Experimental Investigation on a Detailed European Tractor-Trailer Configuration

Abstract

This paper summarizes first results of experiments with a detailed truck model performed at the beginning of this year. Objective of these tests was to show the model behavior in experimental conditions and to gain first impressions about the flow field characteristics of a detailed tractor-trailer configuration. The experiments were performed in the open test section wind tunnel of DLR Göttingen and in the cryogenic wind tunnel of DNW Cologne. They included flow visualizations with particle image velocimetry and force measurements. In addition to these results, a new test set-up in a water towing tank will be described in which the investigation of new drag reducing devices is planned for the near future.