Understanding Aerodynamic Performance A Study on Passenger Cars (1)

1. UNDERSTANDING AERODYNAMIC PERFORMANCE: A STUDY ON PASSENGER CARS By

2. INTRODUCTION The field of aerodynamics plays a critical role in the automotive industry, as it directly impacts a vehicle’s fuel efficiency, speed, stability, and overall performance. At Graphler Technology Solutions, we recently conducted an aerodynamic simulation of a passenger car to assess and optimize its aerodynamic performance. Here’s an overview of the key elements of this study and its outcomes.

3. 1.OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY The primary goal of this aerodynamic analysis was to evaluate the aerodynamic torsor, which includes both drag and lift forces acting on the car. Additionally, the study focused on the flow features around the vehicle, including the wake and bodywork. These analyses are essential for improving vehicle design by minimizing drag, enhancing stability, and increasing fuel efficiency.

4. 2.Methodology: Wind Tunnel SIMULATION • The study utilized a wind tunnel simulation setup, with specific boundary conditions replicating real-world scenarios. The tunnel design ensured that the aerodynamic features of the vehicle could be accurately observed: • Tunnel Front: ~2 times the vehicle length. • Tunnel Rear: ~3 times the vehicle length. • The boundary conditions included an inlet velocity, pressure outlet, frictionless walls, and a moving belt to simulate ground movement. Additionally, tires, rims, brakes, and air intake were modeled with realistic conditions such as angular velocities and mass flow.

5. VEHICLE PARAMETERS • The vehicle dimensions used in the study were as follows: • Length (X-axis): 4009.67 mm • Width (Y-axis): 1996.85 mm • Height (Z-axis): 1443.07 mm These dimensions were crucial in determining the drag and lift forces experienced by the vehicle during the analysis.

6. 3.KEY DELIVERABLES The outputs of the study offered valuable insights into the vehicle’s aerodynamic performance: Aerodynamic Torsor: Global and Discretized Data: The analysis provided both global and specific measurements for the drag and lift forces on various parts of the vehicle.

7. BODYWORK ANALYSIS: Parts Contribution to Drag and Lift: A detailed breakdown of the aerodynamic forces contributed by different regions of the vehicle, such as the superstructure, wheels, under the hood, and floor, helped pinpoint areas for potential improvements. Flow Analysis: 1.Pressure Coefficient (CP) Distribution: This analysis was performed along the vehicle’s body to map pressure variations, which influence drag and lift. 2. Wake Analysis: The wake region, critical for vehicle stability, was analyzed using tomography. Velocity, pressure, and pathlines in the wake were studied to better understand airflow patterns behind the vehicle.

8. 4.PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Understanding how drag and lift forces impact a vehicle allows for more efficient design choices. For instance, reducing drag enhances fuel efficiency, while controlling lift improves vehicle stability at high speeds. Our comprehensive aerodynamic analysis provides the necessary data to make informed design adjustments, whether for mass production cars or specialized racing vehicles.

9. CONCLUSION Through this simulation, Graphler Technology Solutions reinforces its dedication to delivering cutting-edge engineering solutions by thoroughly analyzing and optimizing aerodynamic performance. As a leading provider of product design and CFD consulting services, Graphler Technology also excels in stress analysis, structural analysis services, and structural design services. To learn more about night purging and how it can be integrated into your next project, feel free to get in touch with us today.

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