Implementation of Experiential Learning in Aerodynamic Design of Road Vehicles

This paper explores a low-cost experiential learning framework in the aerodynamic design of road vehicles by using scaled models and numerical simulation. Automotive aerodynamics is studied using both computer modeling and experimental analyses using wind tunnel testing. The wind tunnel testing for the automotive application needs enormous facilities. This study demonstrates the use of scaled wind-tunnel testing to familiarize students with the vehicle’s aerodynamic shape design. In addition to learning the aerodynamic propensities of a road vehicle, a secondary objective is to have the student become acquainted with wind tunnel operation and instrumentations. In this study, a set of student-center laboratory activities has been developed with a pedagogical methodology based on Kolb’s experiential learning theory.