Development and validation of a methodology for closed loop simulations of the driveline in railway vehicles

The optimisation of the dynamic behaviour of an electric railway vehicle cannot disregard the effects of the driveline in the traction and braking phases when the electrical and mechanical systems mutually exchange excitations and loads. To this end, complex and reliable models for the simulation of the whole chain, from the power collector to the wheel-rail contact including control algorithms, are necessary. Using detailed and validated standalone models of the electrical and mechanical systems, developed in Simulink and in SIMPACK, respectively, the authors have studied, tuned and validated a closed loop simulation methodology. While the standalone simulation models for different rolling stock solutions have been dealt in other papers and conferences, in this paper, the readers will find a description of the steps necessary to obtain realistic co-simulations based on Simulink and SIMPACK models operating in a closed loop and the definition of an opportune interface that guarantees modularity and ease of use. The paper analyses a synthesis of Alstom's experiences on driveline modelling followed by an overview of the new methodology and the of main development phases at the vehicle system or the sub-systems level. The model validation process, the results obtained and the range of applications of the methodology are also discussed.