Numerical study on the wake flow characteristics and drag reduction of large-sized bus using rear-spoiler. (12th May 2004)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kim, Min-Ho
• Is Part Of: International journal of vehicle design. Volume 34:Number 3(2004)
• Page Start: 203
• Page End: 217
• Publication Date: 2004-05-12
• Subjects: commercial bus body -- rear-spoiler -- RNG k-&amp -- #949 -- turbulence model -- wake structure -- aerodynamic drag -- lift force; Motor vehicles -- Design and construction -- Periodicals; 629.231
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0143-3369

Abstract

The aerodynamic characteristics of automobiles have received substantial interest recently. Detailed knowledge of vehicle aerodynamics is essential to improve fuel efficiency and enhance stability at high-speed cruising. In this study, a numerical simulation has been carried out for three-dimensional turbulent flows around a commercial bus body. Also, the effect of a rear-spoiler attached at the rear end of the bus body was investigated. The Navier-Stokes equation is solved with the SIMPLE method in a general curvilinear coordinates system. An RNG k-ε turbulence model with the MARS scheme was used for evaluating aerodynamic forces, velocity and pressure distribution. The results show that complex wake structure in the immediate rear of the bus body has been confirmed. The rear-spoiler modifies the near wake structure and decreases aerodynamic drag and improvement in lift force was achieved.