Quote:
Originally Posted by freebeard
This is a RC model, but it presents an interesting take on tadpole aerodynamics.
The aluminum tube tail boom reduces wetted area. The rear steering geometry is IMHO wrong, the pivot line is too far from the contact patch.
Airshaper showed him a feature called Design Advice, that netted a 24% improvement in CD! |
Rear wheel steering is interesting in that it allows for a far more streamlined front end.
With one rear wheel = a narrow rear, it 'swinging about' during sharper, slower turns isn't a big issue.
Hmmm... I wonder... How would it do/feel in a full sized vehicle..?
I like the 'in-wheel suspension' too, but may have gone with a soft/elastic 3D printer 'plastic' for the tire bit.
Using (directional) fiber in the suspension might give on more radial stiffness and a more compliant up-down if you get my meaning.
Yes AirShaper is a great piece of software from what I can tell so far.
The recommendations of 'sharper' noses, here and elsewhere, is out of character with conventional wisdom however..?
Perhaps the more conventional teardrop nose shape is is a throwback to wings having to work in a much broader 'aero envelope'? (varying airspeeds and angles of attack)