Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation for Aerodynamic Effects of Retractable Flaps on a Passenger Vehicle

This paper presents a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) study investigating the aerodynamic effects of a retractable flap on a passenger vehicle. The predominant aim of the study is to evaluate the impact of the flap's deployment on the vehicle's aerodynamic performance, specifically focusing on improving the overall braking efficiency by increasing the aerodynamic drag. The CFD simulations were conducted using the ANSYS, by employing a validated turbulence model and a detailed vehicle geometry. The CFD results demonstrated that the deployment of the retractable flap resulted in noticeable changes in the vehicle's aerodynamics. The flap's presence altered the flow field around the vehicle, increasing the overall aerodynamic drag. Also, the flap's angle significantly affected the aerodynamic performance, with certain angles resulting in more favourable flow patterns and reduced drag coefficients. © 2024. Carbon Magics Ltd.