Stiffness Analysis of 4-Link Coupler Mechanism Used in Low Floor Trams

Abstract The paper presents elastokinematic analysis of spatial, 4-link coupler system used in low floor tram power-trains with classic drive bogies. This article is a continuation of previous work, where were analysed only the kinematic properties of such coupling. In this paper, the experimental characterization of linear and angular stiffness of metal and rubber bushing installed in the coupler rods. Estimated stiffness coefficients were then inserted into the coupler model with compliant bushings jointed with perfectly rigid platforms and rods. Stiffness matrix of the coupler was calculated and its selected coefficients were interpreted.