Abstract: A new scheme about flexible coupled radial bogie with independently rotating wheels is put forward. An expression about coupling stiffness of the flexible coupled radial bogie with independently rotating wheels is deduced by theoretic analysis. The simulation analysis shows that as long as the bogie’s coupled stiffness is selected correctly, whether external condition (curve radius and speed) changes, the leading and trailing wheelsets of the bogie can automatically run to radial location by the coordinated operation of the flexible coupled machine and the second suspension systems of the vehicle, which proves that the flexible coupled radial bogie surely takes on very good radial steering ability in complicated external condition. Comparing the flexible coupled radial bogie with the two-axle bogie and one-axle bogie, the dynamic performance of the flexible coupled radial bogie with independently rotating wheels is provided with prominent dominance of the three bogies, which shows that the flexible coupled radial bogie with independently rotating wheels possesses hugees exploitation potential.

Key words: Dynamic performance, Flexible coupled radial bogie, Independently rotating wheel, Steering capability