Influence of wind barrier configuration on driving space over bridge decks: A PIV-based parametric study.

Xia, D; Shi, S; Liu, Z; Lin, X; Lin, L · 2026 · PubMed Central

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-026-54686-8

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Summary

This study investigates how wind barrier configurations affect the wind field within the driving space of long-span bridges, specifically those with centrally slotted box girders. The research addresses the need to improve driving safety and structural stability by mitigating wind-induced vibrations and crosswind effects on vehicles. While previous studies have examined individual factors, this work focuses on the coupled influence of wind barrier parameters and vehicle presence on the bridge deck wind environment. The researchers conducted parametric wind tunnel experiments using Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) to visualize and quantify the flow field. A 1:200 scaled sectional model of a twin-box girder was tested in a low-speed wind tunnel. The study evaluated two wind barrier layouts (perpendicular single-panel and triangular double-panel), two heights (3 m and 4.5 m), and two porosities (40% and 64%). Tests were performed under incoming wind speeds of 3 m/s and 6 m/s, both with and without a scaled passenger car model positioned in the second lane. The PIV system captured instantaneous velocity fields, which were processed to calculate mean wind speed, turbulent kinetic energy (TKE), and mean vorticity. Equivalent wind speed reduction coefficients were used to quantitatively assess the impact of each configuration. The results indicate that the presence of vehicles significantly alters the wind field, inducing vortex formation and increasing turbulence in the driving space. Specifically, vehicles expand high-speed areas and create complex flow patterns that can adversely affect lateral forces on the vehicle. Wind barriers were found to effectively modify the distribution and magnitude of average wind speed on the windward side. The study demonstrates that barrier height, porosity, and layout critically influence these aerodynamic characteristics. For instance, variations in porosity and height directly impact the shielding effect and the position of vortices relative to the deck surface. The quantitative analysis via equivalent wind speed reduction coefficients provided specific metrics for how each parameter combination reduces wind exposure for vehicles. The findings offer valuable insights for the design of wind barriers on long-span bridges. By understanding how specific barrier configurations interact with vehicle-induced flows, engineers can optimize designs to ensure driving safety and reduce wind-induced structural risks. The study highlights the importance of considering coupled effects—rather than isolated factors—when evaluating bridge deck wind environments, providing a reference for future assessments of vehicular traffic safety under crosswind conditions.

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