Finite element-based numerical modeling and field data analysis of vibration wavefield propagation in urban rail transit facilities

With the rapid expansion of urban rail transit systems, vibrations induced by underground metro operations have become an increasing concern in densely populated environments. This study proposes a method that combines analytical derivation of the excitation source function with finite element modeling to simulate the full-path propagation of metro-induced ground vibrations and validate the results. Departing from conventional 3D FEM-based methods, our approach models the moving train as a sequence of excitation point sources and focuses on wavefield generation, propagation, and attenuation. The source function is derived analytically and implemented within a finite element framework to model elastic wave propagation. Simulation results are compared with field measurements, demonstrating good agreement in terms of energy distribution and attenuation trends. Finally, the study discusses the model’s limitations and outlines future directions for improving its fidelity and applicability.