Analysis and Optimization of Truck Windshield Defroster

Abstract

Frosting and fogging of automobile windshields is a common problem that emerges in daily driving. It is important and essential to quickly and completely defrost the windshield for safety purposes. In this study, a three-dimensional mathematical model was applied to investigate the flow distribution and flow characteristics on the windshield of a medium-size Model N800 truck. The simulation results were first compared with experimental data. The results showed that the simulation model could reliably predict the defrosting performance on the windshield. This model was then used to optimize the design of the defrosting duct that comprised the main part of the defroster. It was found that the guide plate and outlet position of the defrosting duct were the two major factors affecting the defrosting performance. Therefore, the guide plate was first optimized and the defrosting performance was analyzed. The results showed that the average pressure loss dropped by 21.56%, while the defrosting efficiency at the front white zone was improved to 89%. The position of the outlet of the airflow was further studied. The results showed that the defrosting efficiency at the front zone could be further improved to 99%.