View Single Post
Old 10-01-2013, 05:45 PM   #10 (permalink)
Tesla
Master EcoModder
 
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: Australia
Posts: 355

The Truck - '02 Nissan GU Patrol ST
Thanks: 5
Thanked 76 Times in 50 Posts
As both of those inner lines are theoretical points with the outline of the rear of vehicle, neither would add any additional frontal area, they would just be different tapering plans for the transition. As confirmed by aerohead above it is the area under the curve that needs to be considered, if both shapes have the same area, then the air has the same size void to fill and the result should be the same.

Yes as for rounded front, it would extend forward of the canopy towards the vehicle, ultimately I would like to close gap completly, by using appropriate panels & fixtures on both vehicle & trailer for a completely smooth transition.

For this concept of a camper, the canopy would primarily form the cover of a sleeping area, so the curved shape is not an issue, cooking, washing and storage facilities would be pull out drawer sections underneath in the trailer body.

As for the utility aspect, most of the time trailer is underloaded and would carry mostly air, so it would be just like a lightweight, empty boattail. For those times when something particularly large needs to be transported, then take canopy off and just suffer aero drag, easy removal is another reason I am focussing on lightweight construction.

The idea so far is to have a tilt up rear with fold out walls, so when not in transit it is more like a tunnel with uniform roof height, looking a bit like the wagons of the "wild west" you see in old movies with the domed roof.
  Reply With Quote