Wind Tunnel testing ????
Does anybody know if any in the RV industry are using wind tunnel test results in manufacturing build specifications ? I was watching MotorWeek and they showed / demonstrated the effect of rea...
Forum Discussion
Thats_Ok wrote:
Mmmm...
I do think air dumping off the sides, top and bottom of a large vehicle does actually help push the box at highway speeds due to the air void.
Kind of like the pickup tailgate down myth.
Actually the high pressure up front, the turbid air alongside and under the vehicle, and the low pressure at the back all combine to generate considerable aerodynamic drag.
Leaving a pickup tailgate down actually hurts mpg due to the swirling affect and creation of a low pressure zone
Studies have been going on since the 1970's but more interest has been shown lately.......wind tunnel studies of semi trucks/trailers ie: Cab side/top extensions, side fairings and rear wings.
The rear area has been toughest to improve upon due to the need for large flat doors
Aerodynamics Research
Tractor Trailer Aerodynamics
V-shaped trailers has been one attempt at reducing drag.
Problem is like an octagon home....kinda neat looking but lots of wasted space
