New steering system concept to minimize aerodynamic drag
 

So the basic idea is the total elimination of wheel skirting and minimizing the underbody gap with the wheels. The below photo is just a sample of the concept. There are other ideas that I am thinking about to implement in conjuction with this that I may design later on.

My main concern is the handling during the turning and wondering if it effectively narrows the front wheel base.

http://ecomodder.com/forum/attachmen...1&d=1237428062

What do you think?

So you're proposing to keep the wheels stiff and articulate the vehicle in the middle, like some construction trucks? Sounds a little complicated . Judging by your picture, if you start turning left, then something sticks out on your right. Maybe if the car body was flexible?

The steering mechanism that I have in mind is actually pretty simple but more on that later.

I think it would be easier and more effective to fair in the wheels and suspension of the regular steering types.

Hi,

Can you clarify what we are looking at, please?

You are looking at the birds eye view of rough car design shape. The entire front end turns in relation to the rear, the wheels in the front would remain stationary to themselves. The intent is to completely enclose the wheels for aerodynamic purposes.

I should have something better in a couple days that demonstrates the concept much better.

Hey Blue Bomber, it looks like even small angular movements of the steered section would expose a sharp protrusion on one side of the vehicle to the air flowing past - bad for a streamlined, attached flow.

Maybe you should consider flexible overlaps of the steered section skin over the trailing section, so that the protrusion can be smoothened over. You are a smart man so will get what I am vaguely describing without a diagram to explain... ;)

I realize that the edge would stick out, but it would only be significant at lower speeds when smaller turning radii's are used. At higher speeds the turning radius is much larger and thus requires less turn angle.

Also I think I can design it so there is no edge/gap on either side of the vehicle even when positioned to turned to full. I think it will require some geometry that is a bit more complicated then circle but I pretty sure it could work.

Not sure I completely follow.

Where is driver's seat located?
How many wheels? Located where? How are they oriented in each view?

Answering the above questions with block diagram additions to your drawing would be much appreciated.

TIA

I think it would be a complete semicircle that would do the trick, rather than a shallow arc currently depicted. But then it might be too inefficient in using space available.