Vehicle aerodynamic stability analysis under high crosswinds

Abstract

In a strong crosswind, wind direction change may result in vehicle stability loss. This paper presents a numerical study of vehicle aerodynamic stability in a high crosswind situation. We start with a model explanation and introduce the complete computational fluid dynamics (CFD) framework used in the study. Important CFD parameters such as mesh type, turbulence model, and boundary conditions are exposed and discussed in detail. We demonstrate and discuss the flow structure around a simplified truck model. Results of the CFD analysis are compared to experimental data, showing an almost perfect match. The final CFD outcomes are functions of aerodynamic coefficients that depend on the apparent wind angle. Then, CFD results are used in the application of an aerodynamic stability analysis for the truck model. Finally, the critical stability bounds are calculated, showing the marginal crosswind driving properties of the vehicles.