Analytical modelling of train brake systems

Sammanfattning

The ECO2 Centre for Vehicle Design group at Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan(KTH) is on the path to create a vehicle conceptualization where a networkapproach is used to design and analyse the complex interdependencies invehicles. Compactness and subsystem interaction are key components of theproject.This thesis is part of a bigger project where, the impact at the system level ofcomponents, and subsystems is studied. The final goal is to improve the designprocess of a rail vehicle by strengthening the preliminary phase. In this phase,it is essential that the impact of each subsystem on the whole system is knownand predictable to save time and costs.The current work will focus on one crucial subsystem, braking. The goal is tobuild a fast and reliable model, able to predict the temperature and the stresson the disc which are the key factors in determining safety. The model needsto be able to communicate with other subsystems, hence, Matlab software isused. Nevertheless, to cross-check the results, COMSOL Multiphysics is usedas a reference.One-dimensional and two-dimensional FEA simulations are performed withdifferent geometries and operational scenarios. Optimizing computational costwithout reducing accuracy is a central part of this work. Finally, a real-casescenario is introduced that helps to exploit the differences in design for differentoperational conditions.