Patent ID: 7854469
Filing Date: 2010-12-21
Classification: B62D,Y02T

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for reducing aerodynamic drag experienced by an over-the-road vehicle while underway comprising: a frame assembly comprising a fastening fixture for coupling the apparatus to the vehicle; a first airfoil to be coupled to said frame assembly in a position forward of a first tire of an axle assembly provided to the vehicle to be exposed to an airflow directed toward the first tire while the vehicle is underway, wherein a second airfoil to be coupled to said frame assembly in a position forward of a second tire supported at an opposite lateral side of the axle assembly relative to the first tire to be exposed to an airflow directed toward the second tire while the vehicle is underway, wherein a third airfoil to be coupled to the frame assembly within a path of the portion of the airflow passing through the aperture between the first and second airfoils while the vehicle is underway, wherein the third airfoil comprises an air deflecting surface that deflects at least a portion of the airflow passing through the aperture between the first and second airfoils in a generally downward direction toward a ground surface on which the vehicle travels while underway.