Flow control of a vehicle using reverse flow fan

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to achieve optimum flow separation control for a road vehicle using a reverse flow fan on rear side. Design/methodology/approach A full-length reverse flow fan array (fan’s air speed is 50% of the car’s speed) is attached throughout the width of the vehicle at rear edge corner. Findings The reverse flow fan array positioned at rear edge of car pushes the airflow against the car’s rear window. It creates the recirculation region and alters the pressure distribution. This reduces the lift coefficient by 150%, which becomes the downforce and reduces the drag coefficient by 22%. As the car speed increases, fan speed should also be increased for effective flow control. Research limitations/implications This active flow control method for 3D Ahmed car body has been studied computationally at low speed (40 m/s). Practical implications This design increases the downforce, thus gives better cornering speed and stability, and decreases the drag which improves fuel efficiency. It can be used for effective flow control of cars (hatchback/sedan). The findings can be applied to the bluff bodies, road vehicles, UAV and helicopter fuselage for flow separation control. Originality/value The fan array is attached on car’s rear side, which blows air against the car’s rear window. It alters the pressure distribution and aerodynamics forces favorably. But the existing high-speed fan used in a sports cars sucks the air from bottom and pushes it rearward, which increases both the traction force and drag.