Patent · US Active

Inflatable trailer skirt

US8336950B2 · kind B2 · utility

3Cited by

4References

5Claims

0Family size

Inventors

Paul G. Andrus · Powell, US
Gayle R. Campbell-Andrus · Hamilton, CA

Key dates

Filing date	Dec 14, 2011
Grant date	Dec 25, 2012
Priority date	—
Expiry date	Dec 14, 2031

Classification

Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
CPC primaryB62D35/001
WIPO fieldTransport
WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

The invention comprises a set of tubular inflatable bags mounted to the underside of a transport trailer along its lower edge in front of the rear wheel assembly. The bags are pressurized by ram air inflation upon forward motion of the trailer, such that they prevent air from entering the rear wheel assembly and thereby reduce aerodynamic drag. The outer exposed sides of the bags are vertically and horizontally straightened and stiffened by horizontal ribs which are anchored by cords to the trailer. The apparatus gives way without stress when unpressurized at slow speed and when docking to avoid damage.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.