Adjustable Aerodynamic Fairings and Arms for Wheel-Flow Drag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large vehicles such as semis experience poor aerodynamics, leading to decreased fuel economy and increased operating costs due to inefficient airflow around wheels and other components.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of adjustable aerodynamic fairings and support arms that can be mounted to vehicles, featuring deflectable structures and adjustable lengths to optimize airflow direction and reduce drag, combined with additional aerodynamic components like wheel covers and middle fairings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If aerodynamic fairings are added to large vehicles, then aerodynamic efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodynamic system is divided into multiple independent fairing components (front fairing, side fairings, rear fairing) that can be separately designed, installed, and adjusted. Each fairing section addresses specific airflow problems at different locations along the vehicle, allowing incremental improvement without requiring a complete complex system overhaul.
Solution Approach 2:
The fairings incorporate adjustable mounting mechanisms that allow the aerodynamic components to be positioned at different angles and locations. This adjustability enables optimization of airflow direction under varying operating conditions while maintaining a relatively simple base structure that can be adapted as needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable fairings with multiple mounting positions are implemented, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is designed with universal features that allow the same fairing component to be installed in multiple positions and configurations. The mounting brackets and attachment mechanisms are created to accommodate various angles and locations, enabling a single fairing design to serve multiple aerodynamic optimization purposes without requiring multiple specialized components.
3Loss of energy
If aerodynamic fairings are installed, then drag is reduced, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than creating a single complex fairing design, the system uses multiple simpler fairing sections that address specific local airflow problems. Each fairing is designed to optimize airflow at its particular location (front, sides, or rear of the vehicle), allowing for simpler manufacturing of individual components while achieving comprehensive aerodynamic improvement when all sections are combined.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Improves aerodynamic efficiency by directing airflow effectively around wheels and other components, reducing drag and controlling spray/splash, thereby enhancing fuel economy and stability.
Implementation Method 1
the fairing outboard surface comprising an aerodynamic outer surface to direct flow in a rearward angle
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments provide an aerodynamic fairing system that may comprise a base configured to mount to a vehicle, an arm coupled to the base at a proximate end and extending laterally, and a fairing mounted to the arm having an inboard and an outboard surface. The fairing outboard surface may provide an aerodynamic outer surface to direct flow to an angle to the rear. The arm may be a fixed or adjustable length arm. The arm may provide a mounting area for a mud flap such that aerodynamic system may act as a mud flap hanger. Embodiments also provide an adjustable mud flap hanger.