A Research Facility for the Next Generation Train Running Gear in true Scale

Abstract

The running gears of DLR’s long-term project Next Generation Train utilize independently rotating wheels with mechatronic track guidance, direct drives close to the wheels and are optimized for low weight. On the basis of encouraging research results so far, DLR decided to design and build a true scale prototype of the NGT running gear and use it as a research facility. It is the intention to improve, validate and demonstrate the mechanical and mechatronic design, sensor and actuator lay-out step by step and finally approach the Technology Readiness Level 6. By the end of 2022, this prototype will be put into operation considering low speed scenarios up to max. 5 m/s at an in-house integration test rig. This is the current task, which is reported on in the paper. However, this work is supposed to prepare advanced performance experiments up to 350 km/h on external roller rigs and at railway test tracks later on.