Aero-Optimization

[aerohead]

When you see the term aero - "optimization" used in conjunction with an article about a specific vehicle,it can convey the sense that this is as far a the state- of -the -art has gone in aerodynamics.Actually "optimization" means that aerodynamacists have done all they can without altering the "appearance" of a given model."Optimization " can convey the same linguistic gravity as "Idealization",however,idealization allows for aerodynamic efficiency as the paramount goal in design.So,while the VW Vanagon,certainly no visionary masterpiece,does demonstrate "Optimization" in a light van,Count Ricotti's Alfa "tromfe le vent, bullet van,or R.Buckminster's Dymaxion Car,demonstrate serious aerodynamic efforts,which score high marks even by today's standards,95 and 75 years later,respectively.

[diesel_john]

aerohead,"Idealization"
How would it work to put my entire car inside an airfoil shape, to find out what the best possible mileage is for the frontal area the size of the car.
Would the shape below be on the road towards idealization?

The splitter/foil intersection would be radius. Have to deal with the ground affect, somehow.

first pic represents the car inside of the air foil.
first file foil sized for car
second pic airfoil sized to put a pickup inside of.
second file foil sized for truck

[brucepick]

Well, at least we'd have to say that the car is very clean as far as aerodynamics.

But, as to whether the idea in the photo is better than a combination of air dam + belly pan + rear side skirts, I think it's a wash.

[diesel_john]

Originally Posted by brucepick

Well, at least we'd have to say that the car is very clean as far as aerodynamics.

But, as to whether the idea in the photo is better than a combination of air dam + belly pan + rear side skirts, I think it's a wash.

Brucepick,
do you know of any way to prove or disprove that comparision without building and testing it?

Other opinions, better designs, welcome.

Aerohead, is this direction in line with what you had in mind for the thread?

[Daox]

Assuming airflow stays attached on the front of the car, frontal design is not a big influence. The focus should be on keeping the airflow attached all the way to the rear end to create the smallest wake possible. Start at the front and make sure you don't have airflow seperation. When you find a place where your developing turbulence you fix it. Continue working towards the back of the car.

[aerohead]

Yes the pic is in the direction I think about.Probably not practical to expect these Jaray-esque vehicles to "make it" in the marketplace,however,it would be an amazing experiment to see what kind of results could be realized.