Drag Optimization Of Light Trucks Using Computational Fluid Dynamics
Abstract
There are 80 million light trucks on the road today with suboptimal aerodynamic forms. Previous research has found that several miles per gallon can be saved by specifically tailoring truck bodies for reduced aerodynamic drag. Even greater savings can be obtained if the shape of the trucks is numerically optimized. This could reduce fuel consumption in the United States by billions of gallons per year. The purpose of this research is to develop and quantify optimal light truck canopy designs using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Both two-dimensional and three-dimensional models are used to do this. Initially, this research focuses on quantifying and generalizing the effects of traditional automotive aerodynamic accessories, such as canopies and air dams. Once the effects of various form factors are quantified an optimization of the canopy is performed. This thesis demonstrates a method for drag reduction using CFD and traditional numerical optimization techniques. Lastly, the optimized forms are physically constructed and their effects on fuel economy are compared to the CFD prediction. The results indicate that the CFD formulation provides an accurate predictor for improving fuel economy and drag characteristics. The prototype air dam and optimally shaped canopy generated a 21.23% savings in terms of fuel economy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA418232
Entities
People
- Nathan A. Williams
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School