Inflatable Cab-Trailer Gap Sealer for Aerodynamic Drag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for reducing aerodynamic drag between the cab and semi-trailer of industrial or commercial vehicles only partially address the issue, as air can still flow through the gap, leading to increased fuel consumption and reduced energy efficiency, especially at high speeds.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising rigid spoilers attached to the cab and inflatable, retractable spoilers that dynamically extend to adhere to the semi-trailer, completely closing the gap between the cab and semi-trailer, with a rounded abutment surface on the semi-trailer for optimal contact, allowing for adaptation to different trailers and movement conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If rigid spoilers and air deflectors are mounted on the cab, then air flow over the top of the trailer is improved, but the space between the cab and trailer is not completely closed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic inflatable spoilers that can extend and retract based on vehicle speed and operational conditions. At high speeds, the spoilers inflate to completely close the gap between cab and trailer, while at lower speeds they retract to maintain adaptability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state of the spoilers from deflated to inflated, altering their volume and shape parameters dynamically. This allows the same structure to provide different levels of gap closure depending on the required aerodynamic performance.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the gap between cab and trailer is completely closed, then aerodynamic drag is reduced, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible inflatable membranes to create the spoiler structures. These thin film structures can completely close the gap when inflated but collapse to minimal profiles when deflated, reducing the system's physical footprint and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses pneumatic inflation and deflation mechanisms to control the spoilers. This allows for simple on/off control of the gap closure function without complex mechanical linkages or actuation systems.
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
This solution effectively eliminates aerodynamic drag caused by airflow through the gap, significantly improving fuel efficiency and reducing turbulence, especially in side winds, by ensuring a complete seal between the cab and semi-trailer.
Implementation Method 1
inflatable and retractable spoilers, attached to said rigid spoilers as dynamic extensions thereof, and suitable to extend so as to adhere to the front wall of the semi-trailer
Implementation Method 2
The energy efficiency of motor vehicles is known to be directly related to the aerodynamic drag and turbulence caused by the motion of the vehicle
Implementation Method 3
According to an alternative embodiment the system also comprises a rounded abutment surface as an extension of the front wall of the semi-trailer, suitable for facilitating the contact with said inflatable spoilers
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for completely closing the space between the cab and semi-trailer of an industrial or commercial vehicle is described, said system comprising rigid spoilers attached to the side and top edges of the rear of the cab, characterized in that it also comprises inflatable and retractable spoilers, attached to said rigid spoilers as dynamic extensions thereof, and suitable to extend so as to adhere to the front wall of the semi-trailer and completely close the space between the cab and semi-trailer. According to an alternative embodiment the system also comprises a rounded abutment surface as an extension of the front wall of the semi-trailer, suitable to facilitate the contact with said inflatable spoilers.