Aerodynamic design of high-sided coaches to reduce cross-wind sensitivity, based on wind tunnel tests

Aerodynamic properties of high-sided coaches with various body shapes were investigated in order to improve directional stability. The idea was to find out whether it would be possible, from an aerodynamic point of view, to suggest an optimal coach body design. The subject has previously been paid l...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International journal of crashworthiness 2008-01, Vol.13 (2), p.185-194
Main Authors: Petzäll, J., Torlund, P. Å., Falkmer, T., Albertsson, P., Björnstig, U.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
aerodynamic properties
Aerodynamics
bus and coach
coach body design
crash
cross-wind
Design
MEDICIN
MEDICINE
Traffic accidents & safety
Transportation research
wind tunnel tests
Wind tunnels
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Summary:Aerodynamic properties of high-sided coaches with various body shapes were investigated in order to improve directional stability. The idea was to find out whether it would be possible, from an aerodynamic point of view, to suggest an optimal coach body design. The subject has previously been paid little attention in the scientific literature. The fact that during the last few years at least 10 wind-related coach crashes have occurred in Sweden indicates that here a serious problem exists and that cross-wind effects should be carefully considered by coach designers. The observations made in the present study suggest that it should be possible to find an ideal coach body shape. The ideal shape of the coach includes a rounded front face, rounded top sides and sharp rear corners.
ISSN:1358-8265
1754-2111
1754-2111
DOI:10.1080/13588260701788476