Author(s)

M. Akama, T. Kigawa & E. Kimoto

Abstract

A shape optimization analysis for corrugated wheels is performed using growth- strain method. The analysis consists of iteration of two steps. The first step is a stress analysis under the condition of severe drag braking using general-purpose FEM codes. The second step is a growth-strain analysis based on a growth law. In this analysis, bulk strain develops in proportion to the deviation of Mises equivalent stress from the average or permissible value in a plate part of the wheel. The result- ing shapes indicate the effectiveness of this technique for improving strength and reducing the weight of wheels. 1 Introduction Corrugated wheels [1] are developed in order to raise the train speed by reducing the unsprung mass. The plate part of the

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