Wheel Fairings are covers that improve the aerodynamics of a car by mitgating the drag on the wheels and attached mechanisms. Static fairings need to compromise on aerodynamics by being large enough to allow for wheels to turn within them. Dynamic fairings are a potential solution that optimize aerodynamics for straight driving while having some dynamic element that allows the fairing to adjust for the purpose of turning.

Static Fairing Design

Examining static fairings will give an idea of what sort of measures will compromise performance, and design optimally around those restrictions. Having opening in the fairings as a result of the mechanism, or large protruding bodies, would severely affect drag and therefore are not ideal solutions.

Static fairings are ideally low frontal area, short, shaped like the canopy, and joined with the body with large radiuses for smooth transitional areas. One major design challenge is the steering within fairing which is exacerbated by the attempt at dynamic fairings.

Implementations of Dynamic Fairings

1. Fairing split into two panels, a hinged panel on one side opens up to allow for turning before closing flush with the static panel.

Advantageous Design of other systems

1. 4 Wheel steering means a specific turning radius can be achieved with less individual range of motion in the wheels, potentially helping with design.

2. Innovating steering mechanism (maybe variable speed on wheels) to minimize the reliance on physical wheel turning