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Old 07-23-2015, 05:28 AM   #159 (permalink)
PeterS
Master EcoModder
 
Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: East coast of Australia
Posts: 393

Yella Peril - '80 Mercedes 240D sedan
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Quote:
Originally Posted by freebeard View Post

PeterS -- I looked at the other thread. Keep in mind that a flat plate can generate lift through 'angle of attack'. For a tapering body in a crosswind, when the crosswind angle exceeds the taper of the sides, lift will occur. Vortexes shedding off the sharp edges will increase drag. Sharp edges only work with a large fineness ratio like big-rig trucks and trains.
Thanks , a good point but am I safe to assume that that lift would be LESS than with a "teardrop" shape .... the one we all automatically think in terms of.

Here are few photos of a rough model I made today. The sides are flat and the maximum cross section is around mid way but there is no foil. The rear could be narrowed more or even tapered a little without generating lift.

It is quite similar to the Vetter fairing and would have the same frontal area . Could i have some comments on this idea ?





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