Safety evaluation of a vehicle–bridge interaction system using the pseudo-excitation method

Abstract A method for analysing the vehicle–bridge interaction system with enhanced objectivity is proposed in paper, which considers time-variant and random characteristics allows finding power spectral densities (PSDs) of responses directly from PSD track irregularity. The pseudo-excitation adopted framework, where vehicle modelled as a rigid body bridge using finite element method. vertical lateral wheel–rail pseudo-excitations are established assuming wheel rail have same displacement simplified Kalker creep theory, respectively. spectrum function calculated by history integral. Based on dynamic deterministic analyses system, probability density functions three safety factors (derailment coefficient, unloading rate, axle force) obtained, probabilities exceeding given limits calculated. validated Monte Carlo simulations case study high-speed train running over five simply supported spans four piers.