Analytical study on effects of form in transition curve

In Japan straight slope cant and third order parabola for plane curve has been used as the transition curve on existing narrow gauge lines, but the sinuous curve has been used as the transition curve on Shinkansen. In raising the speed of Tokaido Shinkansen to 270km/h the speed could not be raised on several curves because the transition curve could not be elongated due to the obstacles such as turnout. To clarify the effect of transition form on the vehicle response, following analyses have been performed. (1) The frequency characteristics of transition form and their effects on vehicle response. (2) The time dependent response of vehicle to transition from. (3) A new proposal to the transition form and its application to an existing curve.