Aerodynamic optimization of the ICE 2 high-speed train nose using a genetic algorithm and metamodels

Journal article, 2012

© Civil-Comp Press, 2012. An aerodynamic optimization of the ICE 2 high-speed train nose in term of front wind action sensitivity is carried out in this paper. The nose is parametrically defined by Bézier Curves, and a three-dimensional representation of the nose is obtained using thirty one design variables. This implies a more complete parametrization, allowing the representation of a real model. In order to perform this study a genetic algorithm (GA) is used. Using a GA involves a large number of evaluations before finding such optimal. Hence it is proposed the use of metamodels or surrogate models to replace Navier-Stokes solver and speed up the optimization process. Adaptive sampling is considered to optimize surrogate model fitting and minimize computational cost when dealing with a very large number of design parameters. The paper introduces the feasibility of using GA in combination with metamodels for real high-speed train geometry optimization.