Browse Topic: Exteriors
Passive fatigue can cause accidents with automated and regular vehicles. A proof-of-concept prototype [made with light-emitting diode (LED) matrices and white LED (WLED)] and a preliminary comparative usability test (N = 7) are used to study whether the active manipulation of simulated weather cues can be a potential countermeasure to passive fatigue. Participants rated system suitability, system impression, and their fatigue level similarly when they viewed a weather windshield heads-up display (HUD) versus a speedometer windshield HUD [no significant differences found and relatively small 95% confidence interval (CI) ranges around 0]. Qualitative analysis of interviews found that participants saw the potential value of the weather display and that display placement, dynamic graphics, and user activation were commonly mentioned themes. These results suggest the concept is theoretically possible, though further work is needed to prove the concept in practice.
Recent studies indicate that the door system plays a significant role in the interior noise levels of newly developed vehicles. This research investigates the noise transmission paths through the door system and identifies effective strategies for improvement through a combination of door buck testing and simulation. Specifically, in this study, the finite element method (FEM) was employed for door buck simulation, and the model was validated against vibration test results. Subsequently, acoustic analysis tools were utilized to correlate with noise testing, thereby establishing a process to ensure simulation accuracy. The sound insulation performance for the main areas of the door was experimentally evaluated, and a simulation model with good correlation to these test results was developed. By utilizing both experimental and simulation results, the principal transmission paths were identified, and appropriate improvement strategies for these paths were investigated. The validated
Precision agriculture, also known as smart farming, was once reserved for early adopters or large-scale operations, but is now an expectation within the farming industry. Across various regions and farm sizes, smart farming techniques are changing the way crops are planted as well as how they are monitored and harvested. However, farmers today are under increasing pressure to reduce labor, decrease chemical inputs, conserve water and operate in tighter windows. Couple this with factors such as narrow seasonal windows, productivity demands and safety considerations, and the need for smarter decisions becomes imperative. Going one step further, global food demands and environmental pressures are further increasing demand for precise, accurate and intelligent farming solutions.
This SAE Recommended Practice provides test procedures, requirements, and guidelines for side turn signal lamps intended for use on vehicles 12 m or more in overall length, except pole trailers. Side turn signal lamps conforming to the requirements of this document may be used on other large vehicles such as trucks, truck tractors, buses, and other applications where this type of lighting device is desirable.
The payload fairing of a launch vehicle is subjected to extremely high acoustic loads, with peak levels occurring during lift-off and transonic aerodynamic regimes. The external acoustic field penetrates the fairing, producing intense internal sound pressure levels that can challenge the integrity of spacecraft components. Accurate characterization of the vibroacoustic behavior of the payload fairing and its enclosed cavity is therefore essential to ensure spacecraft survivability. The internal acoustic field is governed by the coupled dynamics of the fairing structure and the spacecraft configuration, making it critical to quantify the acoustic environment for different payload arrangements. This study presents a detailed vibroacoustic analysis of a payload fairing with multiple spacecraft configurations to evaluate the resulting internal sound pressure distribution. Vibroacoustic finite element analysis is employed in the low frequency range, while statistical energy analysis is
The paper presents the successful drag reduction of the Racer demonstrator's rotor head through its innovative full fairing, based on a robust de-risking methodology leveraging 2D Robust Design Optimization (RDO) for airfoils, 3D CFD analysis with multiple fidelity levels, and experiments. We provide a unique end-to-end comparison across the full development cycle, correlating simulation predictions with both experimental and flight-test data. The fully faired architecture achieves a significant 42% reduction in rotor-hub form drag. At the full-vehicle level, flight tests confirm a 10% net drag reduction, including complex interactions with the airframe. This real-world measurement correlates highly with dynamic URANS predictions (11-12%), while effectively contextualizing the more optimistic 16% gains observed during static wind-tunnel and steady RANS evaluations. These findings provide a comprehensive validation of the low-drag fairing concept, offering valuable insights for the
Helicopter tail shake constitutes a significant limitation to both passenger comfort and aircraft stability. Under powered descent conditions, elevated Angle of Attack (AoA) cause flow separation around the rotor hub and engine cowling, leading to the development of an unsteady wake dominated by large-scale turbulent structures. To support the helicopter tail shake phenomenon investigation, a dedicated Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) experimental setup was designed in this work, together with four aerodynamic devices aimed at mitigating tail shake. These components were then tested through a wind tunnel campaign with the PIV setup. The proposed aerodynamic components were conceived to either deflect the hub wake away from the tail empennages or to decrease the Turbulent Kinetic Energy (TKE) within the wake. To achieve these objectives, a dorsal fin, a horse-collar, and two spoiler configurations inspired by automotive applications were designed and experimentally evaluated. The
This study investigates the use of the Overset mesh method for propeller simulations in OpenFOAM and compares it with the Arbitrary Mesh Interface (AMI) approach. While AMI is well validated for rotor aeroacoustics, it is limited in handling large relative motions and complex component interactions. In contrast, the Overset method enables flexible simulation of transition kinematics using overlapping grids, though its aeroacoustic capability in OpenFOAM has not been well established. A comparative analysis was conducted on a Joby-scale five-bladed propeller at an 80° tilt angle without a fairing, representing a transition-flight condition. Aerodynamic and acoustic predictions were obtained using hybrid DDES coupled with the Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings method. Results show that the Overset method provides improved agreement with experimental thrust and torque and captures stronger leading-edge vortices than AMI. Both methods resolve blade-vortex and blade-wake interactions. However, the
Prior work demonstrated that acceleration washout in motion simulators produces decay-rate sensing ambiguity within the vestibular system, forcing pilots to rely on visual cues for control. While Pilot Induced Oscillation Ratings (PIORs) for flight and simulation have been matched using different sensing thresholds, a quantitative basis for the 50% reduction in the visual decay-rate threshold has remained elusive. This paper provides evidence that pilots perceive decay rate proprioceptively through stick force during both flight and simulation, rather than through vestibular or visual channels. The residues of the stick-force sensitivity transfer function reflect the amplification or attenuation of neighboring zeros and poles; when these residues fall outside the human's 30 dB tactile sensory window, the resulting decay rate becomes imperceptible. Modeling reveals that stabilization via the visual channel in simulators produces dominant mode characteristics - decay rates, frequencies
Specifications, test methods, and usage provisions for safety glazing materials used for glazing of motor vehicles and motor vehicle equipment operating on land highways.
This SAE Recommended Practice is intended to cover plastic safety glazing for use in motor vehicles and motor vehicle equipment. Nominal specifications for thickness, flatness, curvature, size, and fabrication details are presented principally for the guidance of body engineers and designers. For additional information on plastic safety glazing materials for use in motor vehicles and motor vehicle equipment, please refer to SAE J673.
The scope of this SAE Recommended Practice is to promote compatibility between child restraint systems and vehicle seats and seat belts. Design guidelines are provided to vehicle manufacturers for certain characteristics of seats and seat belts and to child restraint system (CRS) manufacturers for corresponding CRS features so that each can be made more compatible with the other. The CRS accommodation fixture (see Figure 1) is used to represent a CRS to the designers of both the vehicle interior and the CRS for evaluation of each product for compatibility with the other. The features of the accommodation fixture are described as each is used.
This SAE Aerospace Recommended Practice (ARP) provides the user with standardized guidelines for the measurement of effective intensity of short pulse width strobe anticollision lights for aircraft in the laboratory, in maintenance facilities, and in the field. A common source of traceability for calibration of the measurement systems, compensation for known causes of variation in light output such as the use of colored lenses, and recommendations which minimize sources of errors and uncertainties are included in this document. Estimates of uncertainty and error sources for each class of measurement are discussed.
Weather-strip sealing systems are critical to automotive closure performance, influencing water- and dust-tightness, aerodynamic noise control, and overall NVH quality. Conventional validation often relies on flat or straight JIG-based tests that inadequately represent the curved, angled, and non-uniform geometries of real closures such as doors, tailgates, hoods, roofs, and fixed or movable glass. This disparity limits the predictive accuracy of sealing performance in actual vehicles. This study proposes a vehicle-integrated validation framework that mirrors true geometric and contact conditions. The methodology combines finite element analysis (FEA) of both flat JIG and full-vehicle CAD geometries with experimental JIG tests, establishing a baseline for pressure distribution, compression load, and sealing contact behavior. A comparative analysis highlights significant deviations between flat-section predictions and vehicle-specific closure profiles. Results demonstrate that the
MSIL (Maruti Suzuki India Limited), India’s leading automotive manufacturer, offers a diverse range of SUVs (Sports Utility Vehicles) in its portfolio. Traditionally, SUVs are associated with an assertive stance and a commanding road presence; however, this bold design language often compromises aerodynamic drag performance. Over the past decade, demand for this segment has surged, while CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) regulations have become increasingly stringent. To address this growing market need, MSIL conceptualized a new SUV - Victoris - targeted to deliver best-in-class aerodynamic efficiency in MSIL SUV portfolio. This paper details the aerodynamic development process using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and full-scale WTT (Wind Tunnel Testing). Initially, the aggressive styling of Victoris negatively impacted drag performance. Strategic exterior surface refinements and integration of aero components enabled recovery of aerodynamic efficiency. Key interventions
This SAE Recommended Practice provides test procedures, requirements, and guidelines for high-mounted stop lamps and high-mounted turn signal lamps intended for use on vehicles 2032 mm or more in overall width. This document applies to trucks, motor coaches, van type trailers, and other vehicles with permanent structure greater than 2800 mm high. This document does not apply to school buses, truck tractors, pole trailers, flat-bed trailers, pick-up trucks with dual wheels, and trailer converter dollies. The purpose of the high-mounted stop lamp(s) and high-mounted turn signal lamp(s) is to provide a signal to the driver of following (approaching a signaling vehicle from the rear) or oncoming (approaching a signaling vehicle from the front) vehicles over intervening vehicles.
This SAE Aerospace Standard (AS) will specify what type of NVGs are required and minimum requirements for compatible crew station lighting, aircraft exterior lighting such as anti-collision lights, and position/navigation lights that are “NVG compatible.” Also, this document is intended to set standards for NVG utilization for aircraft so that special use aircraft such as the Coast Guard, Border Patrol, Air Rescue, Police Department, Medivacs, etc., will be better equipped to chase drug smugglers and catch illegal immigrants, rescue people in distress, reduce high-speed chases through city streets by police, etc. Test programs and pilot operator programs are required. For those people designing or modifying civil aircraft to be NVG compatible, the documents listed in 2.1.3 are essential.
This SAE Recommended Practice applies to a decorative lamp(s) installed on the front of motor vehicles. This lamp(s) is intended only to be decorative and is not to impair the effectiveness of any required lighting device. This recommended practice establishes uniformity in use guidelines for the performance, installation, activation, and switching of a front decorative lamp(s).
Side crashes are generally hazardous because there is no room for large deformation to protect an occupant from the crash forces. A crucial point in side impacts is the rapid intrusion of the side structure into the passenger compartment which need sufficient space between occupants and door trim to enable a proper unfolding of the side airbag. This problem can be alleviated by using the rising air pressure inside the door as an additional input for crash sensing. With improvements in the crash sensor technology, pressure sensors that detect pressure changes in door cavities have been developed recently for vehicle crash safety applications. The crash pulses recorded by the acceleration based crash sensors usually exhibit high frequency and noisy responses. The data obtained from the pressure sensors exhibit lower frequency and less noisy responses. Due to its ability to discriminate crash severities and allow the restraint devices to deploy earlier, the pressure sensor technology has
In today's dynamic driving environments, reliable rear wiping functionality is essential for maintaining safe rearward visibility. This study sharing the next-generation rear wiper motor assembly that seamlessly integrates the washer nozzle, delivering improved performance alongside key benefits such as better Buzz, Squeak, and Rattle (BSR) characteristics, reduced system complexity, cost savings, and enhanced perceived quality. This integrated design simplifies the hose routing which improves the compactness and the efficiency of the design. This also enhances the spray coverage and minimizes the dry wiping unlike the traditional systems that position the washer nozzle separately. A non-return valve (NRV) is incorporated to eliminate spray delays ass it maintains consistent water flow giving cleaning effectiveness. Since this makes the nonfunctional parts completely leak proof due to the advanced sealing, it increases the durability and reliability in long run. As this proposal offers
A mobile wireless charger is a device that charge a smartphone or other compatible gadgets without the need for physical cables. Principle of wireless mobile charger system based on inductive coupling phenomena. The main objective of this paper aims to address the challenge of packaging wireless mobile charger in peculiar door trim profile keeping overall functionality and aesthetic appearance of door trim intact. This paper deals with integration of a wireless charging system within the door trim of a vehicle to provide convenience and advanced functionality. The objective is to pack a wireless charger in door trim meeting the ergonomic target and equilibrium state stability while maintaining sleek and minimalist design of the door trim. The study focuses on innovative packaging solutions related to space optimization in door despite multiple challenges involved. Major challenge lies in packing the unit amidst complex mechanisms such as window regulators, speakers, structural
This research analyzes the significance of air extractor on car door closing effort, especially within the context of highly sealed cabins. The goal is to measure their effectiveness in lowering pressure-induced resistance, study how the cut-out cross section and location affect performance, and its contribution to vehicle premium feel. Current vehicle design trends prioritize airtight cabin sealing for improving aerodynamic efficiency, NVH performance. This causes a problem in door closing operation. Air trapped while closing door creates transient pressure pulses. This pressure surge creates immediate discomfort to user i.e., Popping in Ears and requires high door closing force, and long-term durability problems in hinges and seals. In properly sealed cabins, air pressure resistance can contribute to 25% to 40% of total door closing force. Air extractors, usually installed in the rear quarter panels or behind rear bumpers, serve as pressure relief valves, allowing for a smoother
The objective of this study was to examine the effect of Correlated Colour Temperature (CCT) of automotive LED headlamps on driver’s visibility and comfort during night driving. The experiment was conducted on different headlamps having different correlated colour temperatures ranging from 5000K to 6500K in laboratory. Further study was conducted involving participants of different age group and genders for understanding their perception to identify objects when observed in light of different LED headlamps with different CCTs. Studies have shown that both Correlated Colour Temperature and illumination level affect driver’s alertness and performance. Further study required on headlamps with automatically varying CCT to get better solution on driver’s visibility and safety.
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