Wind-induced loading on mobile elevating work platforms

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Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) are widely used for indoor and outdoor construction and maintenance. When MEWPs are used outdoors, they can be subjected to aerodynamic loading due to steady winds or wind gusts, which can jeopardize the stability of the platform and endanger the operating personnel. Thus, the accurate estimation of aerodynamic loading at the engineering design stage is paramount to the development of safe and stable MEWPs. The proposed research aims to assist Skyjack, a Canadian company and one of the world's leading manufacturers of MEWPs, with estimating aerodynamic loads on their new line-up of products. The aerodynamic loads on MEWPs will be estimated using Computational Fluid Dynamics tools at the University of Waterloo, providing critical data required for MEWP design and optimization. The modelling will be based on full three-dimensional models of MEWPs, and the results will be validated against recent wind tunnel tests performed by the industrial partner. While experimental testing will be required for the final certification, the computational modelling will serve as an economical design optimization tool, and will provide much needed data for improved risk assessment. The proposed research will allow Skyjack tostrengthen its national and international market position, and will lead to improved safety of MEWPs. Finally, the project will enable the training of highly qualified personnel at the University of Waterloo.