Establishment and comparison of a spatial dynamics model for virtual track train with different steering modes

To solve the urbanization and the economic challenges, a virtual track train (VTT) transportation system has been proposed in China. To evaluate the dynamic behavior of the VTT, a spatial dynamics model has been developed that considers the suspension system and the steering system. Additionally, the model takes into account road irregularity to make simulations more realistic. Based on the newly proposed dynamic model and a designed proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller, simulation frames of the vehicle and of the VTT are established with the path-tracking performance. The results show that the vehicle and the VTT can run along a desired lane with allowable errors, verifying the proposed model. The vehicle and VTT with the four-wheel steering system show a better dynamic performance than the models with the front-wheel steering system in the curved section. Moreover, the simulation frame can be further applied to dynamics-related assessments, parameter optimization and active suspension control strategy.