Latin hypercube designs based on strong orthogonal arrays and Kriging modelling to improve the payload distribution of trains

Nowadays, computer experiments are used increasingly more to solve complex engineering and technological issues. Computer experiments are analysed through suitable metamodels acting as statistical interpolators of the simulated input-output data: Kriging is the most appropriate and widely used one. We optimise the braking performance of freight trains through computer experiments and Kriging modelling by focussing on the payload distribution along the train, so as to reduce the effects of in-train forces among wagons during a train emergency braking. One contribution of this manuscript is that to improve the freight train efficiency in terms of braking performance, we consider that the train is composed of several train sections with each one characterised by its own overall payload. A suitable Latin hypercube design is planned for the computer experiment that achieves excellent space-filling properties with a relatively low number of experimental runs. Kriging models with anisotropic covariance function are subsequently applied to assess which is the best payload distribution capable of reducting the in-train forces according to the specific train-set arrangement considered. The results are very satisfactory and confirm that our approach represents a valid method to be successfully applied by interested Railway Undertakings.