The application of navier-stokes computations to the design of high-speed, low-drag magnetically levitated (maglev) vehicle shapes

摘要

A systematic deisgn procedure using Navier-Stokes computations is applied to develop low drag body shapes suitable for high-speed, magnetically levitated vehicles. The study was undertaken to accomplish two primary goals: First, previous Maglev designs did not give major consideration to aerodynamics and left significant room for improvement in that area. Second, the Virginia Polytechnic Institute has developed a unique moving track wind tunnel test facility where potential Maglev designs cna be validated experimentally. Several geometric design parameters were evaluated using two-dimensional computtios to narrow the design space to five vehicle shapes. Three-dimensional computations were then undertaken to discern the lowest drag vehicle shapes.