The Need

Transportation manufacturers continue to face increasing pressure to improve vehicle energy efficiency, extend electric vehicle range, and reduce emissions without adding significant cost, weight, or system complexity. While passive aerodynamic features such as strakes and deflectors are commonly used to manage airflow around the vehicle underbody and wheel regions, their effectiveness can be limited under varying operating conditions. Industry seeks new aerodynamic flow-control approaches that deliver greater drag reduction, improved efficiency, and straightforward integration into existing vehicle architectures.

The Technology

OSU engineers have developed a novel passive aerodynamic flow-control concept that adapts principles from well-established vortex-generating technologies for vehicle applications. The approach uses a specially configured flow structure to create a controlled, self-organizing air motion that redirects airflow in key regions around a vehicle. Rather than relying on moving components or active control systems, the technology leverages naturally occurring fluid-dynamic behavior to influence external airflow and potentially reduce aerodynamic losses.

Commercial Applications

• Vehicle aerodynamic drag reduction systems

Benefits/Advantages

• Lightweight and low-maintenance design
• Passive operation with no moving parts, actuators, or complex controls
• Greater aerodynamic effectiveness than conventional stationary deflector plates