Dynamic and stability analysis of high-speed maglev train–guideway coupled system under crosswind

Strong crosswinds in coastal areas present significant risks to the safety and performance of high-speed maglev train operations. These winds can lead to deteriorated aerodynamic performance and increased instability, which in turn greatly affect both operational safety and passenger comfort. To address these challenges, this study aimed to develop a comprehensive numerical simulation model that integrates aerodynamic loads, allowing for an in-depth investigation of the dynamic response and characteristics of the high-speed maglev train–guideway system under crosswind conditions. A sophisticated three-dimensional model of the high-speed maglev train–guideway system with 442 degrees of freedom was established, taking into account the levitation and guidance forces exerted by electromagnets, managed through feedback controllers. This model was designed to accurately reflect the interactions between the train and guideway, considering both the aerodynamic and mechanical dynamics involved. To obtain the necessary wind load data, an aerodynamic model of the high-speed maglev train–guideway system was developed and validated against experimental data. The efficiency and accuracy of the established numerical model were rigorously validated by comparing its results with experimental data and other numerical findings. Subsequent analyses focused on the dynamic response and ride comfort of the maglev train, both without and with crosswinds. The impact of varying wind speeds on the dynamic characteristics of the train was also examined. The results indicate that as wind speed increases, the stability of the train system deteriorates significantly, underscoring the critical need for enhanced design and operational strategies to ensure safety and comfort.