Rigid-Flexible Hybrid MBD Based Modeling and Simulation Method for Coupler Mechanism

The coupler mechanism is a key component of vehicle connection. The geometric shape of parts are very complex. Between the working parts there is a certain clearance, and mechanism function is implementated by the collision contact of these parts. So, it is very difficult to analyze how coupler works exactly. The RecurDyn software, the latest research results of multi-body dynamics (MBD), is used for modeling and simulation. The working state of the coupler device was reproduced in the software. The modeling and simulation of coupler irregular mechanism was created by using the rigid-flexible hybrid MBD system. Through the simulation results, including main parts parameter curves about mass centre motion, force curves on the joints, contact force between parts, and key components stress concentration area as well, the functional reliability and the structural reliability of coupler were analyzed in operating environment. Applying the MBD theory and technology above, the structural and functional reliability can be predicted for coupler liked complex mechanism.