Objective With the operating speed of high-speed EMU (electric multiple unit) trains increasing, the vibration excitation intensifies, and the vibration perceived by passengers increases consequently. At present, vibration comfort indices related to vehicle seats are not clearly defined, and a corresponding standard system has not been established. Therefore, it is necessary to study the vibration characteristics of vehicle seats.

Method The effects of vibration on human body are reviewed, and the vibration characteristics of high-speed EMU trains are analyzed. In combination with GB/T 18707.2–2010, the relevant vibration comfort standards for seats are systematically reviewed. Based on the above standard, bench tests are conducted on the vibration comfort of seats with typical structures of a certain EMU type, and the seat vibration characteristics at human-sensitive as well as resonance frequencies are tested. In view of the limitations of bench tests, on-vehicle tests are further carried out to obtain the vibration transmission characteristics of the seats under vehicle excitation.

Result & Conclusion  Bench tests conducted in accordance with GB/T 18707.2–2010 can reasonably avoid the sensitive frequencies of the human body and seats, but still lack reasonable quantitative values. According to the on-vehicle test results, the dominant frequency of floor vibration and the wheel rotation frequency have a significant influence on the seats, so the recommended resonance frequency range of the seats is 15–18 Hz. For the establishment of a vibration comfort standard system, GB/T 18707.2–2010 can be used as a basis to form standardized test methods and evaluation indices, with comprehensive consideration of various factors.