Drag reducer for rear end of vehicle
US5236347A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 29, 1991 |
| Grant date | Aug 17, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 29, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D35/004
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A drag reducer to be mounted on the rear face of a truck or other vehicle. It is comprised of an enclosed bag in the shape of a truncated cone with one or more elastic cord(s) encircling it. Air is introduced into the drag reducer upon forward motion of the vehicle via a tube, the open end of which is facing the direction of motion. As air pressure is increased in the drag reducer with increasing forward velocity the tension in the surface of the bag causes the elastic cord(s) to be extended allowing the drag reducer to reach its fully expanded shape. At slow driving speeds the elastic cord(s) contract and prevent the drag reducer from falling or being blown by cross winds over the rear signal lights or license plate and from touching the road in the case of larger more aerodynamically effective drag reducers.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.