Abstract: Based on designability and capability of one-time forming of complex structures of resin matrix composites, in this paper, the authors drew lessons from various composite aircraft design codes and compared analysis results from two structural forms developed in parallel. A carbon fibre reinforced composites skirt plate on high-speed maglev trains was finally developed. The structure realized integrated forming of a kind of cavity structure, typical gained advantages were up to 33% weight reduction while meeting all corresponding design requirements, better impact resistance and reduced production cost. Based on the development process of the new skirt plate, this paper presents a systematical discussion of the design ideas of resin matrix composites in the field of rail transit industry in terms of material selection, structure form selection, design specifications adaption, design values determination, structure simulation and final product verification.

Key words: carbon fibre reinforced composites, maglev skirt plate, cavity structure, design principles