Dynamic Simulation of Freight Car and Lading During Impact

A dynamic analysis is presented to explain damage to railroad cars and ladings resulting from impacts. In the analysis, a mathematical model consisting of the car body and freight in the car is presented. Each freight element assumes three degrees of freedom for the computer simulation. A parametric study is made to establish sensitivity of car parameters and impact conditions. The study should be useful to aid in finding means for controlling impact damage and in designing packaging materials.