Design and Dynamic Analysis of the Sightseeing Vehicle Bogie Using HTS Maglev Technology

High-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnetic levitation (maglev) has the advantages of low-energy consumption and is environment friendly. This article tried to apply this novel technology to sightseeing vehicles. As the bogie is one of the most important components of the vehicle, a new type of bogie was designed for the need of small-radius curve passing and its dynamic characteristics were evaluated. A 3-D model of a bogie with primary suspension was built. By which, the space utilization of the vehicle can be improved and the passengers will have higher comfort. Then, a dynamic model of the vehicle–bridge coupled system was constructed based on a multibody dynamics software, universal mechanism. The dynamic performance of bogie with and without primary suspension was compared to explore its necessity. The vehicle–bridge dynamic performance was simulated and analyzed under different speeds and curve radii. The results show that the HTS maglev sightseeing vehicle with the bogie with primary suspension has favorable dynamic performance. For higher speeds and smaller curve radius, the vibration response will worsen. This study can provide references for the design and optimization of HTS maglev bogies suitable for small-radius curve passing.