Underbody Fairing for Transport Vehicle Drag and Spray Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Transport vehicles face significant aerodynamic drag and instability due to crosswind, leading to reduced fuel efficiency and increased road spray, with existing aerodynamic add-on devices often failing to address these issues effectively and being difficult to install and costly.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising an underbody fairing with a parabolic shape and air straighteners to divert airflow, convert turbulent to laminar flow, and reduce drag, combined with a mounting system using quick-connect posts for easy installation and use of lighter materials, and a side marker lamp for visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If aerodynamic add-on devices are installed to reduce drag, then fuel efficiency is improved, but installation difficulty and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodynamic device is divided into multiple modular components including side skirts, end skirts, and air deflectors that can be independently installed and adjusted. This segmentation allows for easier installation and maintenance while maintaining overall aerodynamic effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The aerodynamic add-on devices incorporate adjustable and removable elements that can be dynamically configured based on operational conditions. This dynamic capability simplifies installation and removal processes while optimizing fuel efficiency performance.
2Use of energy by moving object
If aerodynamic add-on devices are installed to reduce drag, then fuel efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodynamic device performs multiple functions simultaneously: side skirts reduce crosswind turbulence, end skirts manage airflow at vehicle ends, and air deflectors guide air flow patterns. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying overall device complexity while improving fuel efficiency.
3Force
If crosswind airflow passes underneath the transport vehicle, then aerodynamic drag increases, but stability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The side skirts are positioned at specific locations along the vehicle sides to locally manage crosswind airflow. This localized airflow management reduces overall aerodynamic drag while maintaining stability by controlling turbulence in critical areas without completely blocking natural airflow paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The aerodynamic add-on devices act as intermediary elements between the crosswind and the vehicle body, redirecting and smoothing airflow patterns. This mediation reduces drag forces while maintaining stable airflow that supports vehicle stability rather than creating turbulent disturbances.
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 significantly reduces aerodynamic drag, improves stability, and decreases road spray, while allowing for easier installation and cost-effective production, enhancing fuel efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
the underbody fairing diverts airflow around the rear wheel assembly of the transport vehicle while facilitating the laminar flow of crosswind beneath the transport vehicle
Implementation Method 2
whereby the underbody fairing diverts airflow around the rear wheel assembly of the transport vehicle while facilitating the laminar flow of crosswind beneath the transport vehicle, thereby decreasing aerodynamic drag
Implementation Method 3
an air straightener for promoting the laminar flow of air over the surfaces of a rear bumper bar... allows for an improved ability to convert the turbulent airflow approaching the front of the rear bumper bar into a laminar airflow
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an apparatus for decreasing aerodynamic drag, improving stability, and reducing road spray of a transport vehicle. The apparatus comprises an underbody fairing comprising a substantially parabolic elongated panel. The underbody fairing is strategically positioned beneath the transport vehicle and forward of the rear wheel assembly to deflect air around the rear wheel assembly while also facilitating a laminar airflow moving laterally beneath the transport vehicle.