Dynamically adjustable aerodynamic vehicle devices

US8496285B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Daimler Truck North America LLC · US

Inventors

• Matthew C. C. Rogers · Portland, US
• Justin Yee · Portland, US
• Blake Kashiwagi · Portland, US
• Matthew Guilfoyle · Portland, US
• John Brzustowicz · Concord, US
• Robert McFarlane · Mesa, US
• Bruno Banceu · Camas, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 4, 2011
• Grant date: Jul 30, 2013
• Expiry date: Sep 6, 2031

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B62D35/001
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Adjustable aerodynamic devices are controlled to control the drag on a vehicle. In one form, control is accomplished in response to pressure from a plurality of pressure sensors. In another form, control is accomplished in response to air movement measurements, such as of wind speed and direction at a location that a vehicle has yet to reach. In another form, the position and location of air vortices between a cab and trailer can be determined and adjusted to adjust the drag by controlling aerodynamic devices.