RUAG AVIATION
downpour with 40 mm/h. To achieve exactly the right intensity, the fluid flow from the reservoir needs to be accurately matched to the current wind speed. Not only is the intensity relevant for a realistic environmental simulation, but also the droplet sizes have to be representative of those encountered on the road. Small droplets in the range of 0.1 millimeter – as in a drizzle – or larger than 1.5 millimeter for a summer downpour will generate significantly different soiling patterns on the wetted automobile. To enhance the visibility of the soiling flow on the car’s surface, a fluorescent dye is mixed into the spray water before being ejected into the test section. With multiple UV lamps mounted flush in the test section walls, the car is optimally illuminated from all angles. Downstream of the test section the waterdye mixture is collected after its use and removed from the wind tunnel. The test findings are recorded with a number of remotely controlled video and still
Windshield, wiper and pillar design effects on forward visibility (good & improvable)
Side window and mirror housing effects on splash pattern (good & improvable)
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WIND TUNNEL INTERNATIONAL | 2010