In this paper, a virtual testing model (VTM) for the Korean high speed train (KHST) is developed to meet several design purposes, and an improved collision safety assessment method is also suggested. Although twisting, buckling, zigzagging, chain reactions, overriding and derailment have long been recognized as the important elements that can affect the safety of passengers in the event of a collision, the means by which such behaviors can be predicted have been restricted. To address this, a VTM, supported by the technological advancements of numerical analysis software and high-performance computers, was developed to simulate and evaluate such behaviors. The VTM for KHST was modeled using finite elements, in order to obtain such collision behaviors. In addition, the VTM was simulated in a variety of accident scenarios, and the results were analyzed and compared with the results obtained using other modeling techniques. Since factors such as the deformation of individual members, serial collisions and twisting of the train body were incorporated into the VTM, this simulation provides more practical collision responses than other modeling techniques. This shows that it can predict more nonlinear collision behaviors, giving it a wider range of applications.
