Tank Trailer Hatch Wind Deflector Aerodynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hatch assemblies on top of tank trailers create wind drag, reducing fuel efficiency, as existing aerodynamic enhancements have not effectively addressed this area.
Innovation Solution
An aerodynamic wind deflector with a smooth downwardly tapered surface is mounted adjacent to the hatch assembly, forming a continuous aerodynamic surface with integral end walls and side members, reducing eddy currents and drag, and can be easily retrofitted to existing tank trailers with sealants and fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hatch assemblies with upstanding walls are installed to protect access ports, then protection and loading facilitation are improved, but wind drag increases and fuel efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curved aerodynamic surfaces to the hatch assembly, replacing flat upstanding walls with smoothly contoured deflectors that guide airflow over the access port area. This curvature reduces turbulence and wind drag while maintaining the protective function of the hatch structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces aerodynamic deflectors as intermediary elements between the wind flow and the hatch assembly. These deflectors act as mediators that redirect airflow around the access port area, reducing the direct impact of wind on the hatch structure and minimizing drag.
2Use of energy by moving object
If aerodynamic surfaces are added to reduce wind drag, then fuel efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the aerodynamic deflector function with the existing hatch assembly structure. The deflectors are integrated into the hatch design, combining protective and aerodynamic functions into a unified structure, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining fuel efficiency benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The aerodynamic surfaces are designed to serve multiple functions: protecting the access port, reducing wind drag, and facilitating loading operations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components, thereby improving fuel efficiency without significantly increasing device complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If smooth continuous aerodynamic surfaces are created, then wind drag is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the aerodynamic surface into multiple segmented panels or sections that can be manufactured separately and then assembled to form the complete smooth surface. This segmentation allows for simpler manufacturing of individual components while achieving the overall aerodynamic effect when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs standard manufacturing parameters and materials that can be easily shaped into aerodynamic forms. By selecting materials and processes that allow for smooth surface creation with minimal complexity, the patent achieves reduced air drag without significantly increasing manufacturing difficulty.
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 wind deflector significantly reduces air drag and enhances fuel efficiency by creating a smooth airflow surface over the hatch assemblies, improving the aerodynamics of tank trailers during transport.
Implementation Method 1
an aerodynamic wind deflector having a smooth downwardly tapered surface which is mounted adjacent the front area of a hatch assembly
Implementation Method 2
reduce the formation of eddy currents, which wind deflectors in combination, reduce drag caused by the upstanding members of the hatch assemblies
Data Source
AI summary
A wind deflector assembly formed about or part of a hatch assembly surrounding an access port of a tank trailer to control wind flow about the hatch assembly to reduce wind drag on the tank trailer. The wind deflector assembly includes a first downwardly forwardly directed smooth surface extending from the hatch assembly toward the front end of the tank trailer and preferably includes a second smooth surface extending downwardly rearwardly from the hatch assembly toward the rear end of the tank trailer. An intervening opening is formed between the spaced wind deflecting surfaces for receiving the access port therein and maybe covered by a smooth closure member.