Magnetic Trailer Drag Reduction System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air flow redirection systems for trailers are expensive, difficult to install, prone to damage, and protrude from the sides of trailers in both active and inactive modes, increasing fuel consumption and posing obstacles when opening rear doors or reversing.
Innovation Solution
A drag reducing system comprising a first and second air flow redirection means connected to the trailer's rear doors via magnetic connection devices, allowing easy switching between active and inactive modes without protruding from the trailer's long sides, using magnetic interaction with the rear doors to secure the system in place and a second group of magnetic devices to facilitate easy disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If air flow redirection means are deployed to reduce aerodynamic drag, then fuel consumption decreases, but the system protrudes from the trailer sides and increases fuel consumption when inactive
Solution Approach 1:
The air flow redirection system is divided into multiple separate redirection means, each independently mounted on individual connection brackets that can be separately positioned and secured to different locations on the trailer body, allowing selective deployment and retraction of specific segments
Solution Approach 2:
The connection brackets are designed with movable mounting positions that allow the air flow redirection means to be dynamically repositioned between an extended position for drag reduction and a retracted position that is flush with the trailer sides, enabling the system to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements
2Loss of energy
If air flow redirection means are deployed to reduce aerodynamic drag, then fuel consumption decreases, but the system constitutes an obstacle when opening rear doors or reversing
Solution Approach 1:
The connection brackets enable the air flow redirection means to be dynamically repositioned to a retracted position that is substantially flush with the trailer sides, eliminating obstacles for door opening and reversing operations while maintaining the capability to extend for drag reduction when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates magnetic connection devices that automatically secure the air flow redirection means in their operational positions without requiring additional fastening mechanisms or manual intervention, allowing the system to self-adjust and self-secure during deployment and retraction
3Loss of energy
If traditional air flow redirection means are used, then drag reduction is achieved, but the system is expensive to manufacture and difficult to install
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple independent connection brackets and air flow redirection means that can be manufactured separately using standard fabrication processes, simplifying production and allowing for easier installation and replacement of individual components without affecting the entire system
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical fastening systems are replaced with magnetic connection devices that provide secure attachment through magnetic force alone, eliminating the need for complex mechanical assemblies, bolts, and fasteners, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and installation requirements
4Loss of energy
If air flow redirection means are deployed, then aerodynamic drag is reduced, but the system gets damaged during transit and replacement parts are expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular components where individual air flow redirection means and connection brackets can be independently removed, inspected, and replaced if damaged, reducing the risk of total system failure and lowering replacement costs by allowing selective replacement of only the damaged segments
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic connection devices provide a secure yet easily releasable attachment mechanism that protects the air flow redirection means from damage during transit by allowing them to be firmly secured when needed and easily detached for protection during vulnerable operations, preventing damage before it occurs
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
The system is robust, inexpensive, easy to install, and reduces fuel consumption by minimizing aerodynamic drag while avoiding obstacles during door opening or reversing, with magnetic interaction ensuring secure engagement and easy disconnection.
Implementation Method 1
the first and the second airflow redirection means comprise a plurality of magnetic connection devices permitting the first and the second airflow redirection means to be kept in an active mode or in an inactive mode
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
A drag reducing system for trailers (1) comprising a first (2) and a second air flow redirection means (3), each having a first end part and a second end part (9b). Wherein a plurality of connection brackets (4) are arranged to be connected to a first (5) and a second rear door (6) of a trailer (7), and the first (2) and the second air flow redirection means (3) are connected to the plurality of connection brackets (4). The first (2) and the second air flow redirection means (3) comprise a plurality of magnetic connection devices (8). Wherein the plurality of magnetic connection devices (8) comprise a first group (8a) of magnetic connection devices (8) arranged at a short side at the first end part of each of the first (2) and the second air flow redirection means (3).