Description:ADJUSTABLE SIDE FAIRING FOR A VEHICLE

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0001] This invention generally relates to a field of aerodynamic systems for vehicles, and in particular, relates to an adjustable side fairing designed to reduce aerodynamic drag, improve stability, and enhance fuel efficiency of the vehicle.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The subject matter discussed in the background section should not be assumed to be prior art merely as a result of its mention in the background section. Similarly, a problem mentioned in the background section or associated with the subject matter of the background section should not be assumed to have been previously recognized in the prior art. The subject matter in the background section merely represents different approaches, which in and of themselves may also correspond to implementations of the claimed technology.
[0003] Heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks often face significant aerodynamic drag, particularly at higher speeds. This drag increases fuel consumption, reducing overall efficiency and driving up operational costs. To address this, side fairings are commonly used to streamline airflow along the sides of the vehicle. However, traditional side fairings are typically fixed in position, limiting their effectiveness in adapting to varying driving conditions such as changes in speed, wind direction, or vehicle load. As a result, these fixed fairings may fail to deliver optimal aerodynamic performance across different operational scenarios.
[0004] Another drawback of conventional side fairings is their limited airflow control. Without adjustable panels or ventilation features, these fairings may struggle to balance aerodynamic efficiency with cooling requirements, potentially impacting engine performance and component durability. Additionally, existing side fairings are often designed for specific truck cabin types, making them difficult to integrate with different vehicle models. This lack of compatibility increases design complexity and manufacturing costs. Furthermore, in the event of damage, traditional fairings may require replacing the entire unit, resulting in higher maintenance expenses.
[0005] According to a patent application “US10214252B2” titled as “Drag reducing aerodynamic vehicle components and methods of making the same” disclosed as the invention relates to a process of making a drag-reducing aerodynamic vehicle system includes injection moulding a body configured for attachment to a roof of a vehicle with a sliding core, wherein the body comprises an air inlet extending through a surface of the body, wherein the air inlet includes an air guide boss extending from an interior surface of the body, wherein the air guide boss adjusts an air stagnation point away from the windshield to reduce air pressure and drag on the vehicle; and ejecting the drag-reducing aerodynamic vehicle system from the injection mould using the sliding core.
[0006] According to another patent application “US7942466B2” titled as “Vehicle side fairing system” disclosed as the invention provides a vehicle side fairing having a first fairing panel fixedly secured to the underside of a trailer box, and a second fairing panel slidably mounted to the first fairing panel. The second fairing panel is releasably secured to the wheel set so that the second fairing panel can be moved with an adjustment in the position of the wheel set.
[0007] However, the disclosed inventions do not disclose about maximum drag reduction across a wide range of speeds, compatible with different cabin designs, built-in stabilizers and deflectors. Therefore, there is a need for an improved side fairing system that can dynamically adjust to optimize airflow, incorporate ventilation features without compromising aerodynamic performance, ensure compatibility with various cabin designs, and adopt a modular structure to simplify repairs and reduce maintenance costs.
 
OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The objective of present invention is to provide an adjustable side fairing for heavy-duty vehicles that significantly reduces aerodynamic drag across a wide range of speeds, thereby improving fuel efficiency and vehicle performance.
[0009] Further, the objective of the present invention is to incorporate an adjustable panel within the side fairing, which can vary its position or angle to dynamically control airflow based on changing driving conditions.
[0010] Furthermore, the objective of the present invention is to provide built-in stabilizers and deflectors that improve vehicle stability by minimizing turbulence and reducing the impact of crosswinds.
[0011] Furthermore, the objective of the present invention is to include airflow vents within the fairing structure to facilitate cooling without compromising aerodynamic performance.
[0012] Furthermore, the objective of the present invention is to design the side fairing with a modular panel structure, allowing individual panels to be replaced independently, thereby reducing maintenance costs and downtime.
[0013] Furthermore, the objective of the present invention is to provide a fairing design that is compatible with different truck cabin designs, ensuring easy integration across various vehicle models.
[0014] Furthermore, the objective of the present invention is to enhance the vehicle’s overall aesthetic appeal while maintaining functionality, with provisions for branding elements, such as decals or logos, and incorporating reflective coatings to improve visibility and safety.

 
SUMMARY
[0016] According to an aspect, the present embodiments discloses an adjustable side fairing apparatus for a vehicle. The adjustable side fairing apparatus comprises a body configured to be mounted along a side of the vehicle. The body comprises a streamlined surface having one or more curved edges. The adjustable side fairing apparatus further comprises at least one panel integrated within the body. The at least one panel is configured to move at one or more angles to optimize airflow along the side of the vehicle in response to one or more driving conditions. The adjustable side fairing apparatus further comprises a plurality of air vents configured to facilitate the airflow to provide cooling functionality to the vehicle. The adjustable side fairing apparatus further comprises one or more airflow control elements integrated into the adjustable side fairing apparatus. The one or more airflow control elements are configured to control the airflow.
[0017] In some embodiments, the adjustable side fairing apparatus further comprising a modular unit configured to allow individual replacement of the at least one panel.
[0018] In some embodiments, the body is configured to enhance aerodynamic performance of the vehicle. The body is further configured to achieve maximum drag reduction across a wide range of speeds of the vehicle.
[0019] In some embodiments, the one or more driving conditions comprises at least one of vehicle speed, wind direction, vehicle load, or road gradient.
[0020] In some embodiments, the one or more airflow control elements comprises at least one of stabilizers and deflectors.
[0021] In some embodiments, the one or more airflow control elements are further configured to minimize turbulence and enhance stability of the vehicle.
[0022] In some embodiments, the at least one panel is actuated by at least one control unit. The at least one control unit is configured to automatically adjust a position of the at least one panel based at least on the one or more driving conditions.
[0023] In some embodiments, the modular unit is configured to enable a tool-free installation and removal of the at least one panel.
[0024] According to an aspect, the present embodiments, discloses a method for optimizing aerodynamic performance of a vehicle. The method comprises the steps of mounting a body, along a side of the vehicle. The body comprises a streamlined surface having one or more curved edges. Further, the method comprises steps of moving at least one panel at one or more angles to optimize airflow along the side of the vehicle in response to one or more driving conditions. Further, the method comprises steps of facilitating, via a plurality of air vents, the airflow to provide cooling functionality to the vehicle. Further, the method comprises steps of controlling, via one or more airflow control elements, the airflow.
 
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of systems, methods, and embodiments of various other aspects of the disclosure. Any person with ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the illustrated element boundaries (e.g. boxes, groups of boxes, or other shapes) in the figures represent one example of the boundaries. It may be that in some examples one element may be designed as multiple elements or that multiple elements may be designed as one element. In some examples, an element shown as an internal component of one element may be implemented as an external component in another, and vice versa. Furthermore, elements may not be drawn to scale. Non-limiting and non-exhaustive descriptions are described with reference to the following drawings. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating principles.
[0026] FIG. 1A illustrates an isometric view of an adjustable side fairing apparatus for a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 1B illustrates a left side view of the adjustable side fairing apparatus, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 1C illustrates a right side view of the adjustable side fairing apparatus, in accordance to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0029] FIG. 2 illustrates a flowchart showing a method for optimizing aerodynamic performance of the vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
 
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0031] Some embodiments of this disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. The words “comprising,” “having,” “containing,” and “including,” and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items, or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0032] Although any systems and methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the present disclosure, the preferred, systems and methods are now described. Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like numerals represent like elements throughout the several figures, and in which example embodiments are shown. Embodiments of the claims may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The examples set forth herein are non-limiting examples and are merely examples among other possible examples.
[0033] FIG. 1A illustrates an isometric view of an adjustable side fairing apparatus (100) for a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1B illustrates a left side view of the adjustable side fairing apparatus (100), according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1C illustrates a right side view of the adjustable side fairing apparatus (100), in accordance to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] In some embodiments, the adjustable side fairing apparatus (100) corresponds to a specialized aerodynamic apparatus configured to improve overall efficiency and performance of the vehicle. The vehicle corresponds to a heavy-duty truck. The adjustable side fairing apparatus (100) is mounted along sides of the vehicle to help manage airflow as the vehicle moves. The adjustable side fairing apparatus (100) may be interchangeably termed as an apparatus (100).
[0035] In some embodiments, the apparatus (100) is further configured to reduce aerodynamic drag. The aerodynamic drag occurs when air resistance opposes the vehicle’s forward motion. By guiding airflow more smoothly along the vehicle, the apparatus (100) helps minimize turbulence and improve fuel efficiency.
[0036] In some embodiments, the apparatus (100) is further configured to modify its position or angle to adapt to one or more driving conditions. The one or more driving conditions may vary with respect to time. The one or more driving conditions comprises at least one of vehicle speed, wind direction, vehicle load, or road gradient. The modification allows the apparatus (100) to optimize the airflow control more effectively, enhancing vehicle stability and performance. The apparatus (100) can also contribute to improved cooling by directing air to critical areas.
[0037] In some embodiments, the apparatus (100) comprises a body (102), at least one panel (104) integrated within the body (102), a plurality of air vents (106), and one or more airflow control elements (not shown).
[0038] In some embodiments, the body (102) is configured to be mounted along a side of the vehicle. The body (102) comprises a streamlined surface having one or more curved edges. The body (102) corresponds to a primary structure that extends alongside the vehicle’s exterior to control the airflow and improve the aerodynamic performance. The body (102) is designed with the streamlined surface that reduces airflow resistance. The streamlined surface includes one or more curved edges that help guide the air smoothly around the vehicle’s side. The one or more curved edges is configured to minimize the airflow separation and turbulence. By promoting smoother airflow, the body (102) enhances vehicle stability and reduces energy losses caused by air resistance.
[0039] In some embodiments, the body (102) is further configured to enhance aerodynamic performance of the vehicle. The body (102) is further configured to achieve maximum drag reduction across a wide range of speeds of the vehicle. By utilizing the streamlined surface and the one or more curved edges, the body (102) is configured to achieve maximum drag reduction across the wide range of vehicle speeds. The body (102) is configured to ensure consistent performance under the one or more driving conditions. The streamlined surface is further configured to minimize the formation of air vortices along the vehicle’s side.
[0040] In some embodiments, the at least one panel (104) is integrated within the body (102). The at least one panel (104) is configured to move at one or more angles to optimize airflow along the side of the vehicle in response to the one or more driving conditions. The one or more driving conditions comprises at least one of the vehicle speed, the wind direction, the vehicle load, or the road gradient. The vehicle speed enabling the panel to modify its angle at higher speeds to minimize drag. The wind direction adjusts the position of the at least one panel (104) to counteract crosswinds and improve stability. The vehicle load altering the orientation of the at least one panel (104) to manage airflow patterns based on the vehicle’s weight distribution. The road gradient adjusting the position of the at least one panel (104) on uphill or downhill slopes to maintain optimal aerodynamic performance.
[0041] In some embodiments, the at least one panel (104) is actuated by at least one control unit. The at least one control unit is configured to automatically adjust a position of the at least one panel (104) based at least on the one or more driving conditions. The at least one control unit may utilize a plurality of sensors to monitor the one or more driving conditions in real time. The automated adjustment eliminates the need for manual intervention, allowing the apparatus (100) to adapt dynamically and efficiently without an input from a user. The user corresponds to a driver.
[0042] In some embodiments, the plurality of air vents (106) is configured to facilitate the airflow to provide cooling functionality to the vehicle. The plurality of air vents (106) are configured to facilitate the controlled flow of air to enhance the vehicle’s cooling functionality. By guiding the airflow to one or more areas, the plurality of air vents (106) help dissipate heat effectively. The one or more areas comprises at least one of an engine bay, brake components, or an exhaust unit. This airflow management ensures that essential vehicle components maintain optimal operating temperatures without compromising the aerodynamic efficiency achieved by the apparatus (100). The positioning of the plurality of air vents (106) is carefully designed to prevent excessive turbulence, ensuring efficient heat dissipation while maintaining smooth airflow.
[0043] In some embodiments, the one or more airflow control elements is integrated into the apparatus (100). The one or more airflow control elements are configured to control the airflow. The one or more airflow control elements comprises at least one of stabilizers and deflectors. The stabilizers are configured to maintain the airflow stability by reducing turbulence and ensuring consistent airflow patterns. Further, the deflectors are configured to redirect the airflow to minimize drag and improve the aerodynamic efficiency.
[0044] In some embodiments, the one or more airflow control elements is further configured to minimize turbulence. The one or more airflow control elements minimize the turbulence by controlling the direction and pressure of the airflow, reducing the formation of air swirls that can destabilize the vehicle. The one or more airflow control elements is further configured to enhance stability of the vehicle. The one or more airflow control elements enhance vehicle stability by counteracting crosswinds and other environmental forces that may impact the vehicle’s handling.
[0045] In some embodiments, the apparatus (100) further comprises a modular unit. The modular unit is configured to allow individual replacement of the at least one panel (104). The modular unit is configured to enable a tool-free installation and removal of the at least one panel (104). The modular unit is configured to allow the user to quickly replace or reposition the at least one panel (104) without specialized equipment, ensuring improved operational efficiency and reduced service time.
[0046] In some embodiments, the body (102) of apparatus (100) is designed with a surface that can accommodate decals, logos, or custom paint to support fleet branding and marketing requirements. The body (100) allows trucking companies to display the corporate identity, promotional messages, or regulatory markings directly on the surface of the apparatus (100). Further, the surface of the apparatus (100) may be treated with reflective coatings to enhance vehicle visibility, especially during low-light conditions or night-time operation. The reflective elements contribute to improved road safety by making the vehicle more noticeable to the user.
[0047] FIG. 2 illustrates a flowchart showing a method (200) for optimizing aerodynamic performance of the vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0048] At operation 202, the body (102) is configured to be mounted along the side of the vehicle. The body (102) comprises the streamlined surface having the one or more curved edges. The body (102) corresponds to the primary structure that extends alongside the vehicle’s exterior to control the airflow and improve the aerodynamic performance. The body (102) is designed with the streamlined surface that reduces airflow resistance. The streamlined surface includes the one or more curved edges that help guide the air smoothly around the vehicle’s side. The one or more curved edges is configured to minimize the airflow separation and turbulence. By promoting smoother airflow, the body (102) enhances vehicle stability and reduces energy losses caused by air resistance.
[0049] At operation 204, the at least one panel (104) is configured to move at the one or more angles to optimize the airflow along the side of the vehicle in response to the one or more driving conditions. The one or more driving conditions comprises at least one of the vehicle speed, the wind direction, the vehicle load, or the road gradient. The vehicle speed enabling the panel to modify its angle at higher speeds to minimize drag. The wind direction adjusts the position of the at least one panel (104) to counteract crosswinds and improve stability. The vehicle load altering the orientation of the at least one panel (104) to manage airflow patterns based on the vehicle’s weight distribution. The road gradient adjusting the position of the at least one panel (104) on uphill or downhill slopes to maintain optimal aerodynamic performance.
[0050] At operation 206, the plurality of air vents (106) is configured to facilitate the airflow to provide cooling functionality to the vehicle. The plurality of air vents (106) are configured to facilitate the controlled flow of air to enhance the vehicle’s cooling functionality. By guiding the airflow to one or more areas, the plurality of air vents (106) help dissipate heat effectively. The one or more areas comprises at least one of an engine bay, brake components, or an exhaust unit.
[0051] At operation 208, the one or more airflow control elements are configured to control the airflow. The one or more airflow control elements comprises at least one of stabilizers and deflectors. The stabilizers are configured to maintain the airflow stability by reducing turbulence and ensuring consistent airflow patterns. Further, the deflectors are configured to redirect the airflow to minimize drag and improve the aerodynamic efficiency.
[0052] It should be noted that the apparatus (100) in the vehicle in any case could undergo numerous modifications and variants, all of which are covered by the same innovative concept; moreover, all of the details can be replaced by technically equivalent elements. In practice, the components used, as well as the numbers, shapes, and sizes of the components can be of any kind according to the technical requirements. The scope of protection of the invention is therefore defined by the attached claims.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. An adjustable side fairing apparatus (100) for a vehicle comprising:
a body (102) configured to be mounted along a side of the vehicle, wherein the body (102) comprises a streamlined surface having one or more curved edges;
at least one panel (104) integrated within the body (102), wherein the at least one panel (104) is configured to move at one or more angles to optimize airflow along the side of the vehicle in response to one or more driving conditions;
a plurality of air vents (106) configured to facilitate the airflow to provide cooling functionality to the vehicle; and
one or more airflow control elements integrated into the adjustable side fairing apparatus (100), wherein the one or more airflow control elements are configured to control the airflow.

2. The adjustable side fairing apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1 further comprising a modular unit configured to allow individual replacement of the at least one panel (104).

3. The adjustable side fairing apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the body (102) is configured to:
enhance aerodynamic performance of the vehicle; and
achieve maximum drag reduction across a wide range of speeds of the vehicle.

4. The adjustable side fairing apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more driving conditions comprises at least one of vehicle speed, wind direction, vehicle load, or road gradient.

5. The adjustable side fairing apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more airflow control elements comprises at least one of stabilizers and deflectors.

6. The adjustable side fairing apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more airflow control elements are further configured to:
minimize turbulence; and
enhance stability of the vehicle.

7. The adjustable side fairing apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one panel (104) is actuated by at least one control unit, and wherein the at least one control unit is configured to automatically adjust a position of the at least one panel (104) based at least on the one or more driving conditions.

8. The adjustable side fairing apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the modular unit is configured to enable a tool-free installation and removal of the at least one panel (104).

9. A method for optimizing aerodynamic performance of a vehicle comprising:
mounting a body (102), along a side of the vehicle, wherein the body (102) comprises a streamlined surface having one or more curved edges;
moving at least one panel (104) at one or more angles to optimize airflow along the side of the vehicle in response to one or more driving conditions;
facilitating, via a plurality of air vents (106), the airflow to provide cooling functionality to the vehicle; and
controlling, via one or more airflow control elements, the airflow.

10. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein the one or more driving conditions comprises at least one of vehicle speed, wind direction, vehicle load, or road gradient.