Patent ID: 8322778
Filing Date: 2012-12-04
Classification: B62D

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for reducing the aerodynamic drag of a trailer having a body with a forward end, a rearward end, opposite sides, an underside and a rear wheel assembly supporting the body from the underside thereof, comprising: a drag reduction device including a generally U-shaped, upstanding air deflector wall means; said wall means including a first side wall portion having a rearward end, a forward end, an upper end and a lower end; said first side wall portion extending forwardly and inwardly in a generally curved manner from its rearward end to its forward end; said wall means also including a second side wall portion having a rearward end, a forward end, an upper end and a lower end; said second side wall portion extending forwardly and inwardly in a generally curved manner from its rearward end to its forward end; said forward ends of said first and second side wall portions being joined together to form a rounded nose portion; and a horizontally extending floor, having forward and rearward ends, secured to said lower ends of said first and second side-wall portions and extending therebetween; said device being positioned beneath the underside of a trailer so that the rearward ends of said first and second side wall portions are positioned adjacent the forward end of the rear wheel assembly whereby air flow impinging on said wall means and be deflected outwardly of the rear wheel assembly; said floor including portions thereof which extend outwardly from said first and second wall portions and said nose portion.