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Aerodynamic Drag Reduction on a Simple Car-Like Shape with Rear Upper Body Taper

Journal Article
2013-01-0462
ISSN: 1946-3995, e-ISSN: 1946-4002
DOI: https://doi.org/10.4271/2013-01-0462
Published April 08, 2013 by SAE International in United States
Aerodynamic Drag Reduction on a Simple Car-Like Shape with Rear Upper Body Taper
Sector:
Citation: Howell, J., Passmore, M., and Tuplin, S., "Aerodynamic Drag Reduction on a Simple Car-Like Shape with Rear Upper Body Taper," SAE Int. J. Passeng. Cars - Mech. Syst. 6(1):52-60, 2013, https://doi.org/10.4271/2013-01-0462.
Language: English

Abstract:

Various techniques to reduce the aerodynamic drag of bluff bodies through the mechanism of base pressure recovery have been investigated. These include, for example, boat-tailing, base cavities and base bleed. In this study a simple body representing a car shape is modified to include tapering of the rear upper body on both roof and sides. The effects of taper angle and taper length on drag and lift characteristics are investigated. It is shown that a significant drag reduction can be obtained with moderate taper angles. An unexpected feature is a drag rise at a particular taper length. Pressure data obtained on the rear surfaces and some wake flow visualisation using PIV are presented.

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