Abstract: A molded hollow aerodynamic cap which is attached to the tongue part of the trailers frame. The cap extends from the hitch and is attached to the front of the trailer. The aerodynamic design of the cap gives the towing driver better handling control and fuel saving mileage. Inside the cap is used for storage and other purposes.

Abstract: A resilient or flexible skirt panel assembly having an integral bracing system is disclosed. In operation, the bracing system need not attach to a trailer base rail. The innovation discloses straight, straight-angled and curved skirt panel orientations. Additionally, angled braces, ‘v-braces,’ ‘v-wings,’ and integral rib bracing mechanisms are disclosed. In aspects, the skirt panel and bracing mechanisms can absorb (or bend) under force while effectively having a ‘memory’ to return to their original shape upon removal of the force. The skirt assembly can include a hem along the bottom edge of the skirt panel thereby enhancing performance and longevity of the assembly. Additionally, an “anti-skid” clamping assembly can be employed to connect the skirt assemblies to the trailer I-beam, base rail or cross-members.

Abstract: An air deflection apparatus for reduction of vehicular air drag comprises at least one air deflection element coupled to a rear portion of the vehicle but not to the rear-facing surface of the vehicle or, in other embodiments, at least one air deflection element coupled to a rear portion of the vehicle but not to any rear door which the vehicle may have. Each air deflection element comprises a housing member and an elongating member, and the elongating members are displaceable, preferably in unison, between a retracted position and at least one deployed position. The elongating members may be deployed and retracted manually, or remotely with powered assistance, or under microprocessor control. Vehicles equipped with the apparatus, and methods of reducing vehicular air drag using the apparatus, are also disclosed.

Abstract: This invention provides an aerodynamic structure attached to the rear face of a truck cargo body, which rear typically contains a door assembly, with a plurality of doors that swing open on hinges, or a single, full-width door, which rolls upwardly. The various embodiments of the invention allow an aerodynamic structure to be permanently attached to the rear of the trailer in a manner that would obscure access to the door(s) in a deployed position, in which the aerodynamic structure generates reduced drag on the trailer body, yet enables ready access to the door(s) in a folded position. The folded position still allows the rear of the trailer to be fully accessible for loading and unloading, and in the case of swinging, hinged doors (among others), allows the doors to be folded through a full 270-degree arc from a closed position to a position flush along the sides of the vehicle, with a minimal sideways projection.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a surface over which airflow passes. A plasma actuator is configured to generate plasma above the surface, the plasma coupling a directed momentum into the air surrounding the surface to reduce separation of the airflow from the surface. A method of reducing separation of airflow from a surface of the vehicle includes generating plasma in air surrounding the surface at a position where the airflow would separate from the surface in the absence of the plasma.

Abstract: A semi-trailer or other cargo vehicle enclosure includes a rearward end portion extending between opposite left and right sidewalls. The sidewalls include vertically extending rearward corner portions that define air passageways for directing rearwardly flowing air from alongside the sidewalls toward a region of low pressure behind the rearward end portion of the enclosure. Preferably, the rearward corner portions include vertically extending rearward corner posts and deflector components that are formed to cooperatively define circularly shaped passageways for gradual air-flow redirection, with the sidewall exterior surfaces and the deflector exterior surfaces being within prescribed maximum semi-trailer widths while the interior corner post spacing does not reduce the usual width of semi-trailer cargo space.

Abstract: The invention comprises a set of tubular inflatable bags mounted to the underside of a transport trailer along its lower edge in front of the rear wheel assembly. The bags are pressurized by ram air inflation upon forward motion of the trailer, such that they prevent air from entering the rear wheel assembly and thereby reduce aerodynamic drag. The outer exposed sides of the bags are vertically and horizontally straightened and stiffened by horizontal ribs which are anchored by cords to the trailer. The apparatus gives way without stress when unpressurized at slow speed and when docking to avoid damage.

Abstract: The tractor and trailer fairing apparatus providing a fairing of sorts that is fitted between the tractor and trailer. The apparatus side sections are automatically adjustable in length and can also be locked in a desired length. The second panel of the side sections and trailer towed by the tractor are fitted with a tracking assembly that sees the side panels follow the trailer during driving, whether straight or in turns, and ensuring that no wind enters the sides of the tractor/trailer union. Further, the optional telescopic spoiler prevents air entry from above. The apparatus not only prevents buffeting but also serves to increase fuel mileage.

Abstract: A drag reducing device utilizing sealed aft cavities designed to limit interference with existing truck and trailer designs is described. The invention comprises one or more sealed aft cavities affixed to the rear of a traditional commercial straight truck or trailer, or any other blunt (or mostly blunt) aft faced vehicle. A means is provided by which the device is stowed to allow normal operation of the straight truck, trailer or vehicle. Drag is reduced by the streamlining of the rear of the vehicle, postponing and narrowing the flow separation downstream of the trailing edge as well as increasing the pressure on the back of the vehicle with the open to the rear, sealed aft cavity. The concept described focuses on the utilization of (a) sealed aft cavity(ies) to limit the effects of blunt body drag and the means for attachment and stowage for loading and unloading cargo.

Abstract: An aerodynamic panel assembly with surface macrostructure is provided for a land vehicle. The panel assembly includes a first plurality of slats each having a longitudinal length greater than its width, and a second plurality of slats each having a longitudinal length greater than its width. The first and second plurality of slats are interwoven, thereby providing significant structural strength while increasing the versatility of the panel assembly to be used on various types of vehicles. Various types of attachment mechanisms are provided for attaching a panel assembly to the vehicle.

Abstract: In certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a vehicle trailer is described that further includes a shelf component. The shelf component is separate from the rain gutter component. The shelf component extends from the rear wall of the trailer and includes a sloped surface.

Abstract: In accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a vehicle trailer is provided. The vehicle trailer includes a roof and a floor separated from each other by a pair of opposing walls that extend along the length of the floor. The roof, floor, and walls define a space accessible by a trailer door with each of the walls having a front edge and a rear edge and having a height that extends from the floor to the roof. The height is substantially the same along at least a portion of the length of the walls. The vehicle trailer further includes a pair of side wall fairings having a leading edge and trailing edge. Each side wall fairing is positioned on a different wall from the other adjacent to the rear edges of each of the walls such that the leading edge of each side wall fairing contacts the wall and the trailing edge of each side wall fairing does not contact the wall. Each side wall fairing has an upward incline and downward incline.

Abstract: In accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure, an apparatus for reducing the drag of a trailer is provided. The apparatus can include an aerodynamic rain gutter component having a front edge and rear edge which is positioned on the roof adjacent to the rear edge of the roof such that the front edge of the rain gutter component contacts the roof and the rear edge of the rain gutter component does not contact the roof. The apparatus can further include a pair of fairings configured to be positioned on opposite sides of a trailer in front of wheels on the bottom of a trailer, a pair of fairings configured to be positioned on opposite sides of a trailer behind the wheels on the bottom of a trailer, with both pairs of fairings placed and shaped to direct the air smoothly around the wheels and tires and through the center of the trailer.

Abstract: An air deflection apparatus for reduction of vehicular air drag comprises at least one air deflection element coupled to a rear portion of the vehicle but not to the rear-facing surface of the vehicle or, in other embodiments, at least one air deflection element coupled to a rear portion of the vehicle but not to any rear door which the vehicle may have. The air deflection elements are displaceable, preferably in unison, between a retracted position and at least one deployed position in which the air deflection elements intersect with the air flowing around the top and sides, and preferably also the bottom, of the vehicle, and in which they divert that airflow in a manner that enhances the aerodynamic characteristics of the vehicle and thereby improves its fuel economy, resulting in a reduction in fuel cost.

Abstract: A skirt or fairing system is provided that is attachable to a lower, longitudinal edge of a trailer, such as a commercial freight trailer, in a manner that alters the airflow beneath and around the trailer to produce increased fuel efficiency and greater driving safety. The skirt fairing is formed from a deformable skin material stretched tautly over a deflectable frame is provided that is attachable to the lower edge of a trailer. The installation of the skirt fairing deflects and alters the airflow beneath the trailer by creating smooth and cohesive airflow along the side and underneath the trailer of a tractor trailer rig in a manner that improves safety and decreases fuel consumption. Further, the fairing is formed using a deformable skin and deflectable frame that prevents damage or permanent displacement of the fairing should it impact an obstruction.

Abstract: The purpose of the device is to minimize drag and turbulence otherwise occurring at the rear of a semi trailer, in order to reduced the consumption of fuel by a semi tractor. This is accomplished using directionally flexible sheets of composite material, which create contours that taper towards a terminating edge to form a teardrop shape, as established by panels attached to the top and bottom of either door. Along the trailing edge of the main body, another vertical panel known as a wake separator maintains separation between confliction columns of air. An additional wake separator attached to the bottom of the device performs a similar function, and will facilitate collapse in the event of a collision.

Abstract: A fairing structure for a vehicle having a front vehicular component and a rear vehicular component in tandem and separated by a gap, comprising a top fairing surface adapted to be attached to the rear vehicular component, a first side surface adapted to be attached to a first side of the rear vehicular component, joining a first end of the top surface and generally perpendicular to the top surface, and a second side surface adapted to be attached to a second side of the rear vehicular component, joining a second end of the top surface opposite the first end and generally perpendicular to the top surface. Each of the top and first and second side surfaces has a proximal edge adapted to be positioned adjacent a vehicle, as well as a distal edge adapted to be positioned away from the vehicle with respect to the respective proximal edge.

Abstract: A drag reducing device utilizing sealed aft cavities designed to limit interference with existing truck and trailer designs is described. The invention comprises one or more sealed aft cavities affixed to the rear of a traditional commercial straight truck or trailer, or any other blunt (or mostly blunt) aft faced vehicle. A means is provided by which the device is stowed to allow normal operation of the straight truck, trailer or vehicle. Drag is reduced by the streamlining of the rear of the vehicle, postponing and narrowing the flow separation downstream of the trailing edge as well as increasing the pressure on the back of the vehicle with the open to the rear, sealed aft cavity. The concept described focuses on the utilization of (a) sealed aft cavity(ies) to limit the effects of blunt body drag and the means for attachment and stowage for loading and unloading cargo.

Abstract: A frame extension device for the reduction of aerodynamic drag and for improved performance of bluff base ground vehicles by increasing the pressure on the base of the vehicle by stabilizing the wake flow. The device is particularly suited for tractor-trailers utilizing a roll-up type rear door in that it does not block any part of the door opening. The device may be of sufficient thickness to support the weight of an unloading device.

Abstract: Disclosed is a tractor-trailer including a tractor having a lower tractor duct that receives first air from a front of the tractor and channels the first air through a center area of the tractor and down between a set of rear wheels, a trailer having a lower trailer duct positioned below a cargo space and that channels the first air in the lower trailer duct between each set of trailer rear wheels and a lower articulation duct positioned near the set of rear wheels in the tractor that receives air from the lower tractor duct and communicates air to the lower trailer duct. An upper duct is also provided with an articulation duct that channels air through a ductwork at the top of the trailer and tractor. A louver system at the rear of the trailer enables the air in each duct to be channeled and pulled out of the respective duct in such a manner as to reduce drag and eddy currents using the vacuum at the rear of the trailer.

Abstract: An apparatus for reducing aerodynamic resistance in an over the road vehicle is provided. The apparatus can include a frame assembly and first and second airfoils to be coupled to the vehicle by the frame assembly ahead of first and second tires of an axle assembly provided to the vehicle. The first and second airfoils each include an air deflecting surface with a convex outward portion that extends away from a leading edge that is to be directed into the airflow to transition the portions of the airflow directed toward the first and second tires outward beyond the externally exposed sides of the first and second tires. The first and second airfoils are also spaced laterally apart from each other when coupled to the vehicle by the frame assembly to define an aperture between the first and second airfoils through which at least a portion of the airflow directed toward the axle assembly is to pass while the vehicle is underway.

Abstract: An aerodynamic skirt adapted to be substantially longitudinally mounted on a trailer is provided, the resilient aerodynamic skirt comprising a skirt panel defining a forward portion and a rear portion, the forward portion being adapted to be mounted toward a forward portion of the trailer and the rear portion being adapted to be mounted toward a rear portion of the trailer, the forward portion having a front height and the rear portion having a rear height, the forward height being shorter than the rear height. A method of mounting an aerodynamic skirt on a trailer is also provided, the method comprising providing a skirt panel defining a forward portion and a rear portion the forward portion having a front height and the rear portion having a rear height, the forward height being shorter than the rear height, positioning the forward portion toward a forward portion of the trailer and the rear portion toward a rear portion of the trailer, and securing the skirt panel to the trailer.

Abstract: An air drag reduction apparatus includes left and right panels and top and bottom panels for mounting to the rear doors of a tractor trailer along the top, bottom and side edges thereof. Hinges are interposed between the panels and the doors so that the panels can pivot about the hinges between an extended drag-reducing position and a collapsed position generally adjacent the rear doors. Stop devices releasably secure the panels in the extended position, and biasing devices such as tensioning springs are operative to bias the panels outwardly and rearwardly to the extended position and are further operative to permit the panels to pivot between the extended position towards and to the collapsed position upon impact and contact from an external object occurring and then return to the extended position substantially immediately upon contact ceasing thereby significantly reducing the impact damage. The apparatus also includes a ramp and wheel arrangement to facilitate opening and collapsing of the panels.

Abstract: A rear aerodynamic device for a vehicle and vehicle equipped with such a device are provided. The aerodynamic device can be fastened under a rear end of a vehicle frame of a cargo body of an industrial vehicle, behind the wheels. It includes a nozzle having an inlet positioned on a lateral external face of the device and capable of canalising air flowing along the vehicle and an outlet positioned at the rear part of the device and capable of ejecting the air flow underneath a vehicle rear face.

Abstract: A truck skirting is provided for a trailer for use in tractor-trailer combinations. Skirting elements depend from both trailer sides. Braces are provided extending from the skirting elements to the trailer underside. Further, each skirting element has a longitudinal bracing bar.

Abstract: Vanes are used for reducing drag on a moving vehicle having a substantially planar rear surface. The vanes are mounted to the vehicle using pliant material which creates no work for the driver of the vehicle during loading or unloading activities. The apparatus is extremely light weight, and includes a rigid vane of length L having a leading edge, a trailing edge, and an aerodynamic center positioned at a distance of between 0.15 L and 0.5 L from the leading edge. The vane has an inner surface facing the vehicle and an outer surface. Multiple pliant attachment devices connect the vane to the vehicle. The vane helps prevent or reduce formation of a zone of turbulent air behind the vehicle. The apparatus allows substantial reductions in fuel consumption and truck CO2 emissions during use.

Abstract: A securing mechanism adapted to secure struts to a trailer is provided, the securing mechanism comprising a pair of clamps adapted to be secured to the strut to clamp a frame member of the trailer therebetween. A method of securing a strut to a trailer is also provided, the method comprising providing a strut; providing a pair of clamps; positioning an end of the strut adjacent to a side of a frame member of the trailer; positioning the pair of clamps on an opposed side of the frame member; and securing the pair of clamps to the strut to clamp the frame member therebetween. A securing mechanism kit for securing a strut to a frame member of a trailer is equally provided, the kit comprising a pair of clamps; and a strut.

Abstract: A support member adapted to secure an aerodynamic skirt to a trailer is provided, the support member comprising a trailer connecting portion; a skirt connecting portion; and an intermediate portion interconnecting the trailer connecting portion to the skirt connecting portion. A kit of resilient struts adapted to resiliently secure an aerodynamic skirt to a trailer is also provided, the kit comprising at least two resilient struts. A method of using a resilient strut to resiliently secure an aerodynamic skirt to a trailer is equally provided, the method comprising providing at least one resilient strut; securing the resilient strut to the trailer; securing the resilient strut to the aerodynamic skirt; and applying a load on the aerodynamic skirt to resiliently bend the at least one resilient strut.

Abstract: An aerodynamic skirt adapted to be substantially longitudinally mounted on a trailer is provided, the resilient aerodynamic skirt comprising a skirt panel defining a forward portion and a rear portion, the forward portion being adapted to be mounted toward a forward portion of the trailer and the rear portion being adapted to be mounted toward a rear portion of the trailer, the forward portion having a front height and the rear portion having a rear height, the forward height being shorter than the rear height. A method of mounting an aerodynamic skirt on a trailer is also provided, the method comprising providing a skirt panel defining a forward portion and a rear portion the forward portion having a front height and the rear portion having a rear height, the forward height being shorter than the rear height, positioning the forward portion toward a forward portion of the trailer and the rear portion toward a rear portion of the trailer, and securing the skirt panel to the trailer.

Abstract: An aerodynamic skirt comprising a skirt panel defining a surface adapted to direct airflow around the trailer is provided, the skirt panel being made of a single part of sheet material. A method of manufacturing a skirt panel and a kit thereof are also provided.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A skirt assembly kit comprising a skirt panel adapted to be disposed on a trailer to route air about the road trailer is provided, a plurality of upper supports adapted to secure the skirt panel to the road trailer and a plurality of struts adapted to secure the skirt panel to the road trailer. A method of installing an aerodynamic skirt on a trailer is also provided, the method comprising providing a skirt panel, installing the skirt panel on the trailer; and performing an opening in the skirt panel. An aerodynamic skirt kit adapted to mounted to a trailer is equally provided, the aerodynamic skirt kit comprising a skirt panel adapted to define an opening therein adapted to give access through the skirt panel, and an opening closing element adapted to close the opening.

Abstract: An aerodynamic skirt adapted to be installed on a trailer for managing airflow is provided, the aerodynamic skirt comprising a skirt panel defining a substantially curved shape adapted to be positioned adjacent to a rear wheel of the trailer, the curved shape substantially mirroring the shape of the wheel to reduce the gap between the skirt panel and the wheel. A method of installing an aerodynamic skirt on a trailer to manage airflow around the trailer is also provided, the method comprising providing a skirt panel defining a curved shape adapted to cooperate with an exterior circumference of a wheel of the trailer; and positioning the curved shape of the skirt panel adjacent to the rear wheel of the trailer to reduce the air gap therebetween. An aerodynamic skirt kit comprising a skirt panel having a curved shape adapted to cooperate with an exterior circumference of a wheel of the trailer; and a plurality of struts adapted to secure the skirt panel to a trailer is equally provided.

Abstract: Inflatable drag reduction device (20, 22) for vehicles, comprising an inflatable bag of a durable, flexible and generally air-tight material, arranged for attachment to the vehicle. The bag comprises of a plurality of conjoined panels and an air duct arranged for allowing the inflow of air into the interior of the bag when the vehicle is in motion. The bag further comprises internal ribs of a generally non-elastic material attached to the internal surfaces of the panels, that assist the bag in assuming a predetermined geometrical shape in which the panels are prevented from billowing outward.

Abstract: A vehicle's drag-reducing apparatus, adapted to be arranged at the tail end of a vehicle, includes a diversion body positioned at the lateral surface of the vehicle and a rotary piece. The airflow flowing across the lateral surface of the vehicle body is guided to the tail end of the vehicle by the diversion body. One end of the rotary piece is pivoted to the vehicle body, while another end is fixed to the diversion body. Rotating the rotary piece will bring along the diversion body to be abutted against the tail end of the vehicle body or to be moved to the position far away the tail end of the vehicle body. Thereby, the open of the rear door at the tail end of the vehicle won't be hindered, even where there is an arrangement of the diversion body.

Abstract: A nozzle-typed drag-reducing structure for vehicle is arranged at the tail end of a vehicle, including a frame body comprised of a combination of a plurality of deflectors, between two of which an airflow channel is formed; and an air inlet and an air outlet respectively formed at two sides of the frame body, and the area comprised by surrounding the air outlet is larger than the area comprised by surrounding the air inlet. Thereby, whenever the vehicle is driven in high speed or low speed, it is all possible to boost the running efficiency and increase the driving stability.

Abstract: A diversion apparatus, adapted to be arranged at the tail end of a vehicle, includes a diversion assembly and a slide mechanism. The inside of the diversion assembly is hollow and formed an airflow channel. The slide mechanism is arranged fixedly at the tail end of the vehicle body and has slot tracks extended along the lengthwise direction of the tail end of the vehicle body. The diversion assembly arranged on the slot tracks can be activated and slipped thereon. Therefore, the diversion assembly can be slipped on the slot tracks and activated toward the front of the vehicle body to prevent the opening of the door leaf of the vehicle from being hindered by the diversion assembly.

Abstract: A drag reducing apparatus is hingedly mounted to the rear of a truck or trailer vehicle so that the apparatus can be pivoted clear of the rear doors of the vehicle. The apparatus includes a hinge assembly that allows the apparatus to open substantially flat against the side of the vehicle so as not to impede the full movement of the doors. The apparatus includes an arrangement of connected panels that are initially folded flat against the back of the vehicle but automatically open to a drag reducing configuration at a sufficient vehicle speed. The connected panels are further configured so that the force of gravity automatically returns the panels to their initial folded configuration when the vehicle speed falls below a threshold. The apparatus incorporates a modular construction that allows replacement of individual panel sections. The mounting frame is constructed to augment the drag reduction characteristics of the apparatus.

Abstract: This invention provides a foldable/retractable and unfoldable/deployable, rearwardly tapered aerodynamic assembly for use on the rear trailer bodies and other vehicles that accommodate dual swing-out doors. The aerodynamic assembly includes a right half mounted on the right hand door and a left half mounted on a left hand door. Each half is constructed with a side panel, top panel and bottom panel, which each form half of an overall tapered box when deployed on the rear of the vehicle, the bottom panels and top panels being sealed together at a pair of overlapping weather seals along the centerline. The panels are relatively thin, but durable, and are joined to each other by resilient strip hinges. The top and bottom panels are also hinged to form two sections along diagonal lines to facilitate folding of all panels in a relatively low-profile stacked orientation.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides for drag reduction on a moving object through the atmosphere, thus increasing fuel efficiency. This is accomplished by attaching an inflatable boattail (i.e. drag reducer) to the aft face or rear end of a vehicle or trailer, thus delaying the flow separation to a point further downstream and mitigating the intensity of the negative pressure on the aft face.

Abstract: An automatic gap closing system automatically moves a gap closing cover between an un-deployed and a deployed configuration to selectively cover a gap between two coupled vehicles (e.g., tractor-trailer combination) in response to an actual or expected speed of at least one of the vehicles, thereby increasing fuel efficiency at relatively high or fast speeds without hindering maneuverability of the coupled vehicles at relatively low or slow speeds. Indications of speed and/or location may come from speed sensors, on-board computers (i.e., black box), GPS receivers, or wireless receivers.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an airstream deflector fairing comprising a front or fore end having a leading edge attached to an undercarriage of a wheeled vehicle. The fairing further includes a rear or aft end and a lower bottom portion of the fairing includes a panel facing the ground at an angle which in turn directs an airstream passing thereunder downwardly and outwardly relative to the undercarriage and substantially at an area below a trailing axle downstream from the fairing. The lower bottom panel includes an angle of declination relative to the undercarriage from about 12 degrees to about 24 degrees.

Abstract: A device for reducing vehicle aerodynamic resistance for vehicles having a generally rectangular body disposed above rear wheels, comprising a plurality of flexible opposing flat sheets and a plurality flexible load bearing struts attached to the bottom of the rectangular body, that bend to resist damage when struck by the ground, and guide airflow around the rear wheels of the vehicle to reduce its aerodynamic resistance when moving.

Abstract: An apparatus for reducing aerodynamic resistance in an over the road vehicle is provided. The apparatus can include a frame assembly and first and second airfoils to be coupled to the vehicle by the frame assembly ahead of first and second tires of an axle assembly provided to the vehicle. The first and second airfoils each include an air deflecting surface with a convex outward portion that extends away from a leading edge that is to be directed into the airflow to transition the portions of the airflow directed toward the first and second tires outward beyond the externally exposed sides of the first and second tires. The first and second airfoils are also spaced laterally apart from each other when coupled to the vehicle by the frame assembly to define an aperture between the first and second airfoils through which at least a portion of the airflow directed toward the axle assembly is to pass while the vehicle is underway.

Abstract: A device for reducing drag caused by a rear wake of a trailer. The device includes an enclosure supported by support assemblies. The support assemblies include a first corner support extending along a first junction between top and first side portions of the enclosure, a second corner support extending along a second junction between the top portion and a second side portion of the enclosure, a third corner support extending along a third junction between a bottom portion and the second side portion of the enclosure, a fourth corner support extending along a fourth junction between the bottom and first side portions of the enclosure, a first diagonal support extending from the first junction to the third junction, and a second diagonal support extending from the second junction to the fourth junction. The enclosure and support assemblies are coupled to the trailer by a coupling assembly.

Abstract: A resilient skirt assembly is provided, the assembly comprising a skirt panel adapted to connect to a trailer to direct at least a portion of the amount of air on the side of the trailer; and a skirt support adapted to connect the skirt to a trailer, the skirt support having a resilient strut providing lateral support to the skirt panel, the resilient strut allowing substantial lateral pivotal movement of the skirt panel between a skirt panel unloaded position and a skirt panel loaded position. A method of assembling a skirt assembly and a skirt kit are also provided.

Abstract: A fairing structure for a vehicle having a front vehicular component and a rear vehicular component in tandem and separated by a gap, comprising a top fairing surface adapted to be attached to the rear vehicular component, a first side surface adapted to be attached to a first side of the rear vehicular component, joining a first end of the top surface and generally perpendicular to the top surface, and a second side surface adapted to be attached to a second side of the rear vehicular component, joining a second end of the top surface opposite the first end and generally perpendicular to the top surface. Each of the top and first and second side surfaces has a proximal edge adapted to be positioned adjacent a vehicle, as well as a distal edge adapted to be positioned away from the vehicle with respect to the respective proximal edge.

Abstract: An inflatable shaping system has a frame, rectangular with four sides, similar to the rear of a trailer or truck. The frame has a hinged connection and swings from an over-the-road configuration and to a deflated stowed position against the side of the trailer. Upon the frame, the system has an inflatable body and a durable skin covering the frame and the inflatable body. The inflatable body has a continuous attachment to the frame. The inflatable body has at least one inflatable element connected by a flexible adhesive or device. The inflatable elements remain contained between the frame and the durable skin, generally outwardly from the trailer. In communication with the inflatable elements, a pump system supplies air for their inflation and removes air for their deflation. The pump system operates remotely in the vicinity of the truck.

Abstract: A drag reducing apparatus is hingedly mounted to the rear of a truck or trailer vehicle so that the apparatus can be pivoted clear of the rear doors of the vehicle. The apparatus includes a hinge assembly that allows the apparatus to open substantially flat against the side of the vehicle so as not to impede the full movement of the doors. The apparatus includes an arrangement of connected panels that are initially folded flat against the back of the vehicle but automatically open to a drag reducing configuration at a sufficient vehicle speed. The connected panels are further configured so that the force of gravity automatically returns the panels to their initial folded configuration when the vehicle speed falls below a threshold. The apparatus incorporates a modular construction that allows replacement of individual panel sections. The mounting frame is constructed to augment the drag reduction characteristics of the apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for reducing aerodynamic drag experienced by an over-the-road vehicle while underway. A frame assembly including a fastening fixture couples the apparatus to the vehicle, and a first airfoil including a first outward air deflecting surface deflects a portion of the airflow directed toward a first tire laterally outward toward an externally exposed side of the first tire. A second airfoil including a second outward air deflecting surface deflects a portion of the airflow directed toward a second tire laterally outward toward an externally exposed side of the second tire. The first and second airfoils are spaced laterally apart from each other when coupled to the vehicle by the frame assembly to define an aperture between the first and second airfoils through which at least a portion of the airflow directed toward the axle assembly is to pass while the vehicle is underway.