Aerodynamics Matter !!
Hello All. First post here... wanted to share some data on aerodynamics. I am designing an ultralight (under 100 lbs/ft) small travel trailer and wanted to find out the effect of shape on aerodyna...
Forum Discussion
Ron-C wrote:gmw photos wrote:
regarding real world aero effects on fuel mileage. ... Rounded front end, rounded corners similar to an Airstream design ( except the back, which is square ). Approx same weight as the camper. I get approx 1.5 mpg more pulling the horse trailer with same truck, same speeds.
I suspect that the back shape has more influence on the drag force than the front although everyone seems to focus on making the front nice and round. Your TV has already punched the hole. It is more likely the back creating suction with the wall behind you.
Ever see an airplane or fish with a flat tail section?
Ron, I suspect you are very much correct on the comment about the flat back of my horse trailer. That's why I mentioned it in my post, because for instance, comparing it to an Airstream, the rest of the horse trailer is similar. The A/S has the advantage of both the trailing roof and side walls being rounded.
Reduced frontal area and a nice long tapering tail would of course be ideal from and aero standpoint. Looking at pictures of the Concorde is a perfect example of optimum shape ( for aero ).
