Moving element method for train-track dynamics

This paper presents a new approach, called the moving element method, for the dynamic analysis of train‐track systems. By discretizing the rail beam on viscoelastic foundation into elements that ‘flow’ with the moving vehicle, the proposed method eliminates the need for keeping track of the vehicle position with respect to the track model. The governing equations are formulated in a co‐ordinate system travelling at a constant velocity, and a class of conceptual elements (as opposed to physical elements) are derived for the rail beams. In the numerical study, four cases of moving vehicle are presented taking into consideration the effects of moving load and rail corrugation. The method is shown to work for varying vehicle velocity and multiple contact points, and has several advantages over the finite element method. The numerical solutions compare favourably with the results obtained by alternative methods. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.