Methodology for optimization of friction draft gear design

Evidence gathered from industry indicates that railway coupling system failures have become a limitation for further developments of heavy haul trains. Friction draft gears have implications for both longitudinal train dynamics and rolling stock fatigue; therefore, optimization of friction draft gears could be a possible solution to conquer the limitation. In this paper, a methodology for optimization of friction draft gear design based on an advanced friction draft gear model is proposed. The methodology proposes using simulation techniques such as longitudinal train dynamics simulation and a Genetic Algorithm to develop improved parameters.