System for reducing aerodynamic drag forces on a tractor-trailer vehicle
US11433954B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 4, 2022 |
| Grant date | Sep 6, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 4, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D37/02
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A vehicle includes a first trailer having a rear end, and a second trailer having a front. The second trailer is coupled to the first trailer. The vehicle also includes at least one flexible membrane that includes a perimeter coupled to the rear end. A seal is formed between the perimeter and the rear end. The vehicle further includes a pressurization source coupled to the vehicle, and at least one port defined in and extending through the rear end. The at least one port is enclosed by the perimeter and in fluidic communication with the pressurization source. In a deployed profile, the at least one flexible membrane extends between the rear end of the first trailer and the front of the second trailer.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.