CFD-based optimization of truck fairing structure

Abstract

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) technology was used to analyse a big truck with newly-designed head. Three models were designed to analyze: (1) Project 1: a trunk without fairing, (2) Project 2: a trunk with an old fairing, (3) Project 3: a trunk with a new fairing (the old fairing of Project 2 is particularly moved 500mm forehead). During the movement of vehicle, the more similar streamlined shape of the vehicle is, the more reduction of the wind resistance can achieve. The wind resistance could be thereby reduced in case of a truck having a fairing because of a more similar with streamlined shape for the truck structure. The challenge here is that the exactly optimal location of the fairing on the vehicle is not clear and generally was determined only by experience. However, here by the comparison of each model with CFD analysis, engineers can give the better design for the goal of reducing the resistance fuel consumption.