Identification of safety hazards and operating conditions of the low-floor tram with independently rotating wheels with various drive control algorithms

The aim of the article is to develop a method for the analysis of tram dynamics related to safety during operation. To achieve this, a mathematical model of the vehicle represented by a multibody simulation MBS system is used. Models of tram with a classic and innovative drive, based on a system of independently rotating wheels on crank axles are analyzed. A new configuration of an innovative drive control of the considered vehicle with the use of braking of independent wheels is proposed. A new geometry of test track is presented. During numerical investigation the values of ‘Y’ leading forces of tram wheels with the considered innovative drive proved to be lower than in the corresponding vehicle with standard wheelsets. It has been demonstrated that the active control systems are of key importance and should be applied in such innovative tram drives.