One task of the MoKoBa project is the preparation of diverse substructure modules conforming to the methodological demands on a model kit using the substructure technique, [1,2]. The current model kit release includes six carbody modules, one for the carbodies itself and five carbody-articulation modules, eight running gear modules consisting of three different running gear-frame modules, four wheel-pair and one wheel-block module. In addition, two special modules for acceleration and braking functions are included.

The second task is the development of a software tool to simplify and accelerate the assembling and customizing process of the model kit modules. The program consists of a graphical user interface, called the MoKoBa-GUI, in allusion to the approach of Ille et al. [3]. The difference is that the final simulation model is stored in common SIMPACK files which makes it possible to edit the model for further investigations within the SIMPACK preprocessor. The programming language of the main program is Visual Basic. Internal parameter conversions are carried out using Microsoft Excel. Additional auxiliary applications, e.g. a tool for the visual check of the wheel/rail-contact properties or a generator for nonlinear functions are implemented in MATLAB code.

An advantage of the model configuration tool is that the model parameters and even the vehicle structure can be edited and adjusted by non-SIMPACK experts using the GUI. Furthermore, the modelling effort for a complete light-rail vehicle is reduced to a few hours using the model configuration tool. Finally mistakes within the modelling process can be reduced since the user's inputs can be checked for plausibility by the program and the substructure modules are already validated.

Future developments of MoKoBa will allow the definition of standard simulation scenarios, such as derailment analysis or ride comfort. The simulation and postprocessing for these scenarios will be automated using the MoKoBa GUI. It is also planned to extend the functionality by non-SIMPACK applications. Therefore the model configuration tool will be able to execute MATLAB scripts.

1

G. Pahl, W. Beitz, J. Feldhusen, K.-H. Grote, "Pahl/Beitz Konstruktionslehre", Springer Verlag, Berlin Heidelberg, 2005.

2

H. Netter, I. Inger, "Fahrdynamische Auslegung einer Straßenbahn", VDI-Berichte, Nr. 1568, 121-147, 2000.

3

T. Ille, J. Fleischhacker, A.C. Martinez, "Code Export von MKS-Modellen zur Entwicklung einfacher Simulationstools am Beispiel von Nutzfahrzeug-Lenkungen", VDI-Berichte, Nr. 1967, 443-461, 2006.

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