Aerodynamic Study of Bulk Commodity Tractor Trailers

Our project goal is to test aerodynamic features of four existing tractor trailers in order to reduce emissions. This will be accomplished by studying and comparing the drag coefficients of each design. Our designs will be created with either 3D printing and/or laser cutting technology.

Problem Definition
The design models in question include a flat-floor trailer, drop-center trailer, hopper trailer, and pup trailer. We plan to have a base model with various alternative attachments to simulate each design and reduce material costs.

Design Goals

1. Determining the drag effects of different trailer models.

2. Decreasing the CO2 production rate when towing a trailer.

3. Improving fuel economy when towing a trailer.

Deliverables

- Create scaled down models using 3D-printing and/or laser cutting technology.

- Gather data from wind tunnel testing.

- Compare data of the different trailer models.

Specifications



Concept Development



Team Members
Brandon Hillard

Liam Johnson

Jacob Frost