Abstract
KEY WORDS
Ahmed Model, Platooning, Intelligent Transport Systems, Wake Analysis, Vehicle Aerodynamics
ABSTRACT
Future Generation Intelligent Transport Systems (FGITS) will likely implement solutions to increase traffic density and thus throughput on existing infrastructures, of which platooning (e.g. the close coupling of vehicles) features prominently. Whilst a commonly accepted view places an understanding of near wake flows paramount to the FGITS case, far wake region flows are more representative of present day vehicle spacings and – crucially – the mixed-fleet conditions likely to span the significant era between present day and complete FGITS fleets. Near and far wake analysis of a variable geometry Ahmed Model – a research form able to replicate structured wakes pertinent to practical vehicle flows – is used to explore relevant generic flow structures, thus providing insight into the suitability of various automotive forms to a variety of drag-reducing platooning strategies pertinent to intermediate and fully developed FGITS solutions.