Design, development, and calibration of a force-moment measurement system for wheel–rail contact mechanics in roller rigs. (March 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Meymand, S.Z.; Ahmadian, M.
• Is Part Of: Measurement. Volume 81(2016:Mar.)
• Page Start: 113
• Page End: 122
• Publication Date: 2016-03
• Subjects: Multi-component -- Dynamometer -- Roller rig -- Wheel–rail contact mechanics; Weights and measures -- Periodicals; Measurement -- Periodicals; Measurement; Weights and measures; Periodicals; 530.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.measurement.2015.12.012
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0263-2241

Abstract

Highlights: A measurement system for precisely acquiring the contact forces/moment is developed. The system consists of 2 dynamometers; each consisting of 4 triaxial piezo loadcells. The results indicate that the system accurately measures the contact forces/moments. Abstract: A force measurement system, referred to as "dynamometer", for accurately acquiring the contact forces and moment in a single-wheel roller rig using piezo-electric load cells is designed and developed. Accurate determination of the wheel–rail contact forces and moments is an essential requirement for studying the wheel–rail contact mechanics. The dynamometer is placed in the load-path between the wheel–rail interface and the ground, enabling it to measure the forces and moments at the interface. A series of tests are performed to determine the quasi-static and dynamic characteristics of the dynamometer. Additionally, finite element analysis and multi-body dynamic modeling are used to establish flexural modes and dynamic interface between the components. The simulation and test results indicate that the dynamometer is able to accurately and reliably measure the contact forces and moments at the wheel–rail interface.