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In the present work computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of the flow field around a generic tractor-trailer truck are presented and compared with corresponding experimental measurements. A generic truck model was considered which is a detailed 1/8th scale replica of a Class-8 tractor-trailer truck. It contained a number of details such as bumpers, underbody, tractor chassis, wheels, and axles. CFD simulations were conducted with wind incident on the vehicle at 0 and 6 degree yaw. Two different meshing strategies (tet-dominant and hex-dominant) and three different turbulence models (Realizable k-ε, RNG k-ε, and DES) are considered. In the first meshing strategy an unstructured tetrahedral mesh was created over a large region surrounding the vehicle and in its wake. In the second strategy the mesh was predominantly hexahedral except for a few narrow regions around the front end and the underbody which were meshed with tetrahedral cells owing to complex topology.

This paper discusses the guiding philosophy, industry standards, and process and organizational elements utilized by International to shift to a systems engineering approach, within a ‘pull-through’ supply structure. The importance of requirements management in systems engineering, and associated methods are also discussed. The paper also highlights tools and techniques that support systems engineering. Additionally, the benefits of systems engineering are contrasted with the consequences of component-centric product engineering.

This paper discusses a practical use of the Systems Engineering Process as it is implemented in a Truck OEM. The process presented is focused on the Electrical and Electronics area, but can be applied to other systems on the vehicle and to the vehicle level requirements. Systems Engineering rationale is summarized based upon historical impacts and the application of Systems Engineering to address those impacts. Prior System Development Processes are reviewed in light of modern Systems Engineering approaches, leading to the synthesis of the Systems Engineering Documentation Set for the Vehicle and the Vehicle's Electrical and Electronic Systems. The analysis for this approach looks at the application of Systems Engineering Principles throughout the lifecycle of the vehicle, going beyond the boundaries of traditional requirements gathering and analysis.

International has developed a new generation 6.0L V8 DI diesel engine for the Ford F-Series full size pick-up trucks. This new engine features a number of state-of-the-art technologies designed to meet the US 2004 heavy-duty engine emission legislation and other requirements from the customers. A set of combustion development strategies was created. They were, the use of cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) to inhibit NOx formation, a centrally located nozzle and an optimized combustion bowl to improve fuel distribution and reduce soot formation, the use of increased injection pressure to enhance air/fuel mixing and increase soot oxidation rate, and a Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) to provide sufficient air/fuel ratio over a broad speed range. The combustion development took full advantage of the “virtual lab” tools.