Computer simulation of train-track-bridge interaction

Railway vehicles are considered as multibody systems that include rigid or flexible bodies, joints and force elements. The track model is considered as a periodic 3D structure consisting of rails, pads and sleepers on a flexible foundation. Two rails modelled as Timoshenko beams are discretely supported on the sleepers through the railpads and fasteners, that are modelled as nonlinear force elements. The foundation (bridge, tunnel, overpass) is considered as a flexible multibody system simulated using finite element method.