Abstract
KEYWORDS –Aerodynamics control, Active device, Crosswind, Lightweight mobility, Vehicle dynamics control
ABSTRACT –
Lightweight, low-drag vehicles for a future energy-saving society are predicted to suffer from reduced crosswind stability, a basic performance parameter. In response, active aerodynamics devices capable of greatly reducing the effects of crosswind disturbances are being adopted. To study the effects of these devices in optimizing cars’ aerodynamic characteristics in response to disturbances, a model car was fitted with mock active aerodynamics devices and wind tunnel tests were conducted along with CFD to analyze air flow around cars using such devices. The results showed a robust reduction to nearly zero of the yaw moment and lift induced in the vehicle with respect to the relative wind angle, providing confirmation of vehicle dynamics under crosswind conditions, with the achievement of great reductions in yaw rate and stabilized travel. The possibility of controlling vehicle motion using active aerodynamics is thereby suggested.