds

Using wind tunnel tests, the aerodynamic characteristics of a suspended monorail transport (SMT) are systematically investigated under crosswinds for the first time. Two practical vehicle–bridge combination forms (single-line and double-line) are considered. As a contrast, single vehicle and bridge models are also studied to further reveal their aerodynamic characteristics. The mean and root mean square (RMS) wind pressure coefficients, aerodynamic coefficients and power spectrum density (PSD) distributions are used to numerically investigate the effects. The paper confirms that: (1) the mean wind pressure coefficients of the single vehicle and bridge models are close to unity at the center point of the windward side and gradually decrease from the center point to both sides. The maximum value of the RMS wind pressure coefficients mainly occurs at the top or bottom surface of the testing models due to the effect of vortex shedding; (2) the aerodynamic coefficients and the mean and RMS wind pressure coefficients are significantly increased for both the vehicle and bridge models when considering the aerodynamic coupling effects; (3) the aerodynamic characteristics of the bridge can be significantly affected by the location of the running vehicle, but the fluid flow can maintain relative stability during the meeting of the two vehicles.

Advancement of the Monitoring System for Arch Support Geometry and Loads

As part of the RFCS project, which aimed to improve transport safety in mines, ITG KOMAG proposed a system for monitoring loads and geometric of arch support. The system’s function is to control safety, mainly during suspended monorail runs. This paper presents a hardware model and a measurement method based on the use of vibrating wire strain gauges and draw-wire sensors. The challenge was to properly adapt the vibrating wire strain gauge operation to the requirements of the ATEX directive on the safe use of electrical equipment in underground mines. The signal transducer algorithm and potential mounting locations for the proposed sensors were discussed. The results of tests carried out using the ŁP arc support are presented, reflecting the actual behavior of the casing during loading in accordance with the test methodology proposed by the Central Mining Institute. In order to compare the results with another measurement method, film strain gauges were additionally applied. The results confirm the usefulness of the proposed method for testing in real conditions. The speed and simplicity of installation of vibrating wire strain gauges provides an advantage over the use of film strain gauges, which are very difficult to install in underground conditions.

Testing the Impact of Braking Algorithm Parameters on Acceleration and Braking Distance for a Suspended Monorail with Regard to Acceptable Travel Speed in Hard Coal Mines

Increasing the maximum speed limit of suspended monorails, which became a very popular means of auxiliary transport, is one of the aspects of improving the efficiency of work in underground coal mines. It is especially important to enable higher (than allowed by the law) travel speed, when moving the crew to and from the workplace, which is often very distant from the shaft, and can take more than one hour of travel. Increasing this speed will make it possible to extend the effective working time of miners, which should have a positive impact on the economics of the mine. However, driving at a higher speed is also associated with increased risk of a negative impact of dynamic overload to people, e.g., during emergency braking of the suspended monorail. The concept of sequential emergency braking was developed in order to avoid excessive deceleration affecting passengers and the operator of the monorail, as well as to minimize the dynamic loads acting on the rail suspensions and on the roadway support frames, which could cause serious accidents. The developed assumptions with regard to the new method of braking are innovative in the area related to hard coal mining, where there are currently no such solutions. According to the principles of the developed concept, the total braking force was divided into two stages. The activation of the second stage depends on the deceleration measured after the time delay from activation of the first stage of braking. We present the results of the numerical simulations, which aimed to analyze the impact of changing the parameters of the braking algorithm on the braking deceleration, the braking time, and the braking distance. The possibility of changing the braking force and downward emergency braking on a high inclination angle were also taken into account during the numerical simulations. Use of the developed emergency braking algorithm enables the optimization of this process at a higher speed than is currently used. This aspect is also very important in increasing the safety for people travelling at a higher speed limit. The numerical simulations provide knowledge for safety in terms of the dynamic overload during emergency braking, without injury risk to miners or damage to equipment.

Experimental Investigation on Coupled Vibration Features of Suspended Monorail Train–Bridge System under Constant Speed and Braking Conditions

Suspended monorail transportation (SMT) plays an important role in alleviating the urban traffic pressure, and its vehicle–bridge dynamic features are significantly different from those of the traditional railway. To grasp the coupled vibration features of suspended monorail train–bridge system (SMTBS), this paper presents a comprehensive experimental investigation on the vehicle–bridge vibrational responses under different operating conditions. First, based on the Chengdu SMT test line in China, a full-scale field measurement of the coupled vibration responses of the SMTBS is elaborately conducted under constant speed conditions. Then, the vibrational responses of the SMTBS are analyzed in the time and frequency domains to reveal its coupled vibration features and vibration transmission characteristics. Further, considering an extreme train operating condition, the vibrational responses of the SMTBS are tested and analyzed under train emergency braking; and the vibration features of the vehicle and bridge are examined for emergency braking, along with several key indexes evaluated for the train braking performance. Results show that the vibrational accelerations transmitted from the frame to the center pin and then to the carbody will be significantly decreased in turn, and the vibrational dominant frequencies of the bogie, center pin, and carbody mainly fall with 0–100[Formula: see text]Hz, 0–50[Formula: see text]Hz, and 0–20[Formula: see text]Hz, respectively. Under moving train loads, the box beam produces plentiful high-frequency vibrations and the vibrations transmitted from the driving track to the top plate are drastically reduced. The train braking significantly intensifies the car-body longitudinal vibration; however, it has small influences on the car-body vertical and lateral vibrations.

Experimental Study of Aerodynamic Interference Effects for a Suspended Monorail Vehicle–Bridge System Using a Wireless Acquisition System

The suspended monorail (SM) vehicle–bridge system has been considered a promising modern transit mode due to its clear advantages: low pollution, high safety, convenient construction, and low cost. The wind-induced response can significantly affect the running safety and comfort of this type of vehicle due to its special suspended position from a fixed track. This study is the first to systematically investigate its aerodynamic characteristics and interference effects under various spacing ratios using wind tunnel tests and numerical simulations. A high level of agreement between the wind tunnel test and CFD (computational fluid dynamics) results was obtained, and the aerodynamic interference mechanism can be well explained using the CFD technique from a flow field perspective. A wireless wind pressure acquisition system is proposed to achieve synchronization acquisition for multi wind pressure test taps. The paper confirms that (1) the proposed wireless wind pressure acquisition system performed well; (2) the aerodynamic coefficients of the upstream vehicle and bridge were nearly unchanged for vehicle–bridge combinations with varying spacing ratios; (3) the aerodynamic interference effects were amplified when two vehicles meet, but the effects decrease as the spacing ratio increases; (4) the aerodynamic force coefficients, mean, and root mean square (RMS) wind pressure coefficients for the downstream vehicle and bridge are readily affected by the upstream vehicle; (5) the vortex shedding frequencies of vehicles and bridges can be readily obtained from the lift force spectra, and they decrease as the spacing ratio increases; and (6) a spacing ratio of 3.5 is suggested in the field applications to ensure the running safety and stability of the SM vehicle–bridge system under exposure to crosswinds.