Parametric optimization for van drag reduction using a side flap

Abstract

In current study, the aerodynamic drag reduction of a simplified van model was numerically explored by mounting a side flap on the rear end, on the basis of ANSYS-Fluent, an established Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software. A robust Taguchi test design method was leveraged to optimize the independent parameters related to side flap design in order to achieve the best combination for maximum drag reduction with minimum test numbers. The accuracy of the numerical study was validated using the benchmark, Ahmed body model. The current study outcomes established the efficiency of adding a side flap to weaken the longitudinal vortices, at the rear part of the van model, for the purpose of reducing the aerodynamic drag. In this study, the authors achieved a maximum reduction of 11.50% for total drag coefficient and 11.73% for pressure drag coefficient.