Peter Wolfs

This unique and up-to-date work surveys the use of mechatronics in rail vehicles, notably traction, braking, communications, data sharing, and control. The results include improved safety, comfort, and fuel efficiency. Mechatronic systems are a key element in modern rail vehicle design and operation. Starting with an overview of mechatronic theory, the book covers such topics as modeling of mechanical and electrical systems for rail vehicles, open and closed loop control systems, sensors, actuators, and microprocessors. Modern simulation techniques and examples are included throughout the book. Numerical experiments and developed models for railway application are presented and explained. Case studies are used, alongside practical examples, to ensure that the reader can apply mechatronic theory to real world conditions. These case studies include modeling of a hybrid locomotive and simplified models of railway vehicle lateral dynamics for suspension control studies. Rail Vehicle Mechatronics provides current and in-depth content for design engineers, operations managers, systems engineers, and technical consultants working with freight, passenger, and urban transit railway systems worldwide.

This unique and up-to-date work surveys the use of mechatronics in rail vehicles, notably traction, braking, communications, data sharing, and control. The results include improved safety, comfort, and fuel efficiency. Mechatronic systems are a key element in modern rail vehicle design and operation. Starting with an overview of mechatronic theory, the book covers such topics as modeling of mechanical and electrical systems for rail vehicles, open and closed loop control systems, sensors, actuators, and microprocessors. Modern simulation techniques and examples are included throughout the book. Numerical experiments and developed models for railway application are presented and explained. Case studies are used, alongside practical examples, to ensure that the reader can apply mechatronic theory to real world conditions. These case studies include modeling of a hybrid locomotive and simplified models of railway vehicle lateral dynamics for suspension control studies. Rail Vehicle Mechatronics provides current and in-depth content for design engineers, operations managers, systems engineers, and technical consultants working with freight, passenger, and urban transit railway systems worldwide.

With the increasing demands for safer freight trains operating with higher speed and higher loads, it is necessary to implement methods for controlling longer, heavier trains. This requires a full understanding of the factors that affect their dynamic performance. Simulation techniques allow proposed innovations to be optimised before introducing them into the operational railway environment. Coverage is given to the various types of locomotives used with heavy haul freight trains, along with the various possible configurations of those trains. This book serves as an introductory text for college students, and as a reference for engineers practicing in heavy haul rail network design,