title: Relative displacement method for track-structure interaction.
abstract: The track-structure interaction effects are usually analysed with conventional FEM programs, where it is difficult to implement the complex track-structure connection behaviour, which is nonlinear, elastic-plastic and depends on the vertical load. The authors developed an alternative analysis method, which they call the relative displacement method. It is based on the calculation of deformation states in single DOF element models that satisfy the boundary conditions. For its solution, an iterative optimisation algorithm is used. This method can be implemented in any programming language or analysis software. A comparison with ABAQUS calculations shows a very good result correlation and compliance with the standard's specifications.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Civil Engineering, Universidad Austral de Chile, General Lagos, 5111187 Valdivia, Chile.
authors.forename: Frank
authors.identifier: 0000-0002-9606-9517
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Schanack
authors.affiliation: Department of Structural and Mechanical Engineering, University of Cantabria, Avenida Los Castros s/n, 39005 Santander, Spain.
authors.forename: Óscar Ramón
authors.initials: ÓR
authors.lastname: Ramos
authors.affiliation: Institute of Civil Engineering, Universidad Austral de Chile, General Lagos, 5111187 Valdivia, Chile.
authors.forename: Juan Patricio
authors.identifier: 0000-0001-6870-706X
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Reyes
authors.affiliation: APIA XXI S.A., PCTCAN, Avenida Albert Einstein 6, 39011 Santander, Spain.
authors.forename: Marcos J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Pantaleón
mesh_terms: D008422:Materials Testing; D012984:Software