Aerodynamics investigations and optimization of a simplified pick-up truck with wind tunnel and CFD testing
Typ
Examensarbete för masterexamen
Master's Thesis
Master's Thesis
Program
Mobility engineering (MPMOB), MSc
Publicerad
2024
Författare
Yathiraj, Karthik
Chaithanya, Pavan
Modellbyggare
Tidskriftstitel
ISSN
Volymtitel
Utgivare
Sammanfattning
This master’s thesis presents a comprehensive study on the aerodynamics and optimization of a simplified generic pick-up truck model through combined wind tunnel testing
and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations in StarCCM+. The primary objective is to understand and investigate the aerodynamic behavior of the generic pickup
truck and design new attachments for the pickup truck on the trailer.
Based on existing knowledge, design optimization techniques were used to find design
changes that could reduce aerodynamic drag. A flat underbody, a closed grill gap, and
various rear attachments were among the changes made to the truck’s shape. A comprehensive study and cross-validation of the suggested aerodynamic improvements were
made possible by the combination of wind tunnel testing and CFD.
The ANSA software was used to optimize the CAD model. 3D printing was later used
to create a 1/10 scaled-down model of the generic pickup truck, along with three distinct
attachments called Flat back, Hatch back, and Fastback. Later tested the 3D printed
model in Chalmers University of Technology’s wind tunnel in Sweden. Drag forces were
captured with the aid of wind tunnel experiments. These experimental findings served
as a standard by which to validate the CFD models. The airflow surrounding the vehicle
was then simulated using extensive CFD analyses using the StarCCM+ software.
The findings presented in this paper are the outcome of research and comprehension of
the vehicle’s aerodynamic behavior. They also show enhancements in the pickup truck’s
aerodynamic performance, with the quick back attachment lowering the drag coefficient.
In addition to highlighting the potential for significant fuel and pollution reductions in
pick-up trucks through aerodynamic optimization, this work shows how well experimental
and computational methodologies may be used for aerodynamic investigations.
Beskrivning
Ämne/nyckelord
Aerodynamics , Wind tunnel testing , Computational Fluid Dynamics , StarCCM+ , Aerodynamic drag , Rear attachments , ANSA software , 3D printing , Flat bed , Hatch back , Fastback , Drag coefficient