AERODYNAMIC SKIRT ASSEMBLY

摘要

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.

主权项

1. A system that facilitates aerodynamics, comprising:
a skirt panel configured for installation upon a trailer; and a brace that provides structural support to the skirt panel, wherein the structural support resists wind deflection and wherein the brace comprises a vertical portion with a height at least half of the height of the skirt panel and wherein the vertical portion is wholly positioned within an interior portion of the skirt panel.