optimization of embedded rail slab track with respect to environmental vibrations

This paper aims to select trough geometry (width and height) and surrounding elastic materials (elasticity modulus) as optimization parameters and, also, chose minimum environmental vibrations at the critical point of the pavement system. the optimum trough geometry and specifications of surrounding materials were evaluated as part of the objective function. in doing so, a numerical finite element model of the embedded slab track rail system was developed with regard to the components of the substructure and superstructure of the system under plain strain conditions. in the first step, the numerical model was calibrated by comparing its results with static lab results. in the next step, the vibration behavior was investigated after applying a harmonic load to the system at various amplitudes and frequencies corresponding to the real operation conditions. maximum velocity of particles' vibrations was evaluated at different points in the vertical direction, and the critical point of the pavement system was determined. then, the best trough section and elasticity modulus of surrounding materials corresponding to the load amplitude and frequency were determined by designing experiments using the surface response method and limiting the maximum vibrations of critical points to 65 decibels