Enhancing high-speed train stability: Unraveling the influence of sloping crosswind shields on aerodynamic characteristic

The crosswind stability of high-speed trains has been a critical area of focus for many years due to the significant risk of overturning in such conditions. This research evaluates the effectiveness of sloping crosswind shields placed on both the windward and leeward sides of high-speed trains to mitigate crosswind impacts. Numerical simulations were conducted using a 1:7 scale model of a high-speed train, employing the lattice Boltzmann method. The study explores the effects of shield height (H) and slope (epsilon), revealing key insights: at a height of 1 m, an 87 % slope significantly reduces the side force coefficient to 0.34. In contrast, a 2-meter shield with a 50 % slope achieves an exceptionally low coefficient of 0.19. Across all slopes, the 2-meter shields consistently exhibit a lower lift force coefficient compared to their 1-meter counterparts. The analysis delves into the nuanced impact of 1-meter and 2-meter shields on the rolling moment coefficient, with the 1-meter shield consistently yielding significantly lower values, decreasing from 1.67 to 0.08. Moreover, the intricate dynamics of both the rolling moment and lee-rail rolling moment coefficients are illustrated, showing a complex pattern influenced by variations in shield height and slope. This rigorous study sheds light on previously unexplored aspects of highspeed train aerodynamics and lays the groundwork for future advancements in crosswind mitigation technologies. Through meticulous experimentation and detailed analysis, these findings represent a pioneering step toward enhancing the safety of high-speed trains under challenging crosswind conditions.