The aim of this proposed project is development of a numerical method that can find the best aerodynamics shape of the high-speed train, or at least a shape that is as close as possible to the optimal one. With such a numerical method, modifications of the shape of the train should not only rely on the experience of engineers but be a result of a numerical algorithm. Engineers would provide aerodynamic specifications (such as air resistance, lift force, maximum side force or aerodynamic noise) for a train and the algorithm should then perform a numerical search for the best shape and suggest an optimal design.

In solution of the optimization problem we use metamodels and numerical simulations with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Using simple models of objective functions makes it possible to use genetic algorithms to explore the design space. As a result of the suggested optimization procedure we obtain a set of so called Pareto-optimal solutions that help us to explore design space and make tradeoffs between design objectives.
 

1. E. Bjerklund, J. Emilsson, E. E. Hobroh, M. Johansson Lenngren, C. Norrgård, A. Rynell, "Design av höghastighetståg för kraftiga sidovindar (in Swedish)", BSc thesis TMEX02-16, Dept. of Applied Mechanics, Chalmers, 2007. View PDF file
    
   
2. J. Georgii, O. Gustafson, E. Joelsson, H. Martini, K. Näsholm, G. Ringius, "Virvelgeneratorer till 5A höghastighetståg (in Swedish)", BSc thesis 2007:04, Dept. of Applied Mechanics, Chalmers, 2007. View PDF file
    
   
3. S. Krajnovic, "Improvement of aerodynamic properties of high-speed trains by shape optimization and flow control", 8th World Congress on Railway research (WCRR2008), May 18-22, 2008 , Seoul, Korea.