Movable Side Deflector for Crosswind Drag Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current aerodynamic drag reduction methods for tractor-trailer combinations, such as fixed air deflectors and fairings, are inadequate in crosswind conditions and do not significantly reduce drag when crosswind flow is present, leading to partial drag reduction and inefficiencies in fuel efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A side deflector assembly with movable side deflectors and a control system that senses crosswind direction, allowing the side deflectors to extend outward at a selected angle in crosswind conditions, and deploy into the airstream during braking to increase drag coefficient, thereby reducing aerodynamic drag and improving fuel efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If fixed air deflectors and fairings are used, then aerodynamic drag is reduced in zero crosswind conditions, but drag reduction is insignificant when crosswind flow is present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs movable side deflectors that can dynamically adjust their position between retracted and extended states based on detected crosswind conditions. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt to varying wind conditions, resolving the contradiction between achieving drag reduction in calm conditions and maintaining effectiveness in crosswind scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a control system with sensors that detect crosswind conditions and automatically adjust the side deflector positions accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures the deflectors are positioned optimally for drag reduction whether crosswinds are present or absent, eliminating the performance gap between different wind conditions.
2Loss of energy
If side deflectors are extended outwardly in crosswind conditions, then aerodynamic drag is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodynamic control system is divided into separate, independently controllable side deflectors on each side of the vehicle. Each deflector can be positioned independently based on crosswind direction and magnitude, allowing the system to achieve complex aerodynamic adjustments through simple, modular components rather than a single complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The side deflectors are equipped with automatic control systems that sense crosswind conditions and adjust the deflector positions autonomously without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability reduces the operational complexity while maintaining the aerodynamic benefits of dynamic adjustment.
3Force
If side deflectors are deployed into the airstream during braking, then drag coefficient is increased to assist braking, but fuel efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The side deflectors are deployed into the airstream temporarily only during braking events rather than remaining in a constant drag-inducing position. This periodic deployment provides additional braking force when needed while minimizing the impact on overall fuel efficiency during normal cruising conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system proactively deploys the side deflectors into the airstream in anticipation of or during braking maneuvers to create aerodynamic drag that assists the braking process. This preliminary anti-action reduces the reliance on mechanical braking systems and improves stopping performance without requiring continuous drag-inducing configurations that would compromise fuel efficiency.
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 solution effectively reduces aerodynamic drag in both zero and crosswind conditions, enhancing fuel efficiency and assisting braking by dynamically manipulating the side deflectors in response to wind direction and conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the control system senses the direction of a cross wind relative to the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
aerodynamic drag of a vehicle having a lead body, a trailing body, and a gap formed therebetween
Data Source
AI summary
One or more drag reducing deflector systems provide aerodynamic drag reduction during crosswind flow (CF) conditions including zero crosswind flow conditions. Embodiments of the drag reducing deflector system may also be utilized to assist braking of a vehicle.