AERODYNAMIC TRACTOR-TRAILER WIND FAIRING THAT IMPROVES OPERATING FUEL ECONOMY

摘要

A tractor-trailer wind fairing panel assembly includes two side and one top fairing panels that mount to a truck tractor and aerodynamically bridge the air gap to any fifth-wheel utility trailer being pulled by the tractor. Such fairing panels are hinged on their leading edges so their distal trailing edges can swing a bit to accommodate twisting and turning of the utility trailer during use. The hinges all mount to a cab adapter collar that helps fit the whole to the contoured surfaces of the rear of a typical truck tractor cab. The distal ends of the trailing edges are fitted with inward directed wind seals. Rows of ball bearing pucks are arranged in the crowns of the inward directed wind seals to reduce friction and wear as the fairing panels swing to accommodate the twisting and turning of the utility trailer.