Automotive

Analysis and optimization of external aerodynamics and internal airflow.

As experts in fluid dynamics we offer a range of services to help design vehicles with optimal aerodynamics and airflow control. We support car, truck and bus manufacturers with both the external aerodynamics and the internal airflows for engine cooling and cabin ventilation. We also assist racing teams in their aerodynamic analysis to determine their setup. In some cases, we cooperate with manufacturers that lack specialized knowledge in the field of fluid dynamics, but we also work with aerodynamics teams of large OEM’s to increase their capacity in a flexible way.

External aerodynamics

The external aerodynamics have a direct impact on the fuel economy of vehicles, and therefore it is a very important aspect to be optimized. Also, in light of the most recent (European) regulations on CO2 emissions, it is crucial for the design of all types of commercial vehicles to consider aerodynamic shaping. Usually, small modifications to the shape of the body can already lead to significant improvements in the aerodynamic drag.

We support our customers by analyzing the aerodynamic performance of existing vehicles or new vehicle designs, using CFD flow simulations. Based on the simulation results, we identify where aerodynamic drag is created, and we come up with suggestions for improvements. Realistic improvements can then be validated by new flow simulations. Our work can involve early stage conceptual design, but also detailed flow optimization in the engineering phase. During our work, we take into account the wishes and concerns of the design department, and the restrictions due to producibility. Whenever possible, we validate our designs and recommendations through road testing (e.g. coast down testing).

Internal airflow

Besides the external aerodynamics, also the airflows inside the vehicle are relevant. Internal airflows can still de divided in 2 categories: (1) internal duct flows for engine cooling or cooling of air-conditioning units, and (2) the airflow inside the cabin.

The internal duct flows have a significant impact on the total aerodynamic drag of the vehicle and should therefore be considered together with the external aerodynamics of the body. Moreover, the uniformity of the duct flows can influence the heat transfer in coolers or HVAC systems. Actiflow can help guaranteeing a good efficiency of these systems by performing the right flow analysis and suggesting optimized designs.

The airflow inside the cabin is relevant for the comfort and health of passengers. Internal ventilation in busses for example is important to minimize the risk of spreading particles like viruses. Optimization of ventilation systems and minimizing their energy consumption is even more important for electric vehicles, for which the energy balance is most critical.

Also here, we study the flow effects, the efficiency and the energy consumption of ventilation systems through CFD computer simulations. Based on the results, we formulate conclusions and recommendations, and we suggest new designs which we validate by new flow simulations.